Pulau Pahawang in Lampung is one of the easiest snorkeling escapes to reach from Bandar Lampung: roughly 2 hours overland to Ketapang jetty, then a 30 to 45 minute boat ride. The island is known for clear water, living coral, and Pasir Timbul, a sandbar that surfaces at low tide. Here's the route, what it costs, and what you'll actually do once you're there.
How to get to Pulau Pahawang
Start in Bandar Lampung. Take a shared travel van or hired car to Ketapang jetty in Pesawaran, about 25 kilometres or roughly 2 hours depending on traffic. From Ketapang, you continue by fishing boat or speedboat to Pahawang, around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the craft and the sea.
Coming from Jakarta, the usual route is the Merak to Bakauheni ferry first, then overland toward Bandar Lampung and Ketapang. Check current ferry times before you go, since the crossing can vary.
What it costs
Prices at Pahawang shift with the season, group size, and package, so treat these as estimates and confirm with a local operator.
- Small boat hire: around Rp 400,000 to Rp 500,000.
- Wooden boat for about 10 people: around Rp 1,000,000 to Rp 1,800,000, usually including snorkeling gear, photos, and lunch.
- Snorkeling: around Rp 50,000 per person if charged separately.
- Lodging: from around Rp 500,000 for a room that sleeps several.
What to do at Pahawang
Snorkeling is the main draw. Several spots around Pahawang Besar have shallow coral and colourful fish, which makes them friendly for first-timers too.
Pahawang is really two islands: Pahawang Besar and Pahawang Kecil. At low tide, Pasir Timbul appears as a natural sandbar between them, and you can walk across. Beyond snorkeling, most visitors island-hop between a few spots on a single boat trip.
Quick tips
Go early, while the sea is calm and the light is good for underwater photos. Bring sunblock, a change of clothes, and cash, since ATMs are far. If you want to catch Pasir Timbul, check the tide schedule first, because the sandbar only shows at low tide.
FAQ
How long does it take to reach Pulau Pahawang?
About 2 hours overland from Bandar Lampung to Ketapang jetty, then a 30 to 45 minute boat ride to Pahawang.
How much does a Pulau Pahawang trip cost?
A small boat runs about Rp 400,000 to Rp 500,000, while a wooden boat for a group is around Rp 1,000,000 to Rp 1,800,000 including snorkeling gear, photos, and lunch. Snorkeling on its own is about Rp 50,000 per person. Treat these as estimates and confirm locally.
What is Pasir Timbul at Pahawang?
Pasir Timbul is a natural sandbar that surfaces at low tide and links Pahawang Besar with Pahawang Kecil, so you can walk between the two islands.
Is Pahawang good for first-time snorkelers?
Yes. Several spots around Pahawang Besar are shallow with living coral, so they're safe for anyone trying snorkeling for the first time.
When is the best time to visit Pahawang?
Go in the morning when the sea is calm, and plan your visit around low tide if you want to see Pasir Timbul.