The name Parangtritis itself has an interesting history. Once, it was said that a fugitive of Majapahit Empire named Dipokusumo meditated in this area. In his meditation he saw water dropping (in Javanese language called tumaritis) from fissures of rocks (in Javanese language rock is also called parang). Then he named the area Parangtritis which means water dropping from rocks.
Parangtritis Beach maybe not as beautiful as the other beaches in Bali or Gunungkidul. But this does not trouble tourists. Every weekend or holiday season, Parangtritis is crowded with visitors.
People believe that Parangtritis Beach belongs to the territory of the Queen of the South Sea or better known as Nyai Roro Kidul. According to the local belief, Nyai Roro Kidul likes green color, thus, it is suggested that tourists who visit Parangtritis avoid wearing green clothes.
In addition to the mysterious story of Nyai Roro Kidul, Parangtritis Beach is also believed to be the meeting point of Panembahan Senopati (the first king of Islamic Mataram) and Sunan Kalijaga (one of the nine-saints of Islam) after Panembahan Senopati finished his meditation. Even, local people believe that Parangtritis Beach, Yogyakarta Palace and Mount Merapi are the manifestations of the inseparable trinity.
Particles of soft sands blown by the wind welcome you as soon as you set you set foot in this slightly slope beach. Rows of rocky hills and cliffs stretch on the westernmost of the beach. On the east side there are Parangkusumo Beach, sand dunes, Opak River estuary, Depok Beach and rows of other beaches. They are the bonus when you visit Parangtritis Beach.
Those who are adventurous should try hang-gliding from above the western cliff. Flying high above the blue sea is another enchantment to enjoy. In addition, you can also try another extreme sport like rock climbing. Rows of Parangndog cliffs offer an exciting climbing sensation and beautiful view of blue ocean as you reach the top.
When you wish for a peaceful atmosphere, enjoy playing with the wave and making sand castle. You can also enjoy the special snack called peyek jingking (ant-lion fritters) sold by the hawkers. One thing you should remember is that you must not go too far toward the sea because Parangtritis big wave is pretty dangerous.Walking along the coast westwards you will find exotic view of sand dunes which resemble the desert in the Middle East. Or else, rent a bendi (two-wheeled horse carriage) and feel another sensation of traveling along the coast.
At dusk, the beach view is getting more beautiful. The blue sky turns gradually into golden orange or glowing red. The sun is extinguishing as it is setting down and finally disappears. Dusk is the moment that tourists and photographer wait to take pictures.
Parangtritis Beach is not only a tourism destination but also a place to perform customary rituals. Every Friday and Tuesday Kliwon (the 5th day of the five-day week) there are always fishermen or visitors who throw offerings and flowers of various kinds to the sea. This ritual is often called as Labuhan and people believe that the offerings go to Nyai Roro Kidul. Through this ritual, people wish for safety and blessing from God. The royal family of Yogyakarta Palace also performs this ritual at Parangtritis Beach.
Parangtritis Beach Location
Administratively, Parangtritis Beach is situated at Parangtritis Subdistrict, Kretek District, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indoneia. Parangtritis Beach is accessible 27 km south of Yogyakarta downtown. There are two routes you can take to get to this beach. The first route is Yogyakarta –Parangtritis Street – Kretek – Parangtritis. This is the main route most tourists take.
The second route is Yogyakarta – Imogiri – Siluk – Parangtritis. This route is relatively longer than the first one but it offers more scenic panorama. Along the way, as far as your eyes can see are the green ricefield, fine rivers and rows of karstic hill. In addition, you will pass the Graveyard of Mataram Imogiri Kings.
All kinds of public transportations are possible to reach Parangtritis. If you do not drive your personal vehicle, take the Jogja – Parangtritis bus from Giwangan bus station and you are required to pay only Rp 10.000 (March, 2010). Another advantage you get if you take a public transportation is that you are free of entrance ticket.
Bicycle is another transportation alternative. The road to Parangtritis is level with less bend which is convenient for bikers. However, considering that it is 27 kilomenters long, make sure that you prepare yourselves with good stamina before cycling to Parangtritis.
Parangtritis Beach has adequately complete accommodations and facilities to meet tourists needs. Some of them are the inns, restaurants, food stalls on the sea shore, place of worship, parking lot, public conveniences, souvenir market, health clinic, lifeguard post equipped with watchtower and SAR team. In addition, there are also bendi (two-wheeled horse carriage) rentals whose tariff rate you can bargain.
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