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Pekalongan

Indonesia · Coast · IDR · -6.883300, 109.666700
Family friendly 7/10 · Rank 786 of 2 709
Best season: May-September (dry season)

Best for

For batik lovers, beaches, mangrove forests and peaceful holidays.

Best season

May-September (dry season)

Daily budget
$31.00 (≈ 2 602 ₽ · ≈ 480 500 IDR)
For 7 days
$217.00 (≈ 18 211 ₽ · ≈ 3 363 500 IDR)
Pekalongan is a coastal city on the northern coast of Central Java, known as the "city of batik" for its outstanding batik-making traditions. It is home to the world's largest batik museum and numerous workshops where you can see the creation of this famous Indonesian textile. The city is also known for its seafood and scenic beaches.
Summer
34.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, proud of their batik culture.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Centre of batik production
  • Beautiful Pasir Kencana Beach
  • Affordable prices
  • Fewer tourists than popular resorts
  • Authentic atmosphere

Cons

  • Murky beach water
  • Rainy season
  • Limited nightlife
  • Remoteness from major cities
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
33.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
34.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
26.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-March (wettest December-February)
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
dark golden sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
dark golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
murky
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Pasir Kencana Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
None
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Pekalongan's beaches are safe for swimming. Main dangers are water pollution and strong sun. No lifeguards.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are found on rocky bottoms and coral reefs off the Pekalongan coast. Protective footwear is recommended when swimming.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs in Pekalongan waters are in poor condition (less than 25% cover) due to human impact. Risk of cuts on contact.

Jellyfish — details

  • The Indonesian sea nettle (Chrysaora chinensis) is found in Pekalongan waters, causing painful stings. Peak activity season is summer months. Avoid contact is recommended.

Sharks — details

  • Sharks and rays (Chondrichthyes) inhabit Pekalongan waters and are caught by local fishermen. No attacks on humans have been recorded.
Attractions

Pekalongan Batik Museum

Museum dedicated to traditional Pekalongan batik, with a collection of fabrics, tools and production history. The city is known as one of Indonesia's batik centres.

Pasir Kencana Beach

The city's main beach with golden sand, equipped with relaxation areas, cafes and children's playgrounds. A popular spot for walks and swimming.

Pekalongan Mangrove Park

Ecological park with mangrove forests, wooden bridges and birdwatching opportunities. A great place for peaceful walks.

Slamaran Beach

The city's second most popular beach with a sandy shore and waves suitable for beginner surfers.

Al-Fairuz Mosque

The city's main mosque with beautiful architecture, a popular place to visit.

Alun-Alun Pekalongan

Central square with fountains, street food and live music. The heart of the city's public life.

Best areas

Pekalongan Centre

Main area with the museum, mosque, square and markets.

Beach Area (Pasir Kencana)

Coastal area with a beach, cafes and relaxation zones.

Mangrove Park

Ecological zone with mangrove forests and walking trails.

Must-try food

Gulai

Thick spicy coconut milk soup with meat and vegetables. One portion costs around 10,000 IDR at the city's restaurants.

Nasi Goreng

Fried rice with egg, vegetables and meat or seafood.

Sate

Marinated meat skewers with peanut sauce.

Fresh Seafood

Prawns, fish and squid grilled at beachside restaurants.

Thai Tea

Sweet tea with condensed milk, a popular drink.

Where to go next

Pasir Kencana Beach

The city's main beach with cafes and relaxation areas, ~4 km.

Bidadari Waterfall

Scenic waterfall in the city's surroundings.

Semarang

Large city with colonial architecture, ~100 km.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт имени Ахмада Яни (SRG).
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Visa
Visa requirements
e-visa on arrival (e-VOA) up to 30 days
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-September (dry season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 155 000 IDR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$19.00
≈ 1 594 ₽ · ≈ 294 500 IDR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$23.00
≈ 1 930 ₽ · ≈ 356 500 IDR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 124 000 IDR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 775 000 IDR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 387 500 IDR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 31 000 IDR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 124 000 IDR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 23 250 IDR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 31 000 IDR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 7 750 IDR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 77 500 IDR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 54 250 IDR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 31 000 IDR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 77 500 IDR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 310 000 IDR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 7 750 IDR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 46 500 IDR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 387 500 IDR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 77 500 IDR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 124 000 IDR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 310 000 IDR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 620 000 IDR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 232 500 IDR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 93 000 IDR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 124 000 IDR
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Frequently asked questions
Pekalongan: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-September (dry season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Pekalongan: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +34.0°C, during the day — up to +33.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Pekalongan: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Pekalongan: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Pekalongan: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-March (wettest December-February). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Pekalongan: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "dark golden sand" surface, dark golden sand, murky water. The most popular beaches: Pasir Kencana Beach. The beaches have cafes and bars.
Pekalongan: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Pekalongan: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $31.00 (≈ 2 602 ₽ · ≈ 480 500 IDR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Pekalongan: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $10.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $19.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $23.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $8.00 per night, an apartment — $25.00 per night, a villa — $50.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Pekalongan: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $2.00, dinner at a restaurant — $8.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Pekalongan: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $25.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Pekalongan: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Pekalongan Batik Museum — Museum dedicated to traditional Pekalongan batik, with a collection of fabrics, tools and production history. The city is known as one of Indonesia's batik centres.; Pasir Kencana Beach — The city's main beach with golden sand, equipped with relaxation areas, cafes and children's playgrounds. A popular spot for walks and swimming.; Pekalongan Mangrove Park — Ecological park with mangrove forests, wooden bridges and birdwatching opportunities. A great place for peaceful walks.; Slamaran Beach — The city's second most popular beach with a sandy shore and waves suitable for beginner surfers.; Al-Fairuz Mosque — The city's main mosque with beautiful architecture, a popular place to visit.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Pekalongan: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Gulai — Thick spicy coconut milk soup with meat and vegetables. One portion costs around 10,000 IDR at the city's restaurants.; Nasi Goreng — Fried rice with egg, vegetables and meat or seafood.; Sate — Marinated meat skewers with peanut sauce.; Fresh Seafood — Prawns, fish and squid grilled at beachside restaurants.; Thai Tea — Sweet tea with condensed milk, a popular drink.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Pekalongan: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Pekalongan Centre — Main area with the museum, mosque, square and markets.; Beach Area (Pasir Kencana) — Coastal area with a beach, cafes and relaxation zones.; Mangrove Park — Ecological zone with mangrove forests and walking trails.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Pekalongan: is a visa required?
Visa: e-visa on arrival (e-VOA) up to 30 days. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Pekalongan: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Ахмада Яни (code SRG). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Pekalongan: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — IDR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $31.00 (≈ 2 602 ₽ · ≈ 480 500 IDR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Pekalongan: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Pekalongan: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Pekalongan: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Pasir Kencana Beach — The city's main beach with cafes and relaxation areas, ~4 km.; Bidadari Waterfall — Scenic waterfall in the city's surroundings.; Semarang — Large city with colonial architecture, ~100 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7/10
Overall rank: 786 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 525