Banka (Sumatra): an island guide with white beaches, granite boulders and empty spit
We spent a week on Banka Island, the neighbouring and larger brother of Belitung Island in the Sumatra archipelago. The area of the Bank is more than twice the size of Belitung and even Bali, and the coastline will give you empty beaches with white sand, granite boulders and an almost complete absence of foreign tourists: for the entire trip I have not met one.
Here you can go on sea forays to several sand spit and small islets in the vicinity. Unfortunately, on some beaches there were traces of rubbish – it is a pity, but with a more careful attitude, these places could become world-class. And yes – with a local guide or experienced boat captain, you’ll see interesting secluded coves and learn more about the landscape and life of the island than just on your own.
How to get to Banks
The island is located off the southern coast of Sumatra. The main routes are by plane to the city of Pangkal Pinang (PGK) from Jakarta (CGK) or by ferry from neighboring islands (Belitung) or mainland Sumatra.
Flights from Jakarta (CGK) take just over an hour; flights are operated by several airlines at reasonable prices.
From Tanjung Pandan (TJQ) to Belitung there are short flights of about 40 minutes, but they are less common. If flying from Bali, you usually need a transfer flight via Jakarta or Tanjung Pandan. It is convenient to use Skyscanner to search for tickets.
- Economical option - Bahari Express ferry: from Tanjung Pandan to Pangkal Pinang the crossing takes about 4.5 hours. There is also a route from the mainland: the ferry from Palembang to Mentok (northwest Banki) takes about 3 hours, after which it will take about 3 hours to travel to Pangkal Pinang.
How to get around the island
The main task at the Bank is logistics: the island is large and stretched, so the distances are considerable - it is about twice the area of Bali or Belitung. The plus is that traffic outside the cities is calm, the road is generally in good condition, so driving around the island is nice.
Mobility options: renting a car or motorcycle and driving independently, or hiring a driver with a car - prices are usually acceptable. There is always a taxi for transfer from the airport, and there are Grab and Gojek services in the city. I will give the contacts of proven drivers and guides below in the extended version of the guide - with them the trips become easier and more interesting.
What to do at the Bank
Travel to Ketawai Island Trip
One of the most popular sea routes among local tourists. Excursions are most often carried out by speedboat and usually include three points: Ketawai Island, Pulau Panjang Sand Spit and Gusung Asem Sand Spit. Both private and group tours are available; starting points are Pasir Padi Beach (near the city), Kurau village and other coastal bases.
I joined the general tour from Pasir Padi - it was cheaper and easier. We had about 15 people in our group, and I was the only foreigner — a great opportunity to talk to the locals: everyone was very friendly, asked to be photographed and willing to share stories.
The first stop was Pulau Panjang, less than 30 minutes by boat from Pasir Padi. The name translates as “long island” and fully corresponds: this spit stretches more than a kilometer and meets with pure white sand. We spent about 45 minutes there, swimming, taking pictures and walking through the endless strip of sand.
Useful advice
Plan the logistics in advance - the distances on the island are great.
Take cash with you: ATMs can be rare in small towns.
If you want to learn local stories, see hidden beaches and save time – hire a local guide or driver: they know the best points and know how to arrange a transfer between remote beaches.
Help preserve nature: take your trash off the beaches so as not to spoil these beautiful places.
Source of information: personalguide
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