Meru Betiri National Park

Meru Betiri National Park is a protected area on the southern coast of East Java, Indonesia, that conserves lowland rainforest, coastal habitat and beaches important for wildlife, including sea turtles.

Visitors encounter rainforest trails, secluded beaches and coastal wetlands; a primary draw is Sukamade Beach, a well-known sea turtle nesting site where conservation teams monitor and protect nesting females. The park combines coastal scenery with forested terrain and offers opportunities for guided wildlife and birdwatching outings.

The area has been subject to protection measures since the late 20th century to conserve remaining coastal forests and turtle nesting habitats, and conservation efforts at nesting beaches have been a focal point of park management.

The park lies on the southern coastline of East Java province in Indonesia, within the Jember area of the island, spanning coastal and inland terrain along Java’s southern shore.

• Conservation value: The park protects coastal rainforest and beach habitats that are important for sea turtle nesting and for endemic Javan fauna.

What to See#

• Sukamade Beach: Sukamade Beach is a remote coastal nesting beach where sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs; conservation staff and volunteers manage protected nesting areas and night-time turtle releases.

• Book a local ranger or guide before you go - much of Meru Betiri is remote and entry to key areas (especially turtle‑nesting beaches) is managed locally and best experienced with an experienced guide.
• Plan for either sunrise birding and daytime forest trails or a night patrol at Sukamade beach for turtle watching; combining both usually requires at least one night in the park area because access roads are long and slow.
• Travel via Jember or Banyuwangi and expect rough, unpaved roads in parts of the park; a 4x4 or arranging transport through your guide significantly reduces delays and gives access to more of the park's trails and beaches.