Pecal Beach, Ketapang: From Coastal Beauty to a Culinary Delight

Pecal Beach, Ketapang: From Coastal Beauty to a Culinary Delight
Pecal Beach, originally known as Kinjil Pesisir Beach, is nestled in the village of Kinjil Pesisir, Benua Kayong District, West Kalimantan. Photo credit: the author.

BORNEOTRAVEL- KETAPANG: If you're planning a trip to Ketapang, West Kalimantan, make sure to visit one of its most beloved attractions—Pecal Beach. 

This coastal retreat has grown in popularity among locals and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and delicious local cuisine.

A Scenic Escape Just Minutes from Ketapang

Pecal Beach, originally known as Kinjil Pesisir Beach, is nestled in the village of Kinjil Pesisir, Benua Kayong District, West Kalimantan. 

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Located just 15 minutes from downtown Ketapang, it is easily accessible by both motorcycles and cars, making it a convenient getaway for those seeking a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

The entrance fee is an affordable Rp10,000 per person, granting visitors access to a range of facilities designed for comfort and enjoyment. The beach features a children's playground, clean restrooms, a prayer room (mushola), and numerous food stalls. 

One of the highlights of visiting Pecal Beach is indulging in the famous local delicacy—pecal, a dish similar to gado-gado but with a distinct Kalimantan twist. 

Many vendors set up shop along the beachfront, serving freshly prepared pecal that has become a signature culinary experience for visitors.

A Beach with a Story: From Lush Paradise to Culinary Haven

In its earlier days, Pecal Beach was renowned for its picturesque scenery, with towering coconut trees lining the shore and soft white sands stretching along the coastline. However, over time, coastal erosion took its toll, causing the shoreline to recede and toppling many of the once-majestic trees. This environmental change led to a decline in visitors, as the beach lost some of its original allure.

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Pecal Beach is indulging in the famous local delicacy—pecal, a dish similar to gado-gado but with a distinct Kalimantan twist.
Pecal Beach is indulging in the famous local delicacy—pecal, a dish similar to gado-gado but with a distinct Kalimantan twist. Photo credit: MSP.

Despite this setback, the beach found a new identity through its vibrant food culture. The name "Pecal Beach" originates from a long-standing tradition among local residents who, decades ago, began selling pecal near the shore. 

As more and more vendors joined in, the beach became synonymous with this flavorful dish. Visitors would flock not just for the scenic views but also to savor the beloved Kalimantan-style pecal. Over time, the beach's reputation as a culinary hotspot flourished, drawing in food lovers eager to taste the dish that gave the beach its new identity.

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Today, Pecal Beach is not only a place for relaxation and recreation but also a symbol of resilience and adaptation. 

Whether you come for the ocean breeze, the delicious pecal, or the warm hospitality of the locals, this hidden gem in Ketapang promises a memorable experience for every traveler.

-- Masri Sareb Putra

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