Batam’s Karas Kecil offers pristine beaches, turtle habitats, and colonial-era lighthouse.

Karas Kecil Island in Batam, Indonesia, beckons visitors with its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and a rich historical touch—a 137-year-old Dutch lighthouse. Nestled in Galang District, southeast Batam, the island promises an escape into tranquility, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Karas Kecil, also known as Pulau Lampu, is one of Batam’s 454 islands. This 15-hectare paradise features a blend of natural beauty and historical allure. From pristine beaches to turtle nesting grounds and a colonial-era lighthouse, Karas Kecil stands out as a unique getaway.

Accessing Karas Kecil begins at Sembulang Tanjung Port on Rempang Island. A 30-minute boat ride to Karas Besar costs approximately IDR 40,000 (SGD 3.32) per person. From Karas Besar, a private boat rental takes visitors to Karas Kecil in just five minutes.

The island’s clean beaches and crystal-clear waters allow visitors to glimpse the seabed. A lush meadow, twice the size of a football field, serves as a nesting ground for turtles between May and October. During this season, the island halts tourism activities to protect the turtles.

Atop a hill on Karas Kecil stands a historic Dutch lighthouse, built in 1886. Visitors must climb 100 steps to reach the site, which also features a colonial-era operational building with traditional Dutch architectural elements. The lighthouse is a prominent feature that earned the island its nickname, Pulau Lampu (Lamp Island).

Caretaker Busri, known as Bujang, offers an all-inclusive package at IDR 150,000 (SGD 12.47) per person. The package covers round-trip transport, entry fees, toilet access, and refreshments, including fresh coconuts. However, a minimum group size of eight is required.

As the year-end holiday season approaches, Bujang and his team are readying the island for an influx of visitors. With its serene ambiance and historical charm, Karas Kecil is becoming a sought-after destination for those seeking an alternative to crowded tourist spots.

Read More: Discover Humanity’s Legacy at Camp Vietnam on Galang Island

Karas Kecil Island offers a perfect blend of history and nature, making it a standout destination for tourists. For Singaporean visitors, the island’s proximity and affordability add to its appeal. Meanwhile, history buffs and nature enthusiasts can revel in its untouched beauty and colonial heritage.

Karas Kecil Island in Batam, Indonesia, features pristine beaches, a turtle conservation site, and a 137-year-old Dutch lighthouse. Accessible via a short boat ride, the island offers affordable tour packages, making it an ideal holiday destination for nature and history lovers alike.

Source: Tempo (2024)

Keywords: Dutch Lighthouse, Karas Kecil Island, Tourist Attraction