Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in Belitung: A peaceful yet stunning coastal destination in Indonesia

The tarsier is the smallest known primate on Earth, and you can catch a rare glimpse of it in the wild at Peramun Hill Granite Forest Geosite. At first glance, this tiny, wide-eyed creature might remind you of Dobby from Harry Potter. For the uninitiated, the tarsier has the largest eyes of any mammal in proportion to its body. In fact, its eyes are bigger than its brain.

But don’t expect to stumble across one on your own, as tarsiers are famously shy and difficult to spot. Thankfully, expert rangers at the site are trained to locate them. Once they do, they’ll quietly call you over so you can admire the primate in all its nocturnal glory. And in case you’re wondering – no, you won’t find tarsiers at Singapore’s Night Safari, so this might be your best chance to see one up close.

Viewing sessions usually take place after 7.30pm as tarsiers are nocturnal. Visits must be booked in advance as sightings are limited to three days a week to minimise disruption to their natural habitat.

Time Out tip: You might have to trek deep inside the forest to get to the tarsier, so wear long pants and covered shoes to avoid getting mud all over your legs.

Admittedly, sunset-watching is hardly a novel concept as you can do it just about anywhere. But the sunsets here are something else entirely. With uninterrupted coastal views and golden hues melting into the sea, catching the sunset here is a non-negotiable part of the itinerary.

There’s no shortage of scenic spots to take it all in, including the elevated views from Peramun Hill. Other tried-and-tested favourites include Ekobeach and Tukong Island, a nearby islet accessible by boat. These locations are also ideal for stargazing, thanks to minimal light pollution and a lack of surrounding buildings. In fact, we even spotted a shooting star during our visit.

Time Out tip: These spots have places to sit and relax, so bring along a few snacks and a picnic mat to enjoy the view in comfort. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and keep the surroundings pristine. 

Even for first-timers, snorkelling in Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is an enjoyable and surprisingly calming experience. Waters here are crystal-clear and remarkably still, ideal for easing into underwater exploration. The area is home to a number of untouched coral reefs, so you’ll have many opportunities to explore the vibrant marine life. During our snorkelling session, we encountered sea urchins, clusters of clownfish weaving through anemones, and even a pufferfish.

Fun fact: One of Belitung’s most unique features is the remarkably short distance between its many islands – so much so that some are close enough to swim across. This natural layout makes island-hopping not only accessible but part of the adventure itself. While out at sea, it’s not uncommon to spot local fishing boats drifting nearby, a quiet nod to the island’s maritime heritage. You’ll also catch sight of the Pulau Lengkuas lighthouse, an iconic 19th-century structure built in 1882 that continues to guide ships navigating the waters around Belitung.

Time Out tip: Most resorts provide snorkelling gear so you don’t have to bring your own.

As a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve offers more than just beautiful beaches – it’s also a sanctuary for nature lovers. So naturally, you’ll want to explore the reserve’s lush trails while you’re here.

One of the most accessible routes is the Whistle Trail, a gentle path ideal for families with young children or elderly members. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of local wildlife, termite nests, and endemic plant species that thrive in the area’s rich ecosystem. The dense forest canopy provides ample shade, keeping the trail cool and comfortable even during midday hikes. Visitors can also plant a seedling of the endemic Pelepak plant along the trail. It’s a small but meaningful contribution to the park’s ongoing conservation efforts.

For a hands-on, family-friendly activity that blends creativity with sustainability, consider joining an eco-printing workshop hosted by local brand Sepiak Community. It’s a fun and engaging way to teach children about environmental conservation, while creating something beautiful to take home.

You’ll learn how to transfer natural leaf patterns onto tote bags or bucket hats using a simple, non-toxic method. By gently hammering leaves onto the fabric, the natural pigments are released and absorbed into the material, resulting in delicate, organic designs. No synthetic dyes or chemicals involved. It’s a meaningful keepsake and a great way to support local craftsmanship.

Time Out tip: The shop also sells handmade clothing, which you can purchase via their website. 

No trip is complete without diving into the local food scene. Hop in a Grab car or rent a motorbike and make your way to Belitung’s city centre, where a handful of humble eateries serve up some surprisingly yummy dishes.

One such spot is Yamien Kaicai, known for its excellent bowl of dry pork noodles. The set-up is as local as it gets – the eatery operates straight out of the owner’s garage – but the flavour more than makes up for the no-frills surroundings. The noodles are accompanied by a generous bowl of soup, reminiscent of Hakka yong tau foo, brimming with stuffed tofu and vegetables.

For a halal-friendly option, head to Bak Mi Ayam Jamur, where you’ll find a hearty serving of chicken noodles that’s comforting and satisfying.

If you’re in need of a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, Kopiake is a must-visit. Opened in 1912, it holds the title of the oldest coffee shop in town. While its interiors have been updated with a more modern touch, it still retains a sense of quiet heritage.

Or, head to Kopi Kong Djie Siburik, a local favourite where the atmosphere is laid-back and authentically Belitung. Here, coffee is brewed the old-school way: herbs and coffee grounds are steeped in a tall metal vessel, then poured and “tarik-ed” (pulled) to perfection. It’s a ritual as much as a drink, and a flavour that’s deeply rooted in the island’s culture.

For those seeking a refined island escape, Sheraton Belitung Resort comes highly recommended – not just for its luxurious touches, but because we’ve experienced it firsthand. It’s a laid-back option that blends modern comfort with Belitung’s natural beauty.

The resort features 123 rooms and suites, each with private views of the sea, lagoon, or lush gardens. Facilities include two in-house restaurants, a private pool, and direct access to the beach – so yes, you can roll out of bed and straight into the sea. For convenience, the resort also offers curated activity packages that cover many of the experiences mentioned above, complete with guides to lead you through each one.

Book a stay at Sheraton Belitung Resort.

Billiton Ekobeach Retreat delivers ultra exclusivity in the form of a private island escape. With just four beachfront huts on the entire islet, this eco-conscious retreat offers an intimate and luxurious experience where it truly feels like the island is yours alone.

The accommodations are thoughtfully designed using sustainable materials such as dolken logs, nipa palm roofs and natural driftwood collected from Belitung’s shores. Each hut is equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, mosquito drapes, and a king-sized bed – ensuring comfort doesn’t take a backseat to eco-friendly living. Step outside and you’ll be greeted by white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, right at your doorstep. Despite the remote setting, you’ll dine exceptionally well here. Meals follow a farm-to-table philosophy, featuring fresh produce and daily wild-caught seafood harvested from the retreat’s organic garden. 

Book a stay at Billiton Ekobeach Retreat.