Peucang Island or Pulau Peucang is one of the most beautiful place to visit in Ujung Kulon National Park. This small island is situated in Panaitan Strait precisely across from Cidaon Beach.
Pulau Peucang is part of the Ujung Kulon Peninsula and is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the south and the Sunda Strait to the west. The coordinates of Peucang Island are approximately 6.7725° S latitude and 105.3694° E longitude.
Origin of Peucang Island’s name
The name Pulau Peucang is derived from a type of snail often found on the beaches of this island. The local inhabitants around Ujung Kulon National Park refer to this snail as ‘Mata Peucang’ (Turbo Argyrostomus) even though there are no ‘Kancil’ (mouse deer) on Pulau Peucang, which is known as ‘Peucang’ in Sundanese.
ATTRACTIONS
The beaches of Peucang Island have distinct characteristics with white sands and vast stretches. Natural attractions enjoyed on this island include activities like trekking to the ‘Karang Copong’ (a type of coral formation), swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Wildlife viewing can be experienced by crossing over to Padang Pengembalan Cidaon, which takes around 15 minutes by a small boat that can accommodate up to 6 people. In Cidaon, visitors can observe the spectacle of animals like banteng, peacocks, deer, and wild boar.
Additionally, historical sites from the Dutch colonial era, such as a lighthouse tower and remnants of a pier at Tanjung Layar and Cibom, can also be seen.
Pulau Peucang is a popular destination for ecotourism due to its pristine beaches, clear waters, and diverse wildlife. Visitors often come to the island to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking, and wildlife spotting. The island offers a tranquil escape from the bustling cities and provides opportunities to experience nature up close.
One of the notable features of Pulau Peucang is its unique blend of ecosystems, ranging from coastal areas and mangroves to dense forests and grasslands. This diversity contributes to the island’s rich wildlife population, including various bird species, deer, monkeys, and other exotic animals.
Travelers typically reach Pulau Peucang by taking a boat ride from the mainland through the Sunda Strait. The island’s accommodations are limited to a few eco-friendly lodges, adding to the sense of being immersed in nature.