Pasir Padi Beach Festival 2025: Discover Bangka Belitung

TheIndonesia.co - Despite the rain, the spirit of celebration shone brightly at the Pasir Padi Beach Festival 2025 in Pangkalpinang, the capital of the Bangka Belitung Islands Province or known as Babel Province. Now in its sixth edition, the festival drew enthusiastic crowds, showcasing not only the cultural richness of the region but also its growing potential as a top tourist destination in Indonesia.

Governor Hidayat Arsani praised the high public participation, noting the event's dual purpose, according to Antara News Agency: to strengthen the bond between government and citizens and to empower the local economy through tourism and small businesses.

"Even with heavy rain, the people’s enthusiasm was extraordinary," said Governor Arsani.

"This festival is not only about entertainment but also about community unity, tourism promotion, and economic empowerment through active participation of MSMEs."

A Festival of Culture, Food, and Creativity

Held at Pasir Padi Beach, a popular coastal destination known for its wide golden sands and calm waters, the festival featured dozens of booths from local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Visitors enjoyed a colorful blend of traditional crafts, culinary delights, and cultural performances representing the diverse communities from Bangka, Belitung, West Bangka, Central Bangka, and South Bangka.

With the support of Bank Indonesia, the event also helped accelerate digital transformation among local entrepreneurs. Many booths adopted QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) for seamless digital transactions, signaling a future-forward approach to inclusive economic growth.

“It’s exciting to see this level of community energy,” said Tyas, a local participant.

“Meeting the Governor personally and seeing him engage with the people so warmly was a proud moment for me.”

Beyond the Festival: Bangka Belitung's Tourist Wonders

While the Pasir Padi Beach Festival brings cultural life to the forefront, Bangka Belitung’s natural beauty is what truly leaves a lasting impression—especially its signature granite boulders that make the province unlike any other destination in Indonesia.

Scattered along the coastlines like ancient stone giants, these massive granite rock formations create surreal, almost dreamlike beachscapes. Their smooth, rounded shapes and dramatic positioning—towering over turquoise waters and white sands—have become the region's iconic landmarks.

Some must-visit natural spots include:

Tanjung Tinggi Beach (Belitung)

This beach features stunning granite rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and soft white sand. Perfect for swimming, photography, or simply unwinding in paradise.

Tanjung Kelayang Beach

A launching point for island-hopping to smaller granite-studded islands like Lengkuas Island, which is home to a historic lighthouse and excellent snorkeling spots.

Parai Tenggiri Beach (Bangka)

Known for its elegant boulders and calm sea, this beach offers water sports, beachside resorts, and breathtaking sunsets.

Bukit Berahu and Pulau Leebong

Ideal for eco-tourism lovers, these hidden gems combine mangrove adventures, calm lagoons, and unique coastal charm with granite cliffs in the background.

Kaolin Lake (Danau Kaolin)

Though not natural granite, this surreal turquoise lake formed from an abandoned kaolin mine is a spectacular spot for photographers and curious travelers.

Why Visit Bangka Belitung?

The Bangka Belitung Islands offer a rare combination: cultural warmth, culinary richness, and natural wonders—from coastal festivals to prehistoric-looking granite landscapes. The local hospitality, the sense of serenity, and the region’s focus on sustainable and inclusive tourism make it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking both relaxation and connection.

With events like the Pasir Padi Beach Festival, Bangka Belitung continues to invite the world to discover not only its beautiful beaches and granite boulders, but also the spirit of its people.