South Banyuwangi and Meru Betiri

The National Parks of South Banyuwangi and Meru Betiri can be found in East Java's south eastern comer. South Banyuwangi, or Alas Purwo as it is known locally, occupies the whole of the shoe shaped peninsula in the extreme south east, an area of just over 43,000 hectares.

Teluk Hijau ( green Bay ), a small, sheltered cove at Meru Betiri.

Teluk Hijau ( green Bay ), a small, sheltered cove at Meru Betiri.

Alas Purwo is known to history as being a part of the ancient kingdom of Blambangan, which for centuries maintained a close relationship with neighbouring Bali. Not surprising, then, to find that many traditional ceremonies in Banyuwangi, especially those involving the fishing community, are very similar to those of the Balinese. South Banyuwangi National Park is home to a variety of native fauna, the most well known of which is undoubtedly the banteng, which can be seen here in considerable numbers as at Baluran. In addition, there are wild pigs, deer, monkeys, peacocks, jungle fowl, as well as more than 20 species of immigrant birds from Australia. While not so well known as neighbouring Sukamade, South Banyuwangi also has beaches which provide safe nesting areas for at least four varieties of sea turtle. Simple but comfortable accommodation is available at the coastal village of Grajagan, from where Trianggulasi Beach and the grazing ground at Sadengan lie within a short distance. Another of the Park's attractions is Plengkung, reputed to be one of the world's finest surfing beaches and a two and a half hour journey by fishing boat across the bay from Grajagan.

The green Turtle ( chelonia mydas) nests regularly at sukodame beach ,Meru Betiri.