Anyer and Carita Beaches

Anyer and Carita Beaches form Banten province's most famous and historically significant coastal strip, stretching continuously along the western shoreline of the Sunda Strait. Anyer is renowned for its historic 19th-century Dutch lighthouse (Mercusuar Anyer) built by order of Governor-General Daendels, marking the historic starting point of the legendary Great Post Road (Grote Postweg). Carita, located slightly further south, transitions into a lush coastal haven characterized by darker volcanic sand, dense coconut groves, and a relaxed, family-oriented resort atmosphere.

Together, these twin beach destinations offer an accessible weekend escape featuring beachfront hotels, seafood grills, and extensive water sports infrastructure. Because of their unobstructed view across the Sunda Strait, both beaches serve as prime vantage points for viewing the distant, active maritime volcano Anak Krakatau. Visitors can rent speedboats directly from the shoreline to embark on maritime excursions out toward the Krakatau archipelago.

Key Highlights: The historic Anyer Lighthouse, dramatic sunset views overlooking Anak Krakatau across the Sunda Strait, speedboat rentals for volcanic island day trips, and a wide selection of beachfront resorts and fresh seafood stalls.

Best Time to Visit: Dry season (May to October) for clear sunny skies, calm coastal waters, and unobstructed sunset visibility.

How to Get There

Reaching Anyer and Carita from Greater Jakarta or Serang is straightforward via major highway links:

• By Car or Private Hire: Take the Jakarta-Merak Toll Road heading west, exit at Cilegon Barat, and follow the coastal trunk road south toward Anyer and Carita. The total drive from Jakarta takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

• By Public Transport: Take a regular intercity bus from Jakarta's Kalideres or Kampung Rambutan terminal to Serang or Cilegon, then transfer to a local public minibus (*angkot*) running the coastal route down to the beaches.