Summary
Pulau Karang (Coral Island) is a hidden gem in North Sumatra with perfect white sand and photogenic palm trees that hang over the turquoise water like a postcard.
Sumatra locals enjoy visiting Pulau Karang on shared group trips from Medan, which are more economical. However, if you start and end in Medan, the travel time (20+ hours!) might be excessive for just one small island.
In my opinion, the best way to experience this island is on a day trip from Singkil or Sibolga. Alternatively, you can include it as a stop on your Sumatra road trip, particularly after visiting the scenic Banyak Islands.
This travel guide will explain how to get to Pulau Karang and everything you need to know before you visit!
Where Is It?
Pulau Karang is a small island located by the west coast of North Sumatra, about 4 kilometers (2 miles) from the coastline.
The nearest town is Barus, situated roughly halfway between Singkil and Sibolga (you might already know Singkil as the port that connects to the Banyak Islands).
Barus is a 3.5-hour drive from Singkil, or a 2-hour drive from Sibolga.
How To Get To Pulau Karang
To reach the port in Barus, you can either drive or hire a private driver with a car. Once at the port, you will need to hire a boat driver for the trip to Pulau Karang and back. There are boats available daily, and booking in advance is unnecessary.
We paid 700k Rupiah (~$50 USD) for the boat driver to take us to the island, wait for us, and then return us to Barus. With effective bargaining or traveling in a group, you could secure a lower price.
The boat ride to Pulau Karang is pleasant and takes about 30-40 minutes each way.
Pulau Karang – What To Expect
Pulau Karang is an uninhabited island without hotels, but there are drink stands and local tourists present daily.
The local women often wear hijabs on the beach, so remember that this is a conservative Muslim region of Sumatra. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep swimwear modest, unless you are in a private setting.
Upon arrival, you will want to explore the beautiful natural scenery. Turn right and follow the beach for 30 minutes, walking past the pier until you reach the lighthouse.
You can walk around the entire island in about an hour, but the most stunning views are along the beaches leading to the lighthouse, featuring many bent palm trees perfect for photos, and incredibly soft, white sand!
Unfortunately, the lighthouse is not open to visitors due to past issues with vandalism. However, it remains a great location for drone photography, and there are wooden benches for relaxation.
Throughout our exploration, we experienced the delight of almost having the beaches to ourselves.
Where To Stay
- MB Camp Singkil – This hotel is operated by the same people as Palambak Island Resort (located in the Banyak Islands) and currently offers the best accommodation options in Singkil. They can assist with transportation and additional needs.
- OYO 1500 Mh Residence – If your journey continues to Sibolga, this hotel is a strong option there.
Our Singkil Driver
Adi Chaniago is a private driver with a van based in Singkil (the gateway port to the Banyak Islands), and he handled most of the driving during our thrilling Sumatra road trip.
His rates are reasonable, and he possesses significant experience driving to various tourist sites throughout North Sumatra and Aceh Province. You can share your intended itinerary for Sumatra, and he will provide a price quote accordingly.
While he is friendly, he may not speak much English. If you stay at MB Camp Singkil or Palambak Island Resort in the Banyak Islands (which is highly recommended!), the owner Claudine might assist with translating and explaining your itinerary to him.
You can reach Adi via WhatsApp at ☎ +62 812-6247-0584. Wishing you safe and enjoyable travels!
