Pantai Sumur Tiga on Pulau Weh, Sabang

Pantai Sumur Tiga is another one of Indonesia’s many “must-visit” destinations. It is located on the east coast of Pulau Weh, approximately 15 minutes from Sabang, in the Aceh province, northwest Indonesia. Literally translated to mean “the Beach of three wells,” Pantai SumurTiga was given that name after the five fresh water wells you will find along the coast. The main stretch is situated around the third well, “SumurTiga,” though the actual beach stretches much further than that, making it the longest beach on Pulau Weh.

Once a very isolated beach, frequented mostly by locals living in the nearby area, and the occasional foreigner, Sumur Tiga may very well have been one of Indonesia’s best kept secrets. It has now, however, become a much more popular destination among those who enjoy diving and snorkelling, or simply those who want to relax and do absolutely nothing at all. It nevertheless remains fairly secluded – an ideal getaway from the stress and bustle of everyday life, and the perfect place for those who don’t quite fancy the more “commercial” tourist areas.

Picture this: Stepping foot into a stunning, natural painting -- sparkling, crystal clear water, the sea breeze and summer sun, white sands, scattered with coconut trees and exotic species of flora, rarely found on other beaches.The natural beauty and serenity of Pantai Sumur Tiga is sure to leave you in awe, and is almost enough to make the entire trip worthwhile.

Days on Pantai Sumur Tiga are best spent lying on the sands, or sitting in the grass under the palm trees, listening to the sounds of the wind through the trees, and the crashing of the turquoise sea against the sand.The peace and tranquillity found here will no doubt leave you feeling so happy and refreshed by the end of your trip, you’ll never want to leave. Have a chat with the local residents to hear the local legends of Pantai Sumur, or maybe simply about their favourite past times here. Take a swim, if it suits your fancy. With water so clear, it will be hard to keep out of it! For the snorkelers and divers, though coral is rumoured to be better on other beaches on Pulau Weh, the variety of fishes and other ocean-life will more than make up for it.

Somewhere near the fourth well, (Sumur Empat,) there is a historic bunker from the time of the Japanese Occupation. It was built through slave labor during World War II, and is unfortunately not very well maintained. If you travel along the road further south, past the fifth well (SumurLima,) you will come to another beach—a black sand beach. There is another, larger Japanese bunker here. This area is also a popular weekend hang-out place among the locals.

In short, Pantai Sumur Tiga: Secluded and serene. White sand, crystal clear water, summer sun, exotic coral, rich ocean-life, friendly people, tropical resorts. What more could you want? Just don’t forget to bring your camera!