Loang Baloq Recreation Center

Exploring the Charm of Loang Baloq Recreation Center: A Harmony of Marine Tourism, Religion, and Family in Mataram

Pusat Rekreasi Loang Baloq is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Mataram City, West Nusa Tenggara. Strategically located on the west coast of Lombok Island, this area offers a unique blend rarely found elsewhere: a combination of natural beach beauty, modern recreational facilities, and a sacred religious site. As one of the city's green lungs and a center for public entertainment, Loang Baloq has transformed into a representation of the new face of urban tourism in Mataram.

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History and Evolution: From Sacred Site to World-Class Park

The name "Loang Baloq" originates from the Sasak language, where Loang means hole and Baloq means crocodile. This name refers to the presence of ancient graves located within a mound of earth resembling a large hole. Historically, this place was a highly respected religious site because it contains the graves of great scholars, including the Tomb of Syekh Gauz Abdurrazak.

Initially, Loang Baloq was just an ordinary coastal area dominated by pilgrims. However, the Mataram City Government undertook a massive revitalization to transform the face of this area. This evolution yielded significant results, with Taman Loang Baloq successfully winning an award in the 2022 Anugerah Desa Wisata Indonesia (ADWI) event as one of the best developing tourist destinations. Today, Loang Baloq is not just a pilgrimage site, but a modern integrated recreation center without abandoning its cultural roots.

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Recreational Activities and Modern Facilities

Pusat Rekreasi Loang Baloq offers a variety of activities designed for all ages. One of its main attractions is the neatly arranged park area with wide pedestrian paths. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or jogging in the afternoon while breathing in the fresh sea air.

The available facilities are very adequate, including:

• Entertainment Stage (Amphitheater): Often used for local cultural art performances and small-scale music concerts.
• Artificial Lake: Located in the center of the park, this lake provides paddle boat facilities that allow visitors to leisurely cruise on the water.
• Culinary Center: Rows of kiosks selling typical Lombok dishes, ranging from Sate Bulayak to fresh grilled fish caught by local fishermen.
• Spacious Parking Area and Clean Toilets: Providing convenience for large groups and independent travelers.

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Entertainment Experience and Sunset Panorama

One of the most unique recreational experiences at Loang Baloq is enjoying the sunset moment. Because of its position facing directly into the Lombok Strait, visitors are treated to a view of the sky changing to golden orange with the silhouette of Mount Agung in Bali appearing faintly in the distance if the weather is clear.

For photography enthusiasts, every corner of this park offers aesthetic photo spots. From the bridge over the lake, the observation tower, to the iconic "Loang Baloq" lettering installation. At night, the park is adorned with decorative lights that create a romantic and tranquil atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for young people and families to relax after a long day of work.

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Family-Friendly and Educational Destination

Pusat Rekreasi Loang Baloq is very family-friendly for those with children. There is a children's playground equipped with slides, swings, and safe rubber flooring. Additionally, the spacious green open spaces allow children to run freely or fly kites.

Educational value can also be gained through the introduction of religious history. Families can teach children about tolerance and the history of the spread of Islam in Lombok through visits to the tomb area located on the south side of the park. The presence of an old banyan tree with its dangling roots gives a mystical yet majestic nuance, becoming an interesting historical narrative for the younger generation.

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Cultural Significance and Community Role

Culturally, Loang Baloq is a symbol of Sasak spirituality. Traditional ceremonies such as Nguras (grave cleaning) or vows of fulfillment traditions are still often performed here. The role of the local community is very strong in preserving this place. Many vendors and facility managers are local residents empowered through tourism awareness groups (Pokdarwis).

Social interactions at Loang Baloq depict the friendliness of the Mataram people. Here, the boundaries between tourists and local residents blur in daily activities, creating a warm community atmosphere. The existence of this park also serves as a driver of the creative economy for the residents of Ampenan coast and its surroundings.

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Tourist Information and Best Visiting Times

Pusat Rekreasi Loang Baloq is located on Jalan Lingkar Selatan, Sekarbela District, Mataram. Access to the location is very easy as it is on the main route, which can be reached within 10-15 minutes from the center of Mataram City by private vehicle or online transportation.

Best Times to Visit:

• Late Afternoon (16:30 - 18:30 WITA): This is the most popular time because the weather starts to cool down and visitors can witness the stunning sunset phenomenon.
• Weekends: The atmosphere will be very lively with many additional street vendors and community activities. However, for those seeking tranquility, weekdays (Monday-Thursday) are a more appropriate time.
• Major Religious Holidays: On Lebaran Topat (one week after Eid al-Fitr), Loang Baloq will be crowded with thousands of people celebrating the tradition of communal eating and pilgrimage.

Pusat Rekreasi Loang Baloq is not just an ordinary city park. It is a public space that successfully integrates spiritual aspects, family recreation, and natural beauty in one expanse. For anyone visiting Mataram, Loang Baloq offers a complete, affordable, and memorable tourist experience, making it a must-visit destination to feel the pulse of the authentic life of the people of West Nusa Tenggara.