Jatimalang Beach (Dewaruci Beach)

Characteristics of Natural Landscape and Geophysics

Jatimalang Beach features the typical landscape of Java's southern coast with a long and wide coastline. One of its main characteristics is its fine, black sand that glitters when exposed to sunlight. This black sand is a result of ancient volcanic activity and river sediment deposits carried to the sea, giving it a dense and comfortable texture underfoot.

Topographically, the beach has a relatively flat surface with small sand dunes in several spots. On the northern side of the beach, green vegetation is dominated by rows of casuarina trees (Casuarina equisetifolia) which function as natural windbreaks. The presence of these trees creates a green corridor contrasting with the dark color of the beach sand, providing shade and maintaining air humidity around the coast. The waves at Jatimalang Beach are known to be quite large and powerful, a common characteristic of the Indian Ocean, creating a soothing roar and dramatic white foam as they crash onto the shore.

Coastal Ecosystem and Biodiversity

Despite being a popular tourist area, Jatimalang Beach maintains its ecological balance. The casuarina forest area along the beach is not just decorative but is home to various small birds and pollinating insects. The roots of these casuarina trees also play an important role in preventing coastal abrasion, which often threatens the southern region of Java.

In the intertidal zone, visitors can sometimes find various small marine life such as sand crabs and shellfish that appear during low tide. Furthermore, this area is also a focus for environmental conservation due to its geographical location as part of the turtle migration route. Local efforts are continuously made to ensure that human activities do not disturb the existing ecological structure, especially in maintaining the cleanliness of the beach from plastic waste that can harm the marine ecosystem.

Dewaruci Iconography: Harmony of Art and Nature

What distinguishes Jatimalang Beach from other beaches is the presence of the magnificent Dewaruci Statue. This approximately 6-meter-tall statue depicts the figure of Bima (Werkudara) fighting a dragon in the middle of the sea, an important fragment in Javanese Wayang (puppet theater) about the search for the sacred water Prawitasari. The presence of this statue is not only an aesthetic point for photography but also a symbol of the strength and spirituality of the Purworejo coastal community. The statue's placement, facing directly towards the vast ocean, creates a heroic atmosphere, especially during sunset when the statue's silhouette blends with the orange and purple hues of the sky.

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Jatimalang Beach offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and adventurers:

1. Enjoying the Sunset: Thanks to its south-facing position with a wide view to the west, this beach is one of the best sunset spots in Purworejo. The sunlight reflecting on the wet black sand creates a stunning mirror effect.

2. Riding ATVs: For visitors who enjoy a challenge, ATV rentals are available to explore the long coastline. The dense black sand texture is ideal for this activity.

3. Fresh Seafood Culinary: Near the beach area, there is a Fish Auction Place (TPI). Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood such as squid, shrimp, and various types of sea fish cooked with local specialties in the beachfront stalls.

4. Relaxing Under the Casuarina Trees: The casuarina forest area is a favorite spot for family picnics. The cool atmosphere under the shade of the trees is often utilized by visitors to spread out mats while enjoying the sea breeze.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Jatimalang Beach is during the dry season, between May and September. During this period, the sky tends to be clear without clouds, allowing the sunset view to be seen perfectly. On a daily basis, the recommended times are 06:00 – 09:00 AM for fresh air and soft sunlight, or 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM to enjoy the twilight atmosphere.

It should be noted that during certain months (usually July-August), the southern sea waves can become very high due to the influence of monsoon winds. Visitors are strongly advised not to swim too far out for safety reasons, considering the steepness of the southern sea trenches and strong rip currents.

Accessibility and Facilities

Jatimalang Beach has excellent accessibility. It is located approximately 18-20 kilometers south of Purworejo city center and can be reached in about 30-45 minutes by private vehicle or public transportation. The presence of Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) in Kulon Progo, which is quite close to the Purworejo border, also makes access easier for international and out-of-town tourists.

The facilities at Jatimalang Beach are very complete to support tourist comfort, including:

• Spacious parking area for motorcycles, cars, and tourist buses.
• Neatly arranged pedestrian paths (paving block) around the Dewaruci statue.
• Clean toilets and a prayer room (mushola).
• Food stalls, souvenir shops, and a freshwater swimming pool for children around the beach area.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

The naming of "Dewaruci Beach" is not just a marketing strategy but an effort to increase the community's sense of ownership over this area. The Purworejo regional government, along with local communities, continues to promote the "Sapta Pesona" campaign, which emphasizes cleanliness, orderliness, and sustainability. Reforestation of casuarina trees is carried out periodically to strengthen natural protection against abrasion. It is hoped that with the increasing number of visitors, awareness of the importance of maintaining marine cleanliness will remain a top priority so that the beauty of Jatimalang Beach can be enjoyed by future generations.

Jatimalang Beach is a tangible proof of how coastal natural potential can be managed by integrating ecological elements, artistic aesthetics, and the people's economy. A visit to this beach is not just an ordinary tourist trip, but an appreciation of the majesty of the ocean and local cultural wisdom in the heart of Central Java.