Cemoro Sewu Beach

Unique Natural Characteristics and Landscape

The name "Cemoro Sewu" is derived from Javanese, meaning "A Thousand Pines." This name is not mere hyperbole; upon entering the beach area, visitors are greeted by thousands of casuarina trees (Casuarina equisetifolia) that grow lushly and tower high. The presence of these rows of casuarina trees creates a vast natural canopy, making the temperature around the beach feel cool even under the scorching sun.

Unlike beaches in the southern regions that generally feature steep cliffs, Cemoro Sewu Beach has a relatively gentle topography with stretches of fine, dark brownish-black sand. This sand contains volcanic minerals that give it a unique shimmer when exposed to sunlight. Its elongated coastline offers an infinite visual expanse towards the horizon of the Indian Ocean, creating a dramatic color contrast between the dark green of the casuarina leaves, the dark sand, and the clean white foam of the waves.

Ecosystem and Biodiversity

Cemoro Sewu Beach is an example of successful coastal vegetation succession. The casuarina trees here not only serve as an aesthetic element but also play a vital role as a green belt. The strong roots of the casuarina trees bind the beach sand, preventing erosion that often threatens the west coast of Sumatra due to the impact of large ocean waves.

Besides casuarina, in some corners of this area, other typical coastal vegetation can still be found, such as sea pandanus and several types of beach grass that act as natural sand binders. This ecosystem is also a habitat for various types of coastal birds and crabs. If lucky, during certain seasons, visitors may see turtle tracks, as the Seluma coastal area is one of the turtle migration routes on the west coast of Sumatra.

Tourist Experience and Outdoor Activities

Cemoro Sewu Beach offers a variety of activities for nature lovers seeking tranquility and light adventure:

1. Picnic Under the Canopy: The most favorite activity is spreading out a mat under the dense casuarina trees. The sea breeze filtered by the gaps in the casuarina leaves creates a calming rustle, making it a perfect location for healing from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

2. Nature Photography: With its symmetrical rows of trees and the lighting that filters through the leaves (natural bokeh), this beach is a photographer's paradise. The sunset view here is iconic, where the sun seems to set right at the meeting line between the sea and the rows of casuarina trees.

3. Camping: The area under the casuarina trees is ideal for setting up tents. The ground covered with fallen casuarina leaves provides a soft and even base. Spending the night with the sound of crashing waves and the rustling wind in the treetops offers a profound spiritual experience.

4. Beach Exploration: Visitors can walk along the long coastline to look for shells or simply feel the sensation of the seawater. However, it's important to remember that the waves of the Indian Ocean are quite strong, so swimming activities are highly recommended to be done with extra caution or only at the edge.

Best Time to Visit

To get the maximum experience, the best time to visit Cemoro Sewu Beach is during the dry season, between May and September. During this period, the sky is usually clear with contrasting blue colors, and the risk of rain that could disrupt outdoor activities is minimal.

The sunset in Seluma occurs around 6:00 PM Western Indonesian Time. It is recommended to arrive as early as 4:00 PM to enjoy the transition of golden light filtering through the gaps of the casuarina forest. For those who prefer tranquility, weekdays are a good choice as this location is quite popular with locals on weekends.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a nature-based destination, the sustainability of Cemoro Sewu Beach heavily relies on environmental awareness. This casuarina forest is an important asset in mitigating tsunami and erosion disasters. The local government, along with the local community, continuously strives to maintain the density of the trees.

Visitors are strongly urged not to light campfires too close to tree trunks or piles of dry casuarina leaves that are easily flammable. The "Leave No Trace" principle, meaning not leaving any trash behind, is an unwritten rule that must be adhered to in order to keep the coastal ecosystem pure and unpolluted by plastics that can harm marine life.

Accessibility and Facilities

Cemoro Sewu Beach is administratively located in Tedunan Village, Semidang Alas Maras District, Seluma Regency. The location can be reached within approximately 2 to 2.5 hours of land travel from the center of Bengkulu City using two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles.

The road infrastructure leading to the location is quite good and paved, passing through the western Sumatra cross-route which offers views of rural landscapes and oil palm plantations. In the tourist area, basic facilities are available, such as:

• Spacious vehicle parking area under the shade of trees.
• Small stalls owned by local residents selling young coconuts and snacks.
• Simple public toilets and changing rooms.
• Several wooden benches and swings provided for relaxation.

Cemoro Sewu Beach is a representation of the natural beauty of the Seluma coast. The combination of a poetic casuarina forest and the power of the Indian Ocean makes it a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience another side of the natural charm of Bengkulu Province.