Taman Wisata Dunia Air Terjun (Waterboom) Sinka Island Park

History and Development Evolution

The development of Sinka Island Park began with a vision to create an integrated tourist area that could elevate the natural potential of South Singkawang. Previously, this area was dominated by steep hills and an untouched coastline. Through phased development, this area transformed into "Sinka Island Park," which includes a zoo (Sinka Zoo), Banjau Beach, and most phenomenally, its water attractions.

The name "Dunia Air Terjun" (World of Waterfalls) for the waterboom area refers to its architectural design that utilizes the hilly terrain. Instead of just using ordinary iron structures, the management built slides that seem to flow from the top of the hill, providing the sensation of sliding amidst natural waterfalls. This evolution marks Singkawang's shift from a mere transit city to a primary tourist destination on the island of Kalimantan.

Water Attractions and Unique Recreational Experiences

The main attraction of Taman Wisata Dunia Air Terjun is its location right on the coast, nestled against the foothills. This creates a landscape rarely found in other waterbooms in Indonesia.

1. Giant Sliders: Visitors can get their adrenaline pumping by trying various types of slides. There are open slides that twist and turn following the contours of the hill, as well as enclosed slides that provide a high-speed sensation before landing in the main pool.

2. Lazy River and Kids' Pool: For families with toddlers, there is a shallow pool equipped with a water bucket and mushroom-shaped water fountains. Meanwhile, the lazy river allows visitors to relax on a tube while enjoying the open sea view clearly visible from the pool area.

3. Integration with Natural Landscape: One of the unique experiences here is the sensation of swimming while breathing in the fresh sea air. Due to its elevated location, from the waterboom area, visitors can see clusters of small islands in the waters of Singkawang, including Simping Island, known as the smallest island in the world.

Family Facilities and Comfort

Sinka Island Park is designed as a one-stop-holiday destination. The available facilities greatly support the needs of large families:

• Gazebos and Pavilions: There are many shaded resting spots by the pool, allowing parents to supervise children while enjoying packed lunches or ordering food from the local canteen.
• Integrated Accessibility: Visitors who purchase an entrance ticket usually get access or ease to continue their journey to Sinka Zoo using special tourist vehicles. At the zoo, visitors can see tigers, sun bears, and various exotic bird species in a drive-thru concept.
• Culinary Area: The canteens around the waterboom serve local specialties such as Bakmi Singkawang and fresh young coconut ice, which are perfect to enjoy after a tiring day of playing in the water.

Cultural Significance and Role for the Community

Taman Wisata Dunia Air Terjun Sinka Island Park plays an important role in the economic and social pulse of Singkawang. Culturally, this place serves as a meeting point for various ethnic groups in West Kalimantan—Chinese, Malay, and Dayak. Especially during the Lunar New Year and Cap Go Meh celebrations, this place becomes a center of activity where inter-ethnic tolerance is clearly visible in a cheerful holiday atmosphere.

For the local community, the presence of Sinka Island Park opens up extensive employment opportunities, ranging from operational staff, lifeguards, to MSME actors selling Singkawang's distinctive handicrafts at the exit area. This destination is also often used as an outdoor educational location for schools in West Kalimantan to introduce the rich fauna at Sinka Zoo while also exercising in the water attractions.

Visitor Information and Best Times

To get the maximum experience at Taman Wisata Dunia Air Terjun Sinka Island Park, here are some tips to consider:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is in the morning at 09:00 WIB when the sun is not too hot, or in the afternoon starting at 15:30 WIB to enjoy the stunning sunset view from the hilly area.
• Operating Days: This place operates every day, but the liveliest atmosphere usually occurs on weekends and national holidays. If you prefer a quieter and more private atmosphere, choose a weekday.
• What to Bring: Don't forget to bring comfortable swimwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera. Because the area is vast and includes a safari park, comfortable footwear for walking is highly recommended.
• Location: Located about a 15-20 minute drive from the center of Singkawang City. The road access to the location is very good and can be passed by tourist buses or private vehicles.

Conclusion

Taman Wisata Dunia Air Terjun (Waterboom) Sinka Island Park is more than just a place to play in the water. It is a symbol of harmony between modern development and the preservation of the hilly and coastal environment. With the variety of facilities offered—from heart-pumping slides to the tranquility of enjoying sea views—this place remains the number one recreational destination in Singkawang that must be visited by anyone who wants to experience the wonder of tourism on the coast of West Kalimantan.