A bunch of superlatives came to mind when we first set eyes on the natural stone arch at Bwanna Beach. Truly a marvel of nature, a narrow stoney cape juts into the turquoise sea and is perforated with an almost perfectly semi-circular aperture. With the crashing waves and pale golden sand surrounding the majestic formation, the scene is captivating.
This beauty, however takes a little effort to find. Locally it’s known by a host of names — variations include Mbwanna, Banna and Radar. After asking for “batu lubang” (a rock with a hole) we were directed to a narrow track.
Walk this way. Photo: Sally Arnold
A group of local guys then offered to show us the way — for a fee (3 x 10,000 rupiah). The narrow cliffside path is steep, but cement stepping stones for the final section make it less difficult, and all up it’s less than 10 minutes to climb down.
Check tide times first, as the slim strip of beach is almost engulfed at high tide, and the sea here is quite rough. From where the path joins the beach to the arch is about 60 metres — if the tide is low you can stand underneath. Halfway down the cliffside path, a track branches off, leading to the top of the archway. From here you have a fabulous view up and down the coast.
Our kind of bridge to nowhere. Photo: Sally Arnold
You’ll have to use private transport to get to Bwanna Beach. Combine the trip to see other rock formations at nearby Watu Malando Beach, and turn off at the signposted road to visit impressive Waingapu Village.
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By
Sally Arnold
.
Last updated on 22nd November, 2016.
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Location map for Bwanna Beach
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