West Sumatera - Pantai Air Manis

Malin Kundang at Pantai Air Manis

Overview

Air Manis Beach is closely related to the legend of Malin Kundang in West Sumatra. Malin Kundang is a character fabled to have been turned to stone, together with his ship, after periods of disobedience to his mother. By the beach, there is a Malin Kundang stone and several pieces of equipment from his ship, which are also stones. Based on the story, Malin Kundang was cursed by his mother for his refusal to acknowledging her as his mother after traveling to another region and becoming rich.

Air Manis beach is a favorite tourist site for local and foreign tourists because it has low waves and beautiful views of Mount Padang. There is also a small island called Pisang Kecil (literally means “small banana” ) on its right side. From morning to afternoon, you can walk to this one hectare island through shallow water. In late afternoon, however, there is a tide and you must take a boat to return. On its right, there is another island called Pisang Besar (literally means  “big banana” ). Local inhabitants on this island are mostly farmers and fishermen.

To Stay

There are hotels near Air Manis beach. You could also make a one day trip to Padang, stay on Pisang Besar or Sikuai Island.

Tips

If you visit Air Manis beach, you should prepare extra clothes. You will be tempted to swim or walk to Pisang Kecil Island.

To Buy

By Air Manis beach, there are many kiosks selling various souvenirs such as shirts, clothes, bags and other handicrafts.

The interesting thing is that some kiosks only sell small to large handicrafts made of coral for Rp5,000 to Rp50,000.

To Eat

Near the beach, there are restaurants selling grilled fish, Kapau rice and other snacks.

 To Do

Beside playing in the water and swimming, visitors can rent a motor boat to visit Pisang Kecil and Pisang Besar Islands which are located some 500 meters from the beach. On Pisang Kecil Island, visitors can sit under gazebos and enjoy sea and beach sceneries. If

you want to stay overnight on Pisang Besar island, you can stay in a local inhabitant's home or your own tent.

If you visit Sikuai Island, you can try water sports such as surfing and diving. This island is famous for its white sand.