Not Just Bantayan Beach! Here Are 5 Hidden Beaches in North Aceh That Are a Must-Visit

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As far as the eye can see, the blue horizon blends with the crashing waves of the Malacca Strait greets every footstep set foot on North Aceh. As one of the regions at the northern tip of Sumatra Island, North Aceh Regency holds a hidden gem that is now beginning to beautify itself as a prime destination. Entering 2026, beach tourism in this region will no longer be simply about sand and seawater, but rather a symphony of pristine nature, rich Islamic culture, and mouth-watering culinary adventures.

Not only offering visual beauty, but every inch of the coastline here also reflects the hospitality of the local community, who uphold the values ​​of courtesy. With improved accessibility and continuously developed facilities, North Aceh now invites travelers to explore further east from the center of Lhokseumawe City. Let's delve deeper into the most popular beach destinations in North Aceh that should be on your itinerary this year. Based on the latest data from 2025 and 2026, here are 5 recommended popular beaches in North Aceh:

1. Lancok Beach

Located in Lancok Village, Syamtalira Bayu District. Access is easy, and can be reached by private vehicle by following Google Maps directions or asking local residents from the main Lhokseumawe-Banda Aceh road. Entrance is free (only parking/hut fees, if available).

2. Bantayan Beach

Located in Seunuddon District. From downtown Lhokseumawe, follow the road heading east (Medan), then turn left towards the center of Seunuddon District until you reach the end of the road leading to the beach.

Entrance is generally free, but there is a parking fee or voluntary levy. Some sources mention an entrance fee of around IDR 20,000 per car (possibly including hut/facility fees).

3. Ulee Rubek Beach

Located near Bantayan Beach, in Seunuddon District. The route is the same as Bantayan Beach; simply follow the paved road to the coastal area at the end of the village. The entrance fee is very cheap, with only a parking fee (around IDR 5,000 - IDR 10,000).

4. Bahagia Beach

This destination is located inland, specifically in Blang Pante Village. The route requires navigation through village roads, and it's best to use an online map or ask local residents due to its unique location in a river/lake area. The entrance fee is IDR 5,000 per person, and parking is around IDR 10,000 (as of June 2025).

5. Krueng Geukuh Beach

Located in Dewantara District, near the Krueng Geukuh Public Port area. Access is very easy and is located on the main road leading to the port. Parking is free, or a voluntary fee is charged.

Practical Information for Visitors

- Must-Eat: Almost all beaches in North Aceh serve Acehnese noodles (especially with crab or clams) and fresh young coconut.

- Public Facilities: Most locations provide restrooms, prayer rooms, and relaxation huts. Payment is generally still cash-only. Please note that the listed rates are subject to change.

- Visiting Hours: Weekends (Sundays) and national holidays are the busiest times, especially in the afternoons.

Exploring the coast of North Aceh in 2026 offers a much more colorful experience than in previous years. With a combination of pristine natural beauty, its transformation into a family-friendly Islamic tourism destination, and its rich, authentic seafood cuisine, this area has established itself as a new tourist attraction on Aceh's east coast.

From Lancok Beach, which delights with its Crab Noodles, to Bantayan Beach, which boasts modern ATV facilities and trendy cafes, North Aceh proves that a quality vacation doesn't have to be expensive. Improved road access and very affordable entrance fees make it an inclusive destination for all groups, both local and out-of-town tourists.

For those planning a visit, be sure to bring enough cash, arrive in the afternoon for the best views, and most importantly, keep the beach clean to preserve this Acehnese gem. North Aceh tourism isn't just about the destination; it's about the friendliness and serenity hard to find elsewhere.