Yogyakarta has always been charming to both local and foreign tourists. This cultural city offers a beautiful blend of history, tradition, and diverse tourist experiences—from stunning beaches and thrilling adventures to vibrant nightlife. On this trip, I explored the beauty of Drini Beach in Gunung Kidul, the excitement of a jeep ride at Pindul Cave, a delicious meal at Mediterranean by Kamil Jogja, and ended the unforgettable experience with a cabaret show.

Enjoying the beauty of Drini Beach

Drini Beach is an exotic destination located in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta. What makes it unique is a small island that divides the beach into two sides, each with distinct characteristics. On the east side, the waves are calm—ideal for swimming or splashing around. On the west, the waves are stronger, offering a spectacular view from afar. It takes about two hours to reach Drini Beach from the center of Yogyakarta. There, I enjoyed snorkeling, riding a fishing boat, and watching the beautiful sunset. Entry to Drini Beach is very affordable at only Rp10,000.

This time, I tried canoeing along parts of the beach. It cost Rp50,000 per canoe, and the scenery—paired with the sound of waves and fresh breeze—made me want to stay in the water longer. However, caution is needed, as many sea urchins are hidden among the rocks. Visitors can also hike up the coral hill for a wide and stunning sea view. Some say the beach atmosphere is reminiscent of Bali, with its peaceful charm and natural beauty. At dusk, the changing sky colors reflected on the sea, creating a truly magical scene.

Thrilling Jeep adventure at Pindul Cave

After the calm of the beach, I was ready for an adrenaline rush with a jeep adventure at Pindul Cave. This off-road tour around the cave offered a different experience than usual. With rocky, muddy, and challenging terrain, it’s perfect for those who enjoy extreme adventures. Typically, I visit Pindul Cave for cave tubing along the underground river, but this time, I wanted to try something new. The route was full of steep climbs, puddles, and sharp turns that got my heart racing. Despite the obstacles, the lush greenery, small streams, and fresh air made the journey enjoyable. Besides the thrill, the experience offers a deeper connection to Yogyakarta’s unspoiled natural beauty. Just make sure to wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, as it’s a wet and dusty ride.

Romantic dinner at Mediterranean by Kamil Jogja

After an adventurous day, I recharged with a delicious dinner at Mediterranean by Kamil Jogja. This restaurant is known for its romantic, cozy, and relaxed ambiance. Decorated in a Mediterranean style, it’s a favorite among both locals and international tourists.

The menu features a range of European and Mediterranean dishes, including pasta, pizza, seafood, and meats seasoned with unique spices. A must-try is the grilled salmon with lemon butter sauce, known for its rich and tender flavor. Unfortunately, it was sold out, so I ordered Capricciosa Pizza, Duck Breast with Sweet Spices, Pasta Crosta Salmone Affumicato, and Chicken Shish Kebab. Each dish was delicious, but my favorites were the Duck Breast and the Pasta Crosta—they were authentic and packed with flavor. With dim lighting and soft background music, dinner here wasn’t just about food—it was a full, memorable experience.

Nightlife at a cabaret show

To wrap up the day, I attended a cabaret show in the Malioboro area—one of Jogja’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The show offered spectacular entertainment with dazzling costumes, energetic dance performances, and captivating music.

The themes ranged from Broadway-style dances and musical parodies to hilarious comedy skits. The performers were incredibly professional and engaging. This was my first time attending such a show—I was hesitant at first, but curiosity won out.

The interactive atmosphere made the audience feel part of the show, adding to the fun. For anyone who hasn’t seen a cabaret, it’s a unique experience worth trying—definitely memorable! After the show, I strolled around Malioboro, soaking in the buzz of street life, the cool night air, and keroncong music from local performers. It was a warm and calming end to an exhilarating day.

Yogyakarta offers everything—natural beauty, adventure, cuisine, and nightlife. From the serenity of Drini Beach and the thrill of Pindul Cave to a romantic dinner and the joy of a cabaret show, this trip was an unforgettable experience.