Two-Toned Waters at Gunungkidul's Baron Beach Explained

A striking two-colour phenomenon has appeared in the waters off Baron Beach in Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta Special Region, where the sea has turned a vivid contrast of brown and blue.

Marjono, Coordinator of the SAR Satlinmas Rescue Istimewa Unit for the Baron Beach area (Region II), said the two-toned waters had been visible since several days ago.

“Yes, that’s correct — it has been occurring since Tuesday (17 February 2026),” he said when contacted by detikJogja on Friday (20 February 2026).

Marjono explained that the phenomenon was caused by the impact of heavy rainfall. Water flowing from the Wonosari area increases in volume and runs southward, particularly into the waters around Baron Beach.

“The cause is heavy rain. When there is heavy rainfall in Wonosari, the water inevitably flows into the underground river at Baron Beach. Because it overflows, the water turns that brown colour,” he said.

Marjono added that the brown discolouration in Baron Beach’s waters would change in line with rainfall intensity. If there is no rain for several days, the water quickly returns to its usual blue.

“If it is still raining in Wonosari, conditions will remain like that. But if the rain stops, the water begins to clear within three days,” he said.

Marjono stressed that tourists need not be concerned about the phenomenon. He said visitors could in fact enjoy witnessing the unusual sight, provided they continued to follow instructions from officials on the ground.

“It remains safe. The only thing affected is the PDAM [local water utility], as the water has become turbid,” he said.