AT A GLANCE

Why go?

Pohon Cinta Beach, known locally as Pantai Pohon Cinta ("Love Tree Beach"), is the signature seaside attraction of Marisa, the capital of Pohuwato Regency on Gorontalo's western coast. Part natural beach and part reimagined waterfront promenade, it pairs a broad sweep of pale sand and a calm, clear sea with a tidy jogging path, a busy strip of food stalls and one of the region's most dependable sunsets. Open from early morning until well after dark, it has become the default place for locals to stroll, eat grilled fish and watch the sun drop into the sea.↗↗

The name carries a folk legend: a large tree once grew at the water's edge that served as a favourite meeting place for young couples, many of whom are said to have fallen in love beneath it. Although the original tree has long since fallen, the area was revived and redeveloped, and its romantic backstory still shapes the beach's identity as a place for couples, families and slow evening walks.↗↗