OPERATION INDONESIA:
JETIS BEACH, KEBUMEN
Since 2016, ISLA has partnered with Indonesia’s Balawista lifeguards to enhance ocean safety by providing training and rescue equipment.
The initial operation in Pangandaran, Java, brought 12 international volunteers to lead a 30-hour open water course for over 60 local lifeguards and water tourism professionals. ISLA returned in 2017 to offer further training and equipment, while our third operation saw international lifeguards joining Balawista teams during the busy New Year holiday, a critical time for beach safety.
By 2019, ISLA had conducted four successful operations in Indonesia, focusing on advanced training and strengthening local safety efforts. Our commitment continues in 2025, with a new lifeguard training academy planned for Jetis Beach near Kebumen. Through these ongoing efforts, ISLA is dedicated to empowering Balawista lifeguards to serve their coastal communities with greater skill and confidence.
Stories from the frontlines #islaindonesia
Operation Indonesia
Mid September 2025
Planning
Answer the Call to Adventure!
Join ISLA’s 5th operation in Indonesia, where you’ll experience the beauty of Jetis Beach while contributing to lifesaving efforts that make a difference! This January, our team will travel to Kebumen on Java’s southern coast to work with Balawista lifeguards, sharing skills and building friendships as we collaborate to enhance water safety in this vibrant community.
Our mission kicks off with an three-day ISLA Lifeguard Academy, where you’ll engage in hands-on activities alongside Indonesian lifeguards, exchanging techniques and knowledge to strengthen local lifesaving practices. Beyond training, you’ll have time to explore the stunning beaches of Jetis and immerse yourself in the local culture, connecting with fellow volunteers and the Balawista team in a truly unforgettable experience.
Join us for this unique opportunity to empower local lifesavers and create lasting impact—while discovering the natural wonders and warm hospitality of Indonesia!
Important Dates & Itinerary
Monday, November 18, 2024
Operation Indonesia Applications Open
Sunday, December 1, 2024
Operation Indonesia Applications Close
Monday, December 2, 2024
Selected Volunteers Notified
Sunday, December 8, 2024
$250 Non-refundable deposit & Membership Due
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Airfare purchase due
Sunday, January 5, 2025
$450 Remaining non-refundable operation donation due
Monday, January 20, 2025
Arrive at Yogakarta International Airport, Indonesia (YIA)
Jan 21
Travel to Jetis Beach / Prep Day
Jan 22
Instructor Preparation Day
Jan 23 - 25
ISLA Training Course
Jan 26
Tour/Travel Day
Monday, January 27, 2025
Depart from Yogakarta International Airport or Travel on your own!
Operation Donation Amount
$750 USD
Included in the Operation Donation
- Lodging for the duration of the operation
- Lunch during ISLA Training Course (3 days)
- In-country ground transportation, ( round trip from Jetis beach & van rental for tour)
- 1 Year ISLA Membership
- Full ISLA uniform
- Equipment donations to Kebumen Balawista Lifeguards
NOT Included in the Operation Donation
- Airfare to Yogyakarta, Indonesia (cost varies; $800-$1,300 from Los Angeles)
- Indonesia entrance fee (Free & also varies by country)
- International Travelers Insurance for the duration of the operation (Mandatory)
Each volunteer will be responsible for their own airfare to Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) in Java, Indonesia. Round trip airfare from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) is approximately . $800-1,300. The donation will cover housing, some food, ground transport, uniform, and equipment donations for the operation. International Travelers Insurance for the duration of the operation is not covered, and must be purchased.
Language Requirement
*There is no language requirement for this project, although lifeguards who are bilingual in Indonesian and have training experience will be given priority in the application process.
What else is included?
Transportation: we work with our hosts, close relationships and sponsors, etc. to get this covered. Usually for the entire trip from airport to airport
Food: We work with our host, sponsorship, and friends to cover food during the work portions of ths trip. usually about half of the meals are covered for the whole trip
Housing: We work with sponsord, our hosts, etc. to get this sponsored during the work portions of the trip.
Experience: ISLA trips are generally cheaper than typical Travel, and allow you to make lifeling friends while making a difference. you ALSO gain professional knowledge of others while sharing your own skills.
Project Indonesia Media
Est. 2016
“If you come to a fork in the road, take it.” - Yogi Berra
Photos
Lifeguard AcademyDay 1 of our Open Water Training Pangandaran, Java, indonesia.
Operation Details >
Photos
Training Day 3Pangandaran Lifeguards meet international training standards.
Operation Details >
Blog
ISLA ExperienceAustralian lifeguard Mary Parkers shares her adventure in Indo.