OPERATION INDONESIA:
CARITA BEACH, BANTEN
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. In January of 2025 ISLA conducted a lifeguard academy in Jetis Beach near Kembumen. Our commitment continues in 2025, with a new lifeguard training academy planned for Carita Beach in Banten. 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
September 17 - 25, 2025
Coming Soon!
Location
City: Carita Beach, Banten
Information
Application Window: June 30 - July 12, 2025
Applications Due: July 12, 2025
Volunteers Announced: By July 13, 2025
Operation Leader: Aurelio Norte
ISLA Gnar-Factor 3.0
Max Number of Volunteers: 10
Cost: Airfare + $750 USD
Answer the Call to Adventure!
Join ISLA’s 6th operation in Indonesia, where you’ll experience the beauty of Carita Beach while contributing to lifesaving efforts that make a difference! This September, our team will travel to Banten on Java’s west 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 Carita 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, June 30, 2025
Operation Indonesia Applications Open
Sunday, July 12, 2025
Operation Indonesia Applications Close
Monday, July 14, 2025
Selected Volunteers Notified
Sunday, July 20, 2025
$250 Non-refundable deposit & Membership Due
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Airfare purchase due
Sunday, August 27, 2025
$500 Remaining non-refundable operation donation due
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Arrive at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Indonesia (CGK)
Sep 18
Travel to Carita Beach / Instructor Prep Day
Sep 19
Instructor Prep Day / Opening Activities
Sep 20 - 22
ISLA Training Academy
Sep 23
Tour Day
Sep 24
Tour / Travel Day
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Depart from Soekarno-Hatta 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 Carita Beach & van rental for tour)
- 1 Year ISLA Membership
- Full ISLA uniform
- Equipment donations to Balawista Lifeguards
NOT Included in the Operation Donation
- Airfare to Jakarta, 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 Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) 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 operation, 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.