TIMES MALAYSIA, MALANG – As the sun rose, painting the sky with a breathtaking array of colors, our second day of adventure at Teluk Asmara commenced, following a memorable octopus-catching expedition the day before. The tranquil waters below reflected the golden hues of dawn, turning the sky into a mesmerizing canvas of nature's artistry.

Located in the village of Tambakrejo, Sumbermanjing Wetan District, Malang Regency, East Java, Teluk Asmara Beach beckoned us to immerse ourselves in its enchanting beauty. With our cameras in hand, we strolled along the shoreline, captivated by the serene sunrise and the awe-inspiring landscapes it unveiled.

After indulging our senses with the picturesque views, our growling belly led us for breakfast at a local eatery. Nestled near the parking area, these humble establishments offered a variety of traditional dishes at affordable prices.

From hearty plates of pecel and smoked fish to comforting bowls of boiled noodles and crispy chicken. In this place we could savored our breakfast alongside steaming cups of coffee, embracing the refreshing spirit of the morning.

Don't worry about the price. It only ranged from Rp 8K upwards, though it's wise to inquire about the cost of your chosen dish beforehand, as not all eateries display their prices.

Time for Some Sandy Fun

Reinvigorated by our meal, we returned to the beach to continue our adventure. Playing in the soft, white sand became our chosen pastime, as we dug trenches and buried one another for playful amusement.

By this time, we entrust our phones to nearby vendors for a quick and affordable charge—Rp 3K for an hour or Rp 5K for two. We relished the gentle sea breeze, occasionally drifting into peaceful slumber beneath the shade of lush trees lining the shore.

As the day unfolded, we prepared a simple yet delectable barbecue lunch using portable kitchen tools we brought from home. Dining by the water's edge, we indulged in the flavorsome feast while basking in the invigorating sea breeze.

Harvesting Fan Clams

At 3 p.m., as the tide began to recede, we ventured to another section of the beach adorned with rugged sand dunes and witnessed the mesmerizing sight of thousands of fan clams concealed beneath the surface. Excitedly, we embarked on a clam-harvesting expedition, eagerly gathering both large and small specimens by gently lifting them from the sandy depths.

The process was both exhilarating and gratifying; a simple shake of the sand revealed our treasures. Undeterred by the setting sun, some fellow visitors, who had chosen to camp on the beach, continued the activity aided by additional lighting.

Before darkness enveloped the coastline entirely, we retreated inland, our hearts brimming with joy as we carried a large bag filled with meticulously cleaned fan clams towards our campsite.

Easy Fan Clam Cooking

After freshening up, we proceeded to cook the clams. Cooking fresh fan clams is a straightforward affair—simply boil them in freshwater, discard the first batch of water, then add fresh water and simmer it for another minutes.

The result? A savory and naturally salty delicacy, a fitting reward after a day of seaside exploration. With shells emptied and bellies satisfied, we spent the evening lounging by the shore, enchanted by the mystical glow of the crescent moon reflecting upon the tranquil waters.

As we drifted off to sleep outside our tents, we reflected on the true essence of our Teluk Asmara adventure—not merely a journey of natural beauty, but a testament to the bonds forged with nature and family. In those moments of togetherness, we found true happiness, crafting unforgettable memories beneath the shimmering moonlight—a treasure worth more than any clam or sunrise. (*)