Wab
(Updated July 2024)
Wab is an undiscovered gem on Kei Kecil I often stay here for a week at a time with a local family. The few tourists that come to the south part of Kei Kecil often zip through on their way to the stunning 4 kilometer beach at Ohoidertutu and Madwaer. Here is what they are missing:
This 1.5 kilometer long beach is just off the main road in Wab, all you have to do is drive about 150 meters and walk another 50 meters. There is also a small store with snacks, cold drinks and even some frozen treats (es kiko).
I have stayed with a local family many times and I’ve never seen a tourist at this beach. I’m sure it will happen someday.
It can get crowded when the kids are playing football though (ha ha):
If you are here on a Sunday you could also go to the church. They have a very good choir and some interesting instruments. You will be very welcome! Be prepared though because the service sometimes lasts 2 hours.
In the late afternoons it is often possible to watch or play volleyball:
Practicalities:
Access to Wab from the North is only possible by scooter or motorcycle (2024). When you arrive at Tetuat there are small boats that will help take you and your scooter across for a small fee. The boats replace a motorcycle bridge that fell into disrepair and can no longer be used. There is a big bridge that is mostly completed but it’s been in this state for a few years already.
From Langgur it takes about 45 minutes to get to Wab (no stops). From Ohoidertawun or Ohoilir it will be about an hour. The road south of Wab has nice pavement with access to Ohoidertutu/Madwaer and from Wab it is much faster than it used to be (45 minutes).
There is also a new road from Evu to Ohoidertutu that could be a longer option to avoid the boat trip, make a circuit, or access Wab by car.
For accommodation, I know of 2 good homestay options. The first option is to ask for Mama Nina; her family has a house on the main road. The second possibility is to ask for Rony; his family runs a shop on the right side as you enter from the north.
There is also new tourist accommodation at a villa south of the village (see the map page) It is a quite new house that you will likely have all to yourself (500,000 Rp/night). There is no hot water and the rooms don’t have attached bathrooms.
