Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city, a dynamic port on the northeastern coast of Java with a strong maritime heritage and thriving business scene. You will find wide boulevards, riverside promenades, and a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere that blends tradition with modern living.

What to expect
The city is known for its characterful neighbourhoods, from the historic Old Town and Chinatown area to leafy residential districts and revitalised waterfront spaces. Expect busy streets, bustling local markets, contemporary shopping centres, and a growing café culture that reflects Surabaya's youthful, entrepreneurial spirit.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is a practical base for exploring East Java, with good onward links to Mount Bromo, the Ijen Plateau, and coastal towns along the Java Sea. Whether you are here for business or leisure, the city offers convenient transport connections, varied accommodation, and a welcoming introduction to the wider region.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Visit this well-preserved colonial-era complex that now serves as a museum and cultural space, set around a central courtyard.

Suramadu Bridge

Take in views from Indonesia's first cross-sea bridge, linking Surabaya with Madura Island and offering impressive panoramas, especially in the evening.

Tunjungan Street and Old Town

Stroll along this historic thoroughfare lined with heritage buildings, then continue into the Old Town to see Surabaya's architectural past.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Explore a decommissioned submarine on the banks of the Kalimas River and learn about Indonesia's maritime history in an unusual setting.

Surabaya North Quay

Head to this waterfront area to watch cruise ships and cargo vessels, enjoy sea breezes, and see a different side of the working port.

Maspion Square area

Experience local city life around this busy district with malls, eateries, and lively streets that stay active well into the evening.

Kenjeran Park coastline

Spend time along Surabaya's eastern shoreline, where coastal promenades and recreation areas offer views over the Java Sea.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Surabaya is best explored using metred taxis and app-based ride services for longer journeys, supported by local buses and newer urban transport options along main corridors. For short distances, walking in central districts such as Tunjungan is pleasant in the early morning or late afternoon.

Local life & culture
The city has a strong trading and maritime culture, with a straightforward, down-to-earth feel. Busy streets, neighbourhood coffee shops, and riverside areas show how residents balance work, family, and social life, giving you a glimpse of everyday East Javanese urban living.

Where to unwind
Green spaces, riverside paths, and coastal areas like Kenjeran Park offer fresh air and room to relax away from the main roads. Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures, or come back around sunset when the light softens and the city slows for the evening.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for flavourful local dishes served at casual eateries and street-side stalls, especially around traditional markets and older neighbourhoods. Hawker-style vendors in these areas serve comforting, home-style plates that highlight East Java's bold yet balanced flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and modern lifestyle complexes across central Surabaya house food courts, cafés, and casual restaurants offering Indonesian and international options. Many menus are designed around sharing and small plates, making it easy to try a variety of dishes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for restaurants with city views in high-rise hotels or venues overlooking the waterfront and main boulevards. These spots pair contemporary cuisine with expansive panoramas, creating relaxed settings for business dinners or special occasions.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya's modern malls act as social hubs, bringing together international brands, local fashion, cinemas, and family entertainment. Large complexes across the central city provide air-conditioned comfort, varied dining, and convenient services all under one roof.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller commercial streets are where you will find everyday goods, textiles, and locally made items. Districts close to the historic centre and older residential neighbourhoods are particularly good for browsing small shops and discovering independent labels.

Evening retail scene
As the heat eases after sunset, shopping centres and commercial streets become livelier, with extended opening hours and bright façades. Night-time strolls through these areas can be combined with dining or a café stop, and local transport makes it straightforward to get back to your hotel.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is generally hot and sunny, with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Clear skies make it a good time for city walks, coastal visits, and excursions to East Java's highlands for cooler air.

Wet season (Musim Hujan, November to April, peak season)
The wet season brings short, intense showers, usually in the afternoon or evening, with temperatures typically 27–31°C (81–88°F). Rain freshens the city and nearby countryside, and showers are often followed by bright skies that give the streets a vivid, refreshed look.

Transitional months (around April and November, low season)
In the months when seasons shift, weather can be more changeable, with a mix of sunshine, cloud, and occasional rain, and temperatures near 28–31°C (82–88°F). This period often feels calmer, with slightly less predictable weather adding variety to city and coastal outings.

Frequently Asked Questions