Parang Tritis sand dune is located 15.7 hm from the estuary of Opak River to Parangtritis, Parangtritis, Kretek, Bantul, Jogja. And it spreads over 2 km or the coast line. The dunes are caused by wind activity or eolin.  The wind carries the sand and then precipitate to form a hills of sand of various types. In general, sand dune created on desert, but uniquely, Indonesia as tropical region with high rate of rainfall posses sand dune is such a unique phenomenon. This sand dune is the only sand dune in Indonesia. The formation of sand dune is a result of a process influenced by Mt Merapi, Graben Bantul, Ngopak River and Progo River.

Material in the dunes are originated from Mt Merapi and other active volcanoes in the vicinity. Sand and other pyroclastic materials were ejected by volcanoes. Rivers like Kali Krasak, Kali Gendol and Kali Suci also brings materials to the south coast of Java, where the dunes located.

The wind role is very dominant in forming dunes by rolling, creeping, jumping or floating the sand and creating the dunes , the hilly sand.
The process of sand dune takes centuries. Sand dune is Parangtritis is noted as specific characteristics, such as the temperature extreme difference at night and day time, just like desert nature. Academics find the dunes is a nature laboratory for research, the similar characteristic  of dune can be found only in Mexico. Formations of dunes can be found here are; transverse, barchans, parabolic and longitudinal dune formation.  The dunes beauty draw artists for their works. There is a Sand Dune Geospatial Museum located in the area that is equipped with instruments and other related books and knowledge.

Entering the dunes area, whispering sand welcomes visitors. Because of the blowing wind, sand floats in the air. Sunglasses, hat, jacket are required.