Aceh, a tsunami-ravaged region, illustrates the delicate balance between disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability. This study delves into the potential of pond land spatial quality improvement within watersheds as a bridge between these two objectives. Employing a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analyses were conducted. Stakeholders, including local community members, urban planners, and environmentalists, were engaged to comprehensively understand current practices, challenges, and opportunities in pond land spatial management within watersheds. Findings revealed that optimizing pond land spatial quality can play a dual role: enhancing the region’s capacity to manage water flow during extreme events, thus aiding in disaster mitigation, and promoting ecological balance within the watershed. However, existing practices often conflict between economic development goals and environmental sustainability. Key recommendations include the promotion of community-based interventions, stricter land-use regulations, and continuous monitoring and evaluation of pond land use. The qualitative insights from Aceh underscore the potential of strategic pond land spatial management in watersheds as a holistic approach to disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability. By fostering a synergy between these two imperatives, regions like Aceh can work towards a resilient and sustainable future, setting a precedent for similar coastal areas worldwide.