Our trip this time was to explore the beauty of Karimunjawa, which is an archipelago in the Java Sea and is included in Jepara district, Central Java.
Karimunjawa consists of 27 islands and most of them are uninhabited islands which are still very natural and beautiful. Plus, not many people know about it, making Karimunjawa a Hidden Gem in Java that you have to try.
Trust me, you will not encounter hordes of loud and drunk tourists. But instead, you will find peace here and feel like in your second home town. Because in just a few days you will make a friendship with locals in this small island.
How to get to Karimunjawa Archipelago
The most common transportation used to get to Karimunjawa is by boat from Semarang and Jepara.
You can also use the flight from Ahmad Yani airport, Semarang to Dewa Daru airport on Kemujan island, Karimunjawa.
We chose the route from Jepara using a fast boat. After traveling for about 2 hours, we finally arrived at the port of Karimunjawa. This is not our first time here, because Karimunjawa is one of our favorite destinations.
From a geographical perspective, getting to Karimunjawa is very easy because it is located not far from the cities of Jogja or Semarang in central Java.
So the next time you plan a holiday to Java, please take time to visit and enjoy the natural beauty of Karimujawa.
Welcome to Paradise
So, back to the topic. After we docked in Karimunjawa, the hotel shuttle service was waiting to take us to our accommodation at Breve Azurine lagoon resort.
After putting down our bags, we went straight to the lobby which was right on the beach. Of course we never forget to grab some cold beer too, which tasted dozens of times better there. How could it not be, in the lobby area you will be treated to a very spectacular Beach view . You can go straight down to the pier to enjoy the sunset or go fishing in the afternoon.
You can also do other activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, BBQ, or just lazing on the beach under the shady trees at this resort. But to explore this tiny island is really worth it with motorbike that you can rent from Hotel or Local.
Exciting & Authentic Island Life
There are several famous destinations that you can visit. Try go to Bobi Beach or Bukit Love which offers views of Karimujawa from the top of the hill. I must say that is highly recommended as a spot to enjoy the sunset, as is Tanjung Gelam beach. Or you can go to Mangrove trekking, Annora beach, and many more.
After Sunset, there is one of the highlights for me. It’s Alun-alun Karimunja or Karimunjawa Square in English. This is a center for local community gatherings in the Evening. Don’t imagine there are clubs and loud music, but instead, you feel like time takes you back to the past.
Many sellers serving very fresh seafood in this Square. Just don’t blame me if you get addicted because the food is extremely delicious.
There are also other sellers of roasted corn, snacks, traditional children’s toys, clothes, and much more.
What You Can Do in Karimunjawa
In the next morning, after breakfast with traditional Karimunjawa food served by the hotel, we rushed to the port. We were very excited, because were going to do island hopping using a small traditional boat.
We stopped at several snorkeling spots and also visited several islands. Lunch is served on Cemara Besar, one of the famous islands in Karimunjawa.
Then we also headed to the island Parang, known for the most favorite snorkeling spot.
There is also Gosong Island, which is a unique island because it only appears when the sea water recedes. You will feel like you are in Maldives, the difference is that it’s more pocket friendly and not crowded with tourists from all over the world. Sometimes, you are even the only one there, as if you own this private island.
Snorkling & Relaxing in Paradise Beach
I have another unforgettable memories. Our guide ask to gathered dry branches and coconuts. It turned out that he had collected several shellfish, and was ready to grill them. That was probably more delicious than a Michelin class restaurant, I guarantee it.
We used the rest of the day for snorkeling, sunbathing and exploring this remote island. A pure Cast Away feeling.
It was getting late and time for us to go back and enjoy the magnificent sunset on the boat. I still remember the feeling of water splashes caressing my sunburnt skin.
Time to say Goodbye to the beautiful Sunset.
After enjoying all the beauty of this island, and also the delicious BBQ we enjoyed last night on the beach, we finally had to wake up again that morning in to reality.
Yup…sadly we must took a fast boat back to Jepara port. We don’t know when will return to this island, but we are sure will always come back here.
For more info you can read Java & Karimunjawa – Culture & Beaches