Karimun Java

Halfway between Java and Kalimantan, out in the waters of the Java Sea sit the archipelago of small islets that form Karimun Java. Sparkling coral reefs give way to white beaches that open out in a medley of mangrove-clad banks and lowland rainforests. Of the 27 islands that make the cluster, only 7 are inhabited, and most visitors settle in one of the three main villages of the archipelago: Kemujan; Karimunjawa and Parang. These are peppered with clutches of rustic beach bungalows that cascade down to the scintillating shoreline, between the sands of Ujung Gelam and the appropriately-named Nirwana Beach. The main draw however is its treasure of marine life, and the island chain’s well-earned status as a marine national park stems from the wealth of its colourful sea life and coral gardens. Karimun Java tour guides are also at hand to organize adventure tours of the mangrove swamps and shopping trips to the Karimunjawa handicraft bazaars (wood carvings are a particularly famous export).