Jogjakarta; your base to many things Java. Not too far are the grand UNESCO temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. Truly epic sites. And let’s not forget Mount Merapi, the active volcano with its latest eruption occurring on October 25^th 2010. The dust has cleared now and the area open again for visitors. Also not far from the city are peaceful and scenic beaches, with fishing villages, caves and dunes. And it is a nice place to go to and escape the bustle of the sprawling town.

Jogjakarta surely warrants your visit. The town is a center of art and education and offers some good shopping opportunities, such as the famous walking street of Malioboro. The city is also decorated with colonial Dutch architecture and structures as well as palaces, such as the one of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono. There is more than enough to see and do in the town. And to make things easy, the town is quite small in area.

Just a short drive from Jogjakarta is Depok Beach, an enchanting coastline with beaches, sand dunes, a unique local atmosphere and of course, seafood. And the center of it all is the famous Fish Market. Walk around and mix in with the locals. Pick your lunch, whether it’d be a scrumptious fish or crustacean. Then, at a nearby stall, the locals will cook your selection at you request, whether you prefer grilled, steamed or fried and serve it to you for lunch at a local restaurant. This is what Depok Beach is all about.

From here, you’ll be treated to a rare site in Southeast Asia. As you drive through the Java-scape, notice sand dunes. Yes, sand dunes in tropical Southeast Asia. Step on out of the car and relish these pieces of nature and enjoy the expansive sandy, desert-like areas.

First stop, a visit to a prominent local figure, Syeh Bela Belu’s grave. Just by making the pilgrimage to this site, locals believe that you will have a spiritual experience and gain the power to ward off evils spirits. The spiritual journey continues to Langse Cave, a popular meditation spot. The walk to the top is challenging and uses a series of ropes and bamboo ladders to traverse the steep cliff. The reward, however, is pure bliss; a fantastic view of the ocean.

On your way back to Jogjakarta, take one last look at the area on top of some rocky hills overlooking Parangtritis Beach. Watch the sun set over the sand dunes, rick cliffs and ocean horizon.

Note: Before heading out on this Java Sand Dunes and Beaches day trip, it is suggested that you do not wear green clothes out of respect to the local people who believe that wearing green will bring misfortune.

For more ideas on rejuvenating travel, check out our Indonesia tours page.

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