Discover recommended tourist destinations in Jepara for a memorable experience with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating attractions.
Jepara, a regency in the northern part of Central Java, boasts captivating attractions beyond its renowned woodcrafts. Known as Bumi Kartini, Jepara offers a variety of natural, historical, and cultural destinations for everyone to enjoy.
From beaches and waterfalls to temples and forts, this town provides unforgettable holiday experiences. Here are 10 popular tourist destinations in Jepara worth visiting:
1. Karimunjawa National Park
Karimunjawa National Park is the most famous tourist destination in Jepara. Located in an archipelago north of Jepara, this national park offers extraordinary underwater beauty, complete with diverse marine life and a shark conservation area.
Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, snorkel, dive, or enjoy local culinary delights. With entrance fees ranging from IDR 5,000 to IDR 7,500, Karimunjawa is a perfect choice for an unforgettable nature experience.
2. Panjang Island
Panjang Island offers a peaceful atmosphere reminiscent of a private island. With white sands and clear waters, this island is perfect for camping, cycling, or snorkeling.
Located in Ujung Batu, Jepara, it can be accessed by a tourist boat with round-trip fares between IDR 20,000 and IDR 30,000. The entrance fee to the island is only IDR 5,000, making it an affordable destination for travelers seeking tranquility in nature.
3. Jurang Nganten Waterfall
For nature lovers, Jurang Nganten Waterfall is an ideal destination to experience a natural and relaxing atmosphere. Located in Dukuh Turung, Tanjung Village, Pakis Aji, visitors need to trek 500 meters to reach the waterfall.
The clear water and lush surrounding trees create a cool and calming ambiance. With an entrance fee of only IDR 5,000, this spot is perfect for unwinding.
4. Portuguese Fort Beach
Portuguese Fort Beach is known for its unique rocky cliffs and captivating waves. This beach offers activities like swimming and fishing, with the backdrop of a historic fort built in 1923.
Located in Banyumanis, Donorojo, the beach can be accessed with an entrance fee ranging from IDR 2,000 to IDR 10,000. Open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, it is a great place to enjoy the sunset.
5. Punuk Sapi Beach
Punuk Sapi Beach is another must-visit destination in Jepara. Located in Balong Village, Kembang, this beach features black sand and facilities like hammocks and swings that are perfect for relaxing or taking photos.
Uniquely, this beach does not charge an entrance fee, making it a budget-friendly option for tourists.
6. Bandengan Beach
Bandengan Beach is one of Jepara’s most famous beaches, known for its beautiful white sand and stunning sunset views.
Located north of the city, the beach has public seating areas and several beachfront restaurants serving local snacks. It is popular for swimming and beach volleyball.
7. Kartini Beach
Named in honor of Raden Ajeng Kartini, Kartini Beach has a unique attraction in the form of a giant turtle-shaped building housing an aquarium with various fish, turtles, and coral reefs.
There are also facilities such as a children’s play area and a 3D cinema, making it an ideal family vacation spot.
8. Kedung Bobot Waterfall
Kedung Bobot Waterfall, located in Somosari, Batealit, offers a view of a strong and refreshing waterfall surrounded by lush trees.
This place provides a cooling natural atmosphere, perfect for photos or just relaxing while listening to the sound of cascading water.
9. Mantingan Mosque
Mantingan Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Jepara, built during the Demak Sultanate era. Located in Mantingan Village, Tahunan, the mosque showcases architecture that blends Islamic, Hindu, and Chinese elements.
The mosque complex also has a sacred water source believed to have unique properties. It is a significant historical center for the spread of Islam in the northern coastal region of Java.
10. Portuguese Fort
Portuguese Fort is not only a historical witness to colonialism in Indonesia but also offers breathtaking sea views.
Built in the 16th century, the fort is located on a cliff overlooking the Java Sea, creating a perfect combination of historical tourism and natural panorama.
The fort is ideal for photography and exploring traces of the past while enjoying the surrounding beach atmosphere, with Bawean Island visible in the distance, adding even more charm to the view.
Jepara is a place where natural beauty, history, and culture blend to provide unforgettable holiday experiences. From beaches to waterfalls, make sure to add Jepara to your next travel destination list.
