Sempu Island, Nature reserve island near Malang, Indonesia
Sempu Island is a forested area with white sandy beaches and limestone cliffs spanning about 877 hectares. Within its interior sits the Segara Anakan lagoon, a body of water about 4 hectares in size and enclosed by mangrove forests.
The Indonesian government protected the island as a nature reserve in 1928. This legal status introduced rules to preserve the natural ecosystems and wildlife living there.
The fishing families from the nearby village of Sendang Biru use traditional methods in the surrounding waters and remain deeply connected to this marine area. You can observe their boats and simple structures that reflect generations of living alongside this ecosystem.
You need to obtain a permit from the forestry service office in Sendang Biru before visiting. A short boat ride from there takes you to the island, where camping areas are set up for visitors.
The Segara Anakan lagoon stays clear because of natural cave systems that connect it to the Indian Ocean. This hidden underwater link creates a calm swimming spot separated from the open sea.
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