Cilacap

Cilacap

Built between 1861 and 1879,  Benteng Pendem  is an impressive Dutch fort complex at the entrance to the old harbour. It has intact barracks (bring a torch to explore properly, as they’re rather dark) and massive ramparts, and is one of the bestpreserved colonial garrisons in Java.
The fort overlooks a long stretch of dirty sand,  Pantai Teluk Penyu. This popular local beach has souvenir stalls that sell an array of shells and trinkets.
For better beaches – complete with white sand – head to  Nusa Kambangan , a long island south of the port. This island contains no fewer than four high-security prisons (and five inactive ones); former inmates have in­ cluded the Bali bombers and Tommy Suharto. There are fine beaches to explore, but swim­ ming can be treacherous. Keep a lookout for white-bellied fish eagles surfing the thermals. Ferries sail from Cilacap at 7am (30,000Rp) and return in the late afternoon.