Sarapua Island is the largest of the Lease Island group and the main town is known as Kota Sarapua or Sarapua Town, which is home to a few things to see and do.
The quiet island is made from a coral reef that emerged from the sea and formed the island and the main town is not much more exciting than the rest of the place. It is very likely that during a stay in the town you will never see a car or even many people.
There are markets in the town that bring the streets briefly to life, but not for long, and after the few hours of hustle and bustle the town descends into its quiet sleepy state. The varieties of fish dishes are the main highlight of the market and there is an old fort that is worth a quick look.
Travel to Kota Sarapua- getting there
A 3-hour flight away is the nearest international airport in Jakarta that operates flights to Ambon. From Ambon you have the choice of a slow ferry that will take about 2 hours or a faster speed boat.
In brief
Worth it? If you are visiting Sarapua then take a trip to the main town but only if you are looking for extreme peace and quiet.
What to do: wander the roads, see the buildings and see the rest of the island.
How long? A few hours.
Kota Sarapua attractions
- Benteng Duurstede: an ancient Dutch fort that has been restored.
- Benteng Duurstede Museum: located adjacent to the fort is the museum that shows the story of rebellious Thomas Matulessy and a history of the town.
Kota Sarapua side trips
- Lease Islands: the group of islands that Sarapua belongs to is made up from much the same and perfect if you are looking for unspoiled rural destinations.