Connected to the city of Surabaya by a long bridge, the island of Madura is an interesting diversion from the city. As soon as you’ve crossed over the buildings disappear, replaced by flat expanses of rice fields interspersed with pockets of forest and tropical trees.
The place has the look and feel of a James Bond villain’s lair…but in a good way.
The beach is a prime reason people come here, but the island is famous for its chalk mines too, and I got to visit one. The mine is still in use, but an unused section will soon be turned into a hotel.
You can take a short boat ride, or simply wander around the old mine tracks, looking at the atmospheric caves that have been hollowed out in long blocks.
You can walk around on foot, take a scooter ride to the upper regions, or get poled by boat through the small canals.
This island is an easy day trip from Surabaya city, well worth the afternoon detour on a sunny day.