I found a Java SMP called The ShadowSMP. It is a small chill server and it is trying to stay fun and active.
They have a few cool plugins and it sounds like they want everyone to just play together and have a blast. There are around 20 players right now so it feels like a smaller group but still alive.
Fresh Java SMP Looking For Players
GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IPVitaNova Semi Vanilla SMP With Claims
Community-Driven BuildsFriendly welcome vibeJava Edition ServerSurvival multiplayer worldUntouched world explore
VitaNova is a new semi vanilla SMP that just launched and it is built around community effort and feeling welcome. The world is still mostly untouched so people can explore and start shaping it together.
It runs on version 1.21 and uses plugins that change the vibe without turning it into something totally different. Fishing is upgraded with custom fish and different rarities and there are fishing tournaments too.
There is land claiming so your builds and loot can stay safe. The server also has an economy with jobs and an auction house so you can earn money and trade items. There are crates you can get without it being a huge grind and for the launch you can claim free items through the calendar command until the end of January.
They also do events like a boat race where the winner gets to pick an item.GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IP