BUKIT PENINSULA

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Uluwatu) is one of Bali's nine key directional temples
Balangan. Rated by some as the single best beach in Bali and one which receives relatively few visitors.
Dreamland. Formerly a very beautiful beach which has been ruined by the adjacent Pecatu Graha Indah "New Kuta" development.
Padang-Padang. A truly lovely beach with a big surf break offshore.

The Bukit Peninsula is southernmost point of Bali, Indonesia.
This is a large limestone peninsula which, bar a slither of land just south of the airport, would be a separate island. It is rugged and dry and pre-tourist development this was a real backwater of Bali.

The Bukit (as it is commonly referred to) includes the famous cliff-hanging temple at Uluwatu, a number of Bali's very best beaches and the top surfing spots on the island. As is so often the case, it was intrepid surfers who really opened up the eyes of the world to this part of the island.

The two main towns with strong local communities on the Bukit are Pecatu and Ungasan.

This article covers the whole of the Bukit Peninsula south of Jimbaran and west of Nusa Dua.

How to get in

The Bukit Peninsula is connected to Kuta through Jimbaran by the busy Jalan Bypass Nusa Dua and this is the only route in. Take this main road south to the junction with Jalan Uluwatu II (the famous McDonald's junction) and turn west towards Uluwatu.

A taxi from Kuta to Uluwatu for example takes 30 to 40 minutes on winding roads and will cost about Rp 120,000 one-way. If you are just visiting for the day, consider asking the driver to wait trip as it can be difficult to find transport back. Figure on paying the taxi driver Rp 20,000/hour to wait. Joining a tour can be a cheaper way of getting to Uluwatu.


How to go around

Exploring the Bukit lends itself very well to a rented motorbike. A number of the nicer beaches are reached via small roads or dirt tracks and a motorbike is the best method.

Taxis are not plentiful but can be found. There is a taxi stand at Padang-Padang just north of the bridge and one or two taxis are often sitting there waiting for customers.

A few bemos ply the main routes only but they are neither regular nor reliable.

What you can see

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Uluwatu) is one of Bali's nine key directional temples. Though a small temple was claimed to have existed beforehand, the structure was significantly expanded by a Javanese sage, Empu Kuturan in the 11th Century. Another sage from East Java, Dang Hyang Nirartha is credited for constructing the padmasana shrines and is claimed to have attained Moksha here. Even more remarkable than the temple itself is its location, perched on a steep cliff 70 metres above the roaring Indian ocean waves. There are more steep headlands on either side and sunsets over Uluwatu are a sight to behold.
Entrance fee is Rp 3,000. As usual, you need to be properly dressed to enter and sarongs and sashes can be rented at the entrance. Guides, once famously mercenary, hassle visitors less than they used to, although they will offer to "protect" you from the monkeys, for a tip of course. Note that while you are free to walk around the temple grounds, the central courts can only be entered during special rituals.
The temple is inhabited by large number of monkeys, who are extremely adept at snatching visitors' belonging, including bags, cameras and eyeglasses. Keep a very close grip on all your belongings and stow away your eyeglasses if at all possible. If you do have something taken, the monkeys can usually be induced to exchange it for some fruit. Needless to say, rewarding the monkeys like this only encourages them to steal more. Locals and even the temple priests will be happy to do the job for you, naturally in exchange for a tip (Rp 10,000 - 50,000).
There is also a very scenic Uluwatu cave with rock formations leading into a beach close to the temple. This is a popular spot for surfers.

There are number of good white sand beaches on the Bukit Peninsula which many consider the best in Bali:
Balangan. Rated by some as the single best beach in Bali and one which receives relatively few visitors. It takes a bit of finding but from the main junction at Ungasan heading out from Jimbaran towards Uluwatu turn right (west) by Nirmala Supermarket. The road then twists and turns for about 6 km until you reach the beach. Keep following informal signs to "Balangan" or "Balangan Surf" and a west-northwest bearing. This is a stunning beach and well worth the effort required in finding it. There are a few very laid-back warungs on the beach and even a couple of bungalows where you can stay the night.
Bingin. Another white sand beach north of Padang-Padang and south of Dreamland. The beach here is not eay to access as the cliffs are high but the ocean views alone make the visit worthwhile. From the village of Pecatu head towards Padang-Padang and look for informal signs on your right directing you to "Bingin Surf". Proceed down the maze of small roads here until you reach the obvious parking areas at the clifftop. There are two sets of steps down the cliff to the beach which are known as the northerly and southerly steps.
Dreamland. Formerly a very beautiful beach which has been ruined by the adjacent Pecatu Graha Indah "New Kuta" development. Still has excellent surfing conditions, especially for intermediate surfers & on days when other breaks are too big to surf. Right & left reef break, not too shallow and with decent shape. The entrance road to Pecatu Graha Indah is about 2 km southwest of Ungasan on Jl Uluwatu and is impossible to miss adorned as it by huge statues and truly massive billboards. The entrance fee to use the road down to the waterfront is currently Rp 10,000.
Padang-Padang. A truly lovely beach with a big surf break offshore. Accessed from a stepped pathway on the north side of the obvious bridge 3 kilometres north of Uluwatu Temple heading back towards Pecatu. The white sand beach here is a little bit narrow at the highest of tides but is otherwise very nice indeed.

What you can do

Uluwatu is a very well known destination among surfing enthusiasts. Most of the surf spots are only suitable for advanced or expert surfers though - the waves are big here. The main surfing spots are Uluwatu, Dreamland, Padang-Padang, Bingin/Impossibles and Suluban.
Kecak Dance (monkey dance) performances are held at the temple daily between 6 PM and 7 PM. Tickets for the visually spectacular if rather unoriginal show (it was invented in the 1930s) performed for tourists cost Rp 50,000.
Chosing to get married or renewing vows in Bali is an increasingly popular event and the Bukit Peninsula is the most popular destination for such ceremonies. There is a stunning, modernist, purpose-built cliff-front wedding chapel close to Nyang Nyang Beach and the Bulgari Hotel an a number of resorts offer specialist wedding packages and planning.
Tirtha Wedding Chapel, Jl Raya Uluwatu, Banjar Dinas Karang Boma, Pecatu (on the southern cliff edge between The Bulgari and Puri Bali at Nyang Nyang), ☎ +62 361 8471151 . This impressive chapel was designed by leading architect Glen Parker and is stuningly located on the cliff top above Nyang Nyang Beach. The architecture is very modern indeed and the chapel is essentially a series of glass-walled triangular pavilions surounded by reflection pools. Full wedding planning services offered.
New Kuta Golf Course, Kawasan Pecatu Indah, Jl Uluwatu, Pecatu, ☎ +62 361 8481333 (info@newkutagolf.com). This golf course is stunningly located on top of the cliffs above Dreamland beach and is a top class venue. It is part of the highly controversial Pecatu Graha Indah development that was the brainchild of former dictator Soeharto's son Tommy. The dubious acquistion methods of the land here by his development company from the traditional landowners is still a huge bone of contention in Bali and that, coupled with the development ruining Dreamland Beach, has resorted in a lot of controversy. Anyone wishing to play at the course may wish to bear all of that in mind when making a decision.

Souvenir

There are the usual souvenir shops at the parking area at the entrance to Uluwatu temple. Otherwise, this is not an area of Bali known for its shopping.
There are convenience stores/small supermarkets in the villages of Pecatu and Ungasan for everyday shopping.

Looking for food

The growing number of five star resorts on the Bukit Peninsula all have top class restaurants (and prices to match) and The Bulgari and Karma Kandara are especially highly rated.
At a more humble level there are a host of simple local roadside cafes catering to the young surfing crowd at Bingin, Padang-Padang and Uluwatu. A lot of these do not have names, let alone contact details and the best advice is to follow the crowds. Expect cold beers and good, simple Indonesian food.
Cafe Moka, Ungasan. Excellent coffee shop and cafe in Ungusan village close to the main Nirmala Supermarket. Bread and pastries are fresh daily and salads are excellent. Free wireless internet for customers.
Jiwa Juice Internet Cafe, 108 Jl Labuan Sait, Pecatu (on main road between Bingin and Padang Padang), ☎ +62 361 8470736. 8AM to 10PM (dry season); 8AM to 8PM (wet season). Jiwa Juice is a full service internet cafe and wireless hotspot. Serves breakfast, sandwiches, salads and smoothies. Also serves as a business centre, has a bulletin board and is a well known local meeting spot. Jiwa means soul in Indonesian.

Drink ?

This is certainly not an area in which to expect any nightlife at all and visitors staying here wanting some bar or club culture make the 45 minute journey up to Kuta or Seminyak.
You will almost always find somebody to join you for a relaxed beer on the beach though as there is a strong surf culture here. The beaches at Padang-Padang, Bingin and Uluwatu are the best bets.

Check in

This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room:
Budget           Under US$ 30
Mid-range     US$ 30 to 150
Splurge         Over US$ 150

As a tourist destination, the whole Bukit Peninsula area was popularised by surfers. There are still numerous small, cheap bungalows close to the main surf points at Uluwatu, Padang-Padang, Bingin and Suluban and many visitors just turn up and find what is available.
The area has more recently sprouted an impressive collection of high-end villas and resorts as well. Beware false advertising though: only the most expensive "villas" are completely private and self-contained, while most share at least some facilities (eg. pool) and the cheapest ones are just clusters of bungalows.

Budget
Chocky's Place, (at the base of the cliff right on the beach at Bingin. Park at the top and walk down the southerly steps), ☎ +62 818 05444833 (info@chockysplace.com). Very good value rooms literally on the beach - the water laps right up to the property at high tide. Popular with surfers as the main Bingin break is right in front. From Rp 90,000.
Flowerbud Bungalows, Balangan Beach, ☎ +62 816 4722310. Eight very charming rustic bamboo bungalows on Balangan Beach, several of which are family-sized. This great little place is representative of a Bali that is fast disappearing. Simple cafe facility and lots of old fashioned Bali charm.
Gong, Jl Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu (on the main road to Uluwatu Temple about 500 metres before the temple gates), ☎ +62 361 769976 (thegongacc@yahoo.com). Bit of an institution with the surfer crowd. Good, clean budget accommodation. You can also rent a motorbike here. Extremely popular. Rp 90,000.
Guna Mandala Inn, Padang Padang, ☎ +62 361 8470673. Budget accommodation just 100 metres from the entrance track to Padang Padang beach. Rooms are on two levels with the upstairs option definitely preferable as it gets nice breezes. Rp 175,000.
Kongsi Inn, Padang-Padang. Just about as basic as accommodation gets in Bali these days. Very much aimed at young surfers and in a great spot for easy access to the Padang-Padang break. Simple huts with bamboo walls and cold water. From Rp 70,000.
Rocky's Bungalows, Jl Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu, ☎ +62 817 346209. A old time favourite with the surf community. A good location close to Uluwatu with nice ocean views out over the Suluban cliff-line. From Rp 175,000.

Mid-range
Balangan Sea View Bungalows, Balangan Beach, ☎ +62 812 3679212 (robbyandrosita@hotmail.com). Right by the stunning beach at Balangan and only 50 metres from the cliff. Popular with surfers. Traditional style bamboo bungalows with swimming pool, internet access, restaurant and airport transfers. From Rp 325,000.
Mick's Place, Bingin (on the Bingin clifftop close to the northerly steps), (booking@micksplace.com). Four beautiful cliffront bungalows with a cliff-hanging infinity edge pool. Styles itself as a yoga retreat, a haven for surfers and a wedding venue. Everything here is very well done indeed. From US$ 60.
Mu, Bingin (on the cliff edge at Bingin close to the car park and the southerly steps), ☎ +62 361 7428249 (jbataillardbali@gmail.com). Four clifftop bungalows with thatched roofs set around a large freeform pool. Wonderful views from the Bingin cliffront here. Popular with surfers and those who just want to be away from it all. From €60.
Puri Bali, Jl Uluwatu, Nyang Nyang (directly above Nyang Nyang Beach. From Uluwatu take the main road heading towards Pecatu and after about 1.5 km look for the sign-posted turning to the south (right)), ☎ +62 361 7448300 (info@puribalivillas.com). Five individual cottages all with large bathrooms and set in huge cliff-front grounds. This place has seen better days and the rooms are in need of renovation. It is a very spectacular location though, set looking due south on the highest cliffs in Bali. The beach is a long way down but it is quite stunning and there is a path leading down the cliff. US$ 150.
Sandat Mas Cottages, Jl Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu (about 1 km north of Uluwatu Temple on the road to The Istana), ☎ +62-361 769965 (info@sandatmas.com). Large range of accommodation here from regular rooms up to a private three bedroom villa with its own pool. Clean, simple and not bad value although the cheaper rooms are not air-conditioned and there is no restaurant. Good ocean views and the cottages directly face sunset.
The Temple Lodge, Bingin (on the Bingin clifftop close to the southerly steps), ☎ +62 813 37769477 (ducabruzzi@hotmail.com). Boutique accommodation at Bingin with 3 creatively designed bungalows built into the cliff face. Truly amazing views over the west coast surf breaks. Aims itself primarily at surfers but this would be a great value choice for any visitor who really wants to experience the best of the Bukit Peninsula. The restaurant prides itself on a health conscious menu and is very suitable for vegetarians. From about €50.

Splurge
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Jl Belimbing Sari Banjar Tembiyak, Pecatu (on the southern ciff edge of the Bukit about 4 km south east of Pecatu), ☎ +62 361 848 2166 (uluwatu@alilahotels.com). There are 84 private villas in this modern and stylish cliff-edge luxury resort. Options of one, two or three bedroom villas, all of which have their own private pool and ocean views. All the facilites you would expect at a substantial five star resort including: 3 restaurants, 50 metre lap pool, spa, fitness centre and wedding facilities. Despite the name, this resort is about 7 km from Uluwatu. From US$.
Blue Point Bay Villas, Jl Labuan Sait, Uluwatu (on the cliffront, just to the north of Uluwatu Temple), ☎ +62-361-769888 (info@bluepointbayvillas.com). Small cliff-edge resort with one and two bedroom villa accommodation. Two pools, one of which is located right on the cliff-edge. Good in-house spa and decent restaurant.
Bulgari Resort, Jl Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin (almost due south from Pecatu, well signposted), ☎ +62-361-8471000. Clifftop superluxury resort every bit as stylish as you'd expect from a boutique hotel run by a fashion label. Plunge pool, private elevator to the beach, excellent restaurants and a price tag to match. From US$1,400.
Karma Kandara Resort, Jl Wijaya Kusuma (on the cliff-front south east of Pecatu, 1 km east of The Alila), ☎ +62 361 708800. Forty six private villas perched upon a clifftop with unobstructed views of the rolling surf of the Indian Ocean below. Each villa features a private walled garden complete with an infinity edge swimming pool. All bedrooms have their own en-suite bathroom. Living rooms are open plan comprising fully equipped kitchens, lounge and dining areas. A private cliff escalator provides access to Nammos Beach Club with its bar and fresh seafood grill. Gay/Lesbian friendly staff and management. Member of Leading Small Hotels of the World.

Private Villas

All the villas listed below are standalone and feature private entrances, accommodation and their own swimming pools.
The Istana, Uluwatu, (+62 361 730668). Five bedroom, clifftop luxury villa just to the north of Uluwatu Temple and directly overlooking the famous surf break. This is one of Bali's true super-villas and it has been featured in many international magazines. Sleeps up to 10 people, two private pools and extensive gardens - fully staffed (private cook, maids, etc). US$1,500 to 2,500.
Suluban Cliff Villa, Jl Pantai Suluban, Suluban (just off Jl Labuan Sait in front of Rocky's Bungalows), (info@sulubancliffbali.com). A very modern four bedroom cliff-front villa above Suluban beach. Extremely well furnished and fitted and has one of the most dramatic cliff-edge pools in Bali, complete with a glass wall. Fully staffed and serviced. From US$ 1,300.

Villa Moonlight, Uluwatu. Private luxury villa featuring four bedrooms and ocean view. Located just a little inland from Uluwatu in an elevated postion with great ocean views. Built in 2008 to a high standard and is nicely fitted and furnished. From US$ 595.
Villa Pemutih, Padang Padang. Four bedroom private cliff-edge villa with a dramatic infinity pool. All bedrooms with large en-suite baths. Big open living room and fully equipped kitch. Fully staffed and serviced with car, driver, maids, chef, security etc. Private steps down the cliff to the beach. from US$ 950.

Contact

Internet
Most of the Bukit Peninsula is now covered by ADSL services and you will find WiFi available at most hotels and many cafes (see eat section).

Get out

This is the most southerly point of Bali. Unless you are inclined to make your way east to Nusa Dua, the only option is to return to town via Jimbaran.

PEMUTERAN

Pemuteran is a small fishing village on the northern coast of West Bali.
This is a small laid-back village which has become increasingly popular with visitors in recent years. There are a number of waterfront resorts and its proximity to Lovina and West Bali National Park together with the extreme natural beauty of the area, has fuelled quite rapid growth in tourism infrastructure in the area.

Pemuteran is home to the largest artificial Biorock reef project in the world and there is a real spirit of marine conservation effort in this area.

How to get in

Visitors usually arive in Pemuteran on the north coast road from Lovina or Singaraja or from the west at Gilimanuk.
Regular bemos ply the north coast road but they are very slow and get extremely crowded.
You will have no problem renting a car with driver to take you from Lovina to Pemuteran - fix the price in advance and make sure petrol is included.
A direct ride to Pemuteran from tourist centres in the south will take about four hours depending on traffic on the coast roads.

How to go around

This is a great place to walk or get around by bicycle.
Your hotel will be able to help if you decide you need to rent a motorbike.

What you can see

Dolphins. Early morning dolphin boat trips can be arranged through any hotel. By no means guaranteed but you have a decent chance of finding a pod here.
The beaches are nice - a particularly fine grained black sand.
Menjangan Island and West Bali National Park are easily reached from here. The Menjangan Island boats depart from Labuhan Lalang which is a 15 minute ride west from Pemuteran. Obligatory permits can be purchased from the national park office at the back of the Labuhan Lalang car park and you can also arrange a guide here. It is quite common for groups of visitors to congregate in this car park and join together to charter a boat.

Most local hotels will make any arrangements you need for activities related to the national park.
Proyek Penyu (turtle project) is a turtle breeding and release program run by one of the dive operators in co-operation with local villagers. Very much worth a visit and certainly worth your support. See details here:
Vineyards. The area around Pulaki village just east of Pemuteran is the centre of the grape growing industry in Bali.

What can we do

Diving and snorkelling is good both here and at nearby Menjangan Island inside the West Bali National Park.
Reef Seen Aquatics, Pemuteran village, ☎ +62 362 93001. PADI accredited dive operator in Pemuteran. Very active in marine conservation who run their own turtle breeding and release programme for example.
Sea Rovers, (at Hotel Adi Assri, Pemuteran), ☎ +62 812 3859167 (dive@searovers.net). Offer a full range of fun dives and courses. PADI accredited. All dive prices in Euros.
Yos Marine Adventures, Pemuteran village, ☎ +62 813 3877 9941. Long established and reputable PADI accredited dive operator with a branch on Pemuteran beach.

Fishing is good in calm waters and you can charter a boat easily from the beach.
Hiking. The hills and mountains that form the southern backdrop to Pemuteran offer many opportunities for interesting hikes. Ask at your hotel for directions and/or a guide.

Find food

There are several simple roadside warungs serving typical Balinese food.

All of the hotels in the area have restaurants open to the general public.

As might be imagined in a traditional fishing vilage, the seafood options are highly recommended.

Check in

Hotel Adi Assri, Pemuteran, ☎ +62 362 94838 (sales@adiassri.com). Individual bungalows on the beachfront. Offers lots of national park based activities and has a dive centre attached to the hotel. In house spa and restaurant and a good sized swimming pool. From US$ 30.
Jubawa Homestay, Pemuteran village, ☎ +62 362 94745. Excellent budget option in Pemuteran with bungalows from US$ 15. Good wholesome Balinese food served here.
Matahari Beach Resort, Pemuteran village. An impressive luxury beachfront resort with splendid restaurant and in-house spa. from US$ 280.
Rare Angon, Pemuteran village, ☎ +62 362 94747. Budget air-conditioned bungalows with nice outdoor bathrooms.
Taman Sari Bali Cottages, Pemuteran village, ☎ +62 362 93264 (sales@balitamansari.com). Charming traditional Balinese style beachfront complex with accommodation ranging from double rooms at US$ 42 to 2 bedroom suites at US$ 175.

Get out

You can easily continue your journey around Bali eastwards to Lovina or westwards to Gilimanuk.

NUSA LEMBONGAN

Nusa Lembongan is a small island off the southeast coast of the main island of Bali.
Nusa Lembongan is approximately 8 square kilometres in size and is one of three neighbouring islands, the others being much larger Nusa Penida and tiny Nusa Ceningan (also covered by this article). The three islands are separated from Bali by the Badung Strait.

Fast becoming one of Bali's most popular attractions, this island paradise is a world away from the hassle and hectic pace of South Bali. There are no hawkers, no traffic, magnificent scenery and this is the perfect place to put your feet up and relax. Main activities include surfing, diving and snorkeling. Some tourists may find the island a little slow after the pace of southern Bali.

The water is some of the clearest you can find and vivid aqua blue in color. Most areas aroudn the island are good for diving and snorkeling with abundant marine life and live coral. Surfing can get a bit crowded but the waves are good. There are several white sand beaches away from the main centres which are virtually never rarely crowded. There is a flourishing and well established seaweed farming industry here and many visitors find it interesting to learn about this.

There are two main beach areas which have traditionally attracted visitors. Jungut Batu in the north is the bigger of the two with a myriad of hotels, restaurants and cheap eateries and has traditionally attracted backpackers, families and surfers. In more recent times, the hillside to the south of Jungut Batu (the Bukit) has been developed and attracted higher level hotels. The views from the Bukit are second to none on Nusa Lembongan. Sunsets are best viewed along the main Jungut Batu beachfront.

Mushroom Bay to the south-west of Jungut Batu is a quaint, attractive and sheltered bay. It is a nice spot after 3PM when the day trippers have gone home and it has a great white sandy beach along with some cozy little restaurants that line the beach. Further south the lesser known beaches either side of the Devil's Tear outcrop are increasingly drawing more visitors.

How to get in

The only realistic way (although you can charter a helicopter) to reach Nusa Lembongan from Bali is by boat. There are several options according to budget and speed. Most of the scheduled services leave from Sanur Beach at the end of Jalan Hangtuah and involve getting your feet wet. The exact departure and arrival point on this beach depends on the tide. Other services run from Benoa Harbour and there are local public boat services to and from Padang Bai and Kusamba in East Bali but these are not recommended.

From Sanur Beach:
Scoot Fast Boat, Tel: +61 361 285522. Leaves from Sanur beach. Scoot operates fast boats which take you to Jungut Batu for US$45 return (Adults). Hotel vehicle transfers are included. The tickets can be bought from the Scoot office next to Dunkin' Donuts in Jalan Hangtuah, Sanur opposite the Sanur Paradise Plaza Beach Hotel, or on the beach near the departure point. It takes 30-40 minutes from Sanur. Leaving Sanur 9.30AM, 1.30PM & 4PM. Leaving Nusa Lembongan 8.30AM, 11.30AM & 3PM.
The Tanis Lembongan Express Tel: +61 361 7432344. Speed boat service to and from Mushroom Bay taking 25-35 minutes from Sanur Beach near Grand Bali Beach Hotel. Return fare US$ 45.00 per person and one way US$ 27.00 per person including hotel pick up. Scheduled departure from Sanur beach at 12.00 noon and 4PM and departure back to Sanur from from Mushroom Bay on Lembongan at 10.30AM and 3PM. Also offers surf safaris and day cruises. Special charters from Padang Bay US$ 90.00 one way.
Perama, a local transfers-only operator for the budget traveler, without same day return, Rp 100,000 one way, and has a network of connecting bus-links from around Bali. Boat departures daily at 10.30AM. The ride across is approximately 90 minutes. The office of Perama Sanur can be found at friendly Warung Pojok in Jalan Hangtuah. Daily Perama buses depart from here to Ubud, Kuta, the airport, Padang Bai (for Lombok) and now also Amed.
Public slow boat, depart daily from Sanur beach at 8AM in front of the Ananda Hotel or near the Grand Inna Bali Beach Hotel (depending on tide). They can be a bit sketchy at times and are usually very crowded. No same day return facility. The ride across is approximately 90 minutes. Price including transfers is Rp 100,000 per person one way. Pick up from hotels in Kuta, Seminyak, and Sanur. Other areas with extra charge.
Public fast boat, tel: +62 361 7432344 Thirty minutes by speed boat from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan. Departs Sanur daily at 12.30, 2.30PM, 4.00PM and departs Nusa Lembongan at 10.30AM, 1PM and 3PM. Price including hotel transfers Rp 240,000 per person each way and excluding transfers Rp 200,000 per person each way. Pick-up from hotels in Kuta, Seminyak and Sanur. Other areas with an extra charge.
Tamarind Jaya Express Tel: +62 361 8572572. Speed boat service to and from Mushroom Bay taking 30-45 minutes from Sanur Beach near Grand Bali Beach Hotel. Return fare US$ 45.00 per person and one way US$ 27.00 per person including hotel pick up. Scheduled departure from Sanur beach at 11.30 AM and 3.30PM and departure back to Sanur from from Mushroom Bay on Lembongan at 10.00AM and 2.00PM. Also offers day cruises. Special charters from Padang Bay US$ 90.00 one way.

From Benoa Harbour:
BlueWater Express, tel: +62 813 38419911. BlueWater Express has a high speed boat service from Bali International Marina at Benoa Harbour direct to Nusa Lembongan. This service continues on to the Gili islands in Lombok, allowing visitors to island hop all the way from Bali to Lombok. Hotel transfers in Bali are included in the fare. The boats are high-powered, large capacity speed boats which cover the distance in less than 30 minutes in normal sea conditions. Departure time is 10AM from Bali to Lembongan, 11AM from Lembongan to Gili, 1.30PM from Gili to Lembongan, then 3.30PM from Lembongan to Bali. More services may be added.
Island Explorer Cruises, Tel: +62 361 728088. Transfer only or day cruise include lunch & activities, super fast boats or leisurely sailing yacht to island. Departs Benoa at 9AM yacht or 10.30AM fast boat. Does pick up from hotels.
Bounty Cruises has a high speed catamaran service for US$ 35 one-way. If you have limited time, an option is to take a one day cruise. On a twin-hull boat under sail you will reach the island within 90 minutes (drinks and snacks are available on board). On the island you can take part in a mangrove forest trip, snorkeling, banana boat ride, glass bottom boat ride and sea-kayaking. A lunch and swimming-pool are also available. The approximate price is US$ 60.

How to go around

This is a nice place to walk with coastal paths linking nearly all the guest houses, hotels and restaurants. Most trips will take you less than two hours. The less developed south-western area of the island has some spectacular coast paths which provide easy walking, great views back to Bali and spectacular sunsets.

Bicycles can be rented at many places and the mainly flat roads are quite well surfaced. Motorbikes are also widely available for rent but may be unnecessary given the short distances involved - the island is only 4 km end to end. You can cross on foot or by bike to the small neighbouring island of Nusa Ceningan via a scenic suspension bridge.

What you can see

Devil's Tear, (follow signs for Sunset Beach from Mushroom Bay). A rocky outcrop between Dream Beach and Sunset Beach on the south western coast. Spectacular crashing waves and water plumes.
Dream Beach. A wonderful hidden white sand beach on the south coast.
Mangrove Forest, (continue north on the only coast road from Jungut Batu until you reach the mangroves). Northern Nusa Lembongan has an extensive forest of mature mangroves which can be explored in a jukung outrigger boat.
Puncak Sari Temple, Lembongan Village. The largest temple on the island. Good views over the straits to Bali. edit
Seaweed Farms. Visit the seaweed farms on the southern side of Lembongan Village. Good views across the estuary to Nusa Ceningan.
Sunset Beach, (adjacent to Devil's Tear). A beautiful beach with white sand and crashing waves.
Sunsets. One thing not to miss on Nusa Lembongan. The Sunset over Bali is quite extraordinary. Can be viewed from any west facing part of the island but Jungut Batu beach is especially popular. A more rural alternative is to go over the bridge to Nusa Ceningan and view the sunset from one of the west-facing high ridges - breathtaking.
Suspension Bridge, (go through Lembongan Village heaidng west sticking on the main road until you hit the estuarine channel. Can't miss the bridge.). Walk or bike the suspension bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.
Tamarind Beach, (between Playgrounds surf break and Mushroom Bay). Good views back to Bali and of Mount Agung especially.
The Underground House. Visit the Underground House in Lembongan Village
Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan is the tiny island between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
Easily reached via the suspension bridge on foot or by bicycle/motorbike. There is a notable surf break off Nusa Ceningan which attracts some surfers away from the more crowded breaks on Nusa Lembongan. Otherwise the island offers some scenic roads and paths and the westwards views back over Nusa Lembongan to Bali are impressive. Viewing the sunset over Bali from the central Ceningan ridge is very much worth the effort. The estuarine channel between Lembongan and Ceningan is home to many seaweed farms.

Very few visitors choose to stay on Nusa Ceningan but a new bungalow complex opened in 2009 and more accommodation options are in the pipeline.

What you can do

Nusa Lembongan is a well known surf destination with three popular breaks. There is a thriving surf scene in Jungut Batu.

Diving and snorkelling is excellent in the crystal clear waters. A number of reputable dive shops are present on the island and snorkellers can hire gear from their hotel or on the beach.
This is an excellent island for walking and cycling. Scooters can be hired easily but lots of people find they do not need one.
Dive shops
Bali Diving Academy Lembongan, Bungalo No7, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 361 270252. . A PADI 5 Star Dive Resort
Bali Lembongan Scuba, Jungut Batu. A PADI Dive Centre located in Jungut Batu.
Big Fish Diving, Jungut Batu. . Offers daily diving, PADI courses and Manta/Mola specials.
World Diving, Pondok Baruna, Jungut Batu, (info@worlddiving.com). The island's full PADI 5 Star Dive Centre. All courses are offered from Discover Scuba Diver through to Assistant Instructor. This is the only dive school in Lembongan with a purpose built training pool.

Spa facilities
Alam Nusa Spa, Mushroom Bay, ☎ +62 813 38377482 or +62 813 37912008. . Offers Balinese Massage and many kinds of treatments.
Lulur Spa, Batu Karang Resort, ☎ +62 366 24880. . Nusa Lembongan's first complete spa with rooms for facials, massages, pedicure, manicure and hair treatments. Local products are used as well as some imported from Australia. Each room is set with ambient music and air-conditioned. Changing rooms with clean treated hot water and a relaxation room are provided.

Find food

Virtually any place you stay on Nusa Lembongan will have a cafe/restaurant attached to it. These can be of hugely variable quality. There are a few good local warungs to choose from but by-and-large there are just not many independent restaurants on Nusa Lembongan and many visitors just stick to their hotel. Fish is a great option as it is all caught locally.
Ketut Warung. One of the best local warungs on the island, great atmosphere, huge plates, really good Indonesian and Thai food at really cheap prices. The owners, the Ketut Malom family, are really friendly and fantastic hosts so it's also a good way to discover the real Nusa Lembongan! Highly recommended.
Mangrove Restaurant. A splendid restaurant designed with a real Robinson Crusoe ethic located at the eastern end of the only spit of land that runs through the northern mangrove forest. From Jungut Batu, take the beach road north and turn into the mangroves (possible by motorcycle or of course on foot). Just keep going for about 1.5 km and you will find the restaurant. Alternatively, arrive by boat - any boat captain will know the way. Good quality food with local Indonesian and some well-prepared French options. Mid-range prices.
Warung Sunset, Sunset Beach, ☎ +62 812 3621633 (sunsetwarung@yahoo.com). A local beach side restaurant with very nice views. Serving beers, cocktails, mocktails and local foods including grilled jacket fish. Warung Sunset is open for breakfast, lunch and special BBQ on the beach and can also help with free transport (motor bike/pick up and drop, car for more than 5 persons).

Find Drink

Cafe Bali, Mushroom Bay. A great place to have a beer and watch the clear sea and stunning view back to Bali. This is also one of the better restaurants on the island.
Scooby Doo Bar & Restaurant, Jungut Batu. Sports bar and restaurant overlooking the bay. Enjoy a cool beer while watching the sun go down over Bali.

Check in

This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room:
Budget Under Rp 250,000
Mid-range Rp 250,000-1,000,000
Splurge Over Rp 1,000,000


Budget
Bungalo No7, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 813 37050030 (putuyasa7@hotmail.com). Clean fan-cooled rooms around a lovely garden right on the beach. Rp 70,000 to 150,000.
Jennys Bed & Breakfast, Nusa Ceningan, ☎ +62 812 36277650 (Jenny) (bsr_nuslem@yahoo.com). Newly opened bungalows at the remote south-western tip of Nusa Ceningan. Clean bungalows and a superb breakfast right at the beach. Motorbike rental is available. Friendly US manager and local guidance. Can arrange pick up in Jungut Batu on Nusa Lembongan. Rp 200,000.
Linda's Bungalows, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 812 3600867 (bcwcchoppers@yahoo.com). Rooms are clean with nice views of Shipwrecks surfing break. Cold saltwater showers, deck chairs and seating, fresh linen and towels. Their restaurant is recommended; good burgers, daily specials, big cheap pancakes, American breakfast, etc. The most expensive item on the menu is Rp 25,000. Rp 85,000.
Lembongan Beach Retreat Bungalows, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 878 6131 3468 (sales@lembonganbeachretreat.com). Six renovated bungalow rooms - some with stunning bathrooms. Situated on the Jungut Batu beachfront in front of Shipwrecks surf break. Close to the many waterfront eating houses & nightly entertainment. Clean, freshly painted rooms, new linen, nice bathrooms with vanity and mirror, western toilets and shower. Lovely gardens with coral-edged paths. A quiet & peaceful retreat but only a few meters from the many restaurants, eateries & entertainment along the beachfront. Balinese cooking classes can be arranged & yoga classes are available on request. Special Balinese meals on request. Australian owned & operated. Rp 200,000 to 300,000.
Pondok Baruna Guest House and Restaurant, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 812 3900686 (info@worlddiving.com). All rooms are doubles or twins furnished with classic bamboo furniture and traditional Balinese carvings. The bathrooms, however, are en suite, western style. Baruna's restaurant serves a fantastic selection of home cooked traditional Balinese and Javanese dishes, with daily specials dreamed up by the resident chef. There is a purpose built dive swimming pool in the new garden complex which is available to all guests. Rp 80,000.
Secret Garden Bungalows, (Located behind Baruna & Scooby Doo, beside the black temple. Halfway between Shipwrecks & Playgrounds surf breaks), ☎ +62 813 53136861 (info@bigfishdiving.com), [23]. Budget accommodation in a tropical garden, only 50m from the beach. The 9 fan-cooled rooms are clean and spacious and have semi-outdoor bathrooms. Double/twin rooms Rp 80,000 per night and facilities include book exchange and tourist info, outdoor shower for surfers, sofa area for relaxation. Can arrange diving & snorkeling.

Mid-range
Coconuts Beach Resort, Jungut, ☎ +62 361 728088 (sales@bali-activities.com). A well-established traditional ocean front resort with air-con or fan-cooled villas, en-suite bathrooms, hot water, 2 pools, restaurant, bar, internet, Indovision. All villas have spectacular views of the surf breaks and Mount Agung on Bali. from US$ 36.
Dream Beach Huts, Dream Beach, ☎ +62 813 38737344 (sales@dreambeachlembongan.com). checkin: 14.00; checkout: 12.00. Right on the beach front at Dream Beach (south coast) with ocean views, spectacular sunsets and crashing waves. Facilities: lounge chairs and hammocks on the beach, laundry service, pool table, motorbike rental, cafe, bar and restaurant, mini library, mosquito nets, towels in the room, open air private bathrooms, fan-cooled, balconies, king size beds, Balinese massage and extra pillows. From US$ 55.
Lumbung Bali Huts, Mushroom Bay, ☎ +62 813 37536464. Right on the Mushroom Bay beach-front. Room rate includes breakfast, snorkeling (for stays of more than 3 night) and kayak activities. US$ 60.
Mainski Lembongan Resort, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 361 9237322 or +62 815 58289123 (sales@mainski-lembongan-resort.com). On Jungut Batu Beach in front of Shipwrecks surf break. Fan-cooled and air-conditioned rooms plus luxury suites, villas and a beachfront honeymoon suite. Newly renovated & upgraded resort featuring: swimming pool on the Beach, poolside sun lounges, bar & restaurant, games area (pool table & table tennis) and WiFi internet. Prices per double room/per night: standard fan-cooled US$ 28, deluxe fan US$31, deluxe air-con US$ 37, luxury Suites US$ 74, 3 bedroom villas US$140, honeymoon suite US$150. All including breakfast and tax. Mainski's Sunset Beat restaurant/bar features a traditional indonesian warung/buffet with delicious local food, an international a-la-carte menu & an Aussie style BBQ every night. The beachfront & poolside bar is unique to Lembongan in that it features a games area with pool table/table tennis, music DVD entertainment on the giant screen nightly, great cocktail list & icy cold beers. Mainski is Australian owned and operated.
Nanuk's Bungalow, Tamarind Beach Lembongan, ☎ +62 828 97006977 (nanuks_bungalow@yahoo.com). checkin: 2PM; checkout: Noon. Bungalows between Playgrounds and Mushroom Bay. These bungalows are two storey wooden houses built in an artistic Balinese style. Facilities include swimming pool, bar & restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, double/twin rooms, bathrooms are attached to each hut, towels in the room, shampoo, bath foam, mosquito net, ceiling fan, balcony, laundry on request, Balinese massage, motorbike and car rental. Special price for low season (October to January) of US$ 35 including continental breakfast Normal price US$ 55.
Playgrounds, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 366 24524 (info@playgroundslembongan.com). Clean double rooms with air-conditioned at Rp 450,000 per night and fan-cooled at Rp 400,000). Family rooms are offered at Rp 500,000 and villas for A$ 200-250 per night. Nice views over the bay.
Tamarind Beach Bungalows, Bar and Restaurant, Tamarind Beach, ☎ +62 361 8572572 (info@balitamarind.com). Balinese style bungalows between Playgrounds surf break and Mushroom Bay. Facilities: children's and adult swimming pool, mini library, BBQ on request, mosquito nets, towels, ceiling fan, shower and bath tub. Bar & restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Special price for low season (October to March) of US$ 40 for a large room and US$ 35 for a standard room. Continental breakfast included.
The Tanis Villas, Mushroom Bay, ☎ +62 361 7432344 (sales@taniisviillas.com). checkin: 14.00; checkout: 12.00. Villas overlooking Mushroom Bay with open air shower and mosquito nets both air conditioned and fan cooled. Other facilities include a massage room, table tennis, TV room with international channels and computer with internet access. BBQ dinners on the beach, and a free daily breakfast. The resort also offers a sunset dinner cruises on a traditional outrigger and a 24 hour free doctor consulting service. From US$ 40.
Villa Atas Nusa Lembongan, (enquiry@nusalembongantravel.com). A fully self-contained single villa which has on the upper level: 2 king bedrooms (or 1 king size and 2 singles) 2 bathrooms and an open living area. Sleeps 4 plus day-bed in the lounge. On the ground level: a fully self contained air-conditioned king bedroom. Overlooks all three main surfbreaks: Playgrounds, Lacerations and Shipwrecks. The ground level unit features indoor/outdoor living at its best with an open lounge that borders the plunge pool and an outdoor dining area that steps down to the garden. Sleeps 2 plus 2 daybeds. Solar hot water system and CD player on both levels.
Ware Ware Surf Bungalows, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 361 8070181. 9 standard rooms and 1 family room. Fan-cooled, new and clean with panoramic views. Nicely furnished with wooden antique beds with mosquito net. Overlooking Sanghiang Bay with its clear sapphire-blue waters.

Splurge
Batu Karang Lembongan Resort and Day Spa, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 366 24880 (info@batukaranglembongan.com). A 5 star boutique resort with complete facilities including Muntig's restaurant, bar, day spa, 25 metre lap pool, 9 x 9 metre swim up pool bar, 9 x 9 metre infinity edge pool, steam room, gymnasium, day lounge, wedding pavilion, conference facility and probably some of the best views on the island. Situated away from the more noisy and crowded Mushroom Bay. All rooms have air-conditioning, internet, safety box, 220 thread cotton sheets, king size double beds, mini bars and turn down service. The outdoor bathrooms and toilets have spectacular views over the surf breaks and across to Mt Agung in Bali. Has its own water and sewage treatment plants so the water you use is clean and your carbon footprint is minimized. Rooms from US$ 232 per night inclusive of all government tax and service charges and American breakfast.
Indiana Kenanga Villas, Jungut Batu, ☎ +62 366 24471 (indianakenangavillas@gmail.com). A French owned and run luxury suite/villa resort in the Jungut Batu area which opened in July 2009. Offers six 1 bedroom suites and two 2 bedroom villas. Rates US$ 120 to 170 for a suite and US$ 320 to 370 for a two bedroom villa.
Nusa Lembongan Resort, Mushroom Bay, ☎ +62 361 725864 (info-nlr@nusalembonganresort.com). This 12 cottage luxury hotel has been around for a while and it has definitely seen better days. The location is superb though right on the west headland of Mushroom Bay. Seven of the cottages have clear, dramatic ocean views as does the bar and restaurant.
Villa Shambala, (sales@villashambala.com). Two bedroom oceanfront private villa with cliff edge swimming pool. One of the very few private villas available for rental on Nusa Lembongan. US$ 120.
Waka Nusa, (info@wakanusa.com). A small resort right on the beach at Mushroom Bay from the luxury boutique hotel group Waka. The resort prides themselves on giving somehing of a Robinson Crusoe type experience with no air-conditioning, TV sets or telephones in the rooms. Well designed breezy individual cottages. From US$ 140.

Contact

Telephone
International phone operators: 101.
International Direct Dialing prefix: 001, 007, or 008.
Directory inquiries
108 from a landline or 0361-108 from a mobile phone.
Internet
There are well signed public internet cafes in the Jungut Batu area. Expect to pay about Rp 30,000 per hour. Service is sometimes very slow.
Some of the better places to stay have wireless internet capability for guests.

Get out

The vast majority of visitors to Nusa Lembongan leave the way they came in, ie. back to Bali.
There are options to continue eastwards to Lombok though. Blue Water Express offers a daily (currently daily but check first) Nusa Lembongan to Gili Islands and Lombok service departing Jungut Batu at 11.00AM for Rp 590,000 one way.

For the adventurous, a side trip to Nusa Penida island is an option.

LEGIAN

Legian is a beachfront town in South Bali, located north of Kuta and south of Seminyak.

Stretching north from Kuta, Legian offers the same easy access to shops and bars but a slightly more relaxed and less chaotic feeling. The northern area of Legian bordering Seminyak offers a bit of an escape from the crowds and is also a popular surf beach.

This is a small area fronting the beach which stretches from Jalan Melasti (where Kuta ends) north to Jalan Arjuna (where Seminyak begins). Most of the popular Legian hotels are on or close to the beach. The whole of Legian is no bigger than a few blocks in a large city but despite its small size, this area has a very high profile with visitors due to the lovely beach frontage and proliferation of mid-market hotels.

There is a long north-south boulevard between the beachfront hotels and the beach which is only open for authorised vehicles when there is a ceremony being held. Otherwise it is a well paved footpath and makes for an excellent walking route giving users the advantage of any easy beach-side stroll along to restaurants, bars and and to the nightclubs at the end of Jalan Arjuna.

How to Get in

The airport is located south of Legian and a taxi or car journey from there will take about will take about 20 minutes. A pre-paid coupon taxi fare from the airport is Rp 55,000.

Kuta and Seminyak are either side of Legian and you can walk, drive or bike in from both those areas. The main road is Jalan Legian which can get very jammed indeed as it serves Legian, Kuta and Seminyak. All roads to the beach run perpendicular to Jalan Legian.

How to go around

Most of Legian can be covered on foot if you are not in a hurry but taxis are plentiful as are motorbike rental outlets. Expect to pay Rp 50,000 to 80,000 per day for renting a motorbike.

What you can see

Aside from the obvious (the gorgeous beach!), there is not a great deal to see in Legian. It is a place where visitors stay, shop, eat, drink and go to the beach. Legian Beach is one of the best in Bali for viewing the sunset.

What you can do

Head into the ocean with boogie boards (Rp 20,000/hour) and surfboards hired from at beach or take surfing lessons from the Surf School based at Blue Ocean beach. Quiksilver surf school offers lessons lasting 2.5 hours for Rp 390,000 (+62 361 791 2220. They also rent boards by the hour for Rp 50,000 per hour but if you have taken lessons with them, you can get a reduced rate of Rp 20,000 per hour. If renting from locals on the beach, be sure to use this fact to get a good price.

Have a manicure, pedicure or hair braiding all while you relax under your ocean view sun umbrella.

Take a break from the beach for lunch at one of the reasonably priced restaurants on the beachfront.

Watch the stunning sunset over an arak madu (local spirit with honey and lime) or a Bintang (local beer).

Have dinner at Blue Ocean restaurant which has live music on Friday nights.

On Saturday and Sunday evenings, the beachfront is packed with tourists, expats, locals and motorbikes, with fire pois and musicians jamming on the beach - you'll be more than welcome to join in.

Play football on the beach. Almost every evening at about 5PM a game of beach football begins right in front of de ja vu. Visitors are normally welcomed if they want to join in.

Souvenir

Legian is crammed full of shops selling everything from the latest designer surfware to Balinese souvenirs to take home. This is a shopping destination.

There are two markets on Jalan Melasti. Close to the beach at the western end there is a large art market selling Balinese handicrafts and other items for tourists. You could easily buy all of your presents to take home in one visit here. At the eastern end where Jalan Melasti becomes Jalan Sri Wijaya, there is a morning fresh produce market which opens from about 5AM.

Find food

Legian's beachfront restaurants are popular spots for sunset and people watching.

Budget
You can get bakso (soup with meat balls), mie goreng (fried noodles) and nasi goreng (fried rice) from the small warungs (outdoor cafe's) on the beach. Very cheap and very tasty.

Mid-range
Fresh Warung, Jl Legian, Legian (Just south of Jl Melasti, right next door to Crown Restaurant), ☎ +62 813 37573332. Fresh Warung specialises in local & international dishes. It is small but cheerful, clean & serves up well-priced quality food. Nice cold beers too!
Lanai, Jl Blue Ocean (Jl Pantai Legian) , +62 361 731 305. On the site that used to be Benny's Cafe, Lanai serves up big portions and has great views of the beach from the upstairs balcony.
Seaside, Jl Pantai Legian, No14. This used to be called Cafe Warna. Now only open from mid afternoon. Food is good and they have great bar. Closest restaurant to Hotel Jayakarta.
Tekor Bali, Jl Blue Ocean (Jl Pantai Legian). +62 361 735 268. Their Indonesian menu is excellent and all food is beautifully presented. An excellent choice for breakfast on the beach.
Waroeng Asia, Jl Arjuna No23. [mailto:tradewindsbali@hotmail.com), +62 361 742 0202. Popular Thai restaurant with very affordable prices. Great range of mid-priced meals (Rp 15,000-Rp 65,000).
Zanzibar, Jl Blue Ocean (Jl Pantai Legian), +62 361 733 529. A well-established restaurant with excellent international cuisine and especially good pasta dishes. Right on Blue Ocean Beach. A great spot to watch all the action whilst enjoying a high quality meal.

Find Drink

de ja vu, Jalan Blue Ocean 7X (''Jalan Pantai Legian''), Legian (go to the beach end of Jalan Double Six, turn left and it is 50 metres on the left hand side), ☎ +62 361 733 777. A very happening beach-side dance bar. Popular with the pre Double Six crowd from about midnight until 3AM. Lightweight clubwear is appropriate here and they can get sniffy about singlets and sandals. Check local listings for special events and name DJs.
Jaya Pub, Jl Legian (junction of Jl Legian and Jl Nakula - down a small lane, well signed), ☎ +62 361 730937. This live music bar has been around forever and gives a distinct impression of being stuck in a timewarp. Still, the bands are fun and beer is cheap.

Check in

This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room:
Budget Under US$ 25
Mid-range US$ 25 to 130
Splurge Over US$ 130


Squeezed between Kuta and Seminyak this area has a wide variety of accommodation options especially in the mid range market. Legian is a bit more upmarket compared to the surfer and backpacker oriented Kuta but distinctly downmarket from hip Seminyak.

Budget
Blue Ocean, Jl Blue Ocean (''Jl Pantai Legian''), Legian. This legendary surfie hangout from the 70's remains an oasis in the midst of the many mid range hotels on Legian beachfront and beyond. For Rp 120,000/night you can get a large room with a couple of single beds or a double, an outdoor bathroom and kitchen facilities. Of course there's no pool (but the beach is right on the doorstep), you'll only get one thin blanket, toilet rolls and towels (only if you ask) and a noisy fan. No extra charge for mosquitoes and dust. For Rp 30,000 more you can get air-conditioning. The place has an ambience all of its own and the staff are a delight - once you get through the door. Depending who's on duty you are likely to be told the place is 'full' but be persistent, there's nearly always a room available.
Su's Cottages I, Jl Pura Bagus Taruna ('' Jl Werkadura'') No 532, ☎ +62 361 730324 (fax: +62 361 762202). This popular hotel has several rooms, a pool and friendly staff. It's located only 3 minutes from Legian's beach. The cheapest rooms go for Rp 170,000 and come with hot water, breakfast and TV. For a bit more you can get air conditioning as well. A lot of long stay expats here.

Mid-range
Mid-range accommodation abounds in Legian and there is an almost endless selection. Shop around and look for the best deals. Outside of the peak seasons you can get substantial discounts from decent beachfront hotels in this area.
All Seasons (formerly the Bali Dwira Hotel), (Jl Padma Utara), ☎ +62 361 752840. A bright and breezy contemporary hotel. In-house spa, restaurant and bar and a large swimming pool. Excellent value for money and in a very convenient location. From US$73.
Bali Mandira, Jl Padma No.2, Legian, ☎ +62 361 751381. Nicely situated hotel at the beach end of Jl Padma. Beach views and good dining options.
Bali Matahari Hotel, Jl Melasti, Gang Lebak Bene, Legian, ☎ +62 361 763707 (reservations@hotelbalimatahari.com). 44 rooms with basic amenities, facilities include restaurant, swimming pool, with WiFi connectivity. From US$33. edit
Hotel Jayakarta, Jl Werkudara, Legian, ☎ +62 361 751433. Huge hotel with is a long time favourite with Aussie and Kiwi familes especially. It has seen better days and is looking more than a bit tired. Also have a club section which offers managed timeshare service apartments with kitchens. One and two bedroom units available for nightly rental from Rp 850,000.
The Island Hotel, Jl Padma Utara, Gang Abdi #18, Legian, ☎ +62 361 762722 (reservations@theislandhotelbali.com). Boutique accommodation featuring 10 luxurious double rooms (with facilities that include cable TV, ensuite, super comfy beds) & for the budget conscious, a dorm (US$25) that includes (personal locker, super comfy beds, very spacious.) Hotel features wi-fi throughout, infinity pool, cafe, yoga studio and massage services. From US$60.
Kumala Pantai, Jl Werkudara, Legian, ☎ +62 361 755500 (kumalapt@indosat.net.id). A very good value mid-range option on the beach. The standard of service and decor is high for such a reasonably priced hotel. From Rp 600,000.
Puri Raja, Jl Padma Utara, Legian, ☎ +62 361 755902 ), (sales@puriraja.com). Recently refurbished , pleasant grounds , good value and has loyal regulars.
Rama Garden Hotel, Jl Padma, Legian. This place has been around a long time and has well appointed rooms and notably good service.

Splurge
Bali Niksoma, Jl Padma Utara, Legian, ☎ +62 371 751946. A boutique hotel on the beach which would happily be at home in chic Seminyak. Beautifully designed with top quality spa, restuarant and large pool. The rooms are very contemporary in design and decoration. Forty four rooms in the main building and then several detached cottages including a private 2 bedroom villa.
The Padma Hotel, Jl Padma No1, Legian (right on the beach at the end of Jl Padma), (reservation@padmaresortbali.com). It has perhaps seen better days and there are signs of an extensive refurbishment and re-branding program. That would be good news as this hotel is in a fabulous spot right on the beach. In-house spa, gym and restaurant. Fronm US$ 220.
Outrigger OCN Apartments, Jl Blue Ocean (''Jl Pantai Legian'') 88x, Legian, ☎ +62 361 737400. A huge luxury apartment hotel right on the beach. Offers one and two bedroom apartments with full 4 star standard hotel facilities. From US$ 197.
Villa Naga Maya, Jl Werkudara, Gg Arjuna 7B, Legian, ☎ +62 361 763387, [14]. These holiday villas have resort amenities and provide nice gardens, elegant pools and a traditional Balinese atmosphere. The swimming pool has a unique water curtain and is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping. Nestled back in the quite lanes of Legian, 400 metres from Legian Beach. From $US150.

Get out

The international airport is only a 20 minute drive from Legian and once you are out of the often congested streets close to the beach, this area is well connected to the main road network of the island.

PADANG BAI

Padang Bai (also Padangbai and Padang Bay) is a small port town in East Bali.
Visitors to Padang Bai are normally there to catch the ferry to Lombok. It is though a charming little place in its own right and spending a night or two here will certainly not be time wasted. Accommodation tends to be quite basic.

How to Get in

By car
Padang Bai is 54km east from Denpasar and takes about 1 hour to drive to from the southern tourist areas of Kuta and Legian.
By bus
The national tour bus company Perama has Padang Bai in its network. They will pick you up from your accommodation in many areas of Bali and take you to your destination. Reserve one day in advance.
Regular bemos ply the main east coast route between Klungkung, Padang Bai and . Bemos routed through Padang Bai leave from Batubulan terminal in Denpasar.

By boat
There are slow public ferries from Lembar, (Lombok) every hour. The trip normally takes four hours (but it can be considerably longer in poor weather) and costs Rp 35,000. Ferry staff often offer their private room to tourists for an extra Rp 50,000. The room is clean and comfortable with 2 or 3 beds. This service runs 24 hours a day. It should be understood that this ferry has a poor safety record. Perama Tour also runs daily cruises from Lombok to Padang Bai for Rp 200,000 one way.
Gili Cat and Perama operate services from the Gili Islands to Padang Bai, see that article for details.

Overview

Padang Bai is a beautiful, small, friendly village but sadly a lot of people do not stop to enjoy the life here. You do not really need any transport as everything is within walking distance but if you do decide you need a motorbike, plenty are available for rent.

What you can see

The main beach is generally awash with colorful double outrigger fishing boats in the shape of a marlin. The front of the boat is shaped with the point of its mouth open wide and large eyes looking to the heavens.

What you can do

Either side of the main beach are two other coves with nice, quiet white sand beaches:
To reach the secluded Bias Tegul Beach, back out of the the main beach cross the ferry carpark and turn west up the road next to the police station. Keep going up the hill until you see the sign to the beach on the right. Be careful on this hillside track. Before you head down into the cove turn around. Weather permitting you should be able to see the largest mountain on Bali, Mount Agung - a powerful sight.
To reach Blue Lagoon beach, head east on foot over the prominent headland at the eastern end of the main bay. Good snorkeling here and many of the local dive operators organise trips to this spot. If the waves are large, don't bother snorkeling as the current is extremely strong and visibility will be 1 to 3 metres at best. On a calm day expect lots of fish and great visibility. Buoys mark the furthest point snorkelers should go.

Padangbai is noted for its diving and the friendly dive centres are right on the beach with their own bars for after-diving refreshments.
Bali Dive, Jl Pantai Silayulkti, ☎ +62 363 42088. Located on the northern beach front at Padang Bai Beach Resort bungalows. SSI teaching centre.
Geko Dive, Jl Pantai Silayulkti, ☎ +62 363 41516 (gekodive@indosat.net.id). PADI dive centre which has been awarded GoEco operator status by Project Aware. Offer full range of courses and fun dives. English and Dutch speaking instructors.
Waterworx, Jln Pantai Silayulkti, ☎ +62 363 41220 (info@waterworxbali.com). SSI dive centre. German and English speaking instructors.

Find food

Bamboo Cafe is a lovely place to eat great and healthy food - they use bottled Aqua water for shakes etc. The cafe has been newly built mostly from bamboo and you can enjoy surprisingly good live rock and local music played by the very friendly and fun staff. It has also 3 nice aircon rooms. From the police station keep walking up the hill in the direction of Bias Tugal beach and after 100 metres find this cafe on the left hand side of the road.

Find Drink

There are plenty of bars and small cafes to choose from along the beach in the village. On entering Padang Bai, head over to the left of the Bay, keeping the ferry jetty to your right. The road here runs along the beach and is full of activity, dive shops, bars and small home stays (nice and cheap).

In the evening there are a few bars actually on the beach - notably "The Reggae Bar" which livens up at about 10PM. They have great music and flame wielding bar staff. After a while you forget the plastic chairs that wobble in the sand as the setting is just unique.

Check in

Dharma Homestay,. Cheap accommodation with roof top beach view. Aimed at backpackers.
Marco Polo Inn, Jalan Silayulkti, ☎ +62 813 37710821. Once a very run down establishment it has now been renovated. Run by two elderly Ausie expats. Has a roof top garden overlooking the bay, all rooms with their own bathrooms and friendly staff
Mustika Sari Beach Hotel, Jalan Silayulkti, ☎ +62 361 8528521 (reservation@mustikasaribeach.com). Offering nice sea views this budget hotel has a decent sized swimming pool and a passable restaurant. Traditional paintings, wall hangings and Balinese handicrafts in the rooms are nice tocuhes. From Rp 300,000.
Puri Rai Hotel, Jalan Silayukti, (reservation@puriraihotel.com). A 1 star hotel with a swimming pool and decent restaurant serving Indonesian food. This is probably the nicest hotel in town and prices follow suit. From US$ 31.
Padang Bai Beach Resort, (reservation@padang-bai-beach-resort.com). Pleasant enough rooms with a sea view. Has a purpose built dive pool and a decent restaurnat attached.
Serangan Inn II, (on the hill reached by following the road alongside the market), ☎ +62 363 41425. A budget hotel on top of the hill which catches good breezes. Choice of fan-cooled annd air-con rooms. From Rp 150,000.
Zen Inn, (just behind the port), ☎ +62 819 33092012 (liam@padang-bai.com). A small boutique hotel situated near the ferry port and and the beach. Each room is furnished in a funky, eclectic style with double bed, western bathroom and a private courtyard garden with additional outside shower. Also bar and restaurant serving western and asian food using local ingredients. Fish is fresh from the local fish market. Free WiFi in all rooms and the restaurant. $15.

Get out

By ferry to Lembar, Lombok.
Easy drive or bus transfer to the popular East Bali areas of Candidasa, Mount Agung and Amed.

JIMBARAN

Jimbaran Bali, a favorite tourist attractions in Bali, offers a variety of attractions such as famous for its seafood (Seafood center) and at the night is beautiful beach and romantic.

Jimbaran and Kedonganan Jimbaran area known as fish-producing villages, where most of its citizens living as fishermen. And over time many of the initiative to establish a restaurant / cafe for the preparations of the sea until now.

While enjoying the beautiful night and the breeze gentle waves at Jimbaran beach, you can enjoy the delicious variety of menus from processed sea fish results. The options and plenty of pampering for those of you who would be fond of processed food from the sea.

Not only that, Jimbaran tourist area also has complete facilities such as tourist accommodation (Intercontinental, Four Seasons Resort, Villa Karma, etc..), A restaurant with a menu of local and international cuisine, spas, shopping and other facilities. So waiting for? Come to Jimbaran and enjoy your favorite seafood.

Jimbaran is just south of the airport and Kuta. This was formerly a real backwater of south Bali -just a tiny fishing village with a daily market. That all started to change in the 1980s though and Jimbaran is now home to several world class five-star beach resorts plus a number of more moderate mid-market hotels. There is little in the way of budget accommodation though.

The bay itself has a pleasant white sand beach and is very safe for swimming. The three clusters of grilled seafood restaurants on the beach are a major tourist draw in the evenings, as is a truly stunning sunset.

Jimbaran has an increasing number of rather chic shops but there is little or no nightlife here. It has the advantage of being a little closer to Kuta and Seminyak (and the cultural highlights of Central Bali) than Nusa Dua.

How to get in

Jimbaran is between Kuta and the Bukit Peninsula, with Nusa Dua to the southeast and Uluwatu to the southwest.

By car
It is only 10 minutes south of the airport and a pre-paid airport taxi costs between Rp 60,000 and 80,000 depending on exactly where in Jimbaran you are heading. Virtually all Jimbaran hotels offer a free airport pick-up service and make sure you request this when making a booking.
Jimbaran is around 20 minutes drive from Legian and Seminyak and 25 mins from Sanur.

By bus
Bemos serving Jimbaran are almost non-existent but there is a sporadic service from Tegal terminal in Denpasar.

As elsewhere in Bali, motorbikes are widely available for rental and taxis are everywhere. This is one of the better areas of South Bali for walking.
The glorious white sands of Jimbaran Bay

What yaou can see

Jimbaran Bay is fringed by one of the best beaches in Bali. The sand is fine and white and the calm waters make it very suitable for swimming, children and adults alike. The southern end of the beach close to the Four Seasons Resort is the quietest but the whole stretch is very pleasant indeed.

The sunset in Jimbaran is very beautiful. Arrive at around 5PM, take a seat in one of the restaurants located on the beach, order food drink, and enjoy the stunning, romantic sunset while waiting for your orders.

The traditional Jimbaran fish market is located at the northern end of the bay right by the beach at the junction with Jalan Tukad Ayung. The catch comes in every morning here and customers include most of Bali's fine dining restaurants. All manner of fish and shellfish on show. Best to visit between 6AM and 9AM.

What you can do

There are a couple of good surf breaks off the airport which are easiest accessed from Jimbaran Bay. It is too far to paddle out but boats are easily chartered from the beach in the middle areas of the bay or close to the fish market. When the surf is rolling here it is very good but it can be a bit unreliable.

This is a great bay for swimming with perhaps the safest waters in the whole of Bali. You will find lots of local children come to beach to swim in the evenings - a sure sign that the waters are safe.

Jimbaran has a number of high-end spas, both within the luxury hotels and independent establishments.
- The Body Spa, Jl Uluwatu 99 X, Kelan, ☎ +62 361 764737 (sales@the-bodyspa.com). 2PM to 10PM daily. A top class spa with two venues in Bali. Full range of beauty and body treaments. Not the cheapest by any means but the standard is top notch. Booking at least 24 hours in advance is recommended
- Bliss Massage, Jl Uluwatu II (just east of the Four Seasons roundabout on the north side of Jl UluwatuII). Not a spa as such but a traditional massage parlour. Excellent, traditional Balinese-style therapeutic treatments at very good prices.
- Henna Spa, Jalan Uluwatu 18 x (at Villa Balquisse, opposite the Intercon), ☎ +62 361 701695. (AM to 9PM daily. A five star standard spa in a true luxury environment. Offers Javanese and Balinese treatments.

What you can Buy

Shopping in Jimbaran has improved greatly in recent years. There are a number of nice boutiques and antique shops in the stretch of Jalan Uluwatu between The Intercontinental and the junction with Jalan Uluwatu II.

Slightly futher north on the same street is Jimbaran Market which is a hive of activity every morning as the local community goes about its business.
Jengala Gallery, Jalan Uluwatu II, Jimbaran, ☎ +62 361 703 311. A large gallery and retail showroom for ceramics produced in Bali. Also hosts regular exhibitions of paintings and other art by up and coming local artists. Very much worth a visit. Hard to miss the enormous pink limestone clad building. Also an excellent cafe here.

What you can eat

Seafood Restaurants on Jimbaran Beach

Eating seafood on the beach in Jimbaran is a quintessential part of many a visitor's itinerary when coming to Bali.

Jimbaran Bay is home to about fifty grilled seafood restaurants in three different groupings, all set along the beach. Each of the restaurants is much of a muchness and of the groupings, the most southerly closest to the Four Seasons is the most popular these days.

Tables are set up right on the sand and if you sit at the lowest tables at high tide, you can even get your feet wet. The sea breeze is cool, the sunsets are beautiful and the whole area is lit by oil torches after dark.

The restaurants serve essentially the same menu with one basic dining format:
- fire-grilled seafood with your own choice of various fish, crab, squid, shrimp, lobster and other shellfish
- local green vegetables steamed with garlic
- rice or french fired potatoes
- local spicy sauces

Simply go up to the seafood tanks and choose the number and type of seafood you want to eat, pay by weight and the produce is grilled there and then. You also have the option of ordering from the menu but that is nothing like so much fun.

Prices are very reasonable by western standards and dinner for two with local Bintang beer or soft drinks will cost in the range of Rp 150,000 - 300,000 depending on quantity and type of seafood selected. Everything is freshly caught as Jimbaran is still a functioning fishing village. If you want to drink wine, bring it with you and pay a nominal corkage charge.

The combination of atmosphere and good food make this a memorable and delightful place to spend an evening.

Other dining options in Jimbaran

There are number of good, cheap local Warungs on Jalan Uluwatu between the four road junction (Four Seasons roundabout) and McDonalds.

Jimbaran is very well served by high end resort hotels and the dining options at the Four Seasons and the Ayana Resort for example are truly exceptional.
Depot Joko, Jl Raya Uluwatu (just north of junction with Jl Melasti). A very popular, no frills local restaurant serving all manner of Indonesian food. Recommended if you want a real taste of Indonesia at very low prices.
Pepe Nero, Jl Wanagiri 18 (on the small road that leads through the quarry from the Four Seasons roundabout), ☎ +62 361 704672. A little gem of an Italian restaurant in an unlikely location with nice views of Jimbaran Bay. Superb pastas and pizzas at very keen prices. Highly recommended. Mains from Rp 30,000.

Find some drink

There is no nightlife at all in Jimbaran but there are few better places in Bali for a sunset drink on the beach. Whether is it is a beer a sitting on a plastic chair at the beachside fish cafes or an elegant cocktail at PJ's bar at the Four Seasons, just enjoy that wonderful sunset.

Find hotels

This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room:
Budget Under US$ 30
Mid-range US$ 30 to 130
Splurge Over US$ 130

There is not much in the way of budget accommodation in Jimbaran. Low cost travellers are better off staying in Kuta and day-tripping Jimbaran which is just 20 minutes away.

Budget
Villa Batu, Jl Pemilisan Agung 21A, ☎ +62 361 703186. One of the few budget range options in Jimbaran. A strange but nonetheless quite appealing place with a range of options from simple rather hippyesque rooms to private cottages. No restaurant or any other facilities to speak of. From about Rp 250,000.

Mid-range
Keraton Jimbaran Resort, Jl Merajpati,. Recently refurbished after years of decline. All 102 rooms feature private balconies with either ocean or garden views. Coffee shop, lobby bar and restaurant on site. Also offers babysitting services, volleyball, badminton, billiards, fishing, spa services, sailing, tennis and windsurfing. From US$ 119.
Puri Bambu Hotel, Jl Pengeracikan, Kedonganan, ☎ +62 361 701468 (reservation@puribambu.com),. All rooms have balconies overlooking the pool or gardens. The resort has two restaurants and a large pool with a sunken swim-up bar. Complimentary airport transfers. From US$ 50.
Sari Segara Resort, Jalan Pantai, Kedonganan, ☎ +62 361 703647 (s_segara@indo.net.id). A slightly bizarre looking hotel with a tower block that looks all wrong in Jimbaran. It does though offer good service and value for money given the beach-side location. Huge pool and 24 hour room service/restaurant. From US$ 55.

Splurge
Ayana Resort (formerly the Ritz Carlton Bali), Jl Karang Mas Sejahtera, ☎ +62-361-702222 (reservation@ayanaresort.com). Absolutely huge cliff-front resort set in 77 hectares of prime Bali real estate. Was formerly the Ritz Carlton Bali but changed maangement in late 2008 after a well publicised court case. It seems that the new branding and management is living up to the previously excellent standards. Ayana has a huge variety of accommodation with 279 rooms and 70 private villas. An astounding 8 restaurants, 4 bars and a waterfront spa complete the line up here.
Four Seasons Jimbaran Resort, Jl Bukit Permai, ☎ +62 361 701010. A supremely elegant hotel right on the shores of Jimbaran Bay which is regularly voted as one of the very best resorts in the world. The 147 rooms are all villas with either a plunge pool or larger pool in the more substantial properties. Has all the services you would expect in such a high quality resort and in PJs posseses one of the best known beach front cafes in the whole of Bali.
InterContinental Resort Bali, Jl Uluwatu 45, ☎ +62 361 701888. A large, five-star hotel built in a grand Balinese style, with lovely architecture, beautiful gardens and extensive ponds and swimming pools. The resort also has a nice stretch of sandy beach frontage on Jimbaran Bay. Rooms are spacious with plenty of closet space and large marble bathrooms. Rates are surprisingly affordable for a high-end resort on Bali, starting at about US$ 140 per night. Prices for food and drink within the resort, however, are exorbitant but fortunately, the resort is directly next to the delightful beachfront seafood restaurants of Jimbaran
Jamahal Resort and Spa, Jalan Uluwatu 1, ☎ +62 361 704394 (info@jamahal.net). A boutique luxury resort with 13 private villas, two of which have their own private pool. In house spa and lounge. Good location just across the road from the Intercon and easy walking distance to the beach. From US$ 295.
Jimbaran Puri Bali, Jl Uluwatu, ☎ +62 361 701605 (jimbaranpuri@orient-express.com). This report has a choice of private walled cottages and villas with private pools. Large communal pool, decent restaurant and in-house spa facilities. Three minutes walk to the beach and some villas have beach views. An Orient-Express Hotel.
Karma Jimbaran Resort, Jl Bukit Permai, ☎ +62 361 708800. An all villa resort offering completely private 3 and four bedroom properties. Two minute walk to the beach and a few of the villas have ocean views. Gay/Lesbian friendly staff and management. Member of Leading Small Hotels of the World.

Private Villas

All the villas listed below are standalone and feature private entrances, dedicated staff, accommodation and their own swimming pools.
The Longhouse, Tiara Nusa, Jl Goa Gong, (info@balihomes.com). This 6 bedroom private villa spans the Jimbaran hillside at Goa Gong. Great 180 degree views of the bay, mountains and lush greennery. Sleeps up to 12 people and is fully staffed with private chef, maids, security etc, US$ 800 to 1,500.
Villa Ayu, Halcyon Villas at Jimbaran Bay, . Located next door to the Four Seasons Resort, this is a 3 bedroom luxury pavilion style villa with large pool and gardens. Airport transfers, housekeeping and cooked breakfasts are included. US$ 260 to 460.

Stay safe

Jimbaran was the site of a terrorist bombing in 2005, but the sand and airy construction of the restaurants kept casualties much lower than in the previous Kuta attack.

Get out

Jimbaran is only 10 minutes from the international airport and is well connected to all other parts of the island via the main Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai/Jalan Bypass Nusa Dua.
North to Kuta for partying and surf.
Up to Ubud in Central Bali for art, temples, mountains and the cultural heartland of Bali