Menjangan Island is one of Bali's best-kept secrets for snorkeling and diving, located in West Bali National Park. To get there from central Bali, drive to the nearest ferry pier and take a boat across — the journey takes roughly 3–4 hours by road plus a short boat ride. Snorkel gear rental starts at just Rp65,000, and you'll need a simaksi (conservation area entry permit) before stepping foot on the island. Here's everything you need to plan your trip.
Why Menjangan Island Should Be on Your Bucket List
Menjangan Island sits within the protected West Bali National Park and spans over 6,000 hectares of pristine land and sea. It's consistently ranked as Bali's top wall diving destination, offering rich marine biodiversity, colorful coral reefs, and even a sunken shipwreck known as the Anchor Wreck — a ghost ship with centuries of history resting on the seafloor.
What sets Menjangan apart from Bali's more touristy beaches is its untouched quality. The white sand is powder-soft — almost snow-like in texture — and the crystal-clear turquoise water sparkles under the tropical sun. Whether you're a serious diver or just want to lay back on the beach, this island delivers.
Top Activities at Menjangan Island
Just Relax on the Beach
Not every great holiday needs an itinerary packed with activities. With over 6,000 hectares and wide stretches of clean, soft white sand, Menjangan is perfect for a slow travel day. Sunbathe in the morning, read a book by the shore, or simply dip your toes in the gentle waves. The fine sand texture won't irritate your feet — a small but lovely bonus.
Diving
Menjangan is widely considered Bali's premier diving destination, and for good reason. Some of the best dive spots include:
- Anchor Wreck — Explore the eerie remains of a sunken slave ship, a hauntingly beautiful dive into maritime history.
- Eel Garden — Famous for its giant Gorgonian sea fans, some exceeding 2 meters, in vivid shades of pink, orange, and purple.
- Secret Bay — A quieter, more intimate dive site perfect for macro photography lovers.
Each site offers a completely different underwater atmosphere, so try to hit more than one if you have the time.
Snorkeling
Not a certified diver? No problem — snorkeling at Menjangan is just as rewarding. From the surface, you can admire vibrant coral gardens in black, blue, cream, and orange tones, all teeming with tropical fish. You can bring your own gear or rent equipment on-site starting at Rp65,000.
Want to rent snorkel gear before you go? Rent it here via Bajo Rental and sort it out in advance.
Visit Pura Ganesha Temple
For a more reflective experience, head to Pura Ganesha, one of Menjangan's most iconic landmarks. Perched on a cliff at the water's edge and facing the open ocean, this Hindu temple offers a serene blend of spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking sea views. The sound of crashing waves mixed with the cool temple breeze makes this one of those rare travel moments you won't forget.
How to Get to Menjangan Island: Routes
Route from Central Bali
From central Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud), you'll travel by road — either by motorbike or car — heading northwest toward the coast near West Bali National Park. Once you reach the pier, take a short boat ride across to Menjangan Island. Total travel time is approximately 3–4 hours depending on your starting point.
Route from Banyuwangi (East Java)
If you're coming from Banyuwangi, the route is a bit more involved:
- Head to Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi.
- Take the ferry across to Gilimanuk Port in Bali.
- From Gilimanuk, travel approximately 15 kilometers by road to reach the departure point for Menjangan Island.
It's a longer journey but very doable as a multi-day trip if you're island-hopping through Java and Bali.
Important: You Need a Simaksi Permit
Before you visit, make sure you've arranged a simaksi — an official entry permit required for all visitors to conservation areas within West Bali National Park. Don't skip this step; it's mandatory and protects the island's fragile ecosystem for future generations.
Plan ahead, lock in your itinerary, and get ready to experience one of Bali's most spectacular — and still relatively uncrowded — island escapes. Happy exploring!
