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Nestled in the northwestern tip of Bali, the West Bali National Park is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and tranquil beaches. This pristine area, covering over 190 square kilometers, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience a different side of Bali away from the crowded tourist spots. Among the highlights of this national park are Menjangan Island and Gawana Bay—each offering unique experiences that capture the essence of Bali's natural allure.
West Bali National Park: A Natural Wonderland
West Bali National Park, also known as Taman Nasional Bali Barat, is a haven for biodiversity. The park is home to over 160 species of birds, including the critically endangered Bali starling, as well as a variety of mammals such as deer, wild boar and the rare Balinese black monkey. The landscape here is equally varied, ranging from dense rainforests and savannahs to mangrove swamps and coastal areas.
Hiking through the park offers a chance to immerse yourself in this diverse ecosystem. Well-marked trails lead you through lush forests where you might encounter monkeys swinging from the trees, colorful butterflies, and perhaps even a glimpse of the rare Bali starling. Birdwatching is a popular activity here, with many visitors coming specifically to catch sight of this beautiful bird in its natural habitat.
Menjangan Island: A Snorkeller’s Paradise
A short boat ride from the mainland, Menjangan Island is part of the national park and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. The island is named after the menjangan (deer) that amazingly swim approximately 1.2 miles from the mainland to reach the island.
For those who love snorkelling and diving, Menjangan Island is a paradise. We booked a snorkelling tour from our hotel which included boat transport, national park permits, equipment, towels, lunch and drinks at a cost of approx. $180AUD for the two of us. The island's coral reefs are some of the most pristine in Bali, teeming with marine life such as clownfish, sea turtles, and various species of reef sharks. Our guide was amazing and made sure to show us all the cool things we would have otherwise missed. We were lucky enough to encounter a huge sea turtle but, of course, the camera was in the boat when it appeared.
Pro tip - apply high SPF sunscreen often to avoid burning your butt while it's pointing at the sun for hours on end, a mistake I will NEVER make again!
Try this one from Safe Sea - it's reef safe, SPF 50 +, waterproof and has added protection against jellyfish stings, sea lice, and swimmers itch.
The waters here are calm, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced divers. One of the highlights is the Pos Dua dive site, where you can explore a stunning wall that drops down to over 30 meters, adorned with colorful corals and sponges. Even as a snorkeller, this is a sight to behold and swimming over the edge is an absolute rush.
If you're not into diving, the island's white sandy beaches provide a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun, with the backdrop of the turquoise sea and the sounds of waves gently lapping at the shore. You can also take a walk up the scenic cliff lined path to see the temple which the Balinese visit to make offerings and ceremonies dedicated to prosperity and fertility.
Check out our Menjangan Snorkelling adventure!
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Gawana Bay: Serenity and Scenic Views
After exploring the vibrant underwater world of Menjangan Island, returning to Gawana Bay offers a more tranquil experience. This secluded bay, located on the mainland side of the national park, is known for its stunning views and serene atmosphere and offers several luxurious accommodation options.
Gawana Bay is surrounded by mangrove forests and hills, creating a picturesque setting that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of southern Bali. The bay is also home to the Banyuwedang natural hot springs, where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It's the perfect way to relax after a day of adventure in the national park. Our stunning accommodation at Mimpi Resort boasted pools and private pool villas which were fed directly from the Banyuwedang hot spring. For our full review of this property, click here.
Gawana Bay offers calm waters to explore the coastline and mangroves by boat, kayak or SUP board, all available to book through Mimpi Dive Centre and providing opportunities to spot various bird species and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. The sunsets here are particularly breathtaking, with the sun dipping below the horizon and casting golden hues across the bay. From the deck at Mimpi Resort, you can see the volcanoes on Java which is pretty cool. We organised a sunset cruise with a local we met at the boat ramp right next door to the hotel, who turned out to be the Mimpi Dive Centre's manager as well. This was a slow cruise around the mangroves and out into the open water just out of the bay. The insight into local life was great - there were so many people young and old out gathering shellfish and fishing for their families. Check it out below!
Practical Tips for Visiting
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit West Bali National Park, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and the seas are calm for snorkeling and diving.
Getting There: Although google maps will tell you the park is about a 3.5-hour drive from Denpasar, our experience was that it took much longer! We used a private driver and paid $150 AUD - which was absolutely fine by us considering we left Legian at 10am and our friend Josh didn't get back to his home in Denpasar until 10pm that night.
Accommodation: There are several eco-friendly lodges and resorts near the park, offering comfortable stays while being immersed in nature. Some even offer guided tours and activities within the park. Our recommendation is Mimpi Resort Menjangan - we can't rate this place highly enough! It was an amazing experience in itself just staying here.
Permits: Visitors to the national park need to obtain a permit, which can be arranged through your accommodation or tour operator.
West Bali National Park, with its unspoiled nature, abundant wildlife, and stunning coastal areas like Menjangan Island and Gawana Bay, offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore Bali's natural beauty. Whether you're diving into the vibrant underwater world, hiking through lush forests, or simply relaxing by the serene bay, this part of Bali promises a unique adventure that will leave you with lasting memories. We thought this was a once in a lifetime destination but, honestly, I can't wait to return. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the wild side of Bali!
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