Located on the north-west coast of Bali, Menjangan Island is a protected reserve, part of the Bali Barat National Park. This hidden gem of Indonesia is as appropriate for diving or snorkeling. With its incredible underwater life, Menjangan is a paradise for any passionate diver.
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It hosts a variety of tropical fish, corals species, sea birds and even deers, which is why it’s often referred to as the Deer Island. The island is characterized by 60 meters of dramatic ocean cliffs. The incredible rock formations along the coast form caves that you can explore for hours.
Jump off your boat and take a look at the incredible reefs and underwater cliffs, that surrounds the entire place. We booked a snorkeling tour from Pemuteran which included 3 different snorkeling spots, as well as a stop to take a walk on the shore of one of the islands to see the deers. We kind of felt like all the boats were following each other. The guides did not seem to be too conscious about the environment.
We hope things will change so people can explore Menjangan Island for many years to come!
All in all, it is an incredible project, and probably the most beautiful underwater world in Bali!
Biorock Project
In the north of Bali, Pemuteran is the perfect getaway to relax, snorkel and learn about the underwater world. Unfortunately, the reef of Pemuteran was once almost gone, destroyed by bomb and cyanide fishing. At the beginning of 2000, the reef was in a very critical state. The bombs affected the fish population and coral health, hence destroying the ecosystem. It created damages that would take years to fix.
The community of Pemuteran came together to bring back the once-thriving coral reefs that used to cover the entire seafloor. Some people set up a coral nursery, while other built structures that act as a refuge for fish. As coral takes a very long time to grow, a team came up with a new technology called Bio Rock. With this innovation, a low voltage current helps minerals in the water to crystallize. It then forms structures on which coral can grow.
Only a few years after the beginning of this project, the results are incredible! Corals are growing healthy, crabs and shrimps have returned to the reef and the fish population is climbing. The project has brought a huge change to the seafloor of Pemuteran beach in only a few years, and will most certainly do wonders in a few more.
It is so easily accessible, as it is right off the main beach and while different than a natural coral reef, we thought it was fascinating to explore. It is possible to help by either adopting a coral which they will plant for you and send you pictures of its growth. You can also buy a whole structure, or simply talk about their mission.
Nowadays there are a lot of projects towards rebuilding marine life such as the Bio Rock project and the turtle hatchery. Pemuteran is working hard towards preserving its biodiversity and every effort counts in preserving our oceans!
The Menjangan Islands are located very close to the ferry that can bring you to the island of Java. It is one of our favorite places in Indonesia and we strongly suggest you take a couple of days to experience it! You can read our 5 days itinerary of East Java here!
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