Not many tourists make it to the northwest side of Bali to visit Menjangan Island and the west Bali national park. They are missing out. It is of the most beautiful places in Bali, and both places hold a special place in the heart of tourists from around the world who have visited them.
📍 West Bali & Menjangan Island Overview
- Location: Northwest coast of Bali, Indonesia
- Also Known As: Bali Barat National Park
- Highlights: Pristine snorkeling, wild deer on the beach, rare bird watching, and untouched nature
- Vibe: Quiet, remote, and completely different from the busy south of Bali
- Accessibility: About a 3 to 4-hour drive from Ubud or Seminyak.
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, divers, snorkelers, and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Why Trust This West Bali National Park Guide?
As the founder of This Is Luxury Travel, I write only about places and experiences I have been to myself. Over the years I have travelled extensively through Indonesia and Latin America, returning to some regions more than twenty times, and I publish first-hand accounts so that readers can plan on the basis of real experience rather than marketing material.
When I write a guide I focus on the practical details that actually shape a trip: how to get there, what it realistically costs, how long to allow, the best time to go, and whether the experience lives up to its reputation. This guide to West Bali National Park and Menjangan Island is based entirely on my own visit.
Getting there:
It is possible to get to Menjangan and West Bali from the main tourist places of Semyniak or Ubud in a one day trip but plan for a long day. It will take 3 to 4 hours of driving each way. The best option is to stay somewhere on the North Bali cost.
You can then rent a boat and snorkeling equipment directly at Labuhan Lalang. The cost for a boat tour is about 500000 Roupies (+- 30 Eur) per person, including the entrance ticket to the West Bali National park.
Snorkeling at Menjangan:
If you are planning to visit the Menjangan island of Bali, don’t forget to do snorkeling here. You would be surprised to see the corals, different types of fishes and crystal-clear water.
Menjangan is ranked number 3 by Discovery channel for Snorkeling. While the snorkeling and landscapes are beautiful, do not expect the same types of reefs of fishes quantities that you would get in places like Komodo or Alor.
Beginners and expert swimmers – All are welcome:
Everyone is welcome here as the first part close to the shore is safe for kids and adults who are not proficient swimmers. The water is clear and the kids will have an adventure of a lifetime. They will be surrounded by hundreds of fishes. Snorkeling here is a unique and unforgettable experience. When you have finished your snorkeling and come back on the beach, you can often see deers welcoming you!
Visiting the West Bali National park:
Bali is not only a place of beauty but also a place to enjoy the wonders of nature. The West Bali National park is the perfect, beautiful spot where you can see wildlife. This place covers the Prapat Agung Peninsula near Gilimanuk. The park boundaries are approximately 190 square kilometers. The most exciting fact about this place is that it accounts for 10% of Bali’s total area. The park was developed in 1941.
There are beautiful beaches and landscapes that you can visit within the national park. Hiring a guide will maximize your chances of seeing animals. Often, your guide for the snorkeling in Menjangan can also act as a guide within the national park. It is also the same entry ticket so no need to buy a new ticket
Wildlife experience:
Here you can experience the wildlife of Bali. Wild Boar and monkeys are a major attraction here. One interesting fact about this place is that a Bali tiger was shot here. Since that day, no Bali tiger was ever seen which concludes that there are no more Bali tigers.
The trail of birds in the National park of Bali:
Here the different species of birds are famous. There is a big trail, which you can follow and enjoy watching the birds.
TIP: An important thing to keep in mind if you are planning to go there is to take water with you. Inside the park, you will not be able to find water or food anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions: West Bali National Park
Is West Bali worth visiting?
Many travelers ask: is West Bali worth visiting? If you read any West Bali National Park reviews, you will see that it is an absolute hidden gem. Unlike the crowded south, the Bali Barat National Park (the only national park in Bali) offers pristine wilderness. Whether you call it the Bali West National Park or just Bali National Park, it is a haven for nature lovers seeking peace, quiet, and incredible wildlife.
How to get to Menjangan Island from Bali?
If you are wondering how to get to Menjangan Island (or specifically, how to get to Menjangan Island from Bali‘s tourist hubs), the journey usually involves a scenic drive to the northwest coast. For example, traveling from Ubud to West Bali National Park or taking a car from Ubud to Menjangan Island takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours. Once you reach the harbor at Labuhan Lalang, you can easily arrange a boat for your Menjangan island day trip.
What are the best things to do in West Bali?
When looking for things to do in West Bali, you’ll find activities for everyone. West Bali National Park activities include bird watching, spotting wild boar, and even West Bali National Park trekking. But the highlight for most is a Menjangan trip. Things to do in Menjangan Island revolve mostly around the water—West Bali snorkeling and diving here are world-class, making a Menjangan West Bali tour unforgettable.
Do I need to book West Bali National Park tours?
While you can arrive independently, booking West Bali National Park tours (or hiring a local guide at the entrance) is highly recommended. To do any West Bali National Park snorkeling at Menjangan, you must hire a boat and a guide. Keep in mind that a West Bali National Park entrance fee is mandatory for all visitors, which is often included in organized Menjangan island vacation packages.
Where to stay: West Bali National Park accommodation
Because the area is remote, finding good West Bali National Park accommodation is essential. While there are a few eco-resorts inside the park boundaries, most travelers look for a West Bali National Park hotel or hotels near Menjangan Island located just outside the park in Pemuteran or along the coast, offering luxury and direct access to the sea.
Where to Stay:
Should you wish to spend one or 2 nights in the region, the nicest place to stay in Menjangan.
The hotels that we recommend is the Matahari beach resort.
Click here to check prices and availability
The north coast of Bali also has plenty of luxury beachfront villas. I recommend villa Seaview 20 minutes East of Singaraja. You can find more info here.
If you are looking for a hotel on the way back to Semyniak or the airport, check out Puri Dajuma. The pictures below are their beach and pool. They have a 2 bedrooms beachfront villa that is delightful.
