Bali mainland offers a myriad of fun holiday activities. From natural wonders to unique cultural shows, the Island of the Gods continues to intrigue tourists from all around the world. However, offshore islands near Bali also offer attractive natural wonders. Due to their popularity, tourists now add these islands to their Bali holiday itinerary list and their investment list. In this article, we will break down the top offshore islands to visit from Bali and their appeal, plus, how you can get there.
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Best Islands Near Bali To Visit
Nusa Penida
Being the largest of the three Nusa islands, Nusa Penida is very popular for a day trip as islands near Bali. Nusa Penida is known for its jaw-dropping cliff views, diving spots, and beaches. Tourists can try exploring activities like diving and snorkelling. The world’s famous Kelingking Beach is located in Nusa Penida. Unlike the Gili islands where you can explore the whole island just by cycling or walking, you need to rent a scooter or car to explore Nusa Penida.
Another notable attraction is the Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach, both of these destinations offer stunning natural rock formations and crystal clear waters. For those seeking underwater activities, Manta Point is quite popular in Nusa Penida that you can visit.
How to get to Nusa Penida?
To get to Nusa Penida, you need to take a 40-minute boat ride from Sanur, or 20 20-minute boat ride from Kusamba. The one-way boat ticket typically costs IDR 150,000 to IDR 200,000. If you have a KITAS (Indonesian residence permit), you can get it at a discounted price of IDR 125,000.
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan has the most beautiful beaches, temples, and waterfalls (with lesser crowds!). The island has some of the best marine life in the world to enjoy. Nusa Lembongan now has various yoga retreats and trendy restaurants, making the islands a more convenient place to enjoy your holiday. Nature lovers will love this island due to the magnificent view of mangroves.
How to get to Nusa Lembongan?
To get to Nusa Lembongan, you can take a fast boat from Sanur which takes about 30-minute trip. The price starts from IDR 150,000 to IDR 250,000.
Nusa Ceningan
The smallest of the Nusa islands is Nusa Ceningan. Connected by a suspension bridge with Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan is very much worth seeing. The small and adventurous trails are what attracted people to visit the island during their day trip from Nusa Lembongan.
Gili Islands For a Unique Island Experience
Located in the east of Bali, Gili islands have been popular amongst foreign tourists do to their beautiful underwater sceneries. Gili means “small islands”, these tiny islands are accessible by fast boats from the Bali mainland with approximately 2-3 hours of travel time.
How to get to Gili Islands?
The fastest way to get to Gili Islands is by taking the fast boat ride. You can depart from South Bali (Sanur, Serangan), Central Bali (Padang Bai) and from North Bali (Amed).
Padang Bai has the shortest travel time (approximately 2 hours) and it is the main gateway to the Gili Islands for people staying in Central Bali. The price range starts from IDR 250,000 (around USD 15) to 450,000 (USD 27) depending on what boat you’re getting on. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially in high season during July to August. Once you book your ticket in advance, it is also recommended to arrive at the port 30 minutes early to avoid the traffic.
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular among the other Gilis. The vehicle-free island offers breathtaking views of beaches and underwater wonders. There are plenty of villas, and good activities water sports you can try in Gili Trawangan, including night diving, snorkelling, and cycling around the island. Gili Trawangan is a tropical paradise with a bohemian feel and vibrant nightlife. You can get to Gili Trawangan via Padang Bai or Sanur by fast boat.
For sunset lovers, Gili Trawangan has the sunset swings that offers picture-perfect moments with wonderful ocean backdrop.
Gili Trawangan
If you’re the type to seek a more peaceful escape, Gili Meno is the ideal place for you. Gili Meno is the smallest and the quietest among the Gili islands. The island is perfect for those looking for a magnificent beach view but with less crowd. You can enjoy your peaceful holiday with a good book by the beach or try snorkelling around the island.
Gili Meno is also known for the famous “Nest” underwater statue, a must-visit for divers and snorkelers.
Gili Air
If Gili Trawangan is ideal for those looking for an exciting island retreat, and Gili Meno is for the ones seeking tranquillity, Gili Air is the perfect blend of both islands. The adventure options available on the island are yoga retreats, scuba diving, and lounging by the beach. Gili Air is also perfect for family holidays.
Other Islands for Adventure Enthusiasts
Menjangan Island
Located offshore from Bali’s West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is a small and uninhabited island near Bali. Menjangan Island is also one of the best places in Bali to see wild deer. This is a great place to visit if you enjoy a bit of an adventurous trip around the island. Menjangan Island is famous among divers. If you love exploring underwater rich biodiversity, you will love visiting Menjangan Island. To visit Menjangan Island, you can take a boat from Labuhan Lalang Port near Pemuteran Beach and enjoy an awesome 30-minute journey.
Lombok
Lombok, known for its emerging developments and tourism industry, is an island near Bali. With a smaller size than Bali, the island offers amazing natural wonders. The famous Mandalika International Circuit is a must-visit destination, especially during their race seasons.
Just like Bali, Lombok has the year-round warm tropical bali climate with awesome beaches. From the pristine waters of Selong Belanak Beach to the jaw-dropping Merese Hill, Lombok will leave you in awe.
Other Islands for Adventure Enthusiasts
Offshores islands around Bali are worth visiting because they offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The islands have something to offer to everyone, such as:
For families: For the perfect family-friendly holiday, Gili Air and Nusa Lembongan are the ideal choices.
For honeymooners: Gili Meno and Nusa Ceningan is the perfect place to find romantic and secluded getaways.
For solo travelers: Gili Trawangan and Nusa Penida vibrant social scenes and landscapes are the go-to destinations for solo travellers
For adventure seekers: The world class diving, hiking, and surfing activities are definitely worth the catch for those seeking for adventures in Menjangan Island and Lombok.
A trip to islands around Bali is an unforgettable experience regardless which island you choose to visit. Whether it is with family or a solo trip, it is worth adding to your holiday bucketlist!
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