3 Hidden Gems in Bali You should Visit
Bali is probably the most famous island in Indonesia, Bali blends spectacular mountain scenery and beautiful beaches with warm and friendly people, a vibrant culture and out of this world resorts. It is the essence of Bali, and the Balinese, that makes it so much more than just a fun- in-the-sun retreat.
In 2014, Bali received 3.76 Million tourists while the country in total received 9.3 million. If you know that Bali is only one out of 17,508 islands that belong to Indonesia, you can say that Bali is quite popular. With this popularity also comes the challenge to find hidden gems on Bali that haven’t been discovered by the many tourists yet.
Looking to get off the beaten path in Bali and discover its hidden gems? Here are three islands around Bali that will get your adventure soul triggered;
1. Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a small island offshore from Bali, Indonesia – in the Lombok Strait – and is the main island of the three Nusa islands. Here, Balinese Hindu communities live simple lives from subsistence agriculture, fishing, seaweed farming and eco-cultural tourism in coastal and remote, inland villages – Nusa Penida island is now a Marine Protected Area and community-protected bird sanctuary. Some says Nusa Penida reflects Bali Island in the 90s.
How to Get There:
Take one of the fast boats from Sanur harbor which is only 15 minutes from Akana Boutique Hotel, but make sure you book in advance or come early in the morning. The trip from Sanur to Nusa Penida takes about 45 minutes.
- Atuh Beach
- Crystal Bay
- Seganing Waterfall (near Batu Madeg village, Sebuluh)
- Tukad Oyah (Broken) Bay
- Manta Point – famed for diving
2. Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is around 8km square in size and is the most popularly travelled of the three islands. It is connected to its neighboring island of Nusa Ceningan by a yellow bridge that has actually just been rebuilt after tragically collapsing in October 2016, so you can combine exploration of the two islands in your visit. Scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, cliff jumping, visiting underground houses, yoga, massages, learning about local culture, exploring by scooter or just kicking back and enjoying a drink while watching another spectacular Indonesian sunset – just a handful of things to do on Nusa Lembongan.
How to Get There:
It’s the same with Nusa Penida . Take one of the fast boats from Sanur harbor 15 minutes from Akana Boutique Hotel, but make sure you book in advance or come early in the morning. The trip from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan takes about 30 minutes.
Must Visits:
- Dream Beach
- Nusa Ceningan Viewpoint
- Mushroom Bay
- Seaweed farm
3. Pulau Serangan
Serangan Island is also known as Turtle Island and is, unsurprisingly, famous for its turtles. Serangan is actually a miniature isle, connected with Bali by a bridge. There are neither resorts nor hotels on the island, although you may find some affordable local guest houses scattered over there. It really is one of the few places in Bali which has saved the traditional lifestyle, and remains at one with beautiful nature. The island is a fantastic spot for surfing and snorkeling, or if you feel more like chilling on the beach, then we recommend you to order food and beer and just relax.
How to Get There:
The island is easily reachable either by car or by motorbike or a car, just 15 minutes away.
Must Visits:
- Sakenan Temple
- Turtle conservation
