go-explore

Menjangan Island: West Bali's Best Kept Secret Dive Site

Surrounded by unspoilt white sandy beaches, stunning coral reefs, and enchanting underwater, environment Menjangan Island is a perfect definition of what natural beauty is all about. Located about 10Km North West off the shore of Bali’s mainland, the small island of Menjangan forms part of the West Bali National Park Conservation Area. The word "Menjangan" in the Javanese language means "Deer". According to Wikipedia, the name was given by the local population who observed wild deer herds swimming to the island every spring covering a distance of approx 1.2 miles.

menjangan

This small island is actually where diving first started seriously on Bali back in about 1978 under the sponsorship of the Indonesian Navy, when it arranged a get-together of the country’s main diving clubs -Possi, Ganesha, Nusantara, and Trisakti. That get-together led to Menjangan establishing itself as the premier international dive location in Bali and many of the attendees went on to become the pioneers of commercial dive operations across Indonesia.

underwater

The island itself is surrounded by a coral reef, characterized by deep drop offs of near to 60 meters and by complex rock formations. These distinctive features have given rise to a great number of large and small caves, festooned with sponge and soft corals and often inhabited by large groupers, moray eels and by young snappers and batfish in the smaller caves. The sea beds are also rich in large barrel sponges and vibrant sea fans, some of which are truly enormous. Given the depth, the moderate flow of currents and its protection from strong winds, it is common to see tuna, shoals of jack-fish, batfish, angelfish, sea turtles, and on occasion also sharks, especially off the outer corners of the island.

The island is also known as the location for the best wall diving in Bali, with a very bright & colorful underwater world and lots of different sites to choose from. These dive sites are rich in marine life and sandy beaches to relax over lunch.

fishes

At a depth of 45 meters the Anchor wreck is found. Also called the Anker or Kapal Budak (Slave Ship), the site is an old wooden ship wreck sitting on the sea floor on the western tip of Menjangan which is either an 19th century Dutch ship that sunk during WWII or one that sunk much earlier during the Dutch colonial era while supposedly carrying Balinese slaves to Batavia (now Jakarta). The wreck contains a cargo of ceramics and glass bottles and is completely colonized by soft coral; an excellent place to meet turtles and sharks.

Named after a large colony of garden eels, the Eel Gardens dive site lies on the western point of Menjangan in a shallow area with some dazzling white sand that is a pleasant dive in itself. The dive starts on a nice wall (about 40m) with a lot of beautiful gorgonians and other sea fans then continue over the top of the reef to a stretch of white sand. Arguably, some say that this is the best part of Menjangan Island.

And there is a big surprise for macro-photographers, video-operators and marine biologists at the Secret Bay”. In the small bay near the ferry port of Gilimanuk, a strange play in currents has rendered the water temperature here to be more, at most 25 degree C, which has created a habitat for Pacific and Indian Ocean species, with often hybrids between the two. The muddy shallow beds, mixed with algae and debris, are host to truly strange marine creatures, some of which have recently been discovered by marine biologists for the first time, such as the 4 types of anglerfish including the Sargassum Anglerfish, Spotfin Anglerfish and one in particular that has created great interest among biologists, locally called the Tono’s Anglerfish. Apart from the anglerfish, the bay is host to numerous different sea horses, dragonets, ghostpipefish, nudibranches, lionfish such us the Blue Finned lionfish, ribbon eels and much more. This unique bay has been and still is the preferred location of some of the world’s most famous underwater photographers and filmmakers, as well as researchers and marine biologists.

What They Say


SELECT * FROM [cq:Page] AS s WHERE ISDESCENDANTNODE(s,'/content/indtravelrevamp/jp/en/trip-ideas') AND (s.[jcr:content/cq:tags] like '%indtravelrevamp:destination/province/bali%' ) order by [jcr:content/cq:lastModified] DESC

Suggested for You

Card image cap
27 Nov 2023

Bali's 15 Cool Co-Working Spaces for Digital Nomads

More

Card image cap
27 Nov 2023

Bali's 15 Cool Co-Working Spaces for Digital Nomads

More

Card image cap
23 Nov 2023

5 Ideas to Celebrate World Tourism Day

More

Card image cap
1 Nov 2023

3-Day Bali Vacation: Making the Most of Paradise

More

Card image cap
14 Sep 2023

12 UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages from Indonesia

More

Card image cap
14 Sep 2023

How to Indulge on a Memorable Experience in Nusa Dua Bali

More

Card image cap
25 Jul 2023

Unveiling Indonesia's Backpacking Gems

More

Card image cap
24 Jul 2023

15 Thrilling Surfing in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
11 Jan 2023

15 Luxurious Hotels near to GWK Cultural Park Bali for You to Indulge

More

Card image cap
4 Jan 2023

12 Chinese New Year’s Inspiring Travel Destination to Match Your Chinese Zodiac

More

Card image cap
27 Dec 2022

3 Things You Need to Know About Indonesia Spice Up The World!

More

Card image cap
22 Dec 2022

Top 15 Ideas to Spend Your Year End in Bali

More

Card image cap
19 Dec 2022

Special Christmas Menu in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
13 Dec 2022

New Year Holiday in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
12 Dec 2022

5 Places to Meet the Monkeys in Bali

More

Card image cap
26 Nov 2022

Memorable Moments of G20 Bali

More

Card image cap
17 Nov 2022

Story of Bomba Batik Worn by Elon Musk in B20 Summit, Bali

More

Card image cap
17 Nov 2022

7 Kids Friendly Destinations in Bali

More

Card image cap
14 Nov 2022

Intangible Cultural Heritages from Bali

More

Card image cap
5 Oct 2022

17 Creative Economy Subsectors in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
4 Oct 2022

World Tourism Day 2022

More

Card image cap
22 Sep 2022

Events to Welcome World Tourism Day 2022

More

Card image cap
23 Aug 2022

5 Fun Destinations to Visit around Ubud, Bali

More

Card image cap
2 Aug 2022

3 Destinations for A Wellness Journey in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
27 Jul 2022

Indonesia's Tourism Achievements & Awards in 2022

More

Card image cap
19 Jul 2022

10 Inspiring Places in Indonesia for Exciting Summer Holiday

More

Card image cap
16 Jun 2022

Indonesia's Charging Station for G20 in Bali

More

Card image cap
16 Jun 2022

5 Important Things About the G20 Summit in Bali

More

Card image cap
16 Jun 2022

G20 2022 Side Events

More

Card image cap
24 May 2022

3 Essential Things to Do on Your Visit to Bali

More

Card image cap
17 May 2022

2 Million Balinese will Receive COVID-19 Vaccination by July 2021

More

Card image cap
13 May 2022

5 Places to Stay in Bali for a Productive Workcation

More

Card image cap
12 May 2022

A Guide to Bali’s Nusa Islands

More

Card image cap
26 Apr 2022

Latest News About Bali

More

Card image cap
21 Apr 2022

Sustainable Tourism Ideas to Try in Bali

More

Card image cap
16 Apr 2022

6 Hidden Gems You Can Explore in The Eastern Part of Bali

More

Card image cap
14 Apr 2022

5 Must-Visit Art Markets in Bali

More

Card image cap
13 Apr 2022

How to Use PeduliLindungi App

More

Card image cap
29 Mrc 2022

Fun Activities You Can Do as You Arrive in Bali

More

Card image cap
28 Mrc 2022

#ItstimeforBali 4 Days Road Trip Adventure Ideas!

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

5 Amazing Gastronomy Restaurants in Indonesia You Should Check Out

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

Romantic Honeymoon Guide in Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

4 Ways of Luxury Travelling in Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

Stunning Churches in Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

Outdoor Adventures in and around Ubud | Indonesia.Travel

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

9 Wonderful New Year Ideas for #ItstimeforBali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

5 Ideas to Do During Quarantine in Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

7 Trip Ideas in North Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

6 Soothing Spa Destinations in Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Mrc 2022

5 Incredible Wedding Chapels to Tie The Knot in Bali

More

Card image cap
24 Feb 2022

Unique Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day in Bali

More

Card image cap
24 Feb 2022

5 Romantic Ideas for Adventurous Couple in Bali

More

Card image cap
11 Feb 2022

Celebrate A Colourful and Festive Lunar New Year in Indonesia: Where to Go and What to Do

More

Card image cap
28 Jan 2022

9 Inspiring Romantic Moments to Experience this Valentine in Bali

More

Card image cap
28 Jan 2022

Imagine Having Your Romantic Couple Trip in These 5 Destinations!

More

Card image cap
18 Jan 2022

Have a Blast at These 5 Getaway Destinations in Bali

More

Card image cap
18 Jan 2022

5 Getaway Destinations in Bali

More

Card image cap
17 Jan 2022

Christmas Traditions in Indonesia | Indonesia.Travel

More

Card image cap
14 Jan 2022

8 Top Destinations in Bali From The Winners of #ItstimeforBaliTop3

More

Card image cap
11 Jan 2022

5 Fitcation Ideas in 5 Most Favorite Destinations in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
4 Jan 2022

10 Most Favorite Destinations in Wonderful Indonesia

More

Card image cap
3 Jan 2022

6 Best Family-Bonding Activities to Make Your Bali Trip Memorable

More

Card image cap
3 Jan 2022

9 Five-Star Hotels & Resorts Recommendation in Bali

More

Card image cap
3 Jan 2022

17 Luxurious Hotels to Stay in Nusa Dua

More

Card image cap
23 Dec 2021

5 Fun New Year’s Eve Idea

More

Card image cap
20 Dec 2021

Missing the Delicious Flavors of Indonesia? Check Out These Places

More

Card image cap
17 Dec 2021

5 Christmas Postcards from Indonesia

More

Card image cap
14 Dec 2021

Planning Your Year-End Holiday? Here Are Some Ideas!

More

Card image cap
3 Dec 2021

5 Indonesia’s De-Stressing White Sand Beaches

More

Card image cap
17 Nov 2021

15 Instagrammable Destinations You Must Visit in Bali

More

Card image cap
10 Nov 2021

The Best Backpacking Itinerary Guide for you to Explore Indonesia

More

Card image cap
9 Nov 2021

Indonesia’s Best Destinations for 2020

More

Card image cap
15 Oct 2021

Experience Unforgettable Cultural Tourism in Bali

More

Card image cap
12 Oct 2021

6 Luxury Travel Ideas You Can Experience in Bali

More

Card image cap
7 Oct 2021

4 Resorts with Infinity Pools in Uluwatu, Bali

More

Card image cap
5 Oct 2021

10 Iconic Cuisines That You Must Try on Your Next Visit to Bali

More

Card image cap
24 Sep 2021

15 Best Hotel for Staycation With Family in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
17 Sep 2021

10 Stylish Award Winning Hotels for Your Next Holiday in Bali

More

Card image cap
17 Sep 2021

5 Exciting Travel Ideas to Explore around Sanur, Bali

More

Card image cap
15 Sep 2021

4 Instagenic Waterfalls in Tabanan, Bali

More

Card image cap
27 Aug 2021

Have A Plan to Spend Your Weekend in Bali? Make Sure You Visit These Places

More

Card image cap
27 Aug 2021

Biggest 2019 Sports Event in Indonesia That You Have to Follow

More

Card image cap
27 Aug 2021

Bali's Great Spa and Wellness Retreats You Must Visit Right Away!

More

Card image cap
26 Aug 2021

6 Highlighted Destinations in Asian Games 2018’s Billboard Series

More

Card image cap
18 Aug 2021

10 Unique Ways to Explore the Majestic GWK Cultural Park

More

Card image cap
18 Aug 2021

5 Eye-soothing Rice Fields You Should Visit in Bali

More

Card image cap
16 Aug 2021

5 Places to Stay in Bali for a Productive Workcation

More

Card image cap
13 Aug 2021

5 Luxurious Travel Ideas in Indonesia You Deserve to Experience

More

Card image cap
12 Aug 2021

A New-Normal Trip to Nusa Dua, Bali

More

Card image cap
10 Aug 2021

8 Eco-Friendly Ideas for a Sustainable Holiday in Indonesia - Indonesia.Travel

More

Card image cap
9 Aug 2021

The Backpacker’s Guide to Explore Indonesia Beyond Bali

More

Card image cap
4 Aug 2021

9 Iconic Traditional Houses to Explore in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
1 Aug 2021

Searching for Bali Souvenirs? Check Out These 5 Places!

More

Card image cap
30 Jul 2021

Rekindle Your Relationship with Nature at Pemuteran Village, Bali

More

Card image cap
28 Jul 2021

Experience a Traditional Living Atmosphere at Penglipuran Village, Bali

More

Card image cap
28 Jul 2021

6 Amazing Temples You Must Visit in Bali

More

Card image cap
21 Jul 2021

9 Trip Ideas for Your Future Trip to Bali

More

Card image cap
7 Jul 2021

9 Splendid Villages in Indonesia That You Should Put on Your Trip List

More

Card image cap
2 Jul 2021

Top 9 Most Favourite Places for Your 2021 Travel Bucket List in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
24 Jun 2021

8 Eco-Friendly Ideas for a Sustainable Holiday in Indonesia - Indonesia.Travel

More

Card image cap
24 Jun 2021

11 Remarkable International-Class Airports in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
21 Jun 2021

5 Resorts to Do Yoga in Bali

More

Card image cap
18 Jun 2021

5 Traditional Indonesian Fabrics and the Stories behind Them

More

Card image cap
15 Jun 2021

Experience These Safari Adventures on Your Next Visit to Indonesia

More

Card image cap
15 Jun 2021

Get Your Summer Joy in These Indonesia’s Water Villas

More

Card image cap
10 Jun 2021

18 Colorful Hangout Spots to Chill Out with Your Friends This Summer in Bali

More

Card image cap
9 Jun 2021

18 Favourite Places for Your Summer Afternoon and Evening Lingers in Bali

More

Card image cap
9 Jun 2021

13 Gorgeous Instagrammable Beaches in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
3 Jun 2021

16 Instagenic Spots around Bali for You to Wind Down this Summer!

More

Card image cap
3 Jun 2021

Find Your Perfect Destination in Bali According to Your Zodiac

More

Card image cap
2 Jun 2021

15 Beautiful Hotels for Your Private Getaway in Bali

More

Card image cap
1 Jun 2021

Fun Ways to Be Healthier in Ubud, Bali

More

Card image cap
28 May 2021

5 Backpacking Trip Ideas that You must Experience in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
10 May 2021

5 Awakening Spiritual Trip ideas to Discover in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
4 May 2021

5 Feel-Good Sustainable Tourism Ideas to Do in Bali

More

Card image cap
7 Apr 2021

5 Best Indonesia Travel Images

More

Card image cap
6 Apr 2021

Splurge at These 5 Luxurious Private Villas in Nusa Dua

More

Card image cap
6 Apr 2021

9 Things That Makes Nusa Dua Perfect for a Leisure & Business Trip

More

Card image cap
30 Mrc 2021

6 Indonesian Traditional Dances

More

Card image cap
30 Mrc 2021

8 Appealing Activities You Must Try in Nusa Dua

More

Card image cap
24 Mrc 2021

Spark Your Creativity with These 5 Traveling Ideas

More

Card image cap
12 Mrc 2021

5 Luxurious Travel Ideas in Indonesia You Deserve to Experience

More

Card image cap
4 Mrc 2021

Experience New Kind of Digital Detox with 6S

More

Card image cap
18 Feb 2021

Planning for Your First Solo Trip? Here’s 5 Destinations to Consider!

More

Card image cap
3 Feb 2021

6 Reasons for You to Explore Quality Tourism

More

Card image cap
3 Feb 2021

6 Beautiful Places to Celebrate Christmas in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
27 Jan 2021

Imagine Visiting Beautiful Beaches That Match Your Chinese Zodiac

More

Card image cap
22 Jan 2021

5 Enchanting Traditional Textiles from Bali

More

Card image cap
21 Jan 2021

5 Leisure Sports Activities You Must Try In Indonesia

More

Card image cap
20 Jan 2021

Learn How to Make Batik Directly from the Craftsmen in these 7 Batik Villages!

More

Card image cap
17 Jan 2021

Missing Bali’s Paradise? Plan a Magical Trip with These Backpacking Ideas!

More

Card image cap
7 Jan 2021

A Fantastic Guide For a First-Timers in Bali

More

Card image cap
4 Jan 2021

7 Workation Activities in Bali to Increase Your Productivity

More

Card image cap
16 Dec 2020

Tying the Knot with a View: Breathtaking Spots to Say I Do in Bali

More

Card image cap
8 Dec 2020

5 Places to Stay in Bali for a Productive Workcation

More

Card image cap
23 Nov 2020

Denpasar Listed as One of the World’s Top 10 Healthiest City

More

Card image cap
16 Nov 2020

Discover 6 Beautiful Botanical Gardens of Indonesia

More

Card image cap
13 Nov 2020

Enjoy the Magnificent View in Bali with These 10 Instagrammable Swings

More

Card image cap
11 Nov 2020

5 Award-Winning Tourist Villages You Should Visit In Your Lifetime

More

Card image cap
3 Nov 2020

7 Tea Garden Sceneries in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
2 Nov 2020

7 Top Places To Go Shopping In Bali

More

Card image cap
13 Oct 2020

The Ultimate Guide to Must-Try Indonesian Food

More

Card image cap
12 Oct 2020

7 Top Green Hotels in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
9 Oct 2020

7 Handicraft Centers You Must Visit When Visiting Indonesia

More

Card image cap
8 Oct 2020

Discover the Art of Hand-Weaving At These Indonesian Villages

More

Card image cap
6 Oct 2020

5 Ways to Travel Responsibly and Support Green Tourism

More

Card image cap
6 Oct 2020

7 Enchanting Stories behind Indonesia’s Famous Batik

More

Card image cap
29 Sep 2020

Discover Indonesian Batik at These 5 Batik Museums

More

Card image cap
25 Sep 2020

Go Green: 5 Eco-Tourism Experiences in Indonesia That Will Reconnect You with Nature

More

Card image cap
24 Sep 2020

7 Top Sports Tourism Destinations in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
22 Sep 2020

7 Amazing National Parks in Java and Bali for Thrill-Seekers

More

Card image cap
18 Sep 2020

8 Heart-Pounding Adventure Sports in Bali

More

Card image cap
13 Sep 2020

Immersive Village Tourism Experiences For You to Enjoy In Indonesia

More

Card image cap
8 Sep 2020

5 Unique Ecotourism Experiences in Indonesia

More

Card image cap
3 Sep 2020

The Bliss of Ramadan Tradition in Bali

More

Card image cap
30 Aug 2020

Spending Too Much Time with Screens? Plan a Digital Detox Amongst Nature!

More

Card image cap
27 Aug 2020

Majalah Bumbu: A Closer Look at the Indonesian Culinary

More

Card image cap
6 Jul 2020

Why Bali Would be The Best Start to Your 2020 Travel Trips

More

Card image cap
23 Dec 2018

Wonderful Indonesia through The Magic of Inspiring Illustrators

More