Aerial view of Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan
I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.
-
John Masefield, Sea Fever
Bali extends beyond its beaches and is reflected in the four jewels that crown its captivating aura – the exotic islands of Lembongan, Ceningan, Penida, and Menjangan.
Let us begin with Lembongan Island, which is 12 kilometres from Bali. It is bordered by a coral reef that sustains about 247 species of coral and over 500 species of fish. The three main villages are Jungut Batu, Mushroom Bay and Lembongan.
Explore the fishing villages and fascinating mangrove forests, snorkel with giant manta rays or languish on the beach and indulge yourself with a cocktail, fresh fruits or grilled seafood. Decadence does have a charming effect on those seeking a refuge from the madding crowd.
And if you want to explore the island go to the Gala-Gala underground house built by Master Shadow Puppeteer Made Byasa, between 1961 and 1976. Apparently Made was inspired by events in the Hindu epic, Mahabharat, where the Pandavas hid in the forest from their enemies. They built a series of caves and lived in them for protection. The entrance to Gala Gala is a narrow passage that opens up to a wondrous labyrinth. Rambling roots of trees create an intricate tapestry on the stone walls, reminiscent of Ta Prom temple in Angkor (Siem Reap, Cambodia). The odd stone carving adds to the atmosphere of sublime antiquity.
Connecting Lembongan to Ceningan is the The Bridge of Love. You can walk across it to this very small island that has a great personality. The first stop for any self-respecting visitor is the Blue Lagoon. Walk around this picturesque spot with proper footwear as you can injure yourself on the sharp rocks.
Not far from Blue Lagoon is Mahana Point, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the azure sea. The Secret Beach, word has it, is anything but secret!
And then there is Nusa Penida, a short haul by boat from Lembongan.
Penida, Ceningan and Lembongan are a designated bird sanctuary. Penida is home to the Bali Starling Project that seeks to preserve this endangered species which was once endemic to the island. There are other bird species that are also protected. These include the Java Sparrow, Mitchell’s lorikeet and sulphur crested cockatoo.
Many diving and snorkelling sites are on offer – Toyapakeh, Malibu Point, Manta Bay and Crystal Bay. Take selfies with the Manta Rays and sea turtles, snorkel among the Mola Mola, Parrot and other colourful fish and pay homage to the giant Napoleon. All in all, it is a deeply moving experience.
And finally, we come to Menjangan Island, which is part of the West Bali National Park. It hosts wild deer, wild rabbits, monitor lizards and wild fowl among other wildlife. Some consider this area to be the best spot for diving as currents are much calmer and water is clearer. The usual denizens of the deep can be encountered on any dive or snorkelling adventure. Opportunities to explore this part of the national park are many.
A number of Balinese temples dot the isle. The sacred Segara Giri Dharma Kencana Temple has a stunning white gigantic statue of Lord Ganesha facing seawards. The dolphin is the avatar of Lord Ganesha in the sea. Perhaps this is why the surrounding area is teeming with marine life.
WakaBeachClub, Jungut Batu Beach, Lembongan Island
Drop in at the WakaBeachClub, Lembongan, for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. On offer are the sun loungers, unique tree house, swimming pool, showers, rest rooms, chilled cocktails and alfresco dining in a traditional Joglo. Indulge yourself!
Contact us at info@wakahotelsandresorts.com or call +62-361-484085.
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