Bali is not just Canggu, Dalung, or Ubud. As people flooded social media with mainstream tourist attractions, many travellers ended up flocking to a certain area like Ubud, leaving the rest of the island’s beauty unexplored.
If you’re done visiting the southern part of Bali, you should try going west and see for yourself, the untouched part of the Island of the Gods. There are many beaches you can visit, places to surf, and waters to dive, none of which you’ll find anywhere else on the island.
You probably have seen some that are quite popular among tourists, like the West Bali National Park, but we’re not going to go that route today. We’re going to talk about some hidden gems in the west of Bali that you’ll enjoy, perfect for people looking for a new adventure or a more intimate and authentic experience, particularly for families with a Family KITAS.
Balian Beach and Medewi Beach
Let’s start the list with a surf spot, or two. Balian and Medewi Beach should go into your must-visit surf area as they offer beautiful river mouth waves suited for all levels, including beginners.
You might say, “Hey, I saw these two on TikTok, yesterday!”, but don’t be discouraged. Even with its growing popularity, the beaches are rarely congested with tourists. You can find yourself a space and enjoy the surf by yourself if you like.
It’s a fantastic bygone place with a secluded, gorgeous view for the ultimate relaxation. Surfing is not the only drawcard of the location. You may also see a breathtaking sunset as it offers the perfect spot to do the job, and visit Hindu temples such as Pura Rambat Siwi and Pura Perancak, all of which are within walking distance of the beaches.
If you plan to remain in the area, you’ll discover plenty of lodging options, including villas, homestays, and resorts right by the beaches. To reach Balian, you’ll have to travel an hour from Canggu or 1.5 hours from Ubud. From Balian, you can continue to Medewi or switch back and forth to see what works best for you. It takes only half an hour to travel from Balian to Medewi, and the scenery along the way is stunning.
Bull Race and Jegog Bamboo of Negara, Jembrana
Negara, located in the heart of Jembrana, West Bali, is home to several intriguing traditional attractions that are unique to the island.
The first one is called Makepung, or Bull Race. Makepung is a unique festival that differs from the other traditional attractions in Bali. You might want to go to the location in November where people will line up to see the spectacular Makepung.
In the event of Makepung, you will witness buffalos, paraded in a unique fashion before the competition starts. Each pair of animals, positioned five metres apart, will take up position to claim victory. The riders behind them then compete in the event to represent the different villages of the Jembrana agency, demonstrating exceptional speed and control of their chariots. These spectacles will leave your jaw open as it’s thrilling, intense, and exciting to watch.
As if there weren’t enough attractions, Negara also has another lovely traditional attraction called Jegog. Unlike Makepung, you may see and witness the magnificent performance of this art every two weeks, which is properly maintained in one of the Jembrana villages, Sangkaragung.
Jegog is a traditional bamboo instrument. The ensemble of traditional music played on this instrument will fill the air with powerful and enchanting sounds, enlivening the dark and solemn atmosphere of the temple where it is performed – a spectacle you must see at least once in your life.
Menjangan Island
Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are not the only islands to visit in Bali. Set sail around 8 kilometres from the north-west coast of Bali, you’ll arrive on a beautiful island surrounded by world-class scuba diving and natural wonders called Menjangan Island.
One may argue that there isn’t much to do if you don’t want to go underwater, but it’s undeniably a utopia for divers who enjoy the scenery of a preserved piece of natural beauty. Your journey into the depths of the ocean will be cherished with a view of breathtaking coral reefs and bright and colourful underwater marine life.
For those seeking a more adventurous dive, mysterious underwater caves and tunnels add an element of excitement to the exploration. These hidden passageways unveil the secrets of the ocean’s depths and leave you in amazement as you journey through the murky corridors, illuminated only by the glow of bioluminescent species.
Whether you are a seasoned diver or a casual beachgoer, this underwater haven promises an unforgettable experience. Its allure lies not only in the vibrant marine ecosystem but also in the sense of connection with nature and the opportunity to witness the beauty of a world hidden beneath the surface.
Read more about the livelihood in West Bali
Click here for a recommendation of a place to stay in Menjangan Island!
