Camping in West Bali

Bali’s West coast is as far as you can get from the tourist centers of South Bali, and thus, beckons to those looking for the path less travelled.  Camping in West Bali is also a nice option, so I’ll give you everything you need to know to visit one of Bali’s least explored areas.

OK, so first a bit of bad news (good news to follow!).  That alluring big green patch that you see on Google Maps?  Bali West National Park?  It’s not really accessible.  I have no idea why, but the road which goes through it is virtually impassable, and as such the campervan is not allowed to enter.  Believe me, I have been driving in Bali for a long time and this was by far the worst road I have ever encountered.  It would take you two hours (each way!) just to go 12 km and get to the temple at the end of the road.  You could walk faster.

OK, so with that out of the way, is the West still worth visiting?  The answer is, yes!

Actually, the best part of the national park is Menjangan Island.  This gorgeous island with its white sand beaches, excellent snorkeling, and beach-prancing deer, is the star of the West Bali show.  And fortunately, going to Menjangan Island does not require driving that awful road into the park (though you still have to pay the park fee).

Places to camp

Pemuteran

Pemuteran is a small village on the Northwest coast about 20 minutes from the national park.  Pemuteran has a nice beach, some decent restaurants, a bar or two, and plenty of dive shops.  If you are planning on diving or snorkeling at Menjangan island we suggest that you leave from Pemuteran.

As for camping, there are no official campgrounds here but there is a really great camping spot.  Located right on the beach next to a park, this spot has access to water, toilets, shade, and is actually very quiet, with few people coming by.  Its also just a few minutes from Pemuteran town and beach.

If you are interested in camping here, just let us know and we will give you the exact location.

Things to do

As mentioned before the main draw of this area is the West Bali National Park, and the best part about the park is diving or snorkeling at Menjangan Island.  With this in mind, we have found a great company that provides these activities.

Menjangan Island (minimum 2 people)

A boat trip to Menjangan Island, leaving from Pemuteran.  Visit the white sand beach and see the animals that flourish on the island.

Explore the underwater world at Secret Bay and Puri Jati.

Includes lunch, water, soft drinks and all equipment.

Not included: Park entrance fee of 200k per person on weekdays and 300k per person on weekends.

Diving: 1,200,000 per person

Snorkeling: 600,000 per person

Pemuteran Bay reefs (no park fee required)

Snorkeling – 220k per person

Guided Shore dive – 800k per person

Please let us know if you have any questions about the West cost of Bali