Complete Snorkeling Guide at Menjangan Island for Beginners

Menjangan Island is located in the northwest of Bali Island and is part of Bali Barat National Park. The name Menjangan itself comes from the word "menjangan" which means deer, because this island is indeed inhabited by herds of wild deer that are often seen around the beach. However, the main attraction of this island lies beneath its sea.

Menjangan Island is known as one of the best snorkeling spots in Indonesia. Its clear, calm, and shallow waters make it an ideal location for beginners who want to learn and enjoy snorkeling for the first time. This article will discuss a complete guide for beginners who want to try snorkeling at Menjangan Island, including how to get there, the best time, equipment, safety tips, and recommended tour packages.

Complete Snorkeling Guide at Menjangan Island

Why Choose Menjangan Island for Snorkeling

For beginners, choosing a safe and comfortable snorkeling location is very important. Menjangan Island meets all those criteria. Here are the reasons why this place is highly recommended:

1. Very clear seawater with visibility up to 30 meters

2. Calm and harmless sea currents

3. Beautiful and well-maintained coral reefs

4. Marine biodiversity such as clownfish, lionfish, turtles, and schooling fish

5. Shallow snorkeling area that is safe for beginners

In addition, the atmosphere in Menjangan Island Very quiet and not too crowded, unlike other underwater tourist spots in Bali. This allows visitors to enjoy the snorkeling experience more comfortably and focus.

How to Get to Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island cannot be accessed directly from the Bali mainland. Here is the general route to reach the snorkeling location:

From Denpasar or Kuta

The land journey from Denpasar or Kuta to Labuhan Lalang Port in Buleleng Regency takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Labuhan Lalang is an official crossing point to Menjangan Island.

From Banyuwangi

For tourists coming from Java Island, the journey can be made from Banyuwangi to Gilimanuk, then continued to Labuhan Lalang Port.

Ferry to Menjangan Island

After arriving at Labuhan Lalang, tourists must rent a boat to cross to Menjangan Island. This sea journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

The Best Time for Snorkeling in Menjangan

The best time for snorkeling at Menjangan Island is during the dry season, from April to October. During this period, the weather tends to be clear, the waves are calmer, and underwater visibility is very good.

Avoid visiting during the rainy season (November to March), as the waves can be higher and the water becomes murky, which will certainly reduce comfort while snorkeling.

Required Snorkeling Equipment

If you join the snorkeling package, most of the equipment is usually included in the fee. However, it is important for beginners to know the basic equipment used:

1. Snorkeling mask
   It functions to see underwater without having to open your eyes directly. Choose a mask that fits your face and does not leak.

2. Snorkel
   A breathing tube when the head is underwater. Make sure the snorkel is clean and not clogged.

3. Fin or frog leg
   Helps swimming more efficiently and saves energy.

4. Life jacket
   It is very important for beginners to stay afloat safely.

5. Rash guard or UV protective clothing
   Protect the skin from sunburn and scratches from coral.

If you are more comfortable bringing your own equipment, make sure everything is in good condition and suitable for your body size.

Snorkeling at Menjangan Island with Complete Facilities

Snorkeling Tips for Beginners

Snorkeling may seem simple, but there are some important things to pay attention to, especially for beginners:

1. Practice on land first
   Try wearing a mask and snorkel on land to adapt. Breathing exercises through a snorkel will help reduce panic in the water.

2. Start from shallow waters
   Don't go straight into the middle of the sea. Start from the shallow part and gradually move to the deeper area.

3. Do not touch the coral or marine animals
   Maintaining the ecosystem is very important. Coral reefs are very fragile and can die if touched.

4. Use a float
   If you are not yet skilled at swimming, always use a life jacket to stay afloat and avoid exhaustion.

5. Listen to the guide’s instructions
   Follow all instructions from the snorkeling guide. They know the safe areas and the areas to avoid.

6. Don't panic
   If water enters the mask or snorkel, stay calm. Rise to the surface, release the water, and continue again.

7. Use environmentally friendly sunscreen
   Regular sunscreen can damage coral reefs. Choose products that do not contain harmful chemicals for the sea.

Best Snorkeling Spots on Menjangan Island

There are several snorkeling spots recommended by local tour operators. Some of them are

• Pos I and Pos II
  This spot is suitable for beginners because of its shallow depth and dense coral reefs with colorful fish.

• Coral Garden
  A spot with colorful coral reefs spread widely and often visited by large numbers of small fish.

• Garden Eel Point
  This area is more suitable for intermediate snorkeling, as it has many unique garden eels.

Some of these spots can be visited in a single trip because they are close to each other.

Snorkeling Cost Estimate at Menjangan

Snorkeling costs on Menjangan Island can vary depending on the number of participants, services, and facilities provided. The following is a general price estimate:

• Boat rental fee: approximately 800,000 – 1,200,000 rupiah per group

• Bali Barat National Park entrance ticket: approximately 200,000 – 300,000 rupiah per person (price may vary depending on holidays or government policies)

• Complete snorkeling package (including equipment, guide, lunch): starting from 350,000 – 600,000 rupiah per person

It is recommended to book through a trusted local operator to avoid being scammed and to receive safe and complete facilities.

Beginner Snorkeling Tour Package

Many travel agents offer special beginner packages with various facilities. The package generally includes:

• Transportation from the accommodation to the port

• Round-trip boat rental

• Complete snorkeling equipment

• Certified Guide

• Lunch and mineral water

• Underwater photo documentation (optional)

Some operators also offer combined packages of snorkeling and visits to Mangrove Forest, Banjar Hot Spring, or Gitgit Waterfall for a full day tour.

Things to Consider Before Leaving

Before you start your snorkeling adventure, make sure you:

• In a healthy condition and without a history of heart disease or severe asthma

• Do not bring valuables to the sea

• Ensure all equipment is in good condition

• Do not throw trash into the sea

• Have you had breakfast or eaten enough so you don't feel weak at sea?

Snorkeling is a light physical activity but still drains energy, so preparation before departure is very important.

Snorkeling at Menjangan Island is the best choice for beginners who want to explore the underwater beauty without special skills. Calm air, stunning underwater scenery, and complete facilities make the snorkeling experience here unforgettable.

By following this guide, you can enjoy Snorkeling at Menjangan Island safely, comfortably, and memorably. So, if you are planning a vacation to Bali, don't miss the opportunity to explore the underwater world of Menjangan Island. Prepare your mask, put on your life jacket, and get ready for an amazing underwater adventure.

# Share this information with your friends