A Refreshing Bali Experience: Nusa Lembongan Awaits

When our daughter invited us to join her family of five on holiday, we knew we wanted somewhere relaxed and scenic. The bustle of Kuta and Seminyak held little appeal, but Nusa Lembongan, a quieter island just off Bali, was too tempting to resist. I’d been before, but this trip offered surprises I hadn’t expected, beginning not on the island itself, but in Bali.

A Fresh Face for Bali

Landing in Denpasar, I was pleasantly surprised. The Bali I remembered, littered with plastic and burdened by lingering odours, felt transformed. Roadsides and villages appeared cleaner, more organised, and more inviting. We’d even heard stories of foreign investment shaping this change: property buyers from Russia and France, and infrastructure contributions from New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore. For returning travellers like us, it was heartening to see Bali step confidently into a more sustainable future.

Getting to Nusa Lembongan

Our trusted driver collected us from the airport and delivered us to Sanur, the main gateway to the islands. From there, a short ferry ride whisked us across clear waters to Nusa Lembongan. Boats run frequently throughout the day, and the ride itself is a mini-adventure, offering views back across Bali’s dramatic coastline.

Where We Stayed

We checked into Song Lambung Huts, perched on the hillside just steps from the beach. It was simple but charming—reasonably priced, family-friendly, and with unbeatable views of the ocean. A boardwalk led us along the beach and towards the ferry landing, connecting us with the gentle rhythm of island life.

Travel tip: Accommodation on Lembongan ranges from budget beach huts to boutique villas. Book ahead during school holidays, as family-friendly options fill quickly.

What We Did

Most days unfolded at an unhurried pace:

Swimming and relaxing — We alternated between the pool and the sea, with the children loving every moment.
Snorkelling Mangrove Bay — A highlight, where calm waters made for safe snorkelling and long, lazy afternoons.
Dining out — Fresh seafood and Balinese specialities were easy to find. Restaurants and warungs were clean, affordable, and high quality—no tummy troubles here, even with three little ones in tow.

A Night in Sanur

Before heading home to Western Australia, we spent a night in Sanur. Once considered a sleepy alternative to Kuta, it is now buzzing with construction. New restaurants and boutique hotels are lining the main street, many of them stylish and modern. While development can sometimes feel overwhelming, Sanur seemed to be striking a balance between growth and charm.

Travel tip: If you’re flying home from Denpasar, a stop in Sanur makes for a convenient final night, with plenty of dining and close to the airport.

Final Reflections

This trip was one of the most relaxing holidays I’ve ever had. Between the cleaner, fresher feel of Bali, the laid-back beauty of Nusa Lembongan, and the joy of sharing it all with our grandchildren, it felt both restful and memorable. Travel often opens your eyes to the new, but sometimes it’s about rediscovering the familiar—and being surprised by just how much it has changed.

Practical Guide: Bali & Nusa Lembongan

Getting There

Fly into Denpasar International Airport (Ngurah Rai).
From the airport, it’s a 40–50 minute drive to Sanur.
Fast boats from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan take about 30 minutes.

Best Time to Visit

May–September for dry, sunny days and calmer seas.
December–February sees more rain but fewer crowds.

Costs

Return flights Perth–Denpasar: around AUD $300–500 depending on season.
Sanur–Lembongan ferry: approx. AUD $35–40 return per person.
Accommodation: budget beach huts from AUD $40 per night; mid-range villas from AUD $100+.

Food & Dining