Looking to escape to a tropical getaway? Pemuteran, a hidden gem in North Bali, offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This beautiful fishing village has transformed into one of Indonesia's top eco-tourism destinations while maintaining its authentic Balinese charm.
Pemuteran is renowned for its world-class snorkelling and diving opportunities, particularly around the famous Menjangan Island and coral restoration projects.
Beyond underwater adventures, some of the best things to do in Pemuteran include exploring ancient temples, relaxing in natural hot springs, trekking through West Bali National Park, witnessing sea turtle conservation efforts at the local hatchery, and more!
No wonder why many travellers include this destination in their Bali Tour Packages, combining it with other northern attractions for a complete island exploration. Get ready to explore some of the best activities you can enjoy in Pemuteran with our North Bali Travel Guide!
1. Stroll Along Pemuteran Beach
One of the best things to do in Pemuteran Beach in Bali is to take a peaceful walk along its shores. This quiet gem on Bali's north coast offers volcanic sand and calm waters perfect for relaxation, unlike Bali's crowded tourist spots, such as Kuta.
The best part? The area offers a strong local atmosphere with friendly villagers, traditional fishing boats, and small warungs serving authentic local cuisine.
Among the top things to do in Pemuteran is visiting the Reef Seen Turtle Hatchery Project. This conservation sanctuary has been protecting sea turtles for over 20 years, working with local villagers to save endangered species like Green Sea Turtles.
The hatchery cares for baby turtles for 45 days before releasing them. This improves their survival chances. With a Tropical Getaway Bali Trip Package, you can enjoy guided tours to witness these turtles up close.
The project teaches local people how to protect turtles and pays them to find turtle nests. Thus, visiting this special place helps save turtles in Bali.
3. Hike Up To Pengumbahan Waterfall
Hiking to Pengumbahan Waterfall is one of the best activities in Pemuteran Bali, for adventure seekers. This hidden waterfall requires a 4-5 hour round trip through beautiful jungle trails. The path crosses rivers and offers amazing views of Bali's natural scenery.
Since the trail has no clear markers, hiring a local guide is essential; the hike includes steep steps and rocky ground, so be ready for a challenging walk. Water conditions change with seasons, so check before visiting this off-the-beaten spot.
4. Enjoy A Visit To West Bali National Park
Visiting West Bali National Park ranks among the top things to do in Pemuteran for nature lovers. This large protected area covers different landscapes, including thick forests, white sand beaches, mangrove areas, and dry grasslands.
The park is situated on the Prapat Agung Peninsula and offers amazing wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can spot rare animals like the endangered Bali Starling bird and Balinese black monkeys found nowhere else in the world.
The park also has Javan deer, wild pigs, and many colourful bird species. Choose a reliable guide and visit during the dry season to enjoy the best experience of this natural treasure.
5. Admire Pemuteran Temples
Exploring Pemuteran’s ancient temples ranks among the best things to do in Pemuteran. These sacred sites offer deep insights into Bali's spiritual heritage, blending Hindu and Buddhist traditions beautifully.
The three main temples that deserve a visit are:
1. Pura Melanting: It is nestled in hills and dedicated to prosperity, with stunning dragon carvings.
Location: Seririt, Jl. Raya Gilimanuk, Banyupoh, Kec. Gerokgak, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81155, Indonesia
2. Pura Pulaki: It is dramatically perched on ocean cliffs where playful monkeys roam.
Location: Jl. Singaraja-Gilimanuk, Banyupoh, Kec. Gerokgak, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81155, Indonesia
3. Pura Pabean: It showcases unique Hindu, Taoist, and Buddhist influences from ancient trading days.
Location: JL. Gili Manuk - Seririt, Banyupoh, Denpasar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81155, Indonesia
All temples are situated between hills and the coastline, creating breathtaking settings. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering their shoulders and knees. Most temples request donations (typically ₹105/-)and provide free sarongs.
6. Enjoy Local Hot Springs
Banyuwedang, one of the best Bali hot springs, offers perfect relaxation near Pemuteran. This hidden natural spot features warm mineral pools at 40°C surrounded by green jungle. The springs help heal tired muscles.
It features clean showers, toilets, and a small café serving snacks and drinks. Morning visits avoid crowds since locals often use the springs later. The peaceful setting and healing waters make this a great way to unwind in nature.
7. Enjoy Snorkelling At Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island offers some of Bali's best underwater experiences. This beautiful, empty island is situated off West Bali National Park and means "deer" in the local language. The island has wild deer and walking trails to explore on land.
Visitors reach Menjangan by boat trips that take 45 minutes from Pemuteran. Most tours combine snorkelling or diving with island visits, available as half-day or full-day trips.
The coral reefs around the island are shallow and perfect for snorkelling. Expect to see green sea turtles, colourful fish, puffer fish, and amazing coral formations.
Scuba diving in Pemuteran offers amazing underwater adventures for all skill levels. The area has several good dive spots, including Dive Concepts and Bali Diving Academy, with trained instructors. Beginners can try discovery diving sessions to learn the basics.
Advanced divers can explore underwater caves around Menjangan Island and swim with the ocean currents. The deeper waters reveal marine life, including manta rays, reef sharks, and sometimes mola-mola fish.
9. Visit Coral Reef Restoration Projects
Exploring coral restoration projects ranks among the best things to do in Pemuteran Beach in Bali for ocean enthusiasts.
a. Biorock Project: The famous Biorock Project is situated just 50 metres from Pemuteran Beach and features Indonesia's largest artificial reef made from metal sculptures that help coral grow.
Visitors can snorkel for free directly from the beach to see colourful corals and fish swimming around the underwater art.
Location: Sea, Pemuteran, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81155, Indonesia
b. Metamorfosa Project: The nearby Metamorfosa project in Sumberkima Bay offers guided boat trips for ₹1,835/- to view artistic sculptures covered in growing coral.
Location: Sumberkima, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81155, Indonesia
Both projects combine conservation with adventure, showing how local communities work to protect Bali's marine life while creating an amazing snorkelling experience.
10. Hike To The Best View Points
Pemuteran village is a perfect location between the ocean and the mountains. Hence,
several popular trails offer spectacular views. Hiking to enjoy these views is one of the best activities in Pemuteran Bali.
1. Batu Kursi: It starts behind Pemuteran Temple, featuring a staircase leading to a hilltop temple and viewpoint. This 20-minute hike rewards visitors with panoramic views over northwest Bali's coastline.
Location: Pemuteran, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81155, Indonesia
2. Sumberkima Ridge Walk: It offers beautiful hills with multiple hiking routes. Local NGO Metamorfosa offers guided tours with village chiefs for ₹920/- per person.
Independent hikers pay ₹135/- entrance fee, supporting reforestation and environmental protection efforts.
Location: Jl. Jalak Putih, Pejarakan, Kec. Gerokgak, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81155, Indonesia
11. Binge At Bali Tower Bistro
The Menjangan resort's Bali Tower Bistro offers a unique dining experience within West Bali National Park. This impressive 5-story wooden structure provides breathtaking 360° views over the national park.
Budget-conscious visitors can enjoy coffee or cocktails. Dining typically occurs on floors 2-3, with the top floor reserved for panoramic viewing. A swing-style seat on the uppermost level provides the perfect spot for taking in stunning views.
12. Relax At A Beach Club
Relaxing at a beach club ranks among the best things to do in Pemuteran. Pasir Putih Beach Club, part of Menjangan Dynasty Resort, features an oceanside restaurant and pristine white-sand beach with comfortable daybeds, deckchairs, and beanbags.
Snorkel equipment is available for exploring the beautiful turquoise bay waters.
Resort guests enjoy free access, while outside visitors pay ₹1,311/-(₹1,048/- applies toward food and drinks). Alternatively, guests can dine at the restaurant without a minimum spend, but cannot access beach facilities.
13. Taste Wine At Hatten Vineyards
Northwest Bali's cooler climate and volcanic soils create perfect grape-growing conditions. Sanggalangit village, east of Pemuteran, features lush vineyards supplying grapes to Bali's top wine producers, including Hatten Wines.
Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours and tastings at Hatten Wines' private vineyards for ₹525/- per person. The experience includes sampling three wines and learning about Balinese winemaking. Advance booking ensures staff availability during visits.
14. Enjoy A Boat Trip With Locals
Traditional fishing boat trips offer authentic cultural experiences featured in any North Bali travel guide. Visitors can join local fishermen aboard traditional Jukung boats, learning about fishing methods firsthand.
Expect to pay between ₹1,310/- to ₹1,573/- for two people. This unique opportunity provides genuine insights into local maritime culture while supporting fishing communities.
- Price: Between ₹1,310/- to ₹1,573/- for two
15. Kayak To White Sand Island
Kayaking to Gili Putih(White Sand Island) ranks among the best activities in Pemuteran Bali. This tiny white sand island off the Sumberkima coast offers stunning beauty compared to Pemuteran's pebbly black beaches.
The sandbar features minimal facilities - just a small gazebo and wooden swing perfect for photos. Visitors enjoy peaceful sunbathing and stunning turquoise waters.
Reaching the island requires local fishermen's boats, kayaks, or paddleboards, making the 10-15 minute journey an adventure itself.
Local NGO Metamorfosa rents kayaks (₹1,050/- for two people) and paddleboards (₹524/-). They also offer guided mangrove trips to Gili Putih, with options for island BBQs and romantic dinners.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Pemuteran?
Exploring the best time to visit Bali’s Pemuteran? Here’s what you need to know:
Dry Season(April To October):
The dry season, from April to October, is the ideal time to visit Pemuteran. You'll enjoy sunny, warm weather with minimal rainfall.
Temperatures stay between 21-32°C, making it ideal for beach activities, diving, and snorkelling. The sea is calm and clear during these months.
Wet Season(November To March):
During the wet season, heavy rains can ruin outdoor plans and water activities. Seas can be rough, making diving and snorkelling difficult or impossible.
How To Reach Pemuteran In Bali
Wondering how to reach Bali’s Pemuteran? Explore the best modes of transport below:
By Flight
Main Airport:
- Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, Bali.
- This is the best airport for getting to Pemuteran.
- The airport is 136 km away from Pemuteran, and it takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes to drive there.
Alternative Airport:
- Banyuwangi International Airport in East Java is actually closer to Pemuteran.
- However, most visitors still choose to fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport.
- It's easier and more convenient to get flights there, then take a car or bus to Pemuteran.
By Hiring A Car With A Driver(Most Convenient):
- Hiring a private driver is the most popular and easiest way to get around Bali.
- The driver picks you up at your chosen location and takes you directly to Northwest Bali.
- You can even add sightseeing activities during the journey to make the most of your Bali trip.
- From Airport/Nusa Dua/Uluwatu: ₹4,981/- approx
- From South Bali (Kuta/Canggu/Ubud/Sanur): ₹4,457/- approx
- From East Bali (Tulamben/Amed area): ₹4,588/- approx
- From Lovina/Gilimanuk: ₹1,966/- approx
By Joining A Private Tour(Most Popular):
- Many travel companies offer private tours that include transportation to Pemuteran.
- These tours typically combine the journey with sightseeing stops along the way, making your Bali vacation more interesting.
- Private tours usually include an English-speaking guide who can share local knowledge about Bali's culture and attractions.
- Most tours, like the best Balli Travel Package from India, offer flexible pickup times from your hotel and can be customized to include your favourite attractions.
- These tours cost as low as ₹42,999/- for a 5-day Bali trip.
By Public Transport(Budget-Friendly):
- Taking public buses to Pemuteran requires two steps.
- First, go to Terminal Ubung bus station in Denpasar and catch a bus going to Gilimanuk.
- Once you reach Gilimanuk, look for a small red bus or van that goes to Pemuteran.
- These small red buses (called Bemos by locals) don't run during nighttime.
- They also don't follow regular schedules, so you might need to wait.
- This option takes longer than private transport, but costs much less.
By Scooter(Only For Pros):
- Renting a motorbike is the cheapest and most exciting way to reach Pemuteran.
- However, only experienced riders should attempt this(because of unpredictable traffic conditions and narrow roads).
- You must have a proper motorbike license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Motorbike rentals cost between ₹400/- and ₹786/- per day.
Tips For Visiting Pemuteran, Bali
Consider the travel tips below for visiting Pemuteran, Bali:
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and cover-up clothes to protect your skin from getting burned.
- Respect Local Culture: Be polite and respectful to local people and their customs. This helps create a better experience for everyone.
- Booking Tours: When you book diving or snorkelling tours, make sure the parking and entrance fees are already included in the price to avoid extra costs.
- Avoid Full Moon: Try not to visit during full moon week if you want the best snorkelling and diving conditions, as the water may be less clear.
- Driving Conditions: Be ready for curvy, winding roads when driving to Pemuteran, especially if coming from the Pekutatan area. Drive carefully and take your time.
