Since the 1970s,
Lembongan Island has been a popular spot for surfers to gather, but these days families and divers have discovered Bali's near eastern neighbour.
View across Jungutbatu seaside village
Only a half hour speed boat ride from the mainland,
Lembongan Island is dotted with beachfront villas and luxury accommodation options. The restaurant scene has managed to keep up with the influx of travellers, and here are some of the best eateries on offer. Please add to the list - I know there are many more out there.
Cafe Pandan:
Talk about an idyllic cliff top location.
Cafe Pandan overlooks Dream Beach, which overlooks the Indian Ocean. The best way to arrive at
Cafe Pandan is by scooter, although they do offer a bemo pick up service around the island. There is something romantic about riding through coconut groves and parking your scooter on the edge of a cliff before lunch.
After a day spent surfing, the bar is a popular sunset cocktail venue and there are three levels of seating choose from. Upstairs is best if it's not too windy, however the sandy floor downstairs suit the beach side mood of the place. If you're staying on Lembongan Island, you
must visit this one at least once.
Cafe Pendan, Dream Beach
The less explored northern tip of the island features a world class reef and mangrove swamp teeming with tropical fish. Spend the day snorkelling the area (best at high tide) and have your freshly caught calamari barbecued over coconut husks for lunch.
There are a row of waterfront "warungs" and our favourite was
PJ Nano Nano, with umbrellas and deck chairs provided on the beach. They hire out snorkel equipment and even the family's traditional fishing boat for day trips.
Paradise Point Warung has a floating pontoon with cushions to watch sunset after a dip in the sea.
Bunga Bungalo:
There are many fantastic restaurants overlooking the "harbour" at Jungutbatu Village, all with excellent seafood and positioned perfectly to watch the sun set over Bali. My favourite was the creative waterfront hideaway,
Bunga Bungalo. The furniture is all made of recycled teak boats, giant clams and chunks of old driftwood.
Bunga Bungalo have the best wood fired pizzas in Bali (only after 7pm) and plenty of fresh salads and juices to accompany your meal. Duck Lembongan comes highly recommended by me, as does their "Es Kalapa" (fresh coconut and lime juice).
Bunga Bungalo - right on the waterfront
