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Pulau Menjangan Snorkeling : Complete Guide to East Java & Bali’s Hidden Paradise

Pulau Menjangan Snorkeling

Introduction

When people think of East Java, they immediately imagine Mount Bromo’s sunrise or the surreal blue fire of Ijen Crater. But just across the Bali Strait, another hidden gem awaits: Pulau Menjangan, a small island within West Bali National Park, famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and calm snorkeling spots.

What makes it even more exciting is how easily you can combine a Pulau Menjangan snorkeling trip with your Ijen tour package. After witnessing volcanoes and blue fire, travelers often continue their journey to relax and explore the underwater world of Menjangan.

This article is your complete guide to Pulau Menjangan: best time to visit, snorkeling prices, how to get there, and essential facts you need to know before planning your trip.

📅 Best Time to Visit Pulau Menjangan

Like most parts of Indonesia, Pulau Menjangan has two main seasons:

• Dry Season (April – October):
  • The best time for snorkeling and diving.
  • Clear water visibility can reach up to 40 meters.
  • Calm waves, making it safe for beginners.
  • Ideal if you’re combining with Ijen crater hike since both destinations enjoy dry weather during this period.
• Rainy Season (November – March):
  • Still possible for snorkeling, but visibility may drop.
  • Occasional heavy rains in Bali and Banyuwangi can disrupt ferry crossings.
  • Crowds are lower, and some tour operators offer cheaper packages.

👉 Best Months: May, June, September — perfect balance between clear weather and fewer tourists.

💰 Pulau Menjangan Snorkeling Price & Packages

Snorkeling in Pulau Menjangan is considered one of the most affordable world-class snorkeling experiences. Prices depend on whether you book from Bali (Pemuteran) or Banyuwangi (Java).

1. From Pemuteran (Bali)

• Shared Group Tour (Snorkeling Only):
  IDR 600,000 – 800,000 / person
  Includes: boat, guide, lunch, snorkeling gear, and park entrance.
• Private Tour:
  IDR 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 (2–4 pax)
  More flexibility in timing and snorkeling spots.
• Diving Packages:
  Starting from IDR 1,200,000 / person for 2 dives.

2. From Banyuwangi (Java side, post-Ijen)

This is a great option if you just finished your Ijen crater midnight hike and want to relax in Bali afterwards.

• Banyuwangi → Gilimanuk ferry → Menjangan Snorkeling
  Packages usually start from:
  IDR 850,000 – 1,200,000 / person (group sharing).
• Combo: Ijen + Menjangan Tour
  3D2N packages combining Ijen crater hike + Menjangan snorkeling range from:
  IDR 3,500,000 – 5,000,000 / person (depending on group/private).

👉 Pro tip: If you’re booking a Bromo Ijen tour package, ask the operator to add Menjangan as an optional extension. It saves cost and time.

🗺 How to Get to Pulau Menjangan

Pulau Menjangan is uninhabited, so access is only possible by boat. There are two main routes:

1. From Bali (Pemuteran / Labuhan Lalang)

• The most popular departure point.
• Travel time: ±30–40 minutes by boat.
• Ideal if you’re already in Bali or plan to continue after Menjangan.

2. From Java (Banyuwangi)

• After finishing your Ijen crater hike, take the ferry from Ketapang (Banyuwangi) to Gilimanuk (Bali).
• Travel time: ±45 minutes ferry crossing + 30 minutes by car to Labuhan Lalang.
• Perfect for those on an Ijen tour package wanting to extend into Bali.

🌊 What Makes Pulau Menjangan Special?

• World-Class Coral Reefs: Known as the “Wall Diving Paradise” of Bali, reefs drop vertically to 40 meters, creating dramatic underwater scenery.
• Calm Waters: Protected within West Bali National Park, so currents are minimal — perfect for snorkeling beginners.
• Marine Life: Expect clownfish, angelfish, sea turtles, and sometimes reef sharks.
• Cultural Sites: The island also hosts ancient Balinese Hindu temples, adding a cultural touch to your nature trip.

📌 Facts to Know Before Visiting

1. No Hotels on the Island: All visitors must stay in Pemuteran, Lovina, or Banyuwangi.
2. Entrance Fee:
   • Local visitors: Rp 20,000 – 40,000
   • International visitors: Rp 200,000 (weekday) / Rp 300,000 (weekend)
   • This fee supports conservation in West Bali National Park.
3. Snorkeling Gear: Included in most packages, but you can bring your own mask for comfort.
4. Sunscreen Ban: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect corals.
5. Wild Deer: Pulau Menjangan means “Deer Island” because wild Javan rusa deer live here. You may see them on the beach!

🔗 Combining Ijen Crater & Pulau Menjangan

One of the best itineraries for adventurers is to combine a midnight Ijen crater tour with a Menjangan snorkeling trip.

Sample Itinerary (3D2N Bromo Ijen Menjangan Combo):

• Day 1: Surabaya → Bromo sunset tour → Overnight in Probolinggo.
• Day 2: Bromo sunrise → Drive to Banyuwangi → Stay overnight.
• Day 3: Midnight hike to Ijen Crater (Blue Fire + sunrise) → Ferry to Bali → Snorkeling in Pulau Menjangan.

👉 This combo allows you to experience fire & water adventures in just 3 days.

🧭 Why Add Pulau Menjangan to Your Ijen Tour Package?

• Contrast of Elements: After hiking sulfur landscapes and watching volcanic blue fire, you relax in turquoise seas with colorful reefs.
• Efficient Route: Geographically, Ijen (Banyuwangi) and Menjangan (West Bali) are neighbors. It makes sense to link them.
• traveler Note: Travelers often search “Bromo Ijen tour package + Bali extension” — and Pulau Menjangan is the ideal extension.

✅ Tips for a Smooth Menjangan Snorkeling Trip

• Book early during peak season (July–August).
• Choose licensed operators who support reef conservation.
• Bring cash; there are no ATMs on the island.
• Stay overnight in Pemuteran for the easiest logistics.
• Pair your trip with Lovina Dolphin Tour or Pemuteran coral restoration project.

Conclusion: Volcano Meets Ocean

Pulau Menjangan is a rare gem where pristine underwater life meets cultural heritage. By combining it with your Ijen crater adventure or Bromo tour package, you’ll experience the full diversity of East Java and Bali — from fiery volcanoes to crystal-clear coral reefs.

👉 Ready to plan? Explore our customizable Ijen & Menjangan Island snorkeling packages, and discover the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.