The north-east coast of Lembongan, beyond Jungutbatu, is lined with a mangrove forest — one of the few left in this part of Bali. Its roots protect the shore from erosion and shelter young fish; channels wind through it, and at high tide the water is glassy and green.
The classic way to see it is from a flat-bottomed wooden boat, punted along by a local boatman with a bamboo pole — silent, slow and peaceful. You can also rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard, or combine the mangroves with snorkelling on the reef at nearby Mangrove Point.
Top things to do at Mangrove Forest
Take a punted boat through the channels
About 30–45 minutes gliding through the mangroves. Boats wait at the entrance; you can also book a mangrove tour in advance, often combined with snorkelling.
Kayak or paddleboard
Paddle yourself for more freedom and quieter corners. Best at high tide, in the morning before the wind picks up.
Snorkel Mangrove Point
The reef just off the mangroves is a regular stop on Lembongan snorkel trips, with good coral and plenty of fish — but often a strong current.
How to get to Mangrove Forest
- From Jungutbatu: about 3–4 km north-east, 10 minutes by scooter along the coast road.
- With a tour: most combined Lembongan tours include hotel pickup and the boat ride.
- From Bali: several day trips from Sanur include a mangrove boat ride.
Insider tips
- Go at mid to high tide — at low tide some channels are too shallow for boats.
- Bring insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen; there is little shade on the boats.
- Agree the price before you set off if booking on the spot.
- The small warungs at the entrance serve cold drinks and simple food.
Best tours & tickets for Mangrove Forest
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Mangrove Forest:
Nature from €9 From Lembongan: Kayak/Paddleboard/Boat Mangrove Tour
The north-east corner of Lembongan is fringed with mangroves, and an hour on the channels is the island’s most peaceful activity. The boat option needs no effort at all; the kayak and paddleboard options let you explore at your own pace.
- Paddle a kayak or SUP, or be punted in a wooden boat
- Quiet channels through Lembongan’s mangrove forest
- Cheap, short and easy — best around high tide
Island combo from €17 From Lembongan: Snorkeling at 3 Spots, Mangrove and Land Tour
The best-value way to see all of Lembongan in one go. Choose the snorkel-only, mangrove or full combination option: reefs in the morning, a quiet glide through the mangroves and a drive round the island’s highlights.
- Three snorkel spots around Lembongan and Penida
- A punted boat ride through the mangrove forest
- Land tour of Devil’s Tear, the Yellow Bridge and viewpoints
Day trip from €41 From Bali: Lembongan & Mangrove Buggy Tour with Buffet Lunch
A land-based day on Lembongan for people who would rather see the island than spend hours in the water: the waves at Devil’s Tear, the view of Mount Agung and a glide through the mangroves.
- Fast boat from Sanur and back
- Buggy tour to Devil’s Tear and the viewpoints
- Mangrove boat ride and buffet lunch
