When it comes to finding the perfect place in Bali for kids, snorkeling, beach and relaxation, it is hard to beat the Amertha Bali Villas and Pemuteran.
When I think of Bali, I will probably think of Pemuteran.
These were words I did not expect to say as Pemuteran was not on our agenda when we landed in Bali.
Coming from Balian Beach and seeking a place to do some offshore snorkeling with the kids we came across Pemuteran in a guidebook.
What makes Pemuteran unique is the fact that you can have some amazing snorkeling right offshore, this is rare in Bali.
Pemuteran has no surf, the waters are calm and deep blue, the beach is black, but has soft lacy sand.
The reef is being regenerated by a unique process using electrical current. Because of this the previously dead reef has come back in record time and if you go you will see what I am talking about.
Pemuteran is said to have 80% of the different types of the worlds coral all in one postcard perfect place.
Pemuteran for Kids
The key to getting kids in the water to snorkel is being close to home. You can’t get closer than Pemuteran. If you stay on the beach you can literally walk out your door and jump right into some world class snorkeling.
Most hotels rent snorkel gear, there is a turtle conservatory on the beach, there are PVC floats to rest on the water if kids (or adults) get tired, there is no surf and calm clear water.
We brought our kids’ life jackets and their own snorkel gear, which was well worth the effort of lugging them around for the year. The snorkel gear has been invaluable and with the lifevest’s they were able to enjoy the process.
Where to stay in Pemuteran with Kids
As I mentioned above the Amertha Bali Villas were heaven on earth. Although we were housed near the entrance in a group arrangement, we ended up pretty much having our own pool, with a pool slide, a shared outdoor kitchen a wonderful sitting area and lots of frogs for the kids.
You walk one way and you get the beach, you walk 3 minutes the other way and you are on the main drag. This is a real advantage when you are toting around little ones.
Breakfast was heavenly, we ate right on the beach and although our accommodations set us back at almost $100 per night, we stayed within budget, as the huge breakfast and plentetude of free daytime activities meant we had very little extra out of pocket expenses.
Babysitting in Bali
This is the first time we used a babysitter on our trip and the hotel provided us with 2, smiling and energetic Balinese girls, to care for your 2 kids – They didn’t speak a lick of Englis,h but the kids didn’t seem to care a bit. The cost was $4 US per hour.
We took a 6-hour boat trip to snorkel Menjangan Island, a famous diving and snorkeling spot, which is a short boat ride away.
I think our kids watched TV with the sitters for the majority of that time, although they were too guilt ridden to say.
But by the end both parents and kids were extremely happy.
Final thoughts
I have yet to see Pemuteran on any “classic” Bali itinerary. Thank God because once people find out about this place the prices and the tranquil beauty will be long gong.
Pemuteran is an ideal spot for families and even more so if you are looking for a wonderful place to snorkel right off shore.
Pemuteran is quiet, so it is definitely worth it to make this your hotel splurge.
If you stay a the Amertha Bali Villas your mouth will drop, and although it may seem like more money at first, being on the beach, having snorkeling right at your doorstep, along with villas with private pools, kitchens, and a breakfast you can stretch to well past lunch. You may save money in the end like we did if your budget is around $100-$150 per day.
As I said call and negotiate. We were quoted 3X the amount we ended up paying for a room. When we said that it was way out of our budget they said well “what is your budget”.. Ask in the off season and you will be amazed at what you can find!