Bali Area GuideSerangan Island, Bali, Indonesia
Turtle conservation, surf breaks, and a quiet island just south of Sanur
Serangan Island — also known as Turtle Island — sits in the bay just south of Sanur, connected to the Bali mainland by a causeway. Once a remote fishing village famous for its sea turtle conservation centre, Serangan is now easily accessible by road and is known primarily for its surf breaks, which are rated among the best in the Sanur–Nusa Dua area for intermediate and advanced surfers. The island has a small mosque-centred village community (one of Bali's few predominantly Muslim fishing communities), a mangrove conservation area, and the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre, where visitors can see hawksbill and green sea turtles at various stages of release. It is a low-key, authentic escape from the resort strips of Seminyak and Nusa Dua.
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questions & answers
How do I get to Serangan Island?
Serangan Island is connected to Bali by a causeway and is easily reached by private car, scooter, or taxi from Sanur (approximately 10–15 minutes) or Kuta/Seminyak (approximately 20–30 minutes). There is no public transport directly to the island. Grab works on the causeway but availability can be limited for the return journey — arrange for your driver to wait or book a return pickup.
Can I visit the turtle conservation centre at Serangan?
Yes — the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (TCEC) on Serangan Island is open to visitors and houses hawksbill and green sea turtles at various stages of their conservation programme. A small entrance fee applies. The centre rehabilitates injured turtles and runs a release programme. It is a more educational and conservation-focused experience than the commercial turtle centres elsewhere in Bali.
Is Serangan Island good for surfing?
Yes — Serangan has a well-regarded reef break on its south side that works best on a south or southwest swell at mid-to-high tide. The wave is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. It is less crowded than Uluwatu or Canggu and can offer excellent conditions when those breaks are blown out or too crowded. Local surf guides and board rentals are available near the break.