If you speak to anyone who visited Nusa Lembongan 15 or 20 years ago, they will get a misty look in their eyes.
“I remember when there were no cars,” they will say. “I remember when the electricity turned off at 10 PM every night. I remember when the roads were just bumpy limestone tracks.”
It is true. Nusa Lembongan has changed. The bumpy tracks are now paved roads. The simple beach shacks have been joined by beautiful villas and stylish cafes.
But a big question we often hear is: Has it lost its charm?
We believe the answer is no. In fact, we believe the heart of the island is beating stronger than ever. Understanding local life in Nusa Lembongan means looking past the fresh coat of paint and seeing the soul that is still there.
Here is a look at what has changed, and what has stayed beautifully the same.
What Has Changed? (For the Better)
1. Convenience & Comfort Let’s be honest: some changes are great.
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Access: It is easier to get here than ever before, with multiple fast boat operators running from Sanur daily.
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Connection: The Wi-Fi is faster (digital nomads, rejoice!).
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Coffee: You can now get a barista-made flat white that rivals any cafe in Melbourne or London.
2. A Focus on the Future One of the most positive changes is the growing awareness of sustainable tourism in Lembongan. Ten years ago, plastic waste was a much bigger issue and nobody talked about “reef-safe” sunscreen. Today, you will see many businesses (including us!) banning single-use plastic bottles and straws. Local community groups are working harder than ever to protect our coral reefs and marine life. This is a change we can all celebrate.
What Has Stayed the Same? (The Soul)
1. The Culture New buildings may rise, but the Nusa Lembongan culture remains the unshakeable foundation of the island.
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The temple ceremonies are still the most important part of the calendar.
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The smell of incense and the sound of gamelan music still drift on the evening breeze.
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Offerings (Canang Sari) are still placed with gratitude every single morning.
2. The Sea & The Soil Walk down to the estuary at low tide. You will still see the seaweed farmers wading in the water, tending to their lines just as they have for decades. Look out to the horizon at sunrise. You will still see the colorful jukung fishing boats heading out for the catch of the day. The Manta Rays are still gliding through the deep blue water. Nature is still the boss here.
3. The Vibe This is the most important one. “Island Time” is still very real. Despite the new roads, no one is in a rush. Traffic jams are usually caused by a ceremony procession, not rush hour. The feeling of peace—that deep exhale you do when you step off the boat—is exactly the same as it was 20 years ago.
The Best of Both Worlds at Gecko
At Gecko Bungalows, we try to walk the line between the old and the new.
We offer modern comforts—like icy cold air conditioning, reliable Wi-Fi, and a sparkling swimming pool. But we house them inside traditional Balinese Lumbung (wooden rice barn) style bungalows.
We want to give you the best of both worlds: the convenience of today with the authentic charm of yesterday.
Whether it is your first visit or your fiftieth, Lembongan is ready to welcome you home.