Gili Meno Saltwater Lake and Mangrove Forest

Highlights of Gili Meno Saltwater Lake

The lake and its surrounding area are locally referred to as 'Kawasan Ekowisata Mangrove Gili Meno', a mangrove ecotourism region. Once a dry-season traditional salt production site, this shallow lake is thickly bordered by a lush mangrove forest that extends to the island’s western coast. A seaside park lined with casuarinas and palms is nearby, with abandoned stilt houses that once were part of the ecotourism project.

Although a bit old and weather-beaten, the wooden shelters are sturdy and cosy, good for breaks if you're coming back on your long walks from the beach. Restful middays at the lakeside offer cool breezes complementing the views. The placid water surface mirrors the blue sky against the belt of green, while the gentle sound of ripples against budding mangrove shoots further soothe the senses.

Occasional bird sightings here include migratory cattle egrets, blue kingfishers that swoop down and up again,  usually clutching fish in their beaks, as well as storks, finches and even eagles. Down around the marshy mangrove shoots, you might also spot watercocks and large monitor lizards.