This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Jimbaran. To help you make friends with Jimbaran before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
The area known as Jimbaran is quite large and expansive and stems from the airport further south. Jimbaran is most famous for its seafood; you will find a large number of upscale seafood restaurants lined along the beachfront off the main road, selling everything from lobster to mussels to fish for you to enjoy as you sit along the beachfront and enjoy the stunning views. Be warned, though, that these are more at Western prices and not overly cheap.
The main street or thoroughfare through Jimbaran is an interesting ride. Toward the airport, you have a huge number of fast-food chains, large companies, and upscale shops that signify the wealth in this area that is unseen in the majority of other places in Bali. The further south you head, the more you find the real people; the divide between rich and poor is huge and sad at the same time.
At the southern end of Jimbaran is the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park, where you can go and see the giant statues of Vishnu and his Garuda, along with experiencing some other cultural activities and dances throughout the day. It doesn't take very long to get around -- you will need about an hour tops. This area is also fairly close to the famous Hindu Temple of Uluwatu and you will need to organize your own transport to get there. Most people go around sunset. Just be careful of the monkeys who like to steal glasses, wallets, cameras, and flip-flop shoes (wear closed-toe shoes if you don't want to lose them).
Hostels in Jimbaran are scattered around the area, so you will need to do your research as to where the hostel is and how accessible amenities and transport will be before going to your Jimbaran hostel -- some are quite remote.
Written by local enthusiast for Jimbaran hostels
Globetrotter
