Where can you see Bali's colourful fishing boats (Perancak)?
Perancak is a fishing village at a river mouth about 10 km (6 miles) south of Negara in west Bali. People come for its fleet of wooden boats painted in bright colours and moored side by side, one of the most photogenic scenes on the island, and for a sea turtle conservation centre.
These boats, called selerek, are built in the tradition of the Bugis seafarers from Sulawesi, a Muslim community long settled on this coast. They fish in pairs, and their decorations blend Hindu and Muslim motifs, just like the region.
What you'll see:
- The harbour: dozens of boats with tall decorated prows lined up along the river. It's liveliest early in the morning, when the fleet comes back in.
- The Kurma Asih turtle centre, set up by locals in 1997: tanks of baby turtles and, depending on the season, a hatchling release. Entry is small, around 10,000 to 25,000 rupiah (US$0.55 to US$1.40), or a donation.
- Pura Gede Perancak: the temple marking where the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha landed in Bali in the 16th century, according to tradition. Admire it from outside, dressed respectfully.
Practical info: allow 2.5 to 3 hours' drive from south Bali and an hour or two on site. This is a working fishing village, so be discreet with your camera and ask before photographing people at work. The area also hosts Jembrana's buffalo races (makepung) on a variable schedule.
Verdict: Perancak is worth the detour on the road west, ideally in the morning; pair it with Palasari and Blimbingsari, under an hour away.
Tip: get there before 9am. The boats are coming in, the low light makes the colours glow, and you've still got the whole day for the road ahead.
Information checked in November 2026; confirm before you travel.