On the peninsula’s tip, the quiet port of Tanjung Benoa retains a remarkable village-like atmosphere. Distinctly multi-cultural, it is fascinating to explore the lively alleyways of a real Bugis village, peer into the smoky confines of a large, scarlet-red and gold Chinese Buddhist temple, or stroll along the beach southeast of Benoa past rows of brightly painted Balinese outriggers pulled up on shore.

In Benoa harbour, yachts, fishing boats and traditional jukung bob at anchor. Whilst offshore in the distance is Serangan, commonly known as Turtle Island - the site of a sacred Sakenan temple dating back to the 16th century. The reef, lying 200 metres off the peninsula’s northeast tip, is easy to reach and has a gentle current and is home to a surprising variety of colourful, tropical fish.