Nusa Lembongan is relatively quiet, low-key beach. But happily, not entirely deserted:
It is probably best known to tourists for the world-class surfing; there are three main surf breaks along the west coast, Shipwreck, Lacerations and Playground. So, many of the bungalow guests were well-gone most of the day, leaving the cafe and beach chairs for me to lounge around on and do some reading.
While there are excursions and their associated boats, the small boats all along the shore are used by locals in the main industry of Lembongan, seaweed cultivation. 80% or so of the economy comes from exporting seaweed, for processing into carageenan, which is a binding agent for processed foods like gravies, ice cream and beer, and a thickener for products from toothpaste to shampoo to fire extinguisher foam.
Seaweed farmers place starter strands on strings strung between the small poles.
The seaweed grows quickly, then it is harvested into the bushel baskets ...
... and laid in the sun to dry. It comes in lots of colors.
The north end of the island, north of the village of Jungutbatu, you can find the seaweed farm community. The crushing poverty is an eye-opening contrast to the resorts and hotels just a fifteen minute walk down the coast.
But at least the sunsets are free for everyone.
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