KBRN, Mataram: Bale Mangrove Ecotourism in Poton Bako Village, East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, has become a popular destination for visitors year-round, drawn by its lush mangrove forest and tranquil coastal scenery.

Visitors come not only to admire the scenic ocean views and dense mangrove canopy but also to relax with family and friends. Many bring their own meals to enjoy in the gazebo area, while the site’s management has added swings and photogenic spots to enhance the experience.

Rukayya, a visitor from Kopang Village in Central Lombok, said she came with friends from her housing complex to enjoy nature and scout for a camping location.

“We saw it on social media. They said you can camp here, so we’re planning to try it if the conditions are right,” she said last weekend.

In addition to families, the site is popular among students. Several university students conducting fieldwork in Jerowaru said they chose Bale Mangrove as a place to unwind.

“We come here to cool off. The mangrove trees are tall and shady,” one student said.

The ecotourism area offers an exotic and Instagram-worthy setting. Many visitors take selfies along the wooden footbridge and beachfront. Andi, a tourist from East Lombok who visited with his wife and two children, described the view from the bridge as captivating.

“From the eastern side, you can see a cluster of small islands in Keruak Subdistrict. It’s really unique,” he said.

Nurhasanah, a local resident working at the entrance, explained that the thousands of mangrove trees have been growing since the 1990s.

“NGOs and the local community planted them. Back then, anyone who planted 100 trees received IDR 4,000 from the government and supporting institutions,” she said.

Beyond its appeal as a tourist destination, the mangrove forest plays a vital role in protecting the coastline. The trees help prevent erosion and buffer the impact of ocean waves.

“The sea level has risen several times, but the mangroves have kept the waves from reaching people’s homes,” said a local youth.

Outside the ecotourism zone, rows of local vendors add to the vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can find snacks, souvenirs, and children’s toys along the path leading to Bale Mangrove.

“It’s a bit hot outside the mangrove area, but inside it’s cool and comfortable,” Andi added.

For an entrance fee of just IDR 5,000 (approximately USD 0.30), visitors can enjoy the natural beauty while learning about the mangrove ecosystem. The site is located about 1.5 hours from Mataram City and roughly 45 minutes from Selong City.

Today, Bale Mangrove Ecotourism stands as a testament to successful collaboration between the local community and government in preserving nature and promoting sustainable tourism in East Lombok. (Misni Parjiati/Ed. Lasti Martina)