Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary

The Gili Meno Turtle Sanctuary is a small local hatchery on the south-east side of the island, near the harbour. It was started by a local man known as Bolong. Eggs are collected from nests at risk on nearby beaches, hatched in a protected sandpit, and the young green and loggerhead turtles are kept in tanks until they are strong enough to be released. Injured turtles are also cared for.

The sanctuary runs entirely on donations, so there is no ticket price, but a contribution is expected and helps pay for food and care. Opening hours are generally daytime into the evening, but they vary. Some visitors have been able to help with feeding or join a release. Be aware that it is a basic set-up rather than a polished visitor centre, and reviews are mixed about the size of the tanks. Go to learn about local conservation rather than expecting an aquarium.

It pairs well with a snorkel off Meno's east coast, where wild turtles are common, or a trip to the underwater statues on the west side.