Text + photos: Jep

For most of you, it’s hard to imagine how much has changed in the past 30 years, you weren’t around then. But if you were, you know that going to a place like G Land back then would have been a serious mission.
And if getting there was difficult enough, staying there was rougher yet, you were in the bush and everything came in from Grajagan Village by way of the traditional fishing boats. Once you were there, there were no showers, no toilets, and no electricity. The accommodation was basic, bamboo huts, essentially it was feral. But of course there was the surf- super consistent, full power barrels, groomed by offshores, reeling down the reef for hundreds of meters.

Well, needless to say a lot has changed since then; to begin with the transit is now 2 hours via Bobby’s G Land Express from Kuta. And if you stay at Bobby’s, the basic menu of rice, noodles, and a little fish has evolved into a 5 star menu that includes such dishes as Thai Red Curry Shrimp with Mango Chutney or Risoto with Pesto Marinara sauce.

As for the accommodation, the basic bamboo huts of yesteryear have progressed to AC and fan cooled bungalows, with hot showers, satellite TV, king sized beds and in-suite mini-bars.
Back in the day you were isolated, completely out of touch with the rest of the world. You can still have it that way if you like, but if staying in touch with family, friends or your business is important, Bobby brought in satellite broadband internet, complete with a wireless hotspot so you can connect with your laptop.

In short, Bobby has brought all of the creature comforts of home to you in the middle of the jungle.
What hasn’t changed is the surf, the vibe and the beauty of G land. You can still count on the place for epic surf, a tropical forest teaming with wildlife, and an ultra mellow and friendly vibe.
Check out SURF TIME MAGAZINE for full story