nusa penida how to travel

Nusa Penida Island In Bali: Travel Guide & How To Visit

The beautiful, exotic Nusa Penida island lies just 25 kilometers from Bali, the most famous tourist destination in Indonesia.

Nusa Penida is a much smaller island than Bali, but it has some of the most amazing scenery in the entire Bali province (which it’s part of).

We’ve visited Penida more than a dozen times over the years, but it never gets old. This island is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Indonesia .

The island can be visited on a day trip from Bali (same day return), but I think it’s better to stay and spend at least a few days sightseeing. There are so many good photo spots, hikes, and other things to do in Nusa Penida!

This travel blog will explain what to do in Nusa Penida, how to get there, where to stay, best transport options and tour packages, and some of the top sights to see. I’ve also included a handy Nusa Penida island map for trip planning!

Table of Contents show 1) Where To Stay In Nusa Penida 2) Nusa Penida Day Tour Packages 3) Where Is Nusa Penida? 4) How To Get To Nusa Penida 5) Visiting Nusa Penida Island – Tourist Fee 6) Transport: How To Get Around On Nusa Penida 7) What To Do In Nusa Penida 8) Best Nusa Penida Photo Spot 9) Best Nusa Penida Beaches 10) Nusa Penida Hike List 11) Nusa Penida Island Map 12) More Things To Do In Nusa Penida 13) Best Sunset Spot In Nusa Penida 14) Water Sports In Nusa Penida 15) Scuba Diving & Snorkeling In Nusa Penida 16) What To Bring 17) Nusa Penida Restaurants 18) Nusa Penida Massage & Spa 19) Other Nusa Penida Tips 20) Is Nusa Penida Safe? 21) Nusa Penida Wildlife 22) Best Time To Visit 23) Is Nusa Penida Worth It? 24) How Long To Stay 25) Nusa Penida Itinerary 26) Nusa Penida Hotels 27) Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan 28) Where We Stayed

Where To Stay In Nusa Penida

Akusara Jungle

Villa Ume Tenang

Unicorn Bungalow

Nusa Penida Day Tour Packages

First of all, if you’re on a tight schedule or want to skip the extra steps involved in arranging your own trip to Nusa Penida, GetYourGuide has prearranged day trips to Penida , complete with hotel transfer, fast boat tickets, island tour, and same day return to Bali.

These tours visit some of the top sights in Nusa Penida island, including Kelingking Beach, Broken Bay, and more. We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Nusa Penida Day Trip

Kelingking Beach drone view in Nusa Penida, Bali

The snorkeling at Nusa Penida is some of the best in Bali

Where Is Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida is a small island located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. The distance from Bali is about 25 kilometers (15 miles).

Penida has two small neighboring islands sitting right next to it called Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, and together these are known as the Nusa islands, but Nusa Penida has become the most famous of the three because of its scenic cliff views and stunning beaches.

How To Get To Nusa Penida

From Bali, the only way to reach Nusa Penida is by speedboat or ferry, with the speedboat journey taking about 45 minutes or so. There’s no airport in Nusa Penida, so the closest place to fly is the international airport in Bali (DPS). You can shop for flights to Bali at Skyscanner.

There are a bunch of speedboat companies in Bali making the trip to Penida daily, and they all depart from Sanur Beach at various times. If you’re staying in Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, or elsewhere in south Bali, you can also drive over to Sanur and catch a boat. Some boat companies include a shuttle service from these areas in their total price.

I wrote a complete guide on how to get to Nusa Penida with one of these speedboat companies if you want to go there independently and arrange everything yourself. It’s more economical than booking a tour package, but also a bit more complicated.

The other option is booking a day tour to Nusa Penida with a Bali-based tour company. This can be a good option if you’re on a tight schedule or want to skip the hassle.

Visiting Nusa Penida Island – Tourist Fee

Since 2023, there’s now an entrance fee for tourists arriving by boat at Nusa Penida, and it’s intended to pay for better infrastructure on the island.

You’ll pay this in cash when you first get off the boat in Penida, and the fee is 25k Rupiah for adults and 15k for children. It gives you entry to all three of the Nusa islands: Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan.

This ticket also gives you entrance to all of the main attractions and beaches on Nusa Penida, so you don’t have to pay a second fee at Kelingking Beach anymore, for example.

Overall, it’s a positive change, because in the past you had to whip out your wallet and pay a small entrance fee at every tourist spot in Nusa Penida. That was a bit tiresome. Nowadays, you pay once at the harbor and you’re done.

Transport: How To Get Around On Nusa Penida

Even though Nusa Penida is a much smaller island than Bali (with about 4 percent of Bali’s land mass), it’s still not exactly tiny. You can expect to spend hours driving around if you want to see the best sights on each corner of the island.

Just like in Bali, you have two main transport options for exploring Nusa Penida: motorbike rental (self drive), or hire a car and private driver.

Many of the roads in Nusa Penida are still very rough and narrow, so I don’t think motorbikes are a good idea here, although lots of people seem to do it with no issues. Remember to wear a helmet, honk your horn before hills and blind turns, and be prepared to pull over to the side to let cars pass. There’s not a lot of room on the road.

When I visit Nusa Penida I’ve always rented a car with driver (you can book here ) because it’s safer and more comfortable, and the prices are only a bit higher than what you’d pay in Bali for a full day of driving.

Scooters are also easy to rent from your accommodation (or other places) in Penida, and you can expect to pay about 75k Rupiah (~$5 USD) per day with a full tank of gas.

For short taxi trips (like hotel transfers to/from the dock) you can usually arrange those on the spot or with your hotel, although they’re not very cost effective.

Unfortunately the Grab and Go-Jek ride hailing apps are not yet available in Nusa Penida (only Bali), but maybe that will change eventually.

Book Now: Nusa Penida Driver With Car

Donut shaped Banah rock near the Banah Cliff Point in Nusa Penida, Bali

What To Do In Nusa Penida

• kelingking beach.

The Kelingking Cliff is the most famous view in Nusa Penida, and probably one of the most iconic views anywhere in Bali.

This is an incredible ‘T-Rex’ shaped rock sticking out over the ocean, with perfect turquoise water splashing around it. The first time you look over the edge of the cliff and see this view, it really is breathtaking!

After you’re done admiring the scenery at the Kelingking Cliff, there’s also a path to go down to the beach at the bottom.

The hike down to the beach is a major workout, a bit scary, and takes at least two hours roundtrip, but you’re rewarded with one of the best white sand beaches in Nusa Penida Bali.

• Paluang Cliff Viewpoint

Everyone goes to Kelingking Cliff, but there’s another spot located very close to it with its own amazing scenery, called Paluang Cliff. It’s just a 5 minute drive from Kelingking.

Paluang may not be as well known as Kelingking, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s a great alternative spot that gives you views of the Kelingking T-rex from the other side, without the crowds.

There are swings and photo platforms at the Paluang Cliff, plus a Balinese temple with a quirky car shrine, called the ‘car temple’ of Nusa Penida.

• Broken Beach

For most visitors to Nusa Penida island, one of the first stops will be Broken Beach. This is a cool circular cove formed in the rocks, complete with a leftover arch.

This area is also one of the popular hangout spots for the manta rays, so you’ll most likely get to see some rays floating around in the sea nearby.

The bottom is filled with turquoise water from the waves coming in, and there’s even a small white sand beach. You can’t actually go down to the beach, just admire from above, but what a cool view it is!

There’s a few old local legends associated with this place that say it was created either by a giant’s footsteps or by an angry sorcerer.

It’s definitely a very unique kind of formation that I don’t think I’ve seen anywhere else in the world.

• Crystal Bay

One of the popular spots on the west side of Penida is Crystal Bay. This is a good hangout or suntanning spot, and it has plenty of food and drink shacks for refreshments. Snorkeling gear can be rented here, or you can just sit around and chill out while eating some chicken satay.

The great thing about Crystal Bay is that it’s one of the best spots to catch the sunset in Penida. Last July, I went back here with a buddy and we sipped Bintangs with our toes in the sand while the sunset came down over the rocks on the coast.

• Banah Cliff Point

The great thing about Banah Cliff Point is that it actually has half a dozen different view points along the cliffs, and at each view point you can walk right up to the edge of the cliff and look down at the waves crashing on the rocks.

From these cliffs you can usually see a bunch of tiny manta rays and speedboats floating around on the ocean below. You can also see the Banah rock, a doughnut shaped rock sticking out of the ocean. Great stuff!

• Tembeling Cave & Beach

The Tembeling beach and forest is a hidden spot tucked away in the cliffs on Nusa Penida’s west coast, with a natural pool and small waterfall to enjoy.

My favorite feature of this beach is the awesome sea cave that opens up to a view of the huge cliffs on the coast, but this place is also becoming popular for the Tembeling natural pool, which you can take a dip in and relax.

The access to this beach is a bit tricky, but it’s one of our favorite spots in Bali!

• Atuh Beach

This is one of the nicest beaches on the south end of Penida island. Unlike Suwehan Beach, Atuh is not a secret and there are sunbeds, beanbags, and a couple of nice food and drink shacks here.

The highlight of Atuh Beach is probably the big elephant shaped rock in the ocean (locals say it looks like a stiletto), and the big variety of sea life that can be seen trapped in the rocks at low tide.

• Nusa Penida Treehouse (Rumah Pohon)

Have you ever wanted to sleep in a wooden tree house and wake up to the sounds of the ocean? Here’s where you can do it. The room and bed are very basic, but the views and location are out of this world.

You’ll fall asleep to the sound of geckos chirping in the trees, and wake up to an incredible sunrise over the Raja Lima islands, with dolphins and manta rays swimming and jumping in the distance.

• Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach, named after the pointy diamond shaped rock on the beach, is another utterly incredible “cliff beach” on the southeastern coast of Nusa Penida island.

It’s accessible since late 2018, when a path down to the beach was carved into the side of the cliffs. I’ve even seen some wildlife occasionally, from monitor lizards to dolphins and manta rays.

This place is also becoming popular thanks to the scenic swing, where you can take pictures while swinging between two palm trees over the beach.

• Teletubbies Hill

The center of Penida island has these big round hills named after the background scenery from the Teletubbies kids show.

They look kind of like the Chocolate Hills in Bohol Philippines , and using a drone here gives you some unique perspectives.

If you come here during or just after the rainy season (roughly December to April), then the hills are a perfect green color.

Between April and May, the hills are a more yellow color, but still neat to see. During the summer however, the hills will turn dry and brown, so they won’t look as nice.

• Suwehan Beach

Looking for a hidden beach with perfect white sand and turquoise waves? Suwehan is one of the best hidden beaches in Penida.

The hike down to the beach takes about 30 minutes and it’s exhausting, but very worthwhile. This is one of my favorite places in Penida. There’s even a cool pointy rock that looks like a Christmas tree.

This beach is a hidden gem that still isn’t included in most Nusa Penida island tour packages, but you can get there with a scooter or car charter. Careful, because the road is quite rough.

• Suwehan Tree House

In 2018, the locals built some tree houses at the top of Suwehan cliff. There’s four of these tree houses now, and you can stay the night in them!

Don’t expect luxury, but there’s an outside shower/bathroom and a small food shack for ordering meals, and the beds look comfy.

The best part is that you have a stunning view of the ocean and cliffs, and it’s just a short distance from Suwehan Beach!

Book Now: Suwehan Tree House

Suwehan Tree House (you can book here )!

Suwehan treehouse

Suwehan beach

• Goa Giri Putri Temple

This is a Hindu temple inside of a big limestone cave, located on the east side of Penida. To reach it, you have to climb more than one hundred steps to the top of the hill.

After crawling through a tiny hole in the side of the mountain, the inside opens up to a huge cave about 300 meters long, with high rock ceilings!

Hindu ceremonies are still performed here, but it’s also open to tourists. Exploring this cave is an interesting experience, for sure.

Read More: Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple

Goa Giri Putri Temple

Spooky inside

• Nyanyad Beach

This is a mostly unknown beach on the south end of Nusa Penida, with a small temple and giant hills on both sides of the beach.

The road to Nyanyad Beach is a bit tricky to find, but well worth the effort. Google Maps will try to steer you onto a wrong road that leads to a lighthouse.

Once you reach the parking area for Nyanyad, the hike down to the beach only takes 15 minutes, with concrete steps all the way, and the beach has perfect white sand!

This spot is another hidden gem that isn’t included in most Nusa Penida island tour packages, although you can get there with a scooter or car charter.

• Peguyangan Waterfall

If you want to try a sketchy, remote Nusa Penida hike with steep paths to get your adrenaline going, this one is for you.

Peguyangan is a small waterfall and natural swimming pool at the bottom of some cliffs on Nusa Penida island, and you reach it by climbing down hundreds of steps on a bright blue stairway.

It’s not for the faint of heart, but the ocean and cliff views here are incredible, which is why I’d rate it as one of the best hikes in Nusa Penida.

There’s even a neat little ultra scenic hotel at the top of the cliffs called Waterfall Inn , with stunning views of the whole area.

Best Nusa Penida Photo Spot

It’s hard to pick the best Nusa Penida photo spot, but I’d say it’s probably a toss-up between Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach . Both are amazing.

Two other great photo spots in Nusa Penida would have to be Suwehan Beach and the Nusa Penida treehouse . These are stunning, and Suwehan is still pretty underrated.

Best Nusa Penida Beaches

If white sand is the main thing you’re looking for in Bali, then you’ll want to check out my complete Nusa Penida beach guide, which has a list of all of the very best Penida island beaches .

Obviously there are the famous beaches like Kelingking , Diamond , and Atuh , but there are also quite a few others that are not so well known.

Nusa Penida Hike List

Probably the most epic Nusa Penida hike is the famous Kelingking Cliff , where you can climb down a steep stairway to reach a pristine white sand beach at the bottom.

Another good Nusa Penida hike is Tembeling Beach And Forest , which has a nice mix of jungle and beach scenery, plus a sea cave and natural swimming pool.

If you really want an off-the-radar Nusa Penida hike, check out Batu Siha Beach . This is a new one I explored in 2019, and it’s still untouched except for locals. The path is intense and exhausting, but there’s a white sand beach at the bottom.

The hiking trails in Nusa Penida tend to be very short and intense, because you’re usually climbing down steep cliffs to reach a secluded beach, temple, or waterfall at the bottom.

Unlike Bali, Penida island doesn’t have any mountains or volcanoes to hike. This also means waterfalls are scarce on the island, although there are a couple interesting ones like Peguyangan Waterfall .

Nusa Penida Island Map

Here’s a Nusa Penida island map you can use to plan your trip. You can click the icons to get more info on each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations on this map may be approximate.

For more detailed information on how to get to each of the spots on this Nusa Penida map, you can check out my individual travel guides for each location.

More Things To Do In Nusa Penida

The sights above are just a few examples of what to do in Nusa Penida . There are many more beaches, temples, and viewpoints to see all over the island.

If you’re looking for more ideas, don’t forget to check out my complete list of 35+ awesome things to do in Nusa Penida island!

Best Sunset Spot In Nusa Penida

There are lots of great sunset spots in Nusa Penida.

The island has a long west-facing coastline, and pretty much anywhere on the west side is good for watching the sunset.

Two favorites are Crystal Bay , which has a relaxing beach, and Amok Sunset , which is a nice restaurant with views over Nusa Ceningan. The views at Kelingking Beach or Paluang Cliff can also be pretty nice.

Sunset time in Nusa Penida Bali can be anywhere from 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM, depending on the day and month. You can check that here .

For a good sunrise spot, check out the Nusa Penida treehouse , on the southeast side of the island.

Amok Sunset

Water Sports In Nusa Penida

The main water sports in Nusa Penida are snorkeling and scuba diving, and these are exceptional! The section below talks about these activities in a bit more detail.

Unlike Bali, Nusa Penida is not really known for good surfing or waves. However, two other good water sports in Nusa Penida are jet skiing and boat charters.

A boat charter can be great for snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing while sightseeing around the coast of the island. You can book this with Pulau Private Charters , and they have cruise options to fit every need.

I’ve been itching to try a jet ski tour around Nusa Penida, because it looks like an amazing way to see the epic coastline from a new perspective. The only company currently offering this is Jet Ski Safari Bali Wibisana , and it’s not cheap!

Exotic corals underwater at Nusa Penida, Bali

Traditional ‘jukung’ boats at Crystal Bay

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling In Nusa Penida

The coral reefs around Nusa Penida island are fantastic for diving and snorkeling, and you can even swim with manta rays, ocean sunfish (‘mola mola’), and all kinds of other colorful fish.

In fact, Nusa Penida is one of the best places in the world to swim with manta rays and giant mola mola fish. The latter can only be seen by scuba diving, but manta rays are easy to see while snorkeling near the surface. Take a look at Underwater Photography Guide’s handy writeup for scuba diving in Nusa Penida and Lembongan , including seasonal tips and the best diving spots.

For snorkeling, some of the best spots in Nusa Penida include Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and Toyapakeh Wall. It’s possible to visit all of these spots in a day trip. There’s also an underwater Buddha statue , but sadly they don’t seem to be allowing access anymore.

Nusa Penida snorkeling tours can be arranged on the spot at Toyapakeh boat harbor, or it’s also possible to book them online as day tours departing from Bali, complete with hotel pickup and speed boat transfer.

Book Now: Nusa Penida Snorkeling / Manta Ray Tour

What To Bring

If you’re putting together a Nusa Penida packing list, here are a few ideas of good things to bring.

Most of the items below can probably be found on Nusa Penida island in a pinch, but the quality of stuff you buy on the street won’t be guaranteed (personally, I’m not about to use a junky knockoff bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera gear).

It’s best to buy vetted products online!

Waterproof Bag: Essential for keeping your electronics safe on the boats. I brought a 30 liter bag and was able to fit my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and a bunch of other stuff inside. Everything was kept dry, even when I took the bag swimming a few times!
Waterproof Phone Pouch: Same as above, but these are for your phone only. Great if you don’t have other electronics and just need something small to protect your phone.
Snorkeling Gear: Many of the areas around Nusa Penida have nice corals and fish, and you won’t want to miss out on them. Snorkels and masks can be rented on the boat too, but if you plan to do multiple tours it’s more economical to bring your own gear.
Water Shoes: Save your feet some grief and wear water shoes! We got some cuts while walking to shore from the boats.

Giant sea cliffs and islands on the coast of Nusa Penida, Bali

Nusa Penida Restaurants

The flurry of tourism is bringing lots of new restaurants and cafes to Nusa Penida, so now it has a bunch of great options!

Here are just a few of our restaurant recommendations:

Penida Colada : This was one of the first great restaurants on the island, with a big menu, beach vibes, good food and good presentation. Plus the name is cool!
Secret Penida Cafe : Another nice beachfront cafe in north Nusa Penida with Western and Indonesian food.
Penida Espresso : Best smoothie bowls on the island, and they’re very reasonably priced. Nice for a hot day.
Sweet Spot : One of the first indoor cafes on the island with air-conditioning! Great breakfast here.
The Chill : Ocean view pool with no minimum spend! Nice atmosphere with a wade-up bar and swings.
Amok Sunset : Fancy cliffside restaurant and bar with a pool, and great sunset views over Nusa Ceningan.
Warung Nengah Mesin : Mother’s cooking. Simply delicious. This is a local warung in the south part of the island, so it’s easy to reach from many of the major sights.

Cliffside pool at the Amok Sunset restaurant

Nusa Penida Massage & Spa

Nusa Penida doesn’t have a lot of massage places compared to Bali, but I’m sure that’ll change over time as more tourists arrive. A foot massage is the perfect way to unwind after a full day of hiking or touring.

One of the best massage places in Nusa Penida would have to be Tejas Spa Warnakali , which has ocean views and is part of the Adiwana Warnakali Resort . You don’t need to be a guest at the resort to get a massage there, it’s open to the public.

For budget spa and massage places in Nusa Penida, you can check out Little Papaya , Juara Spa , and Dhipalia Massage . However, we haven’t tried these ones yet, so I can’t vouch for the quality.

Other Nusa Penida Tips

Credit Cards: Almost all restaurants, hotels, and other charges in Penida are cash only. Best thing to do is bring plenty of cash with you from Bali. I also like to book my bigger purchases online (like hotels and drivers), that way I can pay for them with credit card and save my precious cash for those little roadside warungs and fresh coconuts!
ATM: Penida still has very few ATM options. The most reliable seems to be the Bank BRI booth at Sampalan , but it only lets you pull 1 million Rupiah per try.
Cell Service: Phone reception is strong with Telkomsel in most of the main areas of Penida, although you may lose service in some places while driving around because of the hilly terrain of the island.
WiFi: The WiFi situation in Penida used to be very poor compared to Bali, but it has improved dramatically in the last few years, so most hotels already have good WiFi that can be used for browsing, streaming videos, and sending emails.
Convenience Stores: There are lots of small mini marts, especially around the north shore, where you can buy cheap snacks, drinks, toiletries, sunscreen, and other such things. Sari Yoga Mart and Bagus Mart are two good options. However, their selection is much smaller than what you’ll find shopping in Bali.
Language: The locals in Nusa Penida speak Balinese with a distinct dialect, and although many of them also understand Indonesian, they’re not schooled in English (unlike in Bali). This means most Nusa Penidans only know a little bit of English that they’ve been able to pick up from tourists, so be patient and come prepared to explain things by pointing or showing pictures.
Mosquitoes: There is some dengue fever present in Nusa Penida, but it seems to be less common than in Bali, which is probably because of the drier climate in Penida. You won’t need bug spray for visiting the beaches or really any of the popular tourist sites, but we have seen mosquitoes at the Tembeling forest and Goa Giri Putri, as well as near some of the hotels in Nusa Penida. Thankfully there is no malaria in either Penida or Bali, so you don’t need to worry about anti-malarial medications or anything like that. The entire Bali province is certified malaria free according to this Lancet study from 2018.

Palm trees and hills at Atuh Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali

Is Nusa Penida Safe?

Yes, Nusa Penida is very safe!

We live in Bali off and on. Violent crime is unheard of in Penida, and petty crime is also rare. Just take normal precautions. This is a tight knit community and the locals are very kind and hospitable.

Balinese are religious people, so please don’t disrespect the temples or local culture. And do be careful if you hike any of the steep cliffs like Kelingking Beach!

Sekartaji Cliff Point

Nusa Penida Wildlife

Just like Bali, the island of Nusa Penida is full of wonderful wildlife, and if you’re lucky you might see some during your visit.

Animals living in Penida include bats, spiders, monitor lizards, and monkeys (Balinese macaques). You can see the monkeys at Kelingking Cliff and other places on the island. At the Goa Giri Putri cave , there are even two species of endangered purplish-orange crabs that live nowhere else on Earth except Nusa Penida island.

Nusa Penida is a bird sanctuary with many endangered bird species, including the very nice Bali starlings. Not many of these are left in the wild, so sightings are rare, but it’s hoped their numbers will improve.

Snakes in Nusa Penida include pythons, vipers, spitting cobras, and sea snakes. The only one I’ve seen here personally is the island pit viper (Trimeresurus insularis).

In the main tourist spots of Nusa Penida, you aren’t likely to ever see a snake. If you do, treat it with extreme caution! Venomous snakes in Bali can be very dangerous and there’s no anti-venom available in Penida.

One time I almost stepped on a very venomous island pit viper while hiking in Nusa Penida. My foot landed within inches of the snake, which was coiled up in the center of the path, but thankfully its head was turned away from me and it didn’t see how close my foot landed.

The triangular head and bright red tail on its green body was a giveaway. This was in a less traveled part of the island with lots of foliage. It wasn’t in a tourist area.

If you go snorkeling or scuba diving at Nusa Penida, you can get up close with the gentle manta rays and gigantic ocean sunfish (‘mola mola’), and all kinds of other colorful fish and coral. We’ve also seen sea turtles and dolphins in the waters around Penida.

Tiny orange flowers in Nusa Penida, Bali

Best Time To Visit

Nusa Penida has a drier and more sunny climate than mainland Bali, so any month is great for visiting.

The best time to visit Nusa Penida island really just depends on what you’re looking for.

Bali’s rainy season runs from November to April. It’s less crowded during this time, and the rain is mostly at night, but the weather during the day can be hot and humid at 90-95 F (32-35 C).

From May to August, the temps are a lot cooler, and it’s more breezy and sunny. This is the high season so it’s a little more crowded.

Penida is spectacular at any time of the year, but I think the best months for photography are March to May (right after the rainy season ends), as this is when the island is covered with green foliage.

However, if you’re just looking for the nicest weather, May to August are the most comfortable months of the year.

Drone view of Banah Cliff Point in Nusa Penida Bali

The turquoise blue salt waters of Nusa Penida island

Is Nusa Penida Worth It?

If you’ve kept reading this far and you still aren’t sure whether you should visit Pineda, then the answer is YES, Nusa Penida is definitely worth it!

This island has some of the best natural scenery anywhere in the Bali province, and some of the best views anywhere in Indonesia for that matter. It has great photo spots, cliffs, caves, beaches, hikes, water sports, and more.

There are even lots of nice hotels and restaurants popping up, and it’s becoming easier to get around the island. Overall, it’s well worth crossing the short distance from Bali to Nusa Penida in order to see all of the things this island has to offer.

White sand on Puyung Beach in Nusa Penida Bali

How Long To Stay

Don’t be a day tripper. There are so many good things to do in Nusa Penida island. You need to spend at least 2 days to see the best highlights, even if you don’t do any snorkeling.

I would try to spend 3 or 4 days in the Nusa islands if possible, but you could easily fill a week, especially if you plan to do snorkeling or scuba diving.

Nusa Penida Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 4-day itinerary for Nusa Penida could look like:

Day 1: West Nusa Penida . Visit Kelingking Beach , Paluang Cliff , Pererenan Cliff , Banah Cliff Point , and Tembeling Beach .
Day 2: East Nusa Penida . Visit Diamond Beach , Atuh Beach , Rumah Pohon Treehouse , Teletubbies Hill , and Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple .
Day 3: Snorkeling + West Penida . Take a half day snorkeling tour and then continue the land tour, visiting Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach , and Smoke Beach.
Day 4: South Nusa Penida . Visit Suwehan Beach , Sekartaji Cliff (or Nyanyad Beach ), Manta Point Overlook , and Crystal Bay .

You can take a look at my full blog post about this Ultimate 4-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary for more detailed information and photos!

Nusa Penida Hotels

Nusa lembongan & ceningan.

While you’re busy exploring Nusa Penida island, don’t forget there are also two other nice islands located next to it — Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, respectively.

The islands of Lembongan and Ceningan are connected to each other by a colorful yellow bridge, and even though they don’t have the epic cliffs and dramatic scenery of Penida, they’re still worth a visit for their nice hotels , seaside cafes, and laidback atmosphere.

It’s easy to go between the Nusa islands with a short and cheap boat ride. Some people even base themselves in Lembongan while touring Penida.

Blue Lagoon Avia Villas in Nusa Ceningan

Ocean views at the Blue Lagoon Avia Villas in Nusa Ceningan

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Saren Villa on the north coast of Nusa Penida , and paid 240k Rupiah ($15 USD) for a private double room with cold A/C, hot shower, and good WiFi.

This is one of the cheapest options in Penida, and it's in a great location near the best restaurants! We were happy.

Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.

Our Nusa Penida hotel

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A complete travel guide to nusa penida: the blue paradise island.

Post published: September 15, 2023
Post category: Indonesia
Post author: Charu Goyal

The iconic Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida with its unique T-rex shaped rock glowing at sunset.

Nusa Penida is undoubtedly the largest and the most popular of the three Nusa Islands located near mainland Bali. Home to the iconic T-Rex shaped cliff (aka Kelingking Beach), breath-taking landscapes, and some of the bluest waters in the world, it is a beautiful destination famous for its rare rock formations and incomparable natural beauty.

With a unique blend of incredible snorkelling and diving sites, untouched sceneries, and a myriad of Instagrammable spots, Nusa Penida barely needs any introduction today. Most people visiting Bali do at least a day trip to this blue paradise island, but after having spent a couple of nights there recently, I have to say that a day alone would not do it justice.

So, if you are curious about travelling to Nusa Penida and are wondering what all there is to see and do on the island, you are in the right place. In this guide, you will find everything from how to get there from Bali (and beyond), the best places to see in Penida Island, where to stay, and more. Read on for tips on making the most of your Nusa Penida trip!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Know Before You Go

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (RP or IDR).

Power sockets: Type C and Type F.

Area: Approximately 209 square kilometres.

Language: Bahasa and Balinese are the most commonly spoken languages in Nusa Penida. English is also wide-spread in the tourist areas so everyone working in the industry can speak it well.

Entrance Fee: As of 2023, all tourists visiting Nusa Penida have to pay an entrance fee of 25k IDR for adults and 15k IDR for children. This fee will be collected upon your arrival in Nusa Penida and they only accept cash. It is intended for the betterment of infrastructure on the island and covers Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan too.

Where is Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida is a moderately underdeveloped yet popular island, located off the southeast coast of Bali in Indonesia. It is approximately 25 km from the island of Bali, and 4 km and 5 km from Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, respectively.

A drone shot of small islands in the sea near Nusa Penida.

Even though the Nusa Islands are separated from mainland Bali by a body of water known as the Badung Strait, all three of them still fall under the Bali province. This is why many first timers get confused when hearing that Nusa Penida is a part of Bali. It is a separate landmass that is under the administration of Bali but is often combined together as part of the overall Bali experience.

CG’s tip: Since all three Nusa Islands are located really close to each other (and Bali), it is possible to group all of them in one trip. Each one of them has its unique landscapes to offer and is worth visiting!

How to get to Nusa Penida?

The closest airport to Nusa Penida is located on the island of Bali. Whether you are looking to visit for a day trip or an overnight stay, the only way to get to Penida Island is by sea. Here are the best options of reaching Nusa Penida from Bali and its nearby islands:

Getting to Nusa Penida from Bali

This is the most popular option to get to Nusa Penida. You will need to purchase tickets for a fast boat that will drop you there directly, without making a stop in any other nearby island on the way. Speed boats like these typically take about 45 minutes to reach Penida from Bali and there are numerous companies to choose from.

There are a few active ports on both islands, but the most widely used is Sanur Harbour (Matahari Terbit Port) in Bali and Banjar Nyuh Harbour in Nusa Penida. The first boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida departs at 7:30 am and the last one leaves at around 5:00 pm. This schedule can change depending on the weather and the sea conditions, so make sure to always double check it closer to your date.

Until very recently, hopping on a boat from Bali involved wading into knee deep waters from the beach while carrying your luggage overhead. But the newly built fast boat terminal in Sanur has a well organised pier, boarding gates, and air-conditioned waiting areas. This is why now most boats to Nusa Penida depart from and arrive at this modern harbour.

Outside seating area at Sanur Harbour with proper wooden flooring and tables and chairs.

Sanur Harbour is roughly an hour from popular areas like Ubud and Canggu. This travel time can vary depending on the traffic, so I would suggest leaving a little buffer to be safe. You can get there easily by either using your own transport or purchasing the fast boat tickets with a hotel pick-up included. Just remember to reach at least 45 minutes prior to your departure time to complete the check-in formalities.

The price of the fast boat tickets to Penida varies across different companies and packages. You can buy your tickets online, via a local agent, or in person at the ticket counters at the port. Since this route to Nusa Penida is very common, I would suggest booking your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out pretty quickly (especially during the peak season).

12Go Asia is a great place to purchase your fast boat tickets if you are looking to get just that sorted. For tickets with hotel pick-up or sightseeing included, Klook and GetYourGuide have many highly rated packages. This one with a trip to the highlights of Nusa Penida along with a hotel pick-up and drop off is such a perfect and hassle-free option for day-trips.

The sea between Bali and Nusa Penida with many fast boats in the water.

In case you want to take your own scooter/car to Nusa Penida or are simply looking for a cheaper alternative to get there, it is also possible to take a public ferry from Padang Bai in Bali. The ferry operates twice a day from Monday to Saturday at 10 am and 2 pm. On Sundays, there is only one operational ferry at 10 am.

The ferries from Padang Bai are often delayed, crowded and take much longer to reach. I would only recommend this option if you want to bring a vehicle across instead of saving money. The price difference isn’t significant enough and the safety protocols are up for debate.

CG’s tip: There may be no boats or ferries between Bali and Nusa Penida on important holidays such as Nyepi, Nyepi Laut, Galungan and Kuningan. Make sure to check the availability for these religious days in advance to avoid any cancellations or last-minute change of plans.

Getting to Nusa Penida from Nusa Lembongan / Nusa Ceningan

If you are staying in Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan first, you will have to take a local boat to get to Penida. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are connected by a Yellow Bridge and all the boats to Nusa Penida depart from there (on the Lembongan side). From Ceningan, simply cross the bridge until you reach Nusa Lembongan again and head to the make-shift ticket booth there.

The boats between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida run quite frequently and there is generally one every hour from 7:30 am to 04:00 pm. During the peak season, the boats may operate until 30 minutes before sunset so you can enquire about the last slot at the ticket office when you first arrive. The ticket price is 100k IDR (6.5 USD) one way per person.

You can also book your tickets online in advance as seats are often limited. The local boats between Lembongan and Penida don’t usually follow a fixed timetable and instead depart when they are full with passengers (happens quickly). This is why it is important to arrive on time to claim your seat first and exchange your booking voucher for a physical ticket.

The journey from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida takes around 15 minutes and you’ll arrive at the Toya Pakeh (aka Banjar Nyuh) Harbour in Penida.

CG’s tip: The harbour in Nusa Lembongan isn’t as advanced as the one in Bali yet, so you will probably have to lug your suitcase on the sand. From what I know, there are also no docks in Lembongan right now. I would recommend you to wear flip-flops or any easy to remove footwear in case you have to go into the water to board.

Getting to Nusa Penida from Lombok / Gili Islands

While visiting Nusa Penida from Bali or the other Nusa Islands is more popular, it is also possible to get there from Lombok and Gili Islands. Lombok and Gili Islands are located further away from Penida (as compared to Bali), but there are still several fast boat companies that connect them. However, keep in mind that not all of them go direct.

Most speed boats from Lombok or Gili Islands make a stop in Bali before continuing to Nusa Penida. These ferries operate multiple times in a day and take roughly 2-4 hours to reach Penida, depending on the layover. You can either book the entire journey with the same company to avoid changing boats in Bali or book two separate tickets with a boat change.

A diamond shaped rock in the middle of turquoise water with waves crashing all around it.

Operating less frequently, there are also direct speed boats to Nusa Penida from both Lombok and Gili Islands that do not stop anywhere in between. These are slightly more expensive than the non-direct boats, but a great option if time and efficiency are important for you.

The direct speed boat of Idola Express from Lombok to Nusa Penida takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Penida. Idola Express also offers direct connection between Gili Islands and Nusa Penida, which takes 2 hours and 15 minutes each way. Both of these options can be easily booked online on 12Go Asia .

CG’s tip: It is also possible to fly from Lombok to Bali and then take a fast boat to Nusa Penida from there.

How to get around Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida is an island with modest overall infrastructure. Public transportation in Nusa Penida is pretty much non-existent and online cab aggregators like GoJek and Grab aren’t operational there as of yet. The island is also bigger than it looks with attractions spread out from one end of the island to the other. This is why it takes forever to go anywhere there!

Typically, most boats arrive in Nusa Penida at the Banjar Nyuh harbour on the northwest corner of the island. Whether you are staying overnight or just visiting on a day trip, you will need to use one of these ways to head to your final destination:

Rent a scooter

Renting a scooter is the cheapest way of getting around Nusa Penida. You can reserve it online and have it ready for your arrival or simply get it from one the many vendors at the harbour. It is also possible to rent a scooter in Penida with your hotel or Airbnb. The price of scooter rental in Nusa Penida ranges from 70-100K IDR per day and gas is also economical.

Although an inexpensive and flexible option, this is not suitable for everyone and I will only recommend it to advanced drivers who are used to the island’s terrain. The roads in Nusa Penida are no joke and deadly accidents happen there every single day. Being a mountainous region, there are a lot of winding roads too with little visibility of what’s ahead.

Popular landmarks like Angel’s Billabong and Kelingking Beach have particularly broken and bumpy paths so you have to be extra careful there. If you are a confident scooter driver and end up renting it, just make sure you always wear a helmet when driving, honk before blind turns, and have a valid travel insurance that covers scooter rentals and accidents.

CG’s tip: There are not many petrol pumps close to the popular tourist places in Nusa Penida as of yet. In fact, I barely saw any after going deeper into the island from the harbour. If you are staying close by, always fill your tank before leaving on an excursion or make a note of the petrol pumps on your route.

Charu Goyal of Travel with CG standing in an orange maxi dress in the middle of a Balinese gate at Amartha, looking out to the sea at sunset.

Get a taxi / shuttle

This option is good for short one-way transports. As soon as you get off your boat at the harbour, you will find many taxi drivers offering a ride to your hotel or a desired drop-off point. If you are planning to rent a scooter afterwards with your hotel or simply have a lot of luggage, you can get one of these taxis to go to your accommodation comfortably.

These taxis are present throughout the busy areas by the harbour. In case you happen to go to any café or restaurant close by later in the day, you can find a taxi there as well by waiting on the side of the road. This option isn’t suitable if you are far out as there may not be many empty taxis deeper inside the island.

Some hotels also provide paid shuttle services to nearby places which are great for short journeys. The hotel that I stayed in had this service and we used it many times to go to day clubs, cafes and restaurants. They also provided pick-up services to bring us back to the hotel which was perfect for when we didn’t have a private car after sightseeing hours.

CG’s tip: If you are going out after 7 pm, then ensure you have a way of coming back to your hotel before leaving. There aren’t many people outside in Nusa Penida after dark so it is difficult to find taxis at that hour. I always coordinated with my hotel before leaving and they sent a shuttle for pick up whenever we were done.

Book a private car with a driver

This is the best way to explore Nusa Penida. Since the roads there are quite dangerous for two-wheelers and all the tourist spots are spread out, it takes much longer than anticipated to go anywhere on the island. You will be spending a lot of your time in transit so having a comfortable ride is key for a happier holiday, especially under the scorching sun.

You can find a driver at the harbour once you get to Nusa Penida, ask your hotel or guesthouse for a recommendation, or book online in advance. Depending on your Nusa Penida itinerary, it is possible to customise your booking with the driver and hire for any number of days or hours. This option of private car with a driver in Nusa Penida is highly rated.

The drivers in Penida charge per destination rather than by the hour so you will still have plenty of flexibility in terms of how much time you spend in a particular place. An experienced driver will also act as your tour guide and will tell you a lot about the island’s interesting history. Most drivers that I came across in Nusa Penida spoke good English.

Personally, I booked an all-inclusive 100% custom Nusa Penida tour with Putu of Bali Travel Monkey and couldn’t be happier. This included hotel pick-up and drop off in Bali, return ferry tickets, a private car with English speaking driver in Nusa Penida for 2 and a half days with pick-up and drop off at the port for 135 USD per person for two people. You can message him on Instagram with your itinerary to get a quote.

What is the best time to visit Nusa Penida?

Similar to Bali, Nusa Penida also has two seasons – wet and dry. The best time to visit the island is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During this time, most days are sunny, the sea is calm, and the climate is hot and humid. These conditions are ideal for enjoying the pristine turquoise waters on the iconic beaches of Nusa Penida.

Having said that, it is also the busiest time of the year. June, July and August are the most crowded months in Penida. If you want to avoid peak season, I would recommend visiting just before or after that. I went at the end of May and it was perfect. The ferries still had available tickets and the traffic wasn’t that bad either (by Nusa Penida standards at least).

The iconic Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida with its unique T-rex shaped rock and white sand beach.

The rainy season, on the other hand, is from November to March. Nusa Penida sees comparatively fewer tourists during this period so prices of hotels and transportation are much cheaper. However, the sea can be very rough and it often rains heavily, making it more challenging to reach and explore Penida.

Since the majority of the must-see places in Nusa Penida involve a multitude of stairs, I would not recommend visiting it during the wet season. The steps are already slippery and uneven in a lot of spots, so I do not even want to imagine them during or after a heavy downpour. If you do go, consider hiring a private car instead of exploring on a scooter.

How many days are enough for Nusa Penida?

Most travellers visiting Nusa Penida mainly come to see Kelingking Beach or Manta Rays on a day trip from Bali. But, in my opinion, that is equivalent to barely scratching the surface.

Nusa Penida has so many beautiful beaches and viewpoints that a day alone can never be enough. Not to forget, it takes a lot of time to get from one spot to another in Nusa Penida, particularly during the peak hours when the island is full of day trippers. I would suggest spending at least two full days in Penida as a bare minimum.

A rock beach at Tembeling beach and Forest with a bamboo swing looking out to the sea.

If you have more time, three full days are more ideal for first timers, especially if you want to do snorkelling and diving as well. This will give you enough opportunity to see marine life, while also checking out all the popular places in Nusa Penida as well as exploring some hidden gems.

CG’s tip: I spent two full days in Nusa Penida and was able to see all the highlights on my list. However, I would have liked to have an extra day or two to check out some other spots as well. Three full days would have indeed been ideal.

Best Nusa Penida Day Tours

Not everyone has the luxury of time to be able to stay overnight in Penida. So, while I do not recommend going on a day trip to Nusa Penida, it is better than not being able to go there at all. In this case, I would suggest opting for one of the guided tours below to make the most of your time:

Nusa Penida Small Group Trip by Speed Boat: Kelingking Beach is the most famed spot in Nusa Penida and this day tour will take you directly there. It is one of the best rated tours for Penida if you want to see the west side of the island on your trip. This free-cancellation tour will also take you to Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong and Crystal Bay. Ferry tickets and entrance fees are included and you can even opt for hotel pick-up and drop off in Bali.

Day Trip to East Nusa Penida, Atuh & Diamond Beach: If you have been dreaming about visiting the incredible Diamond Beach instead, then this day tour to the east side of Nusa Penida is perfect for you. You’ll begin your trip at Thousand Islands viewpoint and continue onto the Instagram famous Rumah Pohon Tree House before heading to Atuh and Diamond Beach (they are next to each other). This tour also comes with a hotel pick-up and drop off in Bali.

Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida: Nusa Penida is widely known for its marine life, so you cannot go wrong by opting for a snorkelling day trip. This tour will take you to three different snorkelling locations and you can end the day by going on a Mangrove tour by a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard. Hotel pick-up and drop off, fast boat transfers, snorkelling equipment and lunch on a beach are included in the price.

Where to stay in Nusa Penida?

Most of the beautiful places to see in Nusa Penida are located on the eastern and the western side of the island. But, large stretches of land near those are still uninhabited and you will barely find any good restaurants and cafes around. This is why I highly recommend not staying inland and instead finding a hotel or guesthouse close to the harbour areas.

Banjar Nyuh Harbour is the most frequently used port in Nusa Penida. It is located in the northern part of the island, which is home to several cafes and restaurants. Irrespective of what your preferences and budget may be, you should definitely stick to this area for your accommodation (unless you are going for an experiential stay somewhere else) in Penida.

A large infinity pool looking out to the sea at Semabu Hills Hotel in Nusa Penida during sunrise.

I booked the Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida for three nights and absolutely loved the location. It is a 4 star property situated on a quiet hill close to Banjar Nyuh (Toya Pakeh) Harbour, offering unobstructed views of the island and the sea beyond. This hotel has mixed reviews online, but personally, I didn’t have any negative experience during my stay.

The entrance of Semabu Hills Hotel with a traditional orange topped Balinese building in the centre.

Semabu Hills Hotel has two infinity pools and a decent on-site restaurant. A lot of the good places to eat on the island are located close by and the hotel even offers an on request pick-up and drop-off shuttle services to go there. I found it really useful for when we didn’t have our driver or any other mode of transportation with us. The area near Kutampi Beach is also nice to stay in.

More options based on online reviews: $$$ | Maua Nusa Penida , Adiwana Warnakali Resort $$ | The Sankara Beach Resort , Sea La Vie Resort Nusa Penida $| Jun Cottage , Nusa Penida Yurt

Best places to see in Nusa Penida

Penida island has a wealth of incredible places to offer. So now that you have all the practical information about visiting this blue paradise island, here are all the best places to add to your Nusa Penida itinerary:

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach is undoubtedly the most famous place in Nusa Penida. Home to the iconic cliff that truly looks like a Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur sitting over the ocean, it is one of the most photographed spots on the island. In fact, pictures from the Kelingking Viewpoint are what really made Nusa Penida popular in the first place.

Kelingking Viewpoint is only a short walk from the parking, while the beach requires an intense climb down. If you have limited time or cannot be bothered to complete the hike to go down to the beach, then fret not. There are several stunning viewpoints along the edge of the cliffs, and taking pictures from there is one of the best things to do in Nusa Penida.

Charu Goyal of Travel with CG sitting on an edge of a cliff overlooking the T-rex shaped rock at Kelingking beach in Nusa Penida.

Most people visiting Kelingking Beach either just see it from the Kelingking Viewpoint or descend down a few flights of stairs to get a better look. In case you want to make your way to the beach, please note that the last section of the hike doesn’t have stairs and it can be very challenging. I would only recommend it to experienced hikers visiting in proper footwear.

Since Kelingking Beach is a very popular spot, it can get really crowded during the day with both day trippers and overnight tourists. To experience it without the crowds, going at sunrise is key to truly appreciate its natural beauty in peace. Sunset is also a nice time to visit as the sky turns all shades of orange and you can see the setting sun in the distance.

CG’s tip: There are often a lot of monkeys at the cliffside of Kelingking Viewpoint and near the stairs going down to the beach. Be careful if you are carrying food or any other loose items on you.

Opening hours: All day. Entrance fees: Free.

Diamond Beach

With a pristine white sand beach, crystal clear turquoise sea, and unique rock formations, Diamond Beach is the most beautiful beach in Nusa Penida. It is located in the eastern part of the island and is known for its glistening diamond shaped rocks, rising from the shallow azure water. The landscape here is truly one of a kind and shouldn’t be missed!

When visiting Diamond Beach, you can either admire this postcard perfect paradise from the viewpoint at the top or make your way down to the beach. The climb down to Diamond Beach isn’t as difficult as the one at Kelingking Beach, but there are still some steep and slippery parts here as well.

Not to forget, the last bit of the path also doesn’t have steps yet, so you will have to hold onto a rope to climb down and back up over small rocks. There is only one rope for people going up and down so it can get busy during peak hours. The climb takes roughly 20 minutes each way and you should only go during low tide.

Charu Goyal of Travel with CG walking down the steps to Diamond Beach while holding a rope and enjoying the view of limestone cliffs in the distance.

Diamond Beach isn’t ideal for swimming and can be dangerous, especially during high tide. The ocean on this part of the island is very rough and unpredictable. Plus, the waves often come with corals and small rocks that can end up being painful if you are not cautious. There have been many accidents at Diamond Beach in recent years.

The viewpoint, on the other hand, is easily accessible from the parking area and has a breath-taking view of Diamond Beach. If you are not an experienced hiker and swimmer, I would recommend seeing the beach from above and then going to the nearby Atuh Beach for a swim instead.

Opening hours: 07:00 – 18:00, every day except religious holidays. Entrance fee: 25K IDR per person.

Atuh Beach and its colourful day beds visible from a viewpoint on top of a cliff with a beautiful bamboo swing.

Situated right next to Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach is a crescent-shaped bank of powdery white sand with crystal clear waters. It is remarkably known for a natural rock arch in the ocean that looks like a big elephant (or a stiletto according to locals). This arch looks particularly beautiful at sunrise when the sun is right in between the arches.

Atuh Beach can be accessed from two different parking lots, one on each side of the cliff. If you enter from the southern parking area, or simply follow the direction for Diamond Beach on maps, you can see both Diamond and Atuh Beaches in one go. These two beaches are located on two different sides of a mountain and it is easy to move around between them.

Atuh Beach and its colourful day beds and turquoise water visible from a viewpoint on top of a cliff.

I personally recommend seeing Diamond Beach from the viewpoint first and then continuing onto Atuh Beach for a swim. You will also be required to climb down several flights of stairs to get to Atuh Beach from the top of the cliff, but this path is much easier with proper steps. The only drawback is that there are no ropes or handrails to hold onto.

Atuh Beach is more suitable for swimming in general, although there can be high currents here too. If you don’t feel like going into the water, there are also several sunbeds and small make-shift shops selling coconut water and some Indonesian food on the beach. It is also possible to rent towels on Atuh Beach for a small fee.

Opening hours: 07:00 – 18:00, every day except religious holidays. Entrance fee: If you are visiting Diamond Beach on the same day, you don’t have to buy a separate ticket for Atuh Beach when entering from the southern parking lot. Otherwise, it is 25K IDR per person.

Rumah Pohon Tree House

As one of the most famous Instagram places in Nusa Penida, Rumah Pohon Tree House is no stranger to anyone visiting the island. Also known as Nusa Penida Tree House, it is a beautiful spot offering an unobstructed view of the Diamond Beach and its unique rock formations from a different perspective.

Rumah Pohon Tree House is located on the eastern part of Nusa Penida as well, close to Diamond and Atuh Beaches. Until recently, this tree house used to be a humble Airbnb with nothing but a small mattress on the floor and a plastic fan. But due to its increasing popularity on Instagram, the management has converted it into solely a photo location now.

To get to Rumah Pohon Tree House, you will have to climb down several steps from the parking lot in true Nusa Penida fashion. The stairs here are steep, but the overall climb isn’t too bad. It will take you around 15 minutes to reach the treehouse. There are also a few other photo points along the way, but I would recommend stopping there on your way back instead.

Charu Goyal of Travel with CG sitting on the make-shift wooden steps of Rumah Pohon Tree House in Nusa Penida at sunrise and admiring the view of a golden sky and Diamond Beach.

Ever since the tree house has become popular, there are long queues of people wanting to take photos with it. The caretakers at Rumah Pohon are surprisingly organised and they will hand over a ticket with your slot in the queue upon payment of the photo fee. Every person only gets two minutes to take pictures, and they will even time you with a stopwatch.

Honestly speaking, it can feel a tad expensive for a few timed photos, but the view from there is so worth it. Besides, sunrise and sunset aren’t that busy as of yet. If you visit on a day trip, there can be more than an hour long wait during the afternoon.

Opening hours: sunrise to sunset. Entrance fee: 5K IDR for parking + 15K IDR for entry + 75K IDR for photos at the tree house. There is also additional fee for photos at the optional other spots along the way too.

Thousand Islands Viewpoint

If you would rather not pay extra or wait to take photos at Rumah Pohon Tree House, simply continue up the cliff to this viewpoint instead. Providing a stunning view of the surrounding islands and the blue ocean, Thousand Islands Viewpoint is one of the best lookout spots in Nusa Penida. If you are lucky, you may even spot some dolphins and manta rays from here!

Since Thousand Islands Viewpoint is located in the same area as the tree house above, you can easily visit both spots at the same time. There is no extra charge for taking photos here (at least not yet) and it is often less busy too. The sunrise from here is really spectacular, but the midday sun brings out the best blue hues in the water.

Charu Goyal of Travel with CG sitting on a rock in a golden dress, looking away from the camera towards the view of Diamond Beach and its towering cliffs.

Thousand Islands Viewpoint is also known as Pulau Seribu. Other than a few mesmerising vantage points, there is also a small shrine at the top here. Make sure to wear appropriate shoes and carry water for the way. The ascend can be more exhausting in the heat.

Opening hours: sunrise to sunset Entrance fee: 5K IDR for parking + 15K IDR for entry.

Peguyangan Waterfall

Peguyangan Waterfall is one of the underrated spots in Nusa Penida offering spectacular cliffside views. It is located on the southeast coast of the island and is also known as Guyangan Waterfall. You may have seen photos from its iconic blue steps that look like a stairway to heaven. These stairs lead to a pilgrimage site and some natural infinity pools.

If you are afraid of heights, Peguyangan Waterfall might not be the place for you. The climb down on the 150-metre iron blue stairs that are winding down the side of the cliff is steep and somewhat dangerous. Plus, many parts of the staircase have really narrow planks and it can often be slippery as well. I would not recommend visiting here with kids in any case.

Even though the name of this place suggests a waterfall, there is really none here. Instead, you will find multiple cascading springs of water flowing directly into the Indian ocean. There are also incredible plunge pools at the bottom of the stairs that look directly into the sea. If you are feeling adventurous, you should definitely hike down to check them out.

Peguyangan Waterfall has a small sacred temple at the bottom of the blue stairs for water blessing. You will be required to wear a sarong here even if you do not plan to go inside the temple. You can either bring your own or rent it at the entrance for a small fee. The locals praying here are friendly and are happy to explain the ritual if you are interested.

Opening hours: All day Entrance fee: Free, albeit a small parking charge of 5K IDR.

Angel’s Billabong

A natural pool between two tall, rugged cliffs overlooking blue ocean water and a small island in the distance.

Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool, perfectly sitting in the middle of two cliffs in western Nusa Penida. This unique phenomenon is formed by volcanic rocks and overlooks the majestic ocean. The water at Angel’s Billabong is so incredibly clear that you can see the surface, even from far away. It truly is a mesmerising sight to behold!

While the pool at Angel’s Billabong looks inviting, it is not actually allowed to swim there anymore. The water currents here are known to be very unpredictable, especially during high tides. There have been a few accidents where people were hurt by the surrounding rocks or swept to the ocean due to the sudden waves. But, it is still worth going for the viewpoint.

Charu Goyal of Travel with CG standing near the edge of a cliff in a white maxi dress, looking at the natural pool at Angel's Billabong.

The last stretch of the road to Angel’s Billabong has many potholes and is very bumpy. So, if you can, I recommend visiting here in a private car instead of a scooter. The walk from the parking lot isn’t bad and you can easily get there in a few minutes. Make sure to bring your camera with you and arrive early before it gets too busy.

Opening hours: All day. Entrance fee: Free, except for a small parking charge.

Broken Beach

Broken Beach is another unmissable spot in Nusa Penida, located next to Angel’s Billabong. It is a circular bay, famous for its magnificent natural stone archway formed by centuries of relentless ocean waves and strong winds. The unique landscape here is a prime example of the artistic ability of nature. So much so, that every sight has an awe-inspiring view!

If you look at the bird’s eye perspective in the picture above, you will notice that the cove of Broken Beach actually looks enclosed. But, once you are there, you will realise how high the arch really is. It is not possible to access the beach here because of the high cliffs. But, some boat companies do drive past the arch when the tide is right.

A natural rock arch above turquoise water with a boat passing through it.

Broken Beach is also known as Pasih Uug. This fascinating landmark is home to a diverse marine life as well. While walking from or towards Angel’s Billabong, you may spot schools of fish and manta rays swimming in the ocean. There are some warungs and shops selling drinks and snacks on one side of the cove too.

Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is a popular beach with comparatively calm waters, making it a great place for swimming and snorkelling in Nusa Penida. If you are looking for a beautiful beach on the island that is easily accessible, Crystal Bay should definitely be on your list. The walk from the parking lot to the beach is just a few minutes with no stairs at all.

Crystal Bay is located on the west side of Nusa Penida and is only a 30-minute drive from the main harbour. Due to the short distance and comfortable walk to the beach, it tends to get very crowded during the day. There are many small shops selling food and drinks at Crystal Bay. You can even rent a sunbed for a few hours, but they can get booked out when busy.

The marine life at and near Crystal Bay is really good. Most snorkelling tours in Nusa Penida start from here. The water quality is nice too and you can easily spot healthy corals, turtles, schools of fishes, manta rays and more. Make sure to go early to avoid the crowds. Or, later in the day if you want to relax and watch the sunset. It is supposed to be stunning from here!

Opening hours: All day. Entrance fee: Free, except for a small parking change. Renting a day bed or snorkelling equipment is also at an additional cost.

If you are looking for a less crowded beach in Penida, Gamat Bay is for you. The road to get here isn’t the best, but you will be rewarded with a quiet beach with white sand, clear blue water, and rows of palm trees. Gamat Bay is also one of the best spots for snorkelling in Nusa Penida so you can expect to encounter beautiful marine life upon visiting here.

Most snorkelling tours starting from Crystal Bay often stop at Gamat Bay and Manta Point, but you may not get a chance to enjoy the beach on those. Gamat Bay is a great spot for turtle sightings and some people even end up seeing them close to the shore. You can rent snorkels at the beach and just go into the water if you like. It is also possible to free dive there.

Gamat Bay can be reached by both sea and road. If you are coming by car or a scooter, the walk from the parking lot to the beach isn’t hard, but a bit steep. There is a small restaurant selling good food too and the staff even looks after the cleanliness of the beach. With plenty of day beds and few tourists, you can calmly spend the day enjoying the view here.

Opening hours: All day. Entrance fee: Free.

Goa Giri Putri Temple

If you have seen your fair share of natural wonders and beaches, then worry not. Nusa Penida has some cultural sites too, out of which this one is definitely worth checking out. Goa Giri Putri Temple or Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave is a sacred religious Hindu temple located inside a limestone cave. It is known for its spiritual nature and captivating architecture.

To enter the temple, you will have to climb up a steep set of stairs and then squeeze through a narrow opening in the rock to go inside the cave. The interiors of the cave are surprisingly vast and there are many Balinese Hindu shrines and offerings all around. The atmosphere of this place is especially exceptional.

Similar to the temples in Bali, all visitors are required to wear a sarong before entering Goa Giri Putri Temple. You can rent it from a small shop near the parking area for 5K IDR or bring your own. It is also possible to purchase a sarong from there if you like. Once inside, you can choose to either participate in the traditional ceremonies or simply observe.

The exit is through another side of the cave and is slightly easier with concrete steps. If you have enough time, I think Goa Giri Putri Temple is worth checking out for a different Nusa Penida experience. The island has a rich cultural heritage and this spot provides a great insight into it.

Opening hours: 7:00 am – 05:00 pm. Entrance fee: Donation based.

Teletubbies Hill

Nusa Penida is not just about epic coastlines and dramatic cliffs. Named after a popular TV show, Teletubbies Hill is a unique attraction that shows just how diverse the landscape of this island really is. When visiting here, you will find a large area filled with rolling hills that are reminiscent of its namesake in the show. They look especially green in the wet season!

Teletubbies Hill is located in the central part of the island and is worth stopping for a while if you are in the area. This place is not that famous yet, so you will not come across many people or warungs here. But, I am not certain if it is worth a visit if you are staying far away. Although, if you have a drone, you can get some really beautiful pictures and videos here.

Paluang Cliff

Located only a few minutes from the jam-packed Kelingking Beach, Paluang Cliff is a serene viewpoint that overlooks the other side of the T-rex. It has several photo points from which you can get a different perspective of Kelingking and the surrounding turquoise blue ocean. The place is nice to admire the unique rock formation of this area and snap photos at ease.

At the moment, there are 4-5 installations like a boat and bird’s nest for photos at Paluang Cliff. But, this number may increase in the future when this spot starts to get more visitors. The photo point is only a short walk from the parking area and you can access it without any issues. However, be careful when visiting as there is barely any protection on the cliffside.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset. Entrance fee: 30K IDR per person.

Banah Cliff Point

Banah Cliff Point is another note-worthy viewpoint to add to your Nusa Penida list. It is a beautiful hidden gem offering a breath-taking view of the ocean and some unique rock formations. If you are looking to enjoy the scenery of Nusa Penida with only a handful of people around, then this is the place for you.

The road to reach Banah Cliff Point is not yet paved, and can be dangerous in some parts. If you are planning to visit here, I would recommend either having a local drive you on a scooter or hiring a private car. You can also walk the last stretch of the road but it will take you a while.

Tembeling Beach and Forest

Tembeling Beach and Forest is an off-beat site in Nusa Penida and one of my absolute favourites. Accessed through a dense lush green forest, it is a beautiful place where you will find natural swimming pools, a secluded beach, and a couple of Instagrammable swings looking out to the ocean. It truly is a gem worth visiting!

To reach Tembeling Beach and Forest, I would recommend you to park your vehicle at the parking lot and hail a motorbike taxi. The path from thereon is very steep with lots of rocks so it is not advisable to drive yourself further. The locals know the way really well and are trained to drive people back and forth safely. You can also choose to walk if you like.

Once you get to the end of the trail, you will have to climb down several steps to go to the pools. This last bit has concrete staircase all the way, which are in fairly good condition. This section is also inside the forest so you will have plenty of shade from the trees. Once you reach the bottom of the steps, you will be welcomed by the first natural pool.

One of the natural pools at Tembeling Beach and Forest with fresh water flowing in from both sides.

After having a look at the first pool, make your way ahead until you find yourself near the other natural pool. This one overlooks the ocean and is much better to take a dip or relax in. Tembeling Beach is only a few steps away from there. If you have more time, don’t forget to also check out the small beach on the other side of the cove too.

Opening hours: All day. Entrance fee: Free except 75k IDR per person for optional motorbike taxi.

Suwehan Beach

Last but not the least, Suwehan Beach is one of the best kept secrets of Nusa Penida. With a picturesque strip of white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, and a rare cone shaped rock in the sea, it is a scenic paradise far away from the typical crowds. I didn’t get a chance to go there personally yet, but it looks like one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

The road to get to Suwehan Beach, like many other hidden gems in Nusa Penida, is bad. But the pristine serenity of the place more than makes up for it once you are there. The access to the beach involves climbing down many concrete stairs and you may encounter an occasional monkey or two on your way. If so, simply carry on ahead and try not to engage.

Suwehan Beach can only be enjoyed during low tide, so always make sure to check the current before going. The beach can completely disappear when the tides are high and you don’t want to descend all the way there to find that. If you are unsure, just ask the local warung owner at the top of the cliff.

Opening hours: All day. Entrance fee: 5K IDR.

Apart from all these places to visit in Nusa Penida, the island of course has many other spots. If you are staying for longer or simply want more suggestions – Nyanyad Beach, Batu Siha Beach, Seganing Waterfall, Saren Cliff Viewpoint and Abangan Hills Viewpoint are some places that I also have on my list and couldn’t visit yet. The Toya Pakeh Beach next to the harbour is also nice.

Where to eat in Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida has a lot of nice cafes and restaurants to eat at. But, most of them are close to the harbour areas instead of the tourist attractions. If you are also a foodie who likes to eat good food whilst travelling, here are some places that I would recommend checking out in Penida:

Sunny Cafe Penida: This small cafe is conveniently located next to the Banjar Nyuh Harbour. They have a huge plant-based menu along with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. We stopped here for a quick lunch before our boat back to Bali and were pleasantly surprised. I especially loved their cheesy mozzarella sandwich (veggie version) and vegan tacos!

A wooden board with a grilled cheese sandwich, French fries and some dips at Sunny Cafe.

Penida Colada Beach Bar: This is a casual beachfront bar and restaurant serving both international and Indonesian delicacies. We went here for dinner and absolutely loved the vibe. They have live music every weekend and the staff look after you so nicely. The place is also made beautifully and the food is delicious too. I would love to go again during the day!

Singabu Sand Beach: It is a tastefully made beach club in the same area as all the above spots. We went here on our driver’s recommendation for lunch and although I loved the vibe of the place, the food was a hit or a miss. Most of the dishes that we ordered lacked flavour, but their Nasi Goreng was one of the best I have ever had! I would probably go back to relax in their beach club looking out to the sea, but not necessarily for the food itself.

Sushi Island: Sushi Island is a family-run Japanese restaurant serving good quality food, not too far from the main harbour. Everything that I tried here tasted really fresh and delicious. In fact, I was not expecting to find good Japanese food in Nusa Penida at all, but Sushi Island proved me wrong. Made and his family are really kind and serve such good quality food for an affordable price. The vegetable gyoza and avocado rolls were my favourite here!

A Japanese spread with one plate of avocado maki, one plate of cucumber maki and one plate of vegetarian gyozas served with soy sauce, wasabi and picked ginger as condiments.

Amarta Penida: Formerly known as Greenkubu, this place should definitely be on your list if you are looking to enjoy a beautiful view. They also have a really nice pool, lots of different seating areas, and a picturesque gate that is reminiscent of all the iconic sites in Bali like the Gate of Heaven. I didn’t find many great vegetarian options at Amarta, but absolutely loved seeing the sunset from here.

Secret Penida Restaurant & Bar: This is another nice beachfront restaurant in Nusa Penida that you can spend the day relaxing at. They open from 7 am – 11 pm every day, so you can visit here any time of the day as per your choice. Although, I have heard that the sunsets from Secret Penida are particularly spectacular. The menu offers mostly western options.

Apart from these, there are also many other places that I had on my list but didn’t have the time to visit yet. I would love to go back and check out Cactus Beach Club, Vegan Soul and Kitchen (only accessible by scooters/on foot), The Chill Penida, Amok Sunset, Organica Fresh and Tasty Food someday.

Map of the best places in Nusa Penida

To make your time in Nusa Penida more convenient, I have also created a custom map containing all the best places on the island for you. I have used three different colours – blue for west Nusa Penida, orange for east Nusa Penida, and green for restaurants/bars. This way you can club places that are closer in one outing and plan your trip with greater ease.

Just click on the bracket in the upper right corner and the map will automatically open in Google Maps on your device. You can leave it open to come back to it later or share with friends and family.

Best day trips from Nusa Penida

Even though there is plenty to see and do in Nusa Penida itself, the other Nusa Islands are so close that it would be a crime not to visit if you have the time. Both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are remarkable destinations only a short ferry ride away from Penida. Here is how you can make the most of your time in each:

Nusa Lembongan

Located a mere 15 minutes away, Nusa Lembongan is another slice of paradise with beautiful beaches, serene coastal areas and surreal landscapes. I would typically suggest staying here overnight in order to explore the length and the width of the island, but it is possible to see the highlights in a few hours. There are many tours offering this day trip !

One of the most popular spots to see in Nusa Lembongan is the Devil’s Tears. It is a more dramatic version of Angel’s Billabong where you can admire intense waves crashing over the rocks. Another must-visit site is Mangrove Forest with its dense variety of wildlife, birds and fishes. Tour it by gliding through the waterways in a traditional jukung boat.

If you have more time, you can spend the day relaxing at one of the beaches in Nusa Lembongan. Mushroom Bay, Jungut Batu Beach and Dream Beach are some of the most visited beaches on the island.

Nusa Ceningan

Many tourists skip Nusa Ceningan in favour of the bigger Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, but this little paradise has so much to offer. Plus, you can easily walk from one end of the island to the other in a few hours so it is an ideal destination for a day trip. Trust me, you would be surprised to discover how much beauty there is in this tiny island!

Begin your day by crossing the iconic Yellow Bridge from Lembongan to Ceningan. This is the only way into the island, and you can do it by foot or on a scooter. Once there, make your way to the Blue Lagoon – the most popular place with surreal blue water. It is not allowed to go in the water due to the waves, but the nearby Mahana Point is great for cliff jumping.

For the rest of the day, you can spend your time strolling around, relaxing at one of many beach bars, or sunbathing at the beach. Secret Beach, My Beach Ceningan, and Song Tepo Beach are some of the best spots.

Tips for visiting Nusa Penida

Always carry enough cash with you. Most ticket offices, scooter rentals, warungs , and small cafes/restaurants in Nusa Penida only accept cash. Penida island doesn’t have many functional ATMs either so it can become quite challenging to withdraw money there at the last minute. Big hotels, cafes, restaurants and bars on the other hand generally have card machines.
Many blogs online recommend exchanging your currency to Indonesian Rupiah before arriving into Nusa Penida as you will supposedly not find good exchange rates there. It may have been true at some point, but I came across many exchange rate shops near the Banjar Nyuh Harbour offering similar rates as Bali. You should still exchange from beforehand to be safe, but just know that it is also possible to do it in Penida upon arrival.
The roads in Nusa Penida are really bad, especially near Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong. It is not the place to test your scooter skills if you are not a confident rider. Please consider shelling out a little extra in this case and hire a car for your safety.
If you are going to drive a motorbike or scooter, note that it is better to not overtake four-wheelers and instead wait on the side if you see one approaching. The local car drivers are known to drive rashly and the narrow roads there sometimes have questionable ends. Some parts of the island do not have any safety barricades on the coastal roads.
Download offline maps beforehand. Although Telkomsel has good coverage in most parts of Nusa Penida, Wi-Fi and cellular data aren’t very reliable on the island. If you are planning to drive yourself around, I would recommend saving offline maps on your phone just in case.

Lush green hills with a field of palm trees and small houses in between them.

There are barely any street lights in the majority of the island so driving before sunrise and after sunset can be tricky. Try to only cover short distances during this time or go with a local. The roads in Nusa Penida aren’t your best friend even in broad daylight so I would not recommend driving in the dark in any case.
It can take a lot of time to cover short distances. This is especially true when the first few ferries start arriving in Penida in the morning and the last ones are about to leave the island in the afternoon. All the tourists that visit on a day trip usually arrive and leave at the same time. This results in a major peak in traffic on the roads as they often have similar itineraries, making them all go in the same direction.
Crowded can be an understatement. Nusa Penida has seen a HUGE increase in the number of tourists in recent years so every popular place on the island will be buzzing with people. If you want to enjoy it in a better environment, consider staying overnight and exploring outside of the day tour hours.
The fast boats from Nusa Penida to Bali can depart promptly or ahead of schedule, so it is advisable to arrive at least 45 minutes before your departure time. Once you are there, go to the ticket booth of your boat company and get an actual ticket along with a lanyard. Your seat is guaranteed once you have these, and then you can follow people with the same lanyards towards your boat when it is time to board.
This goes without saying, but please be considerate when doing any water activities in Nusa Penida and do not touch the corals. Also, make sure you wear reef friendly sunscreen and do not litter anywhere on the island. Nusa Penida is a natural paradise that should be well taken care of.
Last but not the least, say no to single use plastic bottles. Many sites like Diamond Beach hand over small plastic bottles to all tourists, which end up littering this otherwise incredible location. Bring your own water when you are out and about on the island and educate the locals on the best environment friendly practices.

What to pack for Nusa Penida?

A camera! Nusa Penida is one of the most photogenic islands in Indonesia (and probably the world), so you would be crazy to travel all the way there and not capture its beauty. Whether you are comfortable using a smartphone or a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure to take one with you and snap some pictures. This is what I use!
A drone. If you already have it or have been considering getting one, the landscape of Nusa Penida looks unreal from a bird’s eye perspective so you should try bringing one if you can. I loved using mine every chance I got!
A hard drive because all those photos and videos need to be stored somewhere now, don’t they? This may not apply to everyone, but I like to keep a backup of my files every day and thus carry a hard drive on all my trips. Not only does it help with emptying SD cards, but I honestly sleep better knowing my photos are safely backed up. This is the one I use.
A comfortable pair of shoes. The terrain in Nusa Penida is rough and you will often find plenty of gravel everywhere you go. Make sure to pack something with a nice grip that you don’t mind wearing for long hours. There is going to be lots of climbing up and down when you are there.
A pair of water shoes as well. This is not super important if you aren’t planning to go into the water, but Nusa Penida has some of the best beaches in the world so you may want to think it twice. The beaches and nature pools there often have sharp rocks in the water so I would highly recommend investing in good water shoes.

A wide angle picture of the natural rock arch at Broken Beach with a small boat passing through it.

Snorkelling gear. The marine life in Nusa Penida is incredible and you must go on at least one snorkelling trip while you are there. Although it is possible to rent snorkelling gear at many places on the island, bringing your own is more economical if you are doing many tours. In some cases, it can also be more hygienic as well.
Lots of reef-free sunscreen! This is important everywhere, but especially in Nusa Penida where the sun tends to be very strong. And since you will probably be going in and out of water a lot, please make sure that it is marine life friendly.
Swimwear. Talking about water activities and beaches, you will of course need to bring at least a pair of swimwear if you are going to partake in any of these. I bought a few since I stayed more than a night.
A travel plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. If your devices are bought from outside Indonesia, then make sure to carry this to have a seamless experience at your accommodation or check with your hotel for a spare. This one works in most places around the world.
A portable charger. Since you are going to be out and about all the time and using your phone for photos, directions, restaurant reviews, you may run out of battery quickly. A portable charge ensures you always have a working device with you!
A waterproof bag. You will have to take boats to travel between Nusa Penida and Bali so it is essential to keep your electronics safe. This can be super useful should there be any mishaps and also on snorkelling tips. Besides, you can even take it swimming to ensure you always have your stuff with you.
A medicine for sea-sickness. The boats between Bali and Nusa Penida can experience a lot of turbulence due to the rough sea so if you are someone who gets sea-sick easily, it may be useful to carry a few tablets for the journey.
Last but not the least, always carry a bottle of mosquito-repellent if you tend to get bitten a lot like me. I try to have it on me everywhere I go and it has never been not-useful.

FAQs about Nusa Penida

What does nusa penida mean.

Nusa Penida is derived from the Balinese language where the word “Nusa” means “island” and “Penida” means “priests”. The literal translation of Nusa Penida is “island of priests” in English.

Is Nusa Penida worth visiting?

100% yes! With its distinctive limestones, spectacular viewpoints, mesmerising marine life, and unbelievably clear blue water, Nusa Penida is one of those rare places, the beauty of which is even better in real life. If you get the chance, you should definitely visit Nusa Penida at least once in your lifetime.

Can you do a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali?

If you are short on time, a day trip from Bali to Nusa Penida is definitely doable. In fact, it is very popular and many people travelling to Bali go on a day tour to explore the highlights of Nusa Penida. Just make sure to leave as early as you can, the first boat leaves around 7 am.

Also, keep in mind that Nusa Penida is quite big and you won’t be able to see all the must-see places in a single day. Many other day tourists will have a similar itinerary as you so you will most likely be competing for the same locations on a day trip. It can get seriously crowded there!

Which side of Nusa Penida is the best?

Most landmarks in Penida are scattered between the eastern and western parts of the island so you’ll have to pick one when going on a day trip. Both sides of Nusa Penida have something unique to offer so it totally depends on which sites are you interested in seeing more.

The iconic Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach are located on the west side of the island. This tour with all the transfers included is perfect if you want to see these spots in a day as they are only a fairly short drive from the harbour. This part of Nusa Penida also has some beautiful snorkelling locations.

A bird's eye perspective of Diamond Beach and its surrounding cliffs submerged in blue water.

The east side, on the other hand, is home to the picturesque Diamond and Atuh Beaches, Thousand Islands Viewpoint, and the viral Rumah Pohon Tree House. This side of the island is a little further from the harbour, but so worth it for its incredible views. This small tour from Bali is great to explore eastern Nusa Penida.

Do you need to book your boat trip in advance?

It is not exactly required to book your fast boat tickets to Nusa Penida in advance as they do sell them at the port on the day. But, fast boats between Nusa Penida and Bali can be booked out quickly, so I would recommend you to get yours here a few days before to secure a spot. This is especially true if you are travelling in a big group or during the peak season.

Are there any ride sharing apps in Nusa Penida?

Unlike Bali, Nusa Penida doesn’t have any ride sharing apps like GoJek and Grab. You will need to rent a scooter or hire a car with a private driver to get around the island. Some hotels also have shuttle services for short journeys.

Is Nusa Penida safe?

When it comes to crime, Nusa Penida is pretty safe as most people are friendly and want tourists to have the best time. However, the island’s dramatic cliffside viewpoints, strong ocean currents, terrible terrains and dangerous roads are prone to accidents.

If you are visiting Nusa Penida, make sure to only drive a scooter if you are very comfortable with it. The “roads” in some parts of the island are extremely hazardous and the local car drivers there drive very fast which can lead to many mishaps. The ocean current in Nusa Penida is also highly unpredictable so do not go swimming if there are signs against it.

The iconic viewpoint of Kelingking Beach with the T-rex made Penida island famous almost overnight and it seems that the infrastructure there hasn’t had a chance to catch up. When going to these viewpoints, make sure to not risk your life for a few photos and always be careful.

CG’s tip: In case you visit Kelingking Beach or Diamond Beach on a rainy day, I would advise against climbing all the way down to the beach as the path is slippery as it is.

Is there nightlife in Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida isn’t very big on nightlife as of yet so you will barely come across any parties on the island. Some restaurants, cafes and beach clubs do have live music in the evening but that is mostly it. Fairly speaking, there is no comparison of the nightlife in Nusa Penida with that of Bali, Gili Islands or Lombok.

Are the fast boats to Nusa Penida safe?

As much as I would love to say that the speed boats and ferries between Nusa Penida and Bali are completely safe, I have to admit that it is not entirely true. The boats that I took seemed quite fine, and though the majority of the rides end up being completely okay, the safety standards are not up to the mark.

The boat companies apparently have life vests on board but there is speculation about whether they have enough. Some of the boats are also old and battered, and at times, filled above the passenger limit. There are definitely some cost-cutting methods and loose safety protocols so I do have my concerns.

For example, the sea condition wasn’t in our favour while returning to Bali and the ride was extremely bumpy. Everything ended up being fine, but it did leave me wondering that no one informed us where the lifejackets are stored upon boarding – a small piece of information which would be crucial should things go south.

To have a safer journey, I would recommend checking the wind and waves forecast before your trip. Wisuki shows you how big the waves are going to be on a particular day. If the forecast says that it will be above 2 metres high, then the ride would probably be bumpy. In which case, I would recommend you to go another time, especially during the wet months.

Which arrival port to choose for Nusa Penida?

Most fast boats and ferries from Bali to Nusa Penida arrive at the Banjar Nyuh Harbour (aka Toya Pakeh) in Penida. This is the most popular harbour on the island but there are also a few others. If you are travelling from any other island or simply have an option to choose your arrival port in Penida Island, then pick one that is closest to your hotel or your first stop.

I stayed close to the Banjar Nyuh Harbour so it ended up being the perfect choice for me. The area by the harbour is filled with restaurants and cafes so it can be a great base for overnight stays.

How much luggage can you take on the Nusa Penida boat?

Most fast boats and ferries allow passengers to bring two pieces of luggage weighing up to 30 kg in total. Except, they barely measure the weight so it isn’t strictly enforced. You have to hand over your suitcases before going up to the waiting area inside the main building. The boat staff then carries it and stores it on the deck for you once the boat is ready.

But if you are asking for my opinion, I would suggest only taking a small cabin bag to Nusa Penida and storing all your big suitcases in Bali. This reduces the weight on the ferry and you do not have to drag your luggage on the sand at the port in Penida as it is not as developed. It will also end up being a blessing should the luggage get spoiled in an unfortunate situation.

Many people book an affordable villa in Sanur to store their luggage near the port or you can even keep it with your Bali hotel when checking out. There are also many luggage storing facilities close to Sanur Harbour that are greatly rated. My friend and I left our big suitcases with Putu and it ended up being very convenient.

CG’s tip: Although the boat companies do their best to prevent water damage on both big and small suitcases, I would still recommend keeping your valuables in a small backpack or a purse with you. They tend to throw the bags while loading and unloading so things can still break.

Final Thoughts

The view of Diamond Beach and its surrounding towering cliffs at sunrise.

That’s a wrap on a comprehensive Nusa Penida travel guide from me! I hope you found the information in this blog post helpful in planning your trip to Penida, the blue paradise island of Indonesia. My friend and I had such a lovely time there and I truly hope that you do too.

I tried to include everything I could think of in this guide, but if there is anything else I can help you out with, then please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. You can also DM me on Instagram or send an email. I love hearing from you and helping you plan your trips!

Happy Exploring, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ Wapa di Ume: A Hidden Paradise in East Bali ” and “ 520+ Best Bali Quotes and Bali Captions for Instagram ” too.

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A portrait shot of Kelingking Beach, where the hill looks like a T-rex dinosaur, surrounded by blue water and some limestones.

A Complete Travel Guide to Nusa Penida: 11 Best Beaches & Things To Do

An island full of adventures.

Nusa Penida is just a short 30-minute speedboat ride from Bali, yet its palm tree-lined roads are a world away from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s south coast.

It’s only recently that tourism has really picked up in Nusa Penida (at least compared to busy Bali), and it’s obvious that the industry hasn’t fully developed yet. Thankfully!

Lots of day-trippers make the trek across the strait, but if you choose to stay overnight on the island, you’ll find the tourist hotspots like Broken Beach , Angel’s Billabong , Kelingking Beach , Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach much calmer at sunrise or sunset.

We stayed 4 nights in Nusa Penida and loved the fact that we could take it slow and experience the sights at a leisurely pace.

In this travel guide, we’ll show you the highlights of Nusa Penida, how best to visit them, when to go, what to avoid, where to eat, where to sleep and share all of our best tips on visiting the island.

Where to stay in Nusa Penida:

Luxury : Aqua Nusa – Boutique villas with private pools in nearby Nusa Lembongan.
Luxury : Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida – Probably the best hotel in Nusa Penida.
Budget : WK Gamat – We loved staying here.
Budget : You & We House – Also fantastic value for money and great for sunrise at Diamond Beach.

Search for the best value accommodation in Nusa Penida here .

Table of contents

Why you should visit Nusa Penida

Map of nusa penida, kelingking beach, broken beach & angel’s billabong, diamond beach, crystal bay, teletubbies hills, snorkelling and diving, other sights, in which area should you stay in nusa penida, value for money, where to eat in nusa penida, nusa penida itinerary ideas, rainy season, renting a scooter in nusa penida, driving a scooter in nusa penida, how to get from bali to nusa penida, other ways to get from bali to nusa penida, our best tips for visiting nusa penida.

Nusa Penida is spectacularly beautiful .

The southern and eastern coastlines are rugged with steep cliff sides offering drop-offs of hundreds of metres; full of viewpoints to white sandy coves with azure waters .

Kelingking Beach (or T-Rex as its popularly called) is the absolute highlight of Nusa Penida, and even if you don’t wish to climb down to the beach via the steep “stairs”, the views from the top are itself worth the trek to the island.

Broken Beach is a marvel of nature, as is the dangerous but fascinating natural pool Angel’s Billabong .

Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach on the east-coast stun you with their sunrises behind rock formations placed in the perfect water.

Best views ever

These must be some of the most magnificent views on offer in Southeast Asia – which is also evident from the amount of tourists during the day.

To get to these epic sights , you sometimes need to navigate through hilly, pot-holed roads not suitable for novice drivers.

You need patience and a strong stomach – all adding to the allure and adventure of visiting Nusa Penida now before the island gets fully developed.

Experience Mother Nature at her finest

The waters aren’t just pretty from above. Some of the region’s best snorkelling is done from Nusa Penida and its two smaller neighbours Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

Stepping away from the coast, you’ll find small villages where local residents are happy to smile and wave, and journeys inland can reward you with jungle viewpoints and strange hilly formations like the funnily named Teletubbies Hills .

All in all, Nusa Penida is an adventure-lovers paradise with endless opportunities to venture off the path, hike staircases cut into rocks and experience the grandeur of Mother Nature at her finest .

Nusa Penida dwarfs its neighbours Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan with its 202.8 km 2 compared to just 8 km 2 for Nusa Lembongan and even less for Nusa Ceningan.

Nusa Penida is much smaller than Bali’s 5,780 km 2 , though.

You’ll first arrive on the northwestern part of Nusa Penida at the harbour of Toyapakeh .

The biggest (not big…) cities are found on the northern part of the island.

A ring road stretches around Nusa Penida.

Going east, the road hugs the shore until it reaches its most southeastern part, and then it goes inland back to Toyapakeh.

Driving off this road is where Nusa Penida’s adventures begin.

What to do in Nusa Penida

We were stunned by Kelingking Beach and its natural beauty on Nusa Penida’s west coast.

The T-Rex viewpoint is the most iconic spot in Nusa Penida for good reason.

Visiting Kelingking Beach is definitely a must-do on the island.

Read our Kelingking Beach Guide and learn all about what to expect including how to get there, going down to the beach itself and how to beat the crowds.

Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong are two marvels of nature on Nusa Penida’s west coast.

Angel’s Billabong is a small but supremely beautiful natural pool, while Broken Beach is a much larger (albeit unreachable) pool with a beach and a hole in the rocks where the waves sweep in.

The two attractions are just minutes of walking from each other.

Read our Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong Guide and learn all about what to expect including how to get there (and how to avoid getting swept out at sea!)

Atuh Beach is located on Nusa Penida’s east coast, known for the peculiar rock formations in the water – including a cool arch .

The beach is tidal , so timing your visit with high tide is crucial unless you like stones more than azure blue water. At high tide it’s swimmable.

A few metres from the shore, you can chill out in sun loungers and bean bags .

They’re in front of a whole range of warungs offering coconuts, cold drinks and Indonesian food.

When we visited Atuh Beach, we had two coconuts, nasi goreng and mie goreng (fried rice and noodles) all for IDR 100k (~ 7 USD / 6.2 EUR).

As there is steep cliff at both sides of the beach, you can reach Atuh Beach from two different parking lots .

The walk down isn’t strenuous.

We parked at the southern parking lot , which also provides access to Diamond Beach.

Diamond Beach is one of the most impressive beaches we’ve ever laid our eyes upon.

It’s just so perfectly pretty.

If you have the time to visit the east coast of Nusa Penida (and you should!), Diamond Beach is the absolute highlight .

It’s not great for swimming – in fact, we strongly advise against it.

Atuh Beach, which is just a few minutes of walking away, is better for cooling down.

Read our Diamond Beach Guide and learn all about what to expect from your visit and how to make the most of it.

The road to Crystal Bay is paved all the way, making it quite a bit easier to reach than some of the other beaches on the island.

It’s also from here than many snorkelling and diving trips start, making it a pretty busy spot .

Lying on the island’s west coast, it’s a perfect place to witness the daily show of the sunset , and the small island in the bay just adds to the already stunning views.

We visited in the afternoon and hung around for a few hours on a sunlounger. Lots of locals played in the water and the vibe was very lively .

The waves were pretty big, but Crystal Bay is a lot more swimmable than some of Nusa Penida’s other beaches.

Of course, you’ll find warungs offering coconuts, Bintangs and nasi goreng beachside.

Parking at Crystal Bay is just IDR 1k (~ 0.7 USD / 0.6 EUR).

Teletubbies Hills (Bukit Teletubbies in Indonesian) is more of a landscape than a single highlight, but don’t let the silly name scare you away .

If you want to see a different side of Nusa Penida, the Teletubbies hills are quite a captivating sight with their round shapes .

We visited the hills at sunset and enjoyed exploring the area on foot for a bit.

There’s absolutely nothing in terms of tourist facilities here and most of the land is actually agriculture, so remember to tread carefully and respect the locals.

Friends of the National Parks Foundation manages community development programs and holistic conservation in Nusa Penida.

If you want to lend a hand, this is a really cool way in which to get locally involved and help the island.

One of their key projects is protecting the world’s second most endangered bird – the endemic Bali starling, among other birds.

FNPF also manages a Sea Turtle Saver program for the endangered marine turtles .

Read more about volunteering with Friends of the National Parks Foundation in Nusa Penida on their website here .

As we prioritized experiences on land, we never ventured out into the sea to get a closer look at its marine life.

It’s supposedly nice – and tour operators, guesthouses and dive shops all over the island can help you arrange a trip .

Manta rays are the big drawing card, but please inquire carefully about the company’s policies.

Just like with the Lovina dolphins in Bali, we got the impression that tourist selfies might get put quite far ahead of concerns about animal welfare and sea pollution .

If you choose to go, never chase the animals and instead let them come to you.

Just like in Bali, the people in Nusa Penida predominantly practice a form of Buddhist Hinduism .

Nusa Penida is known as the place where you send away your bad spirits, but we felt no presence of dark magic .

This lore is one of the reasons that tourism has only picked up in recent years on the island, though.

There are several temples scattered around Nusa Penida offering a glimpse into the daily life of ceremonies and prayer.

If you visit Bali on the same trip as you visit Nusa Penida, we won’t highlight visiting the temples here as a must-do, but stopping in for a quick look when passing them roadside is an easy recommendation as they’re so intrinsically carved and decorated.

There are two temples on the island which could be of special interest:

Goa Giri Putri Temple is a unique temple in that it’s cut into a cave. It looks pretty awesome.

The sacred water temple at Peguyangan Waterfall isn’t so impressive by itself, but its location by the ocean certainly is. And the blue stairs you have to climb to get down there are super cool.

Nusa Penida is a big island and there’s plenty more to explore than what we have mentioned here – including lots of both named and unnamed viewpoints scattered around the rough coasts.

Thousand Island Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu in Indonesian) is famous, but we cheated a bit and got the view as seen from our drone at Diamond Beach. This is where the Airbnb tree house is located.

Saren Cliff Viewpoint and Banah Cliffs are two other spectacular viewpoints.

On the top of the list for adventurers is Seganing Falls (not for the faint of heart) along with Tembeling Beach .

Where to stay in Nusa Penida

On which part of Nusa Penida you want to stay depends entirely on your itinerary.

We recommend choosing accommodation as close as possible to whatever you want to experience.

It should be noted, though, that food options are generally best near the speed boat harbour in Toya Pakeh in the northwest and in the main town of Sampalan a little further to the east.

If being the first one for sunrise at a spot isn’t a priority for you (or you don’t mind waking up even earlier), you can easily spend all of your nights in just one place in Nusa Penida as the island isn’t too big to drive around.

Where we stayed in Nusa Penida

We stayed for two nights at WK Gamat (adlink) on Nusa Penida’s western side, situating us closer to Broken Beach and Kelingking Beach.

We then stayed two nights on the eastern side at You & We House (adlink) so the drive to experience sunrise at Diamond Beach wasn’t as long.

Search for the best value accommodation in Nusa Penida here (adlink) .

As far as we can tell, there aren’t really any luxury hotels in Nusa Penida.

If you’re looking for top-of-the-line accommodation, you’ll be better off basing yourself on nearby Nusa Lembongan and taking day trips from there to Nusa Penida’s attractions.

Aqua Nusa – Boutique Lembongan Villas

Aqua Nusa is located on Nusa Lembongan .

Two of the four villas at Aqua Nusa have private pools , and they all feature grand ocean views (including Mount Agung in the distance).

Wifi is offered, as is air conditioning and daily housekeeping.

Check prices and availability at Aqua Nusa (adlink) .

Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida – Nusa Penida’s best hotel

Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida is probably your best bet for a luxurious hotel in Nusa Penida.

The view is amazing, there’s an infinity pool and the rooms look really nice.

Check prices and availability at Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida (adlink) .

Semabu Hills luxury hotel in Nusa Penida

As new hotels, homestays and guesthouses pop up regularly in Nusa Penida these days, there are lots of places to stay in the value for money category (which could also easily be called the budget category as it’s so cheap).

You can generally get a nice double room in the two to three-star category with A/C, wifi and private bathroom – plus perhaps a pool, all at a very fair price .

Road Beach Premier

This 3-starred hotel is one of Penida’s only beachfront places to stay.

It’s located on the island’s north coast, close to lots of dining options.

The double room comes with free wifi, air conditioning and a private bathroom – plus direct access to the sea .

Check prices and availability at Road Beach Premier (adlink) .

It’s a few minutes of driving on a gravel road, but once you reach WK Gamat, the outside world can just melt away.

The hotel is located in a very rural area with charming views and the sounds that follow.

Chilling out in the pool after a day of exploring is just perfect, and the rooms offered a comfortable double bed, desk, wifi , air conditioning and a roofless private bathroom.

The staff was so service-minded and we felt very welcome at WK Gamat.

WK Gamat is located in Nusa Penida’s western part , about 45 minutes of driving from Kelingking Beach and just 15 minutes from the harbour.

Check prices and availability at WK Gamat (adlink) .

You & We House

You & We House is located in a small village in Suana (just 30 minutes from Diamond Beach), where the locals still look at foreigners like rarities and smile and wave eagerly.

There’s just one other hotel and no shops here – not even a warung.

The hotel is newly built and offers a pool , breakfast, double rooms with A/C , wifi and private bathrooms for a very fair price.

We loved the ocean views .

The guy managing the place was just lovely and spoke English while his wife was just learning.

We were able to fill our water bottles from their water dispenser for free, which is always a plus.

Driving here ourselves, Google Maps gave us some strange directions and we wound up driving through really narrow passageways between the local houses. Don’t do that – insist on driving on the wider road and just ask a local for directions if you need it. Simply turn right at the volleyball court and follow the road for two minutes.

Check prices and availability at You & We House (adlink) .

Atuh Forest Cottage

For staying on Nusa Penida’s east coast , just 10 minutes from Atuh Beach, Atuh Forest Cottage looks like a very promising bet.

The four guest rooms designed with wood and bamboo all include wifi , air conditioning , a private bathroom as well as mountain views.

There’s no pool, but you can enjoy the scenery from the porch or soak some sun in the sun beds .

Check prices and availability at Atuh Forest Cottage (adlink) .

Friends of the National Parks Foundation

If you’re volunteering with the Friends of the National Parks Foundation in Nusa Penida, you’ll get to stay in their traditional cottages while proceeds go directly to their important conservation projects .

Prices are pretty low, starting at IDR 182k (~ 12.8 USD / 11.3 EUR) for 1 person staying in a dormitory. Prices get lower the longer you stay. There are also twin rooms.

Read more about volunteering in Nusa Penida here .

Jevon Cottage

Jevon Cottage is a great budget find close to the harbour in Nusa Penida.

The rooms look very clean, come with air conditioning, private bathroom and the location is very convenient , especially for shorter stays in Nusa Penida.

Check prices and availability at Jevon Cottage .

The amount of restaurants in Nusa Penida isn’t overwhelming, and the options for food except for the ubiquitous standard Indonesian fare are quite limited .

There are some international dishes on offer, though. Including lots of smoothie bowls .

And if you like nasi goreng , you won’t have any problems at all as there are local warungs all over the island.

Most eateries are concentrated around the towns on the west and north parts of Nusa Penida.

Food prices are generally low compared to Bali. Taxes and service charge are usually not included in the bill.

For more photos and food tips, check out our Vegan Eating Guide to Nusa Penida .

Vegan Soul Kitchen

To get to Vegan Soul Kitchen, you’ll have to endure a few more minutes of steep-ish gravel roads away from the main road – but the reward is so worth the journey .

Vegan Soul Kitchen is – as the name suggests – 100% vegan , and the views from the restaurant’s patio over the surrounding jungle are spectacular.

We visited twice and had great food at really low prices both times.

If you’ve grown accustomed to Bali’s vegan kitchen standards, you won’t be blown away by the quality, but everything was tasty and arrived quickly.

Even if you’re not vegan or vegetarian we can wholeheartedly recommend Vegan Soul Kitchen for a nice meal.

It’s possible to stay here at the super budget-friendly Echo Alam Nusa Lodge (adlink) . Vegan Soul Kitchen is the accommodation’s on-site restaurant.

Warung Tu Pandeh

Warung Tu Pandeh is a local restaurant catering mainly to tourists .

We had the Eggplant Curry with rice and thought it to be tasty. Service was quick, prices low and all of the portions looked quite big.

The following morning we had a smoothie bowl (not really good) and a serving of Nasi Goreng with extra vegetables (always good).

There’s wifi and you can refill water bottles at Warung Tu Pandeh.

Penida Espresso

Just a few minutes of scooter riding away from the harbour, you’ll find Penida Espresso on the side of the road.

Here you can get a shot of caffeine (including options for soy or coconut milk), juices, smoothie bowls and a few simple dishes including avocado toast.

The Mixed Fresh Fruit Juices priced at just 30k are easy to recommend for that daily shot of vitamins.

The Gallery

The Gallery is just next door from Penida Espresso, and as the sign outside says “vegan options”, of course, we had to give it a try.

On a separate occasion – don’t worry!

Victoria thought the soy milk in the caffe latte to be overly sweet, but the Vegan Banana Pancake was quite nice.

We also had the Vegan Burger in a ciabatta bun . It was more like a sandwich; with eggplant, bell pepper and tempeh, but the taste was good and the bun surprisingly soft, served with fries.

Vegan Tempeh Burger in a ciabatta bun and a banana pancake

How long to stay in Nusa Penida

How long to stay in Nusa Penida entirely depends on how many activities you want to do and the tempo in which you wish to do them.

Day trips from Bali usually cover either:

A western itinerary with Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach and Kelingking.
An eastern itinerary with Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach and Thousands Island’s viewpoint.
Or focus entirely on snorkelling or diving .

If you want to do more than just one of these three (and we definitely think you should!), staying overnight in Nusa Penida makes a lot of sense.

Sleeping here for at least one night is also a great idea if you want to experience the main attractions at sunrise or sunset without the crowds , making for a much more serene setting.

While we really enjoyed staying four nights in Nusa Penida, four nights certainly isn’t necessary to see the highlights of the island.

If you arrive early on the first day and leave late on your last, you can pack in a lot of experiences with a one , two or three nights stay in Nusa Penida.

If you want to see the sights when they’re at their finest (and least crowded), think about where you want to be for sunrise and sunset each day.

Intend on snorkelling or diving? Remember to factor in that, too.

One night itinerary

With one night, we would choose to go to Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong during the day and then head for Kelingking Beach in the afternoon and stay for sunset.

The next morning we would recommend heading to Diamond Beach for sunrise.

Two-night itinerary

With a two night stay in Nusa Penida, you can extend your stay on Diamond Beach and hang out on Atuh Beach on day 2 – or explore some of the viewpoints on the east coast for the rest of the day, hanging around to also catch the sunset.

If you’ve had enough of the shore, take the short drive to Teletubbies Hills.

Three-night itinerary

Three nights in Nusa Penida should be enough time for most people to see the island’s top attractions .

Choose what you want to see the most and then spend more time there, for example spending a whole day at Kelingking Beach and/or Diamond Beach.

Or try to pack in as much as possible if you have the stamina – with three nights it’s definitely do-able to see everything we’ve written about in this guide + more!

We just chose to take it rather slow with our four nights and also spent time lazing by the pool and having long lunches.

When to visit Nusa Penida

Generally speaking, Nusa Penida and its many attractions can be visited year-round .

All year, the average temperature hovers around 27°C/80°F in the day and 22°C/72°F at night. In other words, a very pleasant climate!

The seasons can roughly be divided into a dry season and a rainy season .

Nusa Penida temperature averages in C and F

Dry season equals high season, and it spans from around May to October .

July and August are the most popular months for travelling to Nusa Penida.

In these months you can expect mostly sunny skies and relatively little rain.

Nusa Penida is at its wettest from November to April with most rain usually falling in January and February.

Don’t digress if you’re visiting Nusa Penida in the rainy season; prices on accommodation are lower and there will be fewer tourists visiting the island.

Rainfall is generally short and intense .

The sand on Diamond Beach is super smooth

How to get around Nusa Penida

There is no public transport in Nusa Penida, so to get around the island you’ll have to arrange your own mode of transportation.

If you’re going to a day tour from Bali, a driver will be included in the price.

Independently arranging a car with a driver including gas will usually cost around IDR 600k per day (~ 42 USD / 37 EUR).

If you feel up to driving yourself, renting a motorbike is the best option .

Though neither easy to get nor cheap, a motocross-type bike will be awesome to drive on (if you have experience).

Renting a regular scooter (125cc) is the most common way to get around.

Scooters can be rented from the harbour or usually also from your hotel/guesthouse.

We paid IDR 300k for 4 days of rental (IDR 75k per day ~ 5.3 USD / 4.7 EUR).

We have heard of rental prices between 70k and 100k per day, so don’t expect prices to be as low as on Bali.

You’ll soon understand why when you realize how much maintenance these scooters have to have to survive the road conditions!

The first guy we talked to at the harbour didn’t have any helmets , so we just walked a few metres further and the next one was eager to help.

That “there is no police on the island” is not a good reason to avoid wearing a helmet. Don’t be stupid .

The main roads on the island are paved and in good condition .

It’s once you get off these roads that things get interesting.

If it’s your first time driving a bike or you feel uncomfortable with huge potholes, gravel and inclines all mixed in one, consider hiring a driver instead of a scooter.

If it rather sounds like an adventure to you, you’re in for a blast.

The worst road we encountered was fittingly enough the one leading to Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong.

Going to Kelingking Beach was less stressful but still quite a bit more difficult to navigate than the road leading to Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach on the island’s east side.

Alex on our flashy scooter in Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida traffic

Apart from the road conditions, another factor in driving yourself in Nusa Penida is handling the oncoming traffic .

SUV’s swerve around the island with tourists, and they won’t necessarily slow down just because there’s less than one metre of room between the car and the shoulder of the road (with you in the middle).

So drive slowly and non-aggressively, especially around tight corners, and you will most likely love exploring Nusa Penida on a scooter.

As traffic becomes close to non-existent pretty fast once you head east , driving (and running!) here is a real delight .

How to get to Nusa Penida

With no airport, the only option to get to Nusa Penida is by boat .

The most common option is to take a speedboat from Sanur harbour in southern Bali .

It’s also possible to travel from Lombok (and the Gili islands ) or from Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan to get to Nusa Penida.

The crossing from Bali to Nusa Penida by speedboat only takes around 30 minutes , making it feasible to visit the island on a day trip – though we recommend staying a few nights.

There are loads of boat companies offering the trip, with different prices and standards.

It seems that the best option is to book your boat in advance as that will usually include some kind of transport to the harbour as well as the transport to your accommodation in Nusa Penida.

If you just show up on Sanur, expect to get hustled. At least a little bit.

Our personal experience

We went with Crown Fast Cruises.

The night before we wanted to visit Nusa Penida, we called them up and arranged the details of our hotel pick-up through WhatsApp. Their English was excellent.

For a return ticket , we paid IDR 600k each (~ 42 USD / 37 EUR).

We also paid 150k extra for pickup (each way), making the total price for both of us to get from our hotel in Canggu to Nusa Penida and back IDR 1,500k (~ 106 USD / 93 EUR).

Pick up is free from certain pickup points.

There are certainly cheaper options, but we felt safe with Crown and can easily recommend them.

The whole operation felt very professional .

The boat was in good condition, seats were comfortable and there were lifevests enough for everybody onboard.

The experience at Sanur harbour

After a traffic-filled journey to Sanur from Canggu, we got shuffled to Crown’s small open-air “office” on the harbour.

Here we got checked-in by a lovely lady who confirmed our itinerary.

From this point, we waited around 30 minutes before actually leaving. There are seats in the shade.

Small cafés offer drinks and it’s possible to pay for toilet and shower facilities at Sanur.

Be aware that if you opt to go by speedboat from Sanur to Nusa Penida, your feet will get wet as there is no pier and you have to wade through knee-high water to get to the speedboat.

Public ferry

We heard that there is a public ferry that transports people, cars and goods between Bali and Nusa Penida.

It leaves from Padang Bai , takes 1-2 hours and costs around IDR 40k (~ 2.8 USD / 2.5 EUR).

You can bring your own scooter for IDR 50k (~ 3.5 USD / 3.1 EUR).

Its schedule is seemingly erratic, so this is only for the very budget-conscious.

From Kusumba or Tribuana

Speedboats leave to Nusa Penida from the two ports at Kusumba and Tribuana from Bali.

This might be more convenient if you’re staying in Bali’s east .

The trip from here is also around 30 minutes.

Bali – Nusa Lembongan – Nusa Penida

As there are lots of boats going from Bali to Nusa Lembongan, sailing here first is also an option.

The trip from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida by boat is just 10-15 minutes .

It should be possible to arrange to arrive from Bali on one island and departing from the other.

Trash is, unfortunately, a huge issue in Nusa Penida. Try to do your part to reduce your environmental impact by minimising your use of single-use plastics while on the island.
The electrical outlets in Nusa Penida generally feature two round prongs, fitting both most European and Asian appliances. The standard voltage is 220 volts.
Bring Indonesian rupiah in cash (preferably small bills). Credit cards are only accepted at more high-end places. ATMs do exist in Nusa Penida but we wouldn’t depend on them.
Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling in the high season (July, August and December to March). There will always be beds available, but many of the best accommodations get fully booked.
Sun protection is important; Apart from clothes and shade, we use this eco-friendly sunscreen (adlink) .
Wear proper shoes if you intend to climb down to Kelingking Beach.
Wifi in Nusa Penida isn’t great. Most places it’s not even good… So don’t count on doing too many uploads from here.
A good camera is essential for visiting Nusa Penida – here’s our guide to lightweight photography gear for high-quality travel content .

Thanks for reading

Thanks for getting all the way to the end!

We hope this guide to visiting Nusa Penida has been useful.

What do you think about the island?

If you’ve been to Nusa Penida, it would be awesome to hear your best tips in the comments.

If you haven’t yet been, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re glad to help!

Pin for later:

Everything you need to know about beautiful Nusa Penida, including what to do, where to eat and where to sleep + our best tips.

Our favourite travel resources:

Booking.com for cheap hotels.
Momondo for the best flight deals.
SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
See all of our camera gear here .
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Love watching sunset every night !

A Detailed Nusa Penida Itinerary | How to Spend 1,2,3 Days on the Island

By: Author Charles

Posted on May 26, 2023

A Detailed Nusa Penida Itinerary | How to Spend 1,2,3 Days on the Island

One of the top places that I recommend visiting during a trip to Indonesia would have to be the beautiful island of Nusa Penida.

Located just off the southeastern coast of Bali, you will find an island full of pristine beaches, blue waters, vast viewpoints, underground temples, and plenty of windy roads.

This guide will go over how to put together the best possible Nusa Penida itinerary, whether you have 1, 2 or 3 days to visit the island.

* Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) How to Get to Nusa Penida

Since Nusa Penida is an island and has no airport, the only way to get there would be by boat.

There really are only three places that have direct ferries to Nusa Penida – 1) Bali, 2) the Gili Islands, or 3) the nearby Nusa Lembongan.

You will most likely be arriving in Nusa Penida at the Toya Pakeh Harbour or potentially at the nearby Buyuk Harbour.

To see the latest ferry schedules I would recommend heading over to a website like Baliferry, Gilitickets, Giligetaways, or Directferries .

While they include several of the ferry companies, they do not necessarily have them all on there either, so be sure to research around. Below are the approximate prices and times of the ferries to Nusa Penida:

From Bali (Sanur Harbor) | ~$17 – $25 USD | 1 Hour
From Gili Trawangan / Air | ~$45 USD | 2 Hours
From Nusa Lembongan | ~$10 USD | 20 minutes

» If coming from Bali, most ferry companies include hotel pick up with the cost of the ticket. This usually only applies if you are staying from southern Bali up to Ubud.

» You can also take part of a “do it yourself” day trip from Bali if you do not have the time to spend the night on Nusa Penida. Simply grab the first ferry of the day, and then head back to Bali on the last departure. Feel free to leverage any single day from the itinerary down below when putting that day trip together.

2) How to Get Around

When it comes to Nusa Penida, there are two main ways to get yourself around the island – by scooter or by private driver.

A third potential option here (and mostly for those day visitors from Bali) is to take a guided day tour of the island with everything taken care of for you – car transfer, ferry tickets, guide, etc.

» If you are comfortable enough on a scooter / motorbike, you can rent one from the harbor area or your hotel for as little as $5 – $10 USD per day . Some of the roads of Nusa Penida are in very poor condition, with tons of uneven terrain throughout.

I have heard of plenty of accidents happening on the island with those who were not experienced enough. So please do not rent a scooter if you do not have the expertise.

» If you want to play it safe, I would recommend hiring a driver for each day you are on the island, so you can be taken to any attractions that you would like to visit. Expect to pay around $40 USD for a full day driver on the island. You can either find them at the harbor area or have your hotel help set one up for you.

» Lastly, you could join a tour that will take you around the island if doing so as a Bali day trip. You can choose from a few different types of options here depending on what attractions you want to visit:

From Bali: Nusa Penida Small Group Tour by Speed Boat
Bali: Day Trip to East Nusa Penida, Atuh & Diamond Beach
From Bali: Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida

Check out this Nusa Penida private tour option that includes a driver for the day as you pick & choose the highlight that you are most interested in visiting

3) Where to Stay

Nusa Penida is relatively new to the tourism landscape which is why many of the roads throughout the island are just not up to standard.

You also won’t find too many tourist hotspot areas like an Ubud or a Seminyak. Many of the accommodation options are just sprawled throughout.

A lot of the popular spots though are more on the western side of the island closer to the harbor area.

Below are some highly rated options based on price point in that area. What is also great about Nusa Penida is that it is budget friendly with the most expensive options not even $100 per night.

Luxury: Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida | Daphila Cottage
Mid Range: Singabu Bungalows | Sawit Garden Cottages | Crystal Bay Bungalows
Budget: Miko Bali Bungalow | Prasi Sunset Bungalows

4) Helpful Tips & Notes

» Staying on the island overnight gives you the chance to get up early and stay late to avoid the crowds . Many of these attractions can get quite crowded during the day, so by being on your own schedule, you will have a better chance to really enjoy each place.

» As mentioned before, the roads are bumpy and can be quite dangerous . Only rent a scooter if you have the appropriate experience.

» The island can be broken into two main parts – the western and eastern side . Most day trippers will focus on the western side as it is closer to the harbor area and has some of the top attractions, while the eastern side is a bit less crowded.

» Bring cash with you from Bali. While there are ATMs on the island, they are harder to come by so plan accordingly and bring enough cash along.

» For lunch, plan on eating at a warung nearby some of the beaches or other attractions . I would not venture far off your route for the day just to go to a certain restaurant since it can take a good amount of time navigating the roads.

» For dinner, you may not find too many options around depending on where you are staying . There may just be a handful of them that are within walking distance from your hotel, and don’t expect anything too fancy there.

» Many of the attractions require entrance/parking fees, but these are usually no more than just one dollar or so . Be sure to have some small change with you throughout the day.

A Nusa Penida Itinerary

Now that you have some background on how to get to Nusa Penida, how to get around, and where to stay, let’s dive into some potential 1,2, and 3 day itinerary options for your time exploring the island.

I have written up three separate days of attractions down below, so feel free to mix and match the days based on how long you have on the island.

Day 1 will include the most popular attractions on the west coast, day 2 will focus on the east coast, and day 3 will have a little bit of everything.

Depending on the type of traveler you are and your travel pace, feel free to add or remove certain attractions along the way. If you want to spend one full day just at the beach then go for it!

I have also included the map below which shows day 1 in blue, day 2 in orange, and day 3 in purple.

5) Nusa Penida 1 Day

Whether you are staying on the island for the night or just taking the day trip from Bali, below is what a 1 day Nusa Penida itinerary can look like. Since it is only a single day, this will entail all the main and easily accessible attractions on the western side of the island.

Angel’s Billabong

Angel’s Billabong is a beautiful natural tidal pool on Nusa Penida overlooking the ocean. To enjoy the tidal pool though, you must plan your visit around low tide. As the tide gets higher, the water from the ocean starts splashing its way into the tidal pool.

This not only ruins the serene views of the pool, but it also means you will not have the chance to head into Angel’s Billabong either as it would just be too dangerous.

» Learn more in the Angel’s Billabong Guide up on the site

Broken Beach

Just a few minutes’ walk from Angel’s Billabong you will find another top natural attraction on the island – Broken Beach.

While the beach is not accessible, you can enjoy some 360-degree views from up top as you circle the beach and walk above on the rock arch.

Down below you will be able to see the waves crashing through the arch alongside the scenic rock formations lining the beach.

» Learn more in the Broken Beach Guide up on the site

Kelingking Beach

Arguably the most popular attraction of Nusa Penida is Kelingking Beach. From the viewpoint area above, you will be able to take in one of the top views in all of Indonesia.

Out in front of you will be this massive T-Rex shaped peninsula, the crystal-clear waters, and the sandy beach itself.

Here comes the fun part though – in order to reach the beach, you will need to head down a steep and somewhat dangerous pathway that is built into the cliffside walls.

It should take around 30 minutes or so to get from the viewpoint area to the beach itself, but once you are down there, you can fully enjoy all that Kelingking has to offer.

» Learn more in the Kelingking Beach Guide up on the site

Crystal Bay

If you are staying overnight on the island and are not in a rush to get back to Bali, then you should end your day with a sunset experience at Crystal Bay.

Since it is the main beach on the western side of the island, you will find that many people head there to enjoy a nice sunset.

Out in the distance you will be able to see Nusa Ceningan with the sun slowly setting behind the island.

Quick tip – you can also make the walk to the more seclusive Pandan Beach, which is located just on the southern side of Crystal Bay.

» Learn more in the Crystal Bay Guide up on the site

6) Nusa Penida 2 Day

If you have 2 days to spare when visiting Nusa Penida, you will be able to enjoy even more of what this beautiful island has to offer. While you can keep day 1 as is from above, day 2 will focus on the eastern side of Nusa Penida.

The below attractions can be completed in a clockwise direction as you make your way from one place to the next and enjoy much of what eastern Nusa Penida has to offer.

Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple

The first stop of the day can be the Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple.

Now this is not your normal temple. Instead, you will need to maneuver your way through a small hole built into the mountainside, and once through, you will be greeted to a massive cave temple.

There are several chambers throughout the cave with various rituals going on as you make the walk around. When it comes to authentic cultural experiences, this is one of the best you can ask for on Nusa Penida.

» Learn more in the Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple Guide up on the site

After leaving the temple, continue the drive around the island, where you will soon arrive at a parking lot located directly between Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach.

From the parking lot, you will be able to visit both beaches over the course of several hours.

To get to Atuh Beach, you will need to head down a steep staircase until you reach the beach level.

Once you arrive at Atuh Beach, feel free to grab a chair in the sand, have some food/drinks from one of the warungs and take a dip in the water.

After finishing up at Atuh Beach, you will need to make that walk back up to the parking lot area, where you can then check out Diamond Beach.

» Learn more in the Atuh Beach Guide up on the site

Diamond Beach

Before heading down to Diamond Beach itself, you can walk around the top area to get some nice views of the beach from above. Once you are ready, it is time to make your way on the staircase built into the cliffside wall.

The walk down offers some breathtaking views of the staircase, the massive cliff, the clear waters, and the beach itself. After reaching the bottom of the staircase, you can once again enjoy yet another beach on Nusa Penida.

After enough time down below, it is back up the staircase, and to the parking lot, where you can continue to the last stop of the day.

» Learn more in the Diamond Beach Guide up on the site

Rumah Pohon Treehouse & Thousand Islands Viewpoint

Just a few minutes’ drive towards the opposite side of Diamond Beach you will find one of my favorite viewpoints on Nusa Penida.

The spot is called the Thousand Islands Viewpoint but it is also home to the famous Rumah Pohon Treehouse. Just note if you see one of these mentioned, you are essentially visiting both of them.

From the viewpoint spot you will have the view of Diamond Beach from an alternate angle alongside several of these massive rock formations jutting out of the water down below.

You will find a few treehouses around the viewpoint area that overlook these views as well. If you are interested, you can actually reserve a night at the treehouse and wake up/go to sleep with that view.

» Learn more in the Rumah Pohon Treehouse & Thousand Islands Viewpoint guides up on the site

Thousand Islands Viewpoint and Rumah Pohon Tree House

7) Nusa Penida 3 Day

Having three days to explore Nusa Penida will give you the chance to visit all of the above and then decide what types of activities you would like to take part of on your last day on the island. Below are a few different options to choose from based on your preference.

1) Two of the other highly rated attractions that are located right in between the west and east side of the island include:

Tembeling Beach & Natural Pools

The Tembeling Beach, Natural Pools and Forest is one of the less visited attractions on the island. It offers the chance to get away from the crowds a bit, but still enjoy a very beautiful place on Nusa Penida.

There are a few different parts to Tembeling that you will get to experience during a visit. First is the drive down as you pass through the Tembeling Forest.

Once you are at the parking lot area, you will walk down the stairs and be welcomed to a large natural swimming pool.

From there you will take in views of a “secret beach” with hundreds of rock piles set up in the area, and soon after will come across a second smaller natural swimming pool.

Finally, there is Tembeling Beach itself – a small beach to relax at with some great views.

» Learn more in the Tembeling Beach Guide up on the site

Peguyangan Waterfall

Another less visited attraction on the island is the Peguyangan Waterfall. It is not just a simple waterfall though. From the parking lot area you will make your way down a steep blue colored staircase that is built alongside the cliff wall.

Once you reach the bottom of the staircase you will arrive at a temple area and a natural spring that is spouting out water to cleanse in. The water then makes its way over the side of the cliff resulting in the Peguyangan Waterfall.

2) Another option here is to head on a scuba diving or snorkeling trip off the coast of the island and have the chance to see some manta rays. This was something I didn’t have the chance to do it, but it is certainly on my bucket list for next time around.

3) Finally, if all the sightseeing on the first two days was enough for you, then why not just pick a beach on the island – it could be one of the beaches mentioned above or a less visited one, and just spend the day relaxing in the sand and enjoying the beautiful water.

» One of my recommendations here would be the less visited Suwehan Beach , located on the eastern side of the island. You can definitely combo the beach along with one or both of Tembeling and Peguyangan if you would like.

That about wraps up a potential 1,2 or 3 day Nusa Penida itinerary to better help you plan your trip to the island. If you do have any questions or comments, feel free to add them in below.

Also don’t forget to check out the other Indonesia itineraries and guides up on the site like a One Week Java Itinerary , 3 Day Ubud Itinerary or 7 Day Bali itinerary .

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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ASIA , BALI , INDONESIA · June 13, 2019 Last Updated on March 14, 2024

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NUSA PENIDA

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I’ve been dreaming about visiting Nusa Penida for a long time. Nusa Penida is a beautiful island southeast of Bali, next to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. It is still relatively unknown as many tourists choose to stay in Bali during their holidays. It takes approximately 40 minutes by boat from Nusa Dua Harbor to get to the island.

We recommend staying at least 2 days on Nusa Penida to be able to visit both sides. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know to visit Nusa Penida, all the best sights, how to get around the island, where to stay, eat, and more!

NUSA PENIDA DAY 1: WESTERN SIDE

Kelingking beach.

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ANGEL’S BILLABONG

Continue your Nusa Penida tour by driving 30 minutes to Angel’s Billabong , a beautiful rock formation that looks like a natural pool. We found this place quite busy compared to the others as the area in Angel’s Billabong is not very big. The walk is relatively easy and there is a small temple you can rest at. Although some tourists go into the pool, it is not a good idea as some tourists have injured themselves due to the strong currents that come to the rock pool.

Tip: Sunrise is the best time to get in the water, as the sea level is very low and you will not get hit by the waves.

BROKEN BEACH

Next to Angel’s Billabong is a little bay that has a natural arch leading out into the ocean locally known as “ Broken Beach .” The water is crystal clear and the views are amazing from above. Parking is easy on the dirt parking lot right next to the path. It is a pleasant walk around the arch and not as crowded as we were expecting. You can also get some amazing drone shots over Broken Beach!

Tip: You will also find little local cafes where you can buy water. Try their grilled corn for only 20,000 IDR (~$1.50)!

CRYSTAL BAY BEACH FOR SUNSET

Nusa penida day 2: eastern side, diamond beach, thousand island viewpoint.

Only a few minutes by car from Diamond Beach is Thousand Island Viewpoint. I hope you brought your energy because getting to the viewpoint means you will need to climb some stairs. It will take you 15 minutes to get to the lookout and reach the famous Nusa Penida treehouse. There are many points where you can stop for a while and admire the beauty of the island. We were impressed by the colors of the water, it was so blue, so pure.

NUSA PENIDA TREEHOUSE

After spending some time appreciating the view of Diamond Beach from the distance, you will find the two little treehouses at the top of the viewpoint. These treehouses are actually on AirBnB and you can rent them for the night if you want to watch the sunset, although there’s no Wifi, AC or anything nearby. But it is the perfect place to relax away from everyone.

You may also need to queue to get the famous photo up on the treehouse as they are empty during the day. After you are done here, keep going up the hill and you will find the last lookout with a little temple looking to both sides.

TELETUBBIES HILL

How to get around nusa penida.

The only way to get around Nusa Penida is by car or by motorbike. We would recommend hiring a private driver as he will know the exact way and all the secret paths.

We found motorbikes a little dangerous as Nusa Penida does not have proper roads and they are all very bumpy. In fact, we saw two accidents of tourists that were driving bikes. And it is also very easy to get lost and Google Maps is not the most reliable, so hiring a private driver for the day is more comfortable and safer.

WHERE TO STAY ON NUSA PENIDA

We stayed at La Roja Bungalows while visiting Nusa Penida. This place was exactly what we had imagined before coming to Nusa Penida. It is the perfect place to organize a floating breakfast in their pool and you can ask them to arrange it for you for an extra cost.

If you want to stay at a luxurious hotel for an affordable price, we may suggest Adiwana at Nusa Penida. Other well reviewed hotels include Semabu Hills Hotel , Ocean Terrace Suites , and Coco Resort Penida . You can also find decent options on AirBnB depending on your preferences.

WHERE TO EAT

It may be a little difficult to find healthy options in Nusa Penida as it is quite remote compared to Bali. These are some of the restaurants we found on the island where they served vegetarian options, smoothie bowls and traditional food. Some of our favorites included:

Penida Kekinian
Vegan Soul Kitchen
The Gallery Nusa Penida
Penida Espresso

Don’t be afraid to try local restaurants, or “warungs.” We tried some on our way to the different places and they were all very kind and helped us veganize our menus.

WHAT TO KNOW FOR VISITING BALI

Indonesia visas.

The typical visa to visit Indonesia allows you a free 30 day stay depending on your country of nationality. Be sure to check the official Indonesia visa website for the latest information.

The currency used in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) . The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 14,000 IDR. You can check the latest IDR exchange rate on Google .

While traveling, our number one tip is to use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card which gives unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds and the true exchange rate.

BEST TOURS IN BALI

Some of the best tours and things to do in Bali are:

Bali Instagram Tour
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Snorkeling Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan

WHERE TO STAY IN NUSA PENIDA

We recommend booking your hotels on Booking.com to get the best rate and many hotels offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Some of our favorite hotels on Nusa Penida are:

La Roja Bungalows
Semabu Hills Hotel
Ocean Terrace Suites

AirBnB is also a great option in Bali! Save up to £34 on your first booking.

For more hotel options, be sure to read our 9 Epic Places To Stay In Bali article!

BEST TIME TO VISIT INDONESIA

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season between April and October . July and August can be very crowded, so we prefer the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October.

BEST BOOKS ABOUT BALI

Read more about Indonesia before you go! Some of the best books about Bali are:

Eat, Pray, Love
A House in Bali
Under the Volcano: A Story of Bali

WHAT POWER ADAPTERS DO YOU NEED

Indonesia uses standard 2 prong Type C adapters also commonly used in Europe.

You can buy a universal adapter that will work in any country and has extra ports for USB cables to charge your phone and other devices.

We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journies.

TRANSPORTATION IN BALI

Public Transportation: There is limited public transportation in Bali. You can take public ferries between islands by using a website like Bookaway .
Rental Cars : It is possible to rent a car at the airport in Bali, though driving might be challenging due to road congestion and local rules.
Uber: Uber is sometimes available in Bali, though it depends on the area. Many local drivers do not like Uber so you may want to use the licensed Blue Bird Taxis or hire a private driver for the day instead.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Our top recommended travel insurance companies for Bali are:

World Nomads : Comprehensive coverage for medical, travel delays, and electronics.
SafetyWing : Cheaper monthly coverage primarily for medical.

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This website may use affiliate links in our articles. Please see our Disclosures for more information.

You’ll Also Love

Samuel John says

June 13, 2019 at 10:51 am

Amazing place..never heard of the place before. Its my neighbouring country. Should visit one day

Andrea says

June 15, 2019 at 8:37 am

Thank you so much. Nusa Penida was one the most beautiful places we have ever seen! Definitely worth visiting it!

Guide your Travel says

June 30, 2020 at 5:25 am

This is the post I needed when I first went to Nusa Penida two years ago. It’s by far my favourite island in Indonesia to blog about. Incredible nature and so much to see. Thanks for all the tips, definitely a few things in hear I hadn’t heard before and will add to my notes!

July 1, 2020 at 12:18 am

Thank you so much for your kind words!! It means a lot that you liked my article:)

Andrea, The Fruit Goddess

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Kelingking beach viewpoint - Nusa Penida travel guide

The Best Travel Guide to Nusa Penida Island, Bali

Last Updated on February 29, 2024 by Natalia

Home to the stunning Kelingking beach, the beautiful island of Nusa Penida is an increasingly popular place to visit as a day trip from Bali and our travel guide here covers all you need to know! While Kelingking beach may be the most famous attraction on the island, Nusa Penida is also one of the best spots in Bali to go snorkelling and diving, with manta rays commonly spotted on tours visiting the aptly named Manta Point. Although day tours to Nusa Penida from Bali are popular, it can be a better idea to spend at least a few days on the island to make sure you discover everything it has to offer.. Whatever you do, make sure not to miss off a visit to Nusa Penida from your Bali itinerary . Find out everything you need to know before visiting this beautiful island with this Nusa Penida travel guide.

Find out exactly what to take on your trip with our guide of what to pack for Bali! It covers our recommendations of what you need to have an incredible time!

Table of Contents

How to get to Nusa Penida island

Our travel guide to Nusa Penida covers how you can get here from a variety of destinations. Sanur is the main ferry port to get between the islands.

The public boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida costs just 50,000 Rupiah, with a journey time of 90 minutes. These boats only depart once full so have no real set timetable.

Alternatively you can catch a ferry from Sanur to Nusa Penida, which costs around 200,000 Rupiah one-way. Prices do vary depending on the company, so it’s worth asking around.

There are a number of scheduled departures a day, but it’s worth booking in advance to make sure you have a ticket. Click here to check out the timetable and book a ferry from Sanur to Nusa Penida!

If you need to get to Nusa Penida from Nusa Lembongan, the cheapest option is to catch the public boat. It costs 50,000 Rupiah one way. If you’re just looking for a day trip to Nusa Penida from Nusa Lembongan then you may want to charter a boat for the day, which can be expensive.

Click here to book a ferry from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida!

There are several tours that do depart from Bali to Nusa Penida if you can only visit for a day trip click here to find out more!

One of our tips for travelling Bali is to book your ferries in advance, so we recommend using the above links. It’s fairly common for ferries to sell out, especially during peak season, but by booking in advance you ensure you can travel on your desired dates!

For more information on how to get to the island, read our guide on getting to Nusa Penida from Bali!

View from Thousand Island Viewpoint in Nusa Penida, Bali

Getting around Nusa Penida

Getting around the island of Nusa Penida is possible by scooter/bike or by car. Renting a scooter is a much cheaper option and costs around 75,000 Rupiah per day. Despite being cheaper, we strongly recommend against driving a scooter on Nusa Penida as the roads are in extremely poor condition.

Our driver informed us that even experienced drivers get into accidents when riding scooters on the island, as the bumpy and unpaved roads make it easy to lose balance. It really isn’t worth risking injury to save some money; especially as your travel insurance will be invalidated if you don’t have the proper license to ride a scooter/bike.

Fortunately, new roads are being built in Nusa Penida. These roads are unlikely to be finished for a few years, but once they are it should be a lot safer to travel around by scooter/bike.

To travel by car you’ll need to find a driver for a day tour of Nusa Penida. A great way to find a driver is to ask at your accommodation, as they should be able to point you in the right direction. If not, you should be able to find a phone number or email address online to contact a driver.

Prices will vary depending on the driver, but we recommend negotiating, as they will often try to overcharge foreign tourists. We paid 600,000 Rupiah for a day trip round the east side of the island and 500,000 Rupiah for a day trip round the west side.

Although travelling by car in Nusa Penida is a lot safer, it still can be a bumpy and uncomfortable ride due to the bad roads. Thankfully, it’s reassuring to know that your driver is used to driving in these conditions.

Mini waterfall at Angel's Billabong - Nusa Penida, Bali, travel guide

Best time to travel to Nusa Penida

The dry season in Bali runs from April to September, and so is therefore the best time to visit Nusa Penida.

Expect the island to be busier during these months, in particular between July and September due to the European summer holidays. If you plan to visit at this time we recommend booking accommodation as far in advance as possible.

Although October to April is technically the rainy season for Nusa Penida and Bali, don’t let this put you off visiting as there are still plenty of nice days during these months. That being said, you should avoid visiting Nusa Penida and Bali between December and February, as these are the rainiest months.

If you plan to go diving on your trip to Nusa Penida, the best time to visit is between July and October. At this time of year it’s possible to see the extremely rare Mola Mola (sunfish) , making it a brilliant time to dive in the area!

As you’d expect, most days are very warm on the island, especially during the dry season. We recommend booking accommodation with air con to make sure you can escape the heat!

Best things to do in Nusa Penida

Kelingking beach.

One spot you simply cannot miss off your Nusa Penida itinerary and the first thing we will start with on our travel guide is the famous Kelingking beach. Surrounded by towering cliffs, this beautiful white sand beach is a truly stunning sight.

Located in a small cove on the west side of the island, Kelingking beach backs onto cliffs that look remarkably like a roaring T-Rex. There are some brilliant vantage points to enjoy amazing views of the beach from, and if you’re lucky you may even spot manta rays and eagle rays swimming just off the shore!

Unfortunately, the walk down to Kelingking beach is tough as the pathway consists of very steep steps made out of rocks and dirt. The bamboo railing that runs alongside the path is not particularly sturdy, so we advise to take your time and avoid putting too much weight on it.

In total the walk down to the beach takes around 45 minutes. As the return journey is uphill, it’s substantially tougher and takes around an hour.

The beach itself is beautiful, with white sand and lovely blue water to enjoy. Generally it won’t be too crowded, as most visitors to the beach don’t actually walk all the way down due to the steep path.

If you decide to go down to the beach itself then be extremely careful when swimming. The current at Kelingking beach is extremely strong and can easily pull you under without warning. Unless you’re a very strong swimmer we’d advise to just enjoy the beach without going for a swim!

To avoid tourists, we recommend visiting Kelingking beach either early in the morning or late afternoon. As it’s one of the main points of interest in Nusa Penida the viewpoint can get extremely busy.

By arriving early in the morning or late afternoon you should be able to get better views and pictures without other tourists getting in the way!

Although there is no entrance fee for visiting Kelingking beach, there is a parking fee of 10,000 Rupiah.

Path to Kelingking beach - Nusa Penida travel guide

Angel’s Billabong

The natural infinity pool known as Angel’s Billabong is one of the most unique things to do in our travel guide to Nusa Penida. This lovely natural pool is lodged between two cliffs and is slightly elevated above the surrounding sea. The edge of the pool is also a cliff’s edge, which makes it nature’s version of the infinity pools often found in luxury hotels!

At low tide it’s sometimes possible to swim in the pool at Angel’s Billabong, although it’s not particularly safe to do so as there have been a number of deaths.

During high tide the waves crash against the cliffs, sending water powering into the pool. If you happen to be in the pool when this happens you can easily be thrown against rocks and dragged over the edge out to sea.

In the interest of safety we don’t recommend swimming here, as it isn’t worth risking injury. Instead you can simply enjoy the view.

The crashing waves at high tide are impressive as they catapult water forcefully into the pool. When the excess water leaves the pool it forms a temporary waterfall as it makes its way back into the sea.

There is a 10,000 Rupiah parking fee, which is good value considering you can visit both Angel’s Billabong and Broken beach in one go!

Angel's Billabong - Nusa Penida travel guide

Crystal Bay

If you’re looking for a beach in Nusa Penida that doesn’t involve a steep descent, then Crystal bay is perfect. Although, there are nicer beaches on Nusa Penida it’s still a pleasant place to soak up the sun and relax. It’s also a nice spot to do some snorkelling too!

One of the best things about the beach at Crystal bay is that you won’t have to work up a sweat when you leave, as the car park is right next to the beach. Also located on the west side of the island, parking costs just 10,000 Rupiah.

Diamond Beach

Although we didn’t get a chance to visit Diamond Beach we wanted to include it in our travel guide to Nusa Penida as we’ve heard nothing but great things! With stairs heading down towards the beach, it’s a more secluded spot than the others on this list and worth checking out.

Broken Beach

Another popular attraction on Nusa Penida is Broken beach. It gets its name from an archway in the cliffs that allows seawater to flow in and out of a small cove.

There is no way down to swim at broken beach, but it’s still a lovely spot to see. It’s just a short walk from Angel’s Billabong so is well worth visiting if you’re nearby!

Atuh beach is the most popular beach on the east side of Nusa Penida. It’s possible to walk down to the beach from either side, although it’s much easier from the right side as there are stairs.

The left side starts as more of a dirt path, similar to that at Kelingking beach, before you reach stairs which lead the rest of the way down.

This lovely white sand beach is enclosed by cliffs and has beautiful clear blue water perfect for cooling off in. At sea there is an impressive arch rock formation, which you can swim out to and do some cliff jumping on your visit to Atuh beach.

If you park at the right side of Atuh beach there is a small parking fee of 5,000 Rupiah and an entrance fee of 10,000 Rupiah.

Thousand Island viewpoint

Also found on the east side of the island is the beautiful Thousand Island viewpoint. This spot offers incredible views of rock formations and cliffs along the coast of Nusa Penida.

A steep trail leads from the car park down to the first viewpoint. There are a few vantage points in the area, so follow the trail round past the treehouses. It’s actually possible to stay in a treehouse at the Thousand Island Viewpoint on Nusa Penida, although the location is pretty remote!

The name is slightly misleading as there are nowhere near a thousand islands to see, but it’s still a brilliant view regardless! Even if you take your time to enjoy the views from the different vantage points you shouldn’t need more than an hour here. The entrance fee at the Thousand Island viewpoint is 10,000 Rupiah per person.

Thousand Island Viewpoint - Nusa Penida travel guide

Snorkelling

Nusa Penida is one of the best places to go snorkelling in Bali. There are a number of snorkelling sites around the island and nearby, with some of the most popular being Manta Point, the underwater Buddha temple and Crystal bay.

Snorkelling at Manta Point is one of the best things to do in Nusa Penida, as magnificent manta rays are often found in the area. The chance to see such majestic creatures up close is a real treat, and shouldn’t be missed!

If you’re extremely lucky, you may even see the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish) on a snorkelling trip as they come to the surface to warm up. They are only seen in the area between July and October.

There are plenty of places to snorkel in Nusa Penida that can be accessed from the shore, including from Ped Village, Crystal bay, Toyapakeh and Gamat bay. With some brilliant reefs to explore and a variety of marine life to enjoy, make sure to discover the underwater world around the island!

The price of a snorkelling tour to see the manta rays in Nusa Penida varies depending on how many other spots you visit, but expect rates to start at around 350,000 Rupiah. Don’t be afraid to ask around and haggle to get the best price. For more information check out this wonderful guide to snorkelling with manta rays in Nusa Penida, Bali!

The current can be quite strong so you’ll need to be a confident swimmer, but tours have around a 97% success rate in seeing manta rays. Your accommodation should be able to help arrange a snorkelling tour for you, but if not then ask some locals or at a restaurant and someone should be able to help out.

If you are looking to swim with Manta Rays then definitely consider heading to Komodo Island as well, as we had an amazing encounter with them there.

Click here to book an amazing snorkelling tour from Bali to the Nusa Islands on the Get Your Guide website!

Nusa Penida also offers some incredible diving opportunities, with a number of brilliant dive sites near to the island. Dives in the area are exciting thanks to the diverse marine life.

Diving with manta rays at Manta Point is an incredible experience, and should not be missed. If you’re visiting between July and October you may also be able to see Mola Mola’s on a dive – although you’ll need some luck!

Click here for more information on diving and the dive sites in Nusa Penida!

Where to stay in Nusa Penida

Coastal Inn

This lovely property in the north of Nusa Penida is a brilliant budget option. Thanks to the property’s beachfront location, you’ll have brilliant views of the towering Mount Agung volcano on Bali.

A few restaurants are within walking distance of the property, so you won’t have to venture too far for meals. One of the best things about staying here is the friendly owners, who are more than happy to help with anything they can.

Click here to see the latest prices at Coastal Inn on Booking.com!

Govardhan Bungalow

If you’re looking for reasonably priced accommodation with a pool in Nusa Penida, then the Govardhan Bungalow is a great option. It’s well worth the extra money to have a pool to cool off in, and rooms at the property are also fitted with air conditioning.

Click here to see the latest deals at Govardhan Bungalow on Booking.com!

WK Gamat Creative Resort

Another option with a pool is the WK Gamat Creative Resort. The property is conveniently located a short drive from the port, so it doesn’t take long to get there after arriving to the island.

Staff at the property are incredibly friendly and helpful, which is extremely useful for planning tours! There is also a restaurant on site serving some good quality food, so you don’t have to venture out for dinner if you don’t feel like it.

Click here to take a look at the WK Gamat Creative Resort on Booking.com!

Treat yourself!

Semabu Hills Hotel

Semabu Hills Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Nusa Penida. The property has a beautiful infinity pool with views over the ocean towards Mount Agung. If you want a property with beautiful views for sunrise and sunset in Nusa Penida, then this it it!

Rooms at the property are luxurious and there’s a restaurant on site, which serves up good quality food. On top of this, staff are extremely helpful and will assist you in booking tours of the island.

Click here to take a look at the incredible Semabu Hills Hotel on Booking.com!

Hotel Arsa Santhi

Hotel Arsa Santhi is another brilliant option if you’re looking for comfortable hotels in Nusa Penida. The property is well located close to the port and has a lovely pool perfect for cooling off in!

The staff are very friendly and will help with booking tours, which can save you a lot of time. There’s also a restaurant on site, which is ideal if you don’t feel like finding somewhere else to eat.

Click here to see the latest prices at Hotel Arsa Santhi on Booking.com!

Alternatively, VRBO have some fantastic accommodation options if you want to rent a property instead of staying at a hotel! Click here to see the amazing options on the VRBO website!

Sunset at Ped village beach - travel guide to Nusa Penida, Bali

Where to eat in Nusa Penida

Full moon bungalows – The restaurant at Full moon bungalows has a menu with good variety. Although reviews online are pretty hit and miss, we ate there a few times and particularly enjoyed the barbecue chicken breast.

Penida Colada – This small restaurant in Ped village is one of the best places for food and drinks in Nusa Penida. With a lovely beachfront location and 2 for 1 cocktails during happy hour, Penida Colada is a great spot to enjoy sunset. There isn’t really any nightlife on Nusa Penida, so heading here is your best option if you fancy a few drinks!

Warung Mosawi – This warung near Crystal Bay serves good quality local food at very reasonable prices. It’s a great place to stop for lunch if you’re doing a tour around the west side of the island!

Want to adventure to more islands? Read our guide on getting from Bali to the Gili Islands – the perfect next stop after Nusa Penida!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Indonesia » Nusa Penida

Our EPIC Guide to Nusa Penida – Things to Do, Getting There + More

In Balinese Hinduism, Nusa Penida is considered an extremely holy place. Known as the “Island of Black Magic,” Nusa Penida attracts pilgrims from all over Bali who wish to achieve balance (between good and evil) in their life. For these pilgrims, a journey to this wondrous and foreboding island is a must.

For regular travelers like you and me though, a tour of Nusa Penida is just as enthralling. This one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in not only Bali but all of Indonesia. A trip to Nusa Penida should be on everyone’s bucket list, whether they’ve actually heard about this island or not.

Join me as I share with you everything that I have learned about this magical. Over the course of this guide, I’m going to talk about how to get to Nusa Penida, where to stay, how to get around the (bad but no so horrible) roads. By the end of this article, you’ll know just about everything that there is to do on Nusa Penida and will be chomping at the bit to go there yourself.

So let’s get to it then!

Where to Stay in Nusa Penida

What to see and what to do in nusa penida, the best things to do in nusa penida, nusa penida tips, restaurants and nightlife in nusa penida.

There are plenty of places to stay on Nusa Penida, particularly around the north of the island. Here, you’ll find all the usual forms of accommodation, like guesthouses, hostels, homestays, and a number of resorts. The area around Toyapakeh actually looks very similar to some places on the mainland of Bali at times, which is a sign of its ongoing development.

That being said, the grand majority of the island is very under-developed. Outside of Nusa Penida’s top attractions, there really isn’t a lot in the way of lodging. There are some lone guesthouses here and there but they can be far and few in-between.

kelingking beach sunset nusa penida guide

Finding the right base on Nusa Penida is imperative to explore the island. You will need to stay somewhere well-connected, convenient, and near a warung or two if you plan on acing this trip. I suggest you stay mobile and sleep in multiple locations.

For more epic hostel options, be sure to check out our in-depth review of Nusa Penida’s best backpacker accommodation .

Nuansa Penida Hostel – Best Hostel on Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida Hostel best hostels in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida

Definitely the best hostel on Nusa Penida at the moment. Nuansa Hostel features several dormitories, a pool area, and free breakfast every morning. Being located on Nusa Penida, Nuansa is quite laid back and the hostel itself claims that life here is “like Bali 30 years ago.”

Kubu Indah Guesthouse – Best Homestay on Nusa Penida

I found this place randomly while exploring and it turned out to be one of my favorite places to stay on Nusa Penida. The amenities are somewhat standard but the hosts are really nice and the grounds are really clean. The best part was the location though: Kelingking Beach, Banah Cliffs, and Tembeling are all 20 minutes away.

Our Favorite Place on the Mainland?

Tribal Hostel – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

An ideal hub for Digital Nomads and backpackers, this very special hostel is now finally open…

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool ?

Nusa Garden Bungalow – Best Budget Lodge on Nusa Penida

Nusa Garden Bungalow best hostels in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida

A pretty basic budget hotel on Nusa Penida that doesn’t really give you a lot besides four walls and a roof. There’s no air-con and the staff reportedly pretty passive. But it’s the best deal on Nusa Penida so we can’t complain.

Nusa Garden Bungalow is one of our favourites in Nusa Penida but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

How to Get to Nusa Penida

People travel to Nusa Penida in one of two ways:

By boat/tour from Nusa Lembongan.
By boat/tour from Sanur (Bali).

If you plan on visiting the island independently, then you can catch a ferry from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida at the famous Yellow Bridge . Public boats leave when full and will run from sunup to sundown, which is around 7 am-4 pm. Note that the many boats to Nusa Penida will not disembark at peak low-tide.

Tickets for the Nusa Penida-Nusa Lembongan public boat will cost 50,000 rupiah. Travel time is 10-15 minutes.

Most people travel from mainland Bali to Nusa Penida by catching a fast boat at Sanur . From Sanur, there are a dozen ferry companies offering transfers throughout the day so you shouldn’t be lack of options. Tickets should cost around 200,000-300,000 rupiah.

It is possible to travel to Nusa Penida from Padang Bai but this transfer is a bit more difficult. There’s a slow ferry that takes over 2 hours or a fast boat that is much smaller and much less comfortable. Both depart Padang Bai early and infrequently.

Ferries from both Nusa Lembongan or Bali will drop you off at the main harbor on the island at Toyapakeh . Upon leaving the boat, you will receive the usual welcome of “Scooter?! Scooter?! Scooter?!” from locals. More on dealing with these guys and renting a scooter on Nusa Penida later.

If you want some peace of mind, then book your ferry ticket to Nusa Penida ahead of time. Use Direct Ferries to check for prices now!

Getting Around Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a much larger island than neighboring Nusa Lembongan and will definitely require some means of transport to see. Most do so in one of the following ways:

By tour – The overwhelming majority of people take a day trip to Nusa Penida with a local tour agency. These tours last all day long, provide everything that you could need, and will take you to the most popular attractions on Nusa Penida. While these trips are convenient, they do not do justice that is the epicness of this island. Nusa Penida island tours require several days minimum.
By renting a scooter – For the truly adventurous type, this is really the only way to visit Nusa Penida. With your scooter, you will be able to go where you want and when you want without having to worry about drivers. Also, there are certain areas on the island that are only accessible by scooter i.e. Saren Cliffs, Tembeling Forest. That being said, you have to be extremely careful while motorbiking on Nusa Penida – for reasons that we’ll discuss next.
By private transport – A lot of people choose to not deal with the shitty/dangerous roads themselves and instead hire a driver for Nusa Penida. For those who have never driven a motorbike before, this is definitely the best choice. Drivers on Nusa Penida can be hired with a car for around $25/day. Check to see if they will be covering their own room and board before hiring them.

Whichever way you choose to get around Nusa Penida, be prepared for a bumpy ride. The roads on this island, although fine in some places, can be absolutely horrendous. Patience is key here and it may be slow going on some routes.

Renting a Scooter on Nusa Penida

Scooters can be rented at most lodges and hotels on Nuda Penida. Daily rates start at around 80,000 rupiah per day though you can lower this price by bartering or renting the bike for a longer period of time. Try shooting for 60,000-70,000/day.

Penida is not for beginning motorists . The roads here are rutted, broken, treacherous, and sometimes non-existent. If you want to leave this island without a scratch, you will need to be on your A-game when it comes to driving.

Consider these driving tips for Nusa Penida:

Drive slowly on broken roads and be careful of giants holes.
Don’t gas it on corners or on gravel-strewn road.
Do not grab the front brake unless you are jamming on the rear already.
Beware of reckless drivers on paved roads.
Use your horn on blind corners.
Stay vigilant and don’t steely – driving nervously is a sure way to crash.

I will end this section with a sobering story. In early 2019, a Russian girl died while riding her motorbike on Nusa Penida. She was driving on top of an unprotected cliff, lost control of the bike, and plummeted over the edge to her death. Whilst these sort of things don’t happen very often, that is not to say that you will not be presented with a similar situation.

PLEASE do not be a daredevil on a motorbike. You are not a member of the Red Bull X-Fighters (then again, maybe you are…) and you are not as skilled on that bike as you think you are.

If a road or path looks too intimidating, then, for the love of god, please don’t risk it – just get off and walk. Doing sensible things like this could mean all the difference between leaving Nusa Penida happy or in pieces.

Riding a scooter can be a great and inexpensive way of traveling around Nusa Penida. Although you don’t need a license to rent a scooter, most travel insurance companies will ask for a valid motorbike license to be able to claim if you crash! Always make sure that you have travel insurance with a motorcycle-riding coverage.

Below are some of the best places to visit in Nusa Penida! Note that the most popular of these actually cost money to enter (usually 2,000-10,000 rupiah) so be sure to bring cash with you.

Crystal Bay

If you’re exploring Nusa Penida in a counter-clockwise direction, then Crystal Bay will most likely be your first stop.

Crystal Bay is hidden gem in Bali . It’s a nice little strip of white sand and is tucked away in a naturally protected cove. The waves are nice and easy, the vibes are generally pretty laid back, and there are more than a few beach bars. The bars provide lounge chairs and those ubiquitous Bali beanbags for lazy sunbathers. Overall, the place exudes a lot of chilled-out vibes.

Because of the calm waters, Crystal Bay is also one of the most well-known places to go snorkeling on Nusa Penida. A lot of people will stop by here on tours from Nusa Lembongan and some of the bars can rent out equipment to you as well.

If you wanted to stay at Crystal Bay, there are a number of bungalows located in a village behind the beach. I didn’t stay there myself but there appeared to be a lot of good and varied accommodation there.

Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach

Not gonna lie, Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong were probably the biggest disappointments on my Nusa Penida tour. This is because:

The road to these is absolutely horrendous and seriously one of the worst on the island.
The locations themselves are nice, but not that special.

Firstly: the road . It’s rutted, it’s rocky, and it’s a fuckin’ mess in places. At first, it was tolerable but after 20 minutes of bumping up down on my already weathered bike, I was over it. Combined with the fact that you have to deal with a lot of vans transporting tourists around, and overall it was an annoying journey.

Broken Beach itself, which is essentially a giant, roofless sea cave with a natural arch going over it, and Angel’s Billabong were just ok. They were cool, particularly the arch, but not worth the hellish ride. The fact that Angel’s Billabong is closed half the time due to rough seas, made the place even less appealing.

Basically, I’d cut out these two out of my Nusa Penida itinerary first if I was short on time.

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach is probably the most famous place in Nusa Penida and for good reason. It’s most well-known feature, the Jurassic-shaped promontory, locally referred to as “T-Rex,” is amazing to behold. The way down to the actual beach – a pathway guarded by ramshackle bamboo cages – will leave you breathless. The beach itself is probably the best I’ve ever seen.

If you’re wondering if this place is probably overrun with tourists, than you’re on the right track. During the afternoon, Kelingking is just a madhouse as day trippers are usually fighting one another for a chance to get a photo with the T-Rex. It’s enough to turn-off any traveler, seriously.

BUT, if you can visit Kelingking at sunset or sunrise, it’s pure magic. The light is ethereal, the crowds are way less hectic, and you actually have room to move around. In my opinion, Kelingking should only be visited during these times.

So is it touristy? Yes .

Are the afternoon tourist crowds maddening? Definitely .

Do I want to shove every Instagrammer of the cliff? Of course.

Is Kelingking Beach still one of the best things to do on Nusa Penida? Abso-fucking-lutely.

Side note: If you intend on climbing down to Kelingking Beach, be sure to have the right shoes . Trust me, you will destroy your flips on the trail here.

Banah Cliffs and Seganing Waterfall

Seganing Waterfall is essentially a stream running down the side of a cliff face into the ocean. At least, that’s how it was described to me…

Unfortunately, I was unable to make it to Seganing Waterfall on account of a sudden illness, but I had heard very good things about it. A pair of German’s actually compared it to Kelingking in that both featured thrilling and harrowing pathways down to their respective beach or waterfall.

I did make it to the Banah Cliffs in the evening though and was very impressed. The cliffs have a perfect view of the horizon and you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the sunset. People will often brings beers with them to enjoy the sunset and there are even some makeshift benches around the cliffs (be careful).

If you explore a bit, you should also find a secret pathway down the cliffs. As you walk down, you’ll be afforded glimpses of some sea stacks and there are a number of viewpoints that have become popular with Instagrammers.

The small trail continues around the cliff-face, but ends at a dead-end.

Tembeling Forest

Tembeling Forest is essentially a series of pools located in the woods on the edge of a beach. It’s a popular place with locals and is a nice place to just chill out.

There’s actually an amazing rock garden as well located in a sea cave near the final pool. This garden hosts a very large and impressive collection buddha towers and I think I was more interested in it than the actual pools! 😀

The road to Tembeling Forest has a pretty bad reputation and is known for causing a lot of scooter accidents. Many people choose to either get off their bike and hike down to the pools or enlist the help of a local to taxi them down.

In my own experience the road wasn’t so bad. Yes, it was really, really steep but it was also sealed and not that rutted. A competent motorbike driver could handle this road if they took it slowly but they’d have to make absolutely certain their brakes were working.

Note that Tembeling is partially considered a water temple so you’ll be asked for a donation at the entrance.

Saren Cliffs

The Saren Cliffs are located very close to Tembeling Forest and are pretty similar to Banah Cliffs. There’s a little less land to explore but they are no less spectacular!

I went to the Saren Cliffs for sunrise and they were completely devoid of anyone or anything except the wind and some shrubbery. With the sounds of grass blowing and the waves, the mood was quite peaceful.

I also noticed an old fire pit while there as well, which made me wish that I’d camped there the night before ! (If only I hadn’t had left my tent on Nusa Lembongan.)

Peguyangan Waterfall

Peguyangan , or just “Guyangan,” is one of the most important temples on the Miss Penida. It is located at the bottom of a grueling 720 steps and is perched somewhat precariously on a cliff overlooking the sea. It’s pretty rad place and an extremely wet one at that (the humidity alone left me soaked in 5 minutes).

Peguyngan is not technically a waterfall per say but rather a place where lots of water is pumped, which then overflows into pools. It’s not really what you’d expect at first but you’ll quickly forget about any previous expectations. The whole area, the temple and bathing pools combined, are pretty damn cool to see and you wouldn’t be crazy to want to jump in the water here.

Peguyangan Waterfall nusa penida things to do

So find your favorite spot, purify yourself, chill out, and watch the waves crash against the rocks. Just try not to think about those 720 steps you’ll have to take to get back to the top.

Manta Point

DEFINITELY drop by Manta Point after you’ve wrapped up Peguyangan Falls. For one, the views here are excellent and you’ll get to see all the way to Nusa Lembongan. Even better, you’ll get to see manta rays without even getting wet!

On a clear, calm day, you can look 100 meters down into the ocean and actually see mantas swimming around. They’re enormous creatures, a fact that is made more apparent when the diving tours show up. When you see a manta ray next to a person, you’ll see just how big they are and will probably realize why you should definitely go snorkeling with them later.

Bukit Teletubbies

Yes, this is a reference to the children’s television program and, yes, it is an actual point of interest on Nusa Penida. Bukit Teletubbies is a viewpoint in the eastern highlands of the island that affords views of the surrounding countryside.

Now, there is a specific point on Google Maps that is supposed to be Bukit Teletubbies but I do not think it is correct. In reality, I think that Bukit Teletubbies refers to the general vicinity, which is quite scenic, and not just one viewpoint. So be sure to walk around and explore the entire area.

But then again, I may be wrong and there may, in fact, be a specific Bukit Teletubbies viewpoint. In this case, you may need a guide or local to point it out to you. Maybe they could also tell you why the hell the place is called “Teletubbies.”

Suwehan Beach

This is arguably my favorite beach on Nusa Penida for several reasons:

The sand is probably some of the purest on the island.
There beach itself is beautiful and there’s a cool stone tower near the shore.
There’s never seems to be anyone here.

When I went to Suwehan Beach , it was totally empty. Seriously, there wasn’t a soul in sight, which is crazy considering how gorgeous this beach is.

Getting to Suwehan Beach can be a little tedious because the road kinda deteriorates but it’s nothing that you shouldn’t be used to by now. You’ll also have to walk down quite few steps (as usual) to reach the beach so be sure to bring a decent pair of shoes.

Note that the beach doesn’t have a whole lot of shade until late-afternoon when the sun dips behind the cliffs. There is a nice little grove of trees at the far end of the beach that does offer a little cover though.

“The Tree House of Nusa Penida” and Thousand Island Viewpoint

So these two places, which are essentially the same, are two of the most famous landmarks on Nusa Penida. The Thousand Island Viewpoint is located on a small promontory that is easily reached via a 10-minute walk from the car park and the tree house(s) are literally right next door. Both offer one of the best views in Nusa Penida, without question.

As the name implies, the Thousand Islands Viewpoint gives a spectacular view of the coast and a handful of natural stone towers. There are not quite 1000 islands to speak of but the view is no less stunning. The sunrise from Thousand Islands is particularly good.

The famous tree houses of Nusa Penida or “Rumah Pohon” are literally next to Thousand Islands Viewpoint. They are pretty basic but considering they have probably the best view in Bali, I’ve never heard anyone complaining.

You can actually book one of the tree houses (there’s now 3-4 on-site) on Airbnb though, fair warning, you’ll need to do so months in advance. You’ll also have to deal with incessant tourists walking around and taking pictures of the tree houses but maybe you can give them something to look at 😉

Diamond Beach

A lot of people say that Diamond Beach is their favorite beach on Nusa Penida. The beach itself is quintessential Penida with perfect sand, gorgeous sapphire water, and dramatic cliffs framing it all.

I think that the best part about Diamond Beach though is the walk down. The stairs are literally carved out of the cliffs and are this blazing shade of white in the sun. If we’re being honest, I think I spent more time running up and down the steps taking photos than actually laying on the beach.

The beach itself is beautiful albeit a little small. There’s a singular warung here that offers basic wares and a couple of chairs for lounging. You can sit in one of those ubiquitous wicker pods at Diamond Beach although it’s hard to climb in. A generous local will help you into it but will ask for a generous donation in return.

Fun fact : the stairs to Diamond Beach were only completed at the end of 2018!

Atuh Beach is most easily identified by the unique rock formation that lies offshore. Said rock, which, if you look at it from the north side of the beach, looks like the head of a fantastical monster (maybe a kaiju from Pacific Rim ), is pretty hard to miss. It goes without saying that this one of the most frequented photography spots on Nusa Penida.

Atuh Beach itself is not a wild beach though. There are a number of bars and warungs set up here and even more lounge chairs to go with them. It feels like a typical Balinese beach, complete with umbrellas and beanbags, except there’s a giant fucking rock in the ocean that everyone is staring at.

If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can actually swim out to the rocks, climb up them, and then go cliff jumping! I saw a few guys doing this while I was there and got pretty amped to try it myself. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to on this trip 🙁

Goa Giri Putri Temple

Visiting Goa Giri Putri is supposed to be one of the coolest things to do on Nusa Penida, yet I missed it, which sucks. Alas, it was my final day and I had a motorbike owner blowing me up about returning his baby to him.

From what I heard Goa Giri Putri is really interesting to experience. The temple is set in a cave, a spectacular one at that, and there are times where you’re required to crawl through tiny spaces to go further. I’ve heard people describe it as a “surreal” sight and a “really amazing” one at that too.

The next time I travel to Nusa Penida, I will not make the same mistake twice and will definitely visit Goa Giri Putri.

Pura Dalem Ped

Remember how I said that Nusa Penida was an important pilgrimage destination for Balinese Hindus? Well this is the most important religious site on the island.

Supposedly, Pura Dalem Ped is the nexus for all the evil spirits that inhabit Nusa Penida. These spirits, when left unchecked, escape to Bali, where they cause disaster and disease. Their master, Macaling or Ratu Gede , was considered one of the most sinister figures in Balinese mythology and is kinda treated like Voldemort around these parts.

Balinese pilgrims travel to Pura Dalem Ped to pay tribute to the evil spirits and appease them. The Balinese believe that by making offerings to the demons, they will be made content and will not bother the people.

The temple itself is nice and its walls are made from pure limestone. If you’ve seen lots of Balinese temples before though, you may not be interested in it aesthetically. But the story of the temple alone makes the visit worthwhile.

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Definitely don’t miss out on these activities while visiting Nusa Penida!

Make the descent down to Kelingking Beach

Every tour of Nusa Penida features a visit to this legendary spot and it’s easy to see why: the views are absolutely out-of-this-world and the beach is arguably the best in Bali. Even with the crowds, I’d still highly recommend coming here; just try and do so in the morning/evening.

Stay in a treehouse on Nusa Penida

If you can score a reservation at the Rumah Pohon next to Thousand Islands Viewpoint, it may just take your Nusa Penida trip to the next level. At $30 per night as well, this has gotta be the greatest deal on the island.

Go diving with manta rays

If you’ve never swam with manta rays before, then you really should plan on doing this. Swimming with mantas is a once in a lifetime experience and just really fucking cool. They may look like they’re going to eat you but they just want to swim around and be chill.

Find the secret beaches of Nusa Penida

There are a number of hidden spots on Nusa Penida that only adventurous backpackers will be able to discover. Try and find your own slice of paradise!

Catch the sunrise at the Thousand Islands Viewpoint

The Thousand Islands Viewpoint is spectacular on its own but at sunrise it’s ridiculous. Definitely plan on doing this as no Nusa Penida itinerary is complete without doing so.

thousand islands viewpoint sunrise nusa penida

Chillout at Atuh Beach

Take advantage of that sweet weather on Nusa Penida and just laze at Atuh Beach. Grab a beer, take some cool pictures, and let the world go by.

Check out the (not so rough) Diamond Beach

Once you’ve visited Thousand Island Viewpoint, head over to Diamond Beach! It’s a short 5-minute bike ride away and is definitely one of the best beach places to visit in Bali . The stairway alone makes this place worth visiting.

Bath in the holy waters of Peguyangan or Tembeling

Nusa Penida is a very important pilgrimage site for the Balinese and lots of people travel here to bless themselves in the holy pools. Feel free to join in the ritual; just make sure to bring a sarong with you.

See all the cliffs

Around every corner, there is seemingly a different viewpoint on Nusa Penida. Obviously, the ones near Kelingking and Thousand Islands are great, but try visiting Saren Cliffs, Banah Cliffs, and Manta Point as well!

Admire the natural bridge of Broken Beach

At the end of a harrowing road is the stone arch of Broken Beach. Walking around the rim of the beach and over the natural bridge, you’ll be humbled by the power of the ocean and its ability to shape such places. Just be ready for a bumpy ride.

The rest of this Nusa Penida travel guide is dedicated to covering the island in more detail. Refer below for subjects like getting around, diving, and more.

When to Travel to Nusa Penida

The weather in Nusa Penida is pretty much the same as southern Bali, which means wet summers and dry winters. Temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year though the summer humidity does make the island feel “stickier” and more hot.

Nusa Penida is actually a bit more arid compared to it’s neighborhood, Nusa Lembongan. Like Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula, which is about the same latitude, Nusa Penida usually receives leftovers from the northern rainstorms. In recent years, this aridity has become more of a problem as increased tourism is leading to more water consumption. You should always be doing this while on vacation in Bali, but please avoid wasting water on Penida.

Whilst a lot of Bali is still accessible during the rainy season, I do not think that traveling to Nusa Penida during this time would be ideal. For one, the boats from Bali to Nusa Penida will often be interrupted by storms and rough seas. For another, I can’t even imagine what the already shitty roads on Penida may be like after heavy rain.

If you do make it to Penida during the wet season, you will reap the benefits of cheaper accommodation prices. Just make sure that there are hotels on Nusa Penida that are still open.

If you want to go scuba diving in Bali , there is definitely a right to time to visit. Nusa Penida’s two most popular marine animals – mantas and mola mola – come out during winter season. Peak months for mantas are April/May and mola mola is August/September.

Nusa Penida Essentials

Make sure you bring these important items with you when you head to Nusa Penida!

Water bottle – Reduce your plastic footprint and bring your own water bottle with you. Bali is currently in the midst of an environmental crisis and it’s only getting worse as more people visit here. Be a part of solution.
Adapter – How annoying is it when you pack all of your electronics and then can’t plug them in to charge?! Avoid this common oversight and remember to bring a power adapter with you.
Imodium – Bali belly doesn’t affect everyone but if and when you do catch it, you’d better be prepared for a rough night. It may not be a cure, but Imodium is one of the best ways to help remedy an upset stomach.
Waterproof Phone Case – These are great for not only keeping water out, but sand and other pieces of grit. These are super helpful when you’re at the beach or out playing on the boat.
First Aid Kit – You never what could happen in Bali. You could fall off your motorbike, cut up your leg on some coral, all that and then some. Make sure you have a first aid kit in case of emergency – it’s one of the most items you could possible pack.

For more ideas on what to take, be sure to check out our packing list for Bali !

Why You Should Travel to Nusa Penida with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Diving in Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is famous for more than just its scenic beauty. It’s also renowned for being one of the best places in the world to see underwater mega fauna, like manta rays and the elusive mola mola fish.

Due to the local ocean currents, Nusa Penida is like a buffet for marine animals. During peak feeding season, the waters are absolutely swarming with wildlife and there are times where you are almost guaranteed to see something epic.

In fact, Nusa Penida has one of the highest success ratings of spotting manta in the world. If you haven’t been interested in swimming with these gentle giants up till this point, let me tell you that you haven’t lived yet.

Diving in Nusa Penida is often organized on Bali or Nusa Lembongan though there are no shortage of outfitters on the island itself. Prices can fluctuate depending on the services provided and I recommend in this case going with the expensive choice. There have been a number of diving accidents around Penida so make sure the one you choose is up to par.

The best dive sites on Nusa Penida are:

Manta Bay – lots of manta rays, obviously.
Crystal Bay – well-known for being a good place to spot the elusive mola mola. Also, a great spot to go snorkeling on Nusa Penida.
Gamat Bay – a neighbor of Crystal Bay. Equally amazing dive site on Penida.

Start looking for dive trips to Nusa Penida now if you’d like. You may find a better deal when you get there but, then again, it may not be worth the extra stress.

Secret Beaches of Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida’s beaches are fantastic; even the crowded, touristy ones are worth the line up. That being said, there are still plenty of hidden beaches on this island and many of them are completely devoid of anything.

If you have the desire to see some Nusa Penida’s secret spots, then start with some of these:

Contrary to its overwhelming reputation of being raw and remote, there are still plenty of places to eat on Nusa Penida. Admittedly, they can be far and few in-between, not to mention basic at times, but they are still surprisingly good.

The vast majority of restaurants and nightlife on Nusa Penida are the northern part of the island where infrastructure is greatest. Here, you will find many little cafes and beach-side warungs and the overall vibe is very similar to Nusa Lembongan. I will admit that I didn’t spend a whole lot of time on this part of the island but I still wouldn’t hesitate to eat there.

Most of Nusa Penida is sparsely populated though, which means that restaurants can sometimes be hard to find. There are a couple of roadside stops here and there but most of the warungs will be found either near Nusa Penida’s main attractions or in hotels.

In the more remote parts of Nusa Penida, restaurants are usually pretty basic and typically serve typical warung food. Gado gado, mie goreng, satay ayam, all of the other usual local food staples of traveling in Indonesia are on offer; sometimes that’s all you’ll get as well.

If you can find fresh seafood, by God, order it then and there. Not only is it a welcome change from the usual fair, but it’s often very delicious. You can expect higher but fair prices but nothing like the ripoffs you might encounter back in Bali. (I’m looking at you, shitty nameless warung back on Thomas Beach…)

ATMs on Nusa Penida

Whilst there are several ATMs on Nusa Penida’s northern shore, I’d still advise bringing your own cash with you. The ATMs frequently break and run out of cash and the banks seem less than enthusiastic about getting them refilled. If you run out of money on the island, it would put a big hitch in your plans. (Remember: you need to pay cash to see Nusa Penida’s biggest attractions.)

I always suggest you bring an emergency stash of money with you when you travel. US dollars, pounds, and euros are always useful to have as there’s always a money changer nearby.

Nusa Penida Day Trip or Overnight Stay?

90% of people visit Nusa Penida on a day trip from Bali. For them, Nusa Penida is just too far out of the way, too limited in its lodging/culinary scene, and too hard to get around. They think that the likes of Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, and Broken Beach are worth cramming into a single day and they are entitled to that opinion.

But there is no doubt in my mind when I say that settling for a day trip to Nusa Penida would be huge injustice. The 8 or so hours that you would have on the island are not nearly enough time to really appreciate it. Hell, you’ll probably be spending most of your time in the car (and we all know how fun the roads are here…)

What’s more, the island is much, much better in the early-morning and late evening as well. Once the day trippers finish their island tour of Nusa Penida, the place becomes much, much quieter and you’ll actually have room to breath. Mark my words, there are few things more radiant than the sunset at Kelinking Beach, especially when you’re one of a dozen people watching it.

Is is still worth going if you can only make a day trip to Nusa Penida? Yes . Spending any amount of time on this island is a blessing. But is it still better to tour Nusa Penida over the course of several days? Unequivocally, yes. Fuck . Yes .

If you’re still on the fence about how to tour Nusa Penida, then refer below for some pros and cons:

Nusa Penida Day Trip

Quick, efficient, and enough time to visit the top points of interest on Nusa Penida.
You’ll still get to sleep in that amazing villa in Bali.
Operators do all the heavy lifting and driving for you.
Nusa Penida’s hotels, or lack thereof, may be a turnoff for some.

Staying in Nusa Penida for Several Days

You’ll have plenty of time to see all of the best places on Nusa Penida.
The island is much more magical in the morning and evening.
You’ll get to hang with the locals, which are among the best in Bali.
You’ll have to deal with poor infrastructure and not so many things to do on Nusa Penida, outside of nature.

Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida?

Choosing between Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan comes down to one simple distinction: do you want comfort and amenities or do you want rugged, wild nature?

Nusa Penida is a raw destination; we’ve already concluded as much from this travel guide. Nusa Penida is not what I’d call a kush place, nor a sexy one. There are few if any beach clubs, 5-star hotels, or restaurants on Penida. For some people, these luxuries are why they travel to Bali in the first place .

For those who want to get away from mainland Bali but don’t want to go off-grid, visiting Nusa Lembongan is the better choice. It still has a lot of what makes Bali famous – like the beach bars, the organic cafes, yoga studios, etc – and a sprinkling of nature as well. The surfing on Lembongan is far more accessible than Penida as well.

Better yet, Lembongan is still very close Penida and the latter could easily be visited on a day trip from the former. A lot of people do make Lembo their base for tours to Nusa Penida and if they wanted to do several, that’s easy enough.

But if you want unfiltered, untouched, and epic scenery, the likes of which can be no where else in Bali or Southeast Asia, Penida is the clear winner. The landscape of this island is just unrivaled and I can honestly say that I have visited a few places like it. If you can it handle yourself and don’t mind roughing it a bit, then you’ll love Penida with all your heart and soul.

How to be a Respectful Backpacker in Nusa Penida

The Balinese have to deal with a lot of shit from horrible people: half-naked photo shoots in front of temples, shit-faced groups wandering into the rice paddies. This kind of behavior reflects poorly on travelers and isn’t anywhere near the best way to experience Bali.

Get Insured Before Traveling to Nusa Penida

The first thing that most Balinese people say to is “hello;” the last thing that they say is usually “be careful.”

Bali is a safe destination , but accidents do happen all the time. Whether it’s a scooter accident , complications from diving, or a case of Bali belly, there are lots of ways that your trip can be derailed.

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Before I sign off here, I would like to remind everyone visiting Bali to be very careful when it comes to drinking. There is a lot of bootleg alcohol on the island – mixed sometimes with dangerous amounts of methanol – and you DO NOT want to drink the wrong batch.

Buy liquor from trusted vendors and don’t accept drinks from random dudes. Go to legit bars in Bali and not to roadside shacks. Sticking to bottled Bintang beer is a sure way to avoid this shit as well.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The beauty of nature and its unique traditions still make Bali one of the tourism icons in the world. The Covid-19 pandemic has made things worse for Bali, whose people’s lives depend on tourism. Let’s help the people of Bali to make things better. If you want local service assistance for a vacation in Bali, you can contact balitourvoyage.com.

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Nusa Penida Trip – 21 Things to Know Before You Go

Should you include a Nusa Penida trip in your Bali itinerary? There are plenty of great reasons to go to this little island — but there are also lots of reasons you might want to avoid it! Is a trip to Nusa Penida right for you? We’ve got your answer below!

What’s in our Guide to Visiting Nusa Penida?

1. 4 Reasons to Visit Nusa Penida 2. 5 Reasons to Avoid It 3. Planning Your Trip 4. How to Get There 5. What to Expect on the Island

The first time we went to Nusa Penida, in 2015, it was a real escape from the tourist crowds of Ubud.

Gone was the bumper to bumper traffic and the buzz of a million motorbikes. Gone was the endless stream of sightseers and spiritual seekers .

On Nusa Penida, we found rural tranquility and a local community which had not yet been overrun by the steamroller of the Indonesian tourism industry.

Unfortunately, the day we arrived, Stephen came down with a terrible fever and we had to rush back to Bali for medical care. It turned out that we both had dengue — but that’s a story for another day.

Fast forward to this year, when we made a return trip to Nusa Penida, hoping to immerse ourselves in the island magic that we had barely tasted on our first trip.

The intervening years have not been kind to Nusa Penida.

Day tourists now arrive in droves and hordes of independent travellers spend a few nights there. Nusa Penida is now a confirmed stop on the well beaten track.

But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its charms. You just need to know what you’re getting into before you go.

Read on to discover the 21 Things You Need to Know Before Planning a Nusa Penida Trip.

Also don’t miss these posts:

Don’t miss our guide to a Nusa Penida tour → Here’s how to choose the right Gili Island → Here’s how to have an amazing visit to the Tegalalang Rice Fields →

4 Reasons to Visit Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida’s rise to full-blown tourist destination is no mystery. With incredible vistas along its southern shores, beautiful beaches to the west, and exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities all around, Nusa Penida packs a lot into a little space.

Here are a few of the reasons people go:

1. The most beautiful beach on Earth

We weren’t expecting much from our one day tour on Nusa Penida — and then we got to Kelingking Beach (AKA Klungkung or Secret Point Beach). After an uncomfortable hour on a winding, bumpy road, we found ourselves at the top of a dizzying cliff, hundreds of metres above a perfect crescent of golden sand. We thought we could only admire her from afar… until our guide pointed to the trail.

The treacherous path clings to the cliffside and delivers only the most intrepid / stupid travellers to the sandy shores below.

Once I reached the bottom, the feeling of triumph at having survived the descent, mixed with the stunning beauty, literally took my breath away. If you love beaches and a physical challenge, set aside a whole day just to hang out at Kelingking Beach.

It’s the most beautiful beach on which we’ve ever left our footprints.

2. Meet the friendly islanders

Indonesian people are extremely friendly, but on Nusa Penida, they embody an island vibe that makes them even more approachable. Especially if you walk (most tourists zoom by on motorbikes), children run out to greet you and practice whatever English they can manage.

Adults wave and smile or might beckon you over for a chat, even if they don’t speak English. If you learn a couple of phrases in Bahasa, like “apa kabar / how are you” and “baik baik saja / fine” you will earn huge smiles all around.

3. Do nothing for a few days

If you want to sit in a secluded spot staring out to sea for a few days, Nusa Penida is ideal! Guest houses are hidden away around the island in quiet spaces, making it easy to design your own private retreat.

Our bungalow at Petak Cottage overlooked the north shore of the island, giving us an incredible view of Mount Batur (while it was erupting).

Find Your Nusa Penida Accommodation →

We spent most of our four days on the island just sitting on our deck and marvelling at the power and beauty of the natural world.

4. Snorkelling and SCUBA with Manta Rays

Perhaps the biggest reason for a trip to Nusa Penida is Manta Ray Point, where you can swim with these incredible sea creatures. The small group of islands here is often cited as one of the best dive spots in the world.

More Nusa Penida Tours → That may be true, but there is a major downside. Because of lack of regulation, the popular spots are often packed with dive boats, so you won’t avoid the tourist crowds underwater, either.

Also, tonnes of garbage wash onto the island from Java and other spots all around the ocean. Depending upon the tides and the time of year, the experience can be as depressing as it is enthralling.

(Related: Don’t be surprised if your Penida snorkelling photos end up like these ) →

Of course, we never recommend animal attractions that involve too many people crowding around wild animals, as the manta dives certainly do. Tourists and tourist boats also damage the coral here, so…

…maybe water sports aren’t a great reason to visit Nusa Penida after all!

4 Reasons to avoid Nusa Penida

1. you only have a short time in bali.

If you’re only in Bali for a week or two, we recommend escaping to one of the less touristed areas of the main island, rather than spending your valuable time going to Nusa Penida.

Though the distances look short on the map, the drive to Sanur or Padangbai, where the ferries depart, can take hours in the dense Bali traffic. Plus, the fast boat ride is fairly unpleasant and if the weather is bad, or it can be cancelled or take hours.

All in all, the hassle of getting to Nusa Penida is only worth it if you are not in a rush.

Instead of spending all day in cars and boats, we suggest you get up with the sun and stretch your legs on a volcano! The Mount Batur sunrise trek is a Bali classic.

2. You’ve never driven a motorbike before

Unlike most of Bali, there is no ojek, Go-Jek, Grab, Uber, or taxi service available on Nusa Penida. That means, the only reasonable way to get around the island is by driving a motorbike.

If you’ve never driven one before, the Nusa Penida roads are not the place to learn. Though there are a few good paved stretches, roads to the big attractions are a disaster, with giant potholes filled with loose sand and rocks. They are also rammed with dozens of SUVs transporting day trippers back and forth.

Rental motorbikes are in various states of disrepair, so if you do rent, be sure to check that you have working brakes, mirrors, and tires with some grip left. You will need it all on the disastrous roads!

And you don’t have a license

Also, you officially need a license to drive a motorbike on Nusa Penida. You can bring an International Driving License from home, combined with your regular license, or you can get a temporary tourist license at an office in Denpasar on Bali.

If the police catch you without a license, you will probably have to pay a “fine”. If you get injured, driving without a license will invalidate your travel insurance, and you’ll have to pay for your own medical care.

Having said that, first-time drivers rent motorbikes on Nusa Penida all the time and live to tell the tale — though many of them go away with scratches and bruises or worse.

Since we can’t drive motorbikes, we were stuck seeing only what was in walking distance or paying the hefty fee for a private driver. Because of this, we feel like we didn’t really get to experience the island like we otherwise would have.

So if you’re not a great motorbike driver, think twice before booking your Nusa Penida trip.

3. You’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-track destination

Nusa Penida is firmly on the Bali tourist trail and, though it’s not quite as overrun as the Gili Islands yet, it won’t be long! If you’re hoping to find complete seclusion and an escape from touristy Bali, head to Bali’s northern or eastern shores instead.

If you’re looking to get away from tourists for a day, this Bali village cycling tour in Kintamani might be just right.

4. You’re on a budget

Everything about a trip to Nusa Penida is expensive. The fast boats charge as much as they can get from you, transfers to your hotel will cost $10-20, and your accommodation will be at least 30% more than on Bali. Motorbike rental can climb up to $20/day too and hiring a car and driver costs from $70-100.

If you’re on a budget, stay away from Nusa Penida. A trip to the Gili Islands or Lombok will be more exciting and much more cost-effective.

5. You need to get some work done

In most places on Nusa Penida, the internet is bad. Like, not just slow, but terrible. At times, you’ll be lucky if you can even load a Google search results page. At other times, there is zero connection.

If you plan to use your LTE SIM card for internet connection, think again. With Telkomsel, we were only able to get 3G on our phones and that was slower than the slow WiFi. If you need to work online, don’t go to Nusa Penida.

We did manage to find fast WiFi at two places on the island:

Penida Espresso had great WiFi and delicious smoothie bowls, too.
SD Point has fast WiFi and a nice spot to relax on the beach. But just order a drink, the food was terrible as was the service.

Planning Your Trip

Should you do a one-day trip to nusa penida.

If you want to come to Nusa Penida to get away from the Bali crowds, then a Nusa Penida day trip is a total no-go! On a day trip, you will be surrounded by tourists from dawn until dusk, never getting a chance to experience the island’s true spirit.

On the other hand, if you’re only interested in Instagramming the big sights, like Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Kelingking, then a Nusa Penida day tour is an efficient way to pack them into a short time.

More Nusa Penida Tours →

Then again, you might choose to see the most Instagrammable spots on Bali instead. Check out this Bali Instagram Tour which visits waterfalls, temples, and a jungle swing!

How many nights do you need on Nusa Penida?

Your length of stay on the island really depends what you plan to do there. If you’re a beach bum with a motorbike, then you’ll have plenty to occupy you for four or five days.

If you want to do a snorkelling tour and an island tour, you should spend at least four nights so you have one day free to explore.

If you don’t drive a motorbike, like us, then two or three days is plenty.

Should you go to Nusa Penida straight from the airport?

Since Sanur, the main departure point for Nusa Penida fast boats, is pretty close to the airport, it might seem to make sense to travel to the island just after landing. I wouldn’t recommend it though, because getting a boat right after your flight could be tricky and exhausting.

(Don’t miss: Our guide to the best restaurants in Sanur for vegans and the rest of you)

Also, it’s best not to plan to depart from Nusa Penida on the same day as your flight leaves from Bali. Delays because of weather or other unforeseen circumstances are all too common in this part of the world.

You’ll greatly increase your stress levels and the chance of missing your flight if you try to get from Nusa Penida to the airport the day your flight leaves.

Which area should you stay in?

Except for the small towns clustered around the two ferry ports (Sampalan on the north coast and Toyapakeh to the west) there is no real central area for tourists on Nusa Penida.

On our first trip we stayed at Namaste Bungalows for a few nights. We loved this area, near the small town of Sakti, because it’s walking distance to Crystal Bay and brings you closer to the other big sights in west Nusa Penida.

Our second visit, we stayed at Petak Cottage , which is walking distance to the tiny town of Ped. The Petak bungalows have amazing views over the north shore and Mount Agung. Plus, it’s close to Penida Espresso , which offers amazing smoothie bowls for breakfast and lunch.

How to Get to Nusa Penida

Fast boat from bali to nusa penida.

The most common way to get to Nusa Penida is via fast boat. There are countless companies who shift tourists from one island to the other and boats run all day long. The fast boat takes about 45 minutes on a good day, but can take much longer on a stormy day.

On the day we crossed, the water was calm, but the ride was still bumpy and the spray from the sea prevented us from opening our windows. If you’re prone to seasickness, being enclosed in a boat with stale air, petrol fumes, and a crowd of people will definitely not be your thing!

How much does the fast boat to Nusa Penida cost?

This is almost the same as asking “How long is a piece of string?” If you ask ten people on your fast boat how much they paid, you’ll likely get ten different answers.

The best advice we can give is to check the prices online, with your hotel on Bali, and with your hotel on Nusa Penida. Choose the best price you are quoted and book ahead.

Don’t wait until you get to the port to buy your ticket. You’ll almost certainly pay more because the boat owners know you already spent the time and money to get there.

We organized our tickets with our hotel on Nusa Penida and paid 150K IDR (10 USD) each for a one-way fast boat. We talked to a few travellers who had booked at the port — they all paid 300K IDR (20 USD) each for a one-way ticket.

Where to get the fast boat to Nusa Penida

From canggu, kuta, uluwatu and other areas in southern bali.

The closest fast boat port from Bali’s southern region is Sanur, on the east edge of Denpasar. Depending on the time of day, boats travel to the main ferry port at Sampalan or the fast boat port at Toyapakeh. Boats from Sanur to Nusa Penida take about 45 minutes in calm weather, more if the weather is bad.

From Ubud and eastern Bali to Nusa Penida

Get the fast boat from Padangbai if you’re in Ubud or eastern Bali. Nusa Penida boats can arrive on the island at Sampalan or Toyapakeh, so check first to make sure your boat goes to the stop closest to your hotel.

You might also be offered a ticket from Kusamba, which is near Padang Bai. It’s also fine and will offer the shortest crossing — around 20 minutes in good weather.

Find a Penida Fast Boat →

Getting the Nusa Penida ferry to Padang Bai

There is a public ferry to Nusa Penida, which is mostly used by locals. Though this ferry used to leave from Sanur, it now leaves from Padang Bai and arrives at Sampalan port. Accurate information about the ferry is scarce so it’s only a good option if you’re on a tight budget.

Here’s everything we found out about the ferry while on Nusa Penida:

Ferry times between Nusa Penida and Padang Bai

Here is a picture of the official ferry times as of July 9, 2018.

Now ignore that picture.

The truth is, the reason you can’t get accurate ferry times from anyone is that there are no exact ferry times.

Here’s as much information as we could gather about the ferry between Sampalan, Nusa Penida and Padang Bai:

The ferry leaves Nusa Penida in the morning, some time between 8am and 11am (but maybe not every day)
The ferry makes the crossing in around 1 to 2 hours
A second ferry comes from Padang Bai to Sampalan on Nusa Penida later in the morning or in the afternoon
It then waits at Nusa Penida while fuel trucks deliver fuel around the island before returning to Padangbai some time in the afternoon

Read the section below about our experience to get some invaluable ferry-taking tips!

Ticket prices for the ferry

The official ticket price is 27,300 IDR for a walk-on passenger. In reality, they round that up to 30,000 IDR, at least for foreigners. You may be asked to pay more — but the prices are posted on the wall at the ticket office, so don’t.

Our experience taking the ferry

Having been told by our hotel that the ferry leaves at 8am, we arrived at the ferry terminal at 7:30am. We bought our tickets and the ticket seller said the ferry would leave at 10am. We checked with several other travellers, who had all been told the same thing.

We went to get breakfast and came back at 9:10am, only to see the ferry sailing away into the distance! It might be the only ferry in the world that leaves unexpectedly early.

The lesson? Don’t believe anybody, even the ticket seller, about the ferry times. Just get there early and be prepared to wait.

Before long, new travellers started to arrive to get the 11am ferry. But 11am came and went, with no sign of a ferry. Most of us finally gave up and decided to head over to the nearby fast boat port. We managed to get tickets to Kusamba for 100K IDR each. The boat left on time and took exactly 17 minutes.

As we were making the crossing, we spotted the car ferry heading towards Penida. It probably arrived around noon. I’m guessing we were snug in our Ubud hotel before it left again.

What to Expect on the Island

Getting to your hotel.

If you’re planning on renting a motorbike , you can do so right at the port.

If not, make sure to arrange with your hotel for a transfer. Unlike many touristy spots in Asia, there are few options and little competition for public transport while you’re on the island. You might find a car or motorbike willing to drive you to your hotel, but it will be a hassle and you’ll pay extra for not booking ahead.

Prepare to pay more

Being an island with a captive tourist population, prepare to pay a little more for everything than you would on Bali.

Accommodation is about 30% more for similar rooms, food costs about the same but for smaller portions, and transport is much more. Renting a motorbike will cost 100–200 K IDR per day (7–14 USD) while getting a car and driver for the day costs at least 70K IDR (50 USD).

Transportation woes

I’ve said it already but it’s worth repeating: unless you’re a confident motorbike driver who doesn’t mind driving up and down steep hills in sand, gravel, potholes and traffic, Nusa Penida is tough and expensive to get around.

You can hire a car and driver for about 70K IDR/day (50 USD/day). It was hard to find a motorbike driver who wanted to bother driving us anywhere and when we finally did, he wanted $20 for a quick drop-off at a nearby Nusa Penida beach – with no guarantee of a pick-up later. We declined.

There is a public shuttle bus on the island, which the locals use to get between towns, but we were never able to figure out:

The schedule or the route
How to flag it down
If we were welcome on the service or not

But if you’re staying on the north coast, give it a try and let us know how it goes!

Roads are brutal

When you’re planning your escape to Nusa Penida, remember that the roads here are not like roads where you are from. They are literally falling apart and often very crowded with tourist vehicles.

That means that a short drive can take hours to complete. If you’re on a motorbike, things are just as slow because of the sand and gravel. Don’t expect to do too much in one day.

Food is only so so

Despite the high praise on TripAdvisor for many of the restaurants on Nusa Penida, we found that the food quality was much lower than in Canggu, Ubud, or even on Lombok. Portions seem to be smaller, too.

If you like seafood, there are a number of places specializing in grilled fish, which looked pretty damn tasty, even to our vegan eyes.

For vegans and vegetarians, many places only offer fried rice, fried noodles, or veggie curry. We found the best vegan food selection at:

Penida Espresso . Only open for breakfast and lunch but their smoothie bowls are delicious and filling.
The Gallery . Friendly place with an assortment of vegan dishes. The tempeh sandwich with mashed potatoes was our favourite dish there. Stay away from the Gado Gado, which is pretty lame.
CCCO (Clothoc City Corner). Their nofollowGado Gado is pretty good, while the Sweet & Spicy Fried tempeh was good enough to order repeatedly.
Warung Tu Pande . We could never go here, because it was too far from our hotel, but our vegan friends who stayed on that side of the island loved it.
Warung Kekinian . We had breakfast here in Sampalan and the food was absolutely great. Good thing too, since it was this breakfast that caused us to miss our ferry.

Information is scarce

Want to know what time the ferry goes? Or how much a tour costs? Or how long it will take? Or where’s the best place for dinner? Good luck finding out!

Details are not really Indonesia’s cultural strong suit and on Nusa Penida it seemed even worse than Bali. We seemed to get conflicting or just plain incorrect information from everyone about everything.

These little exchanges can be frustrating, so when you’re asking questions, take a deep breath, and be prepared to come away from the conversation more confused than you were going in.

I hope I didn’t come across too negative in this post! I just want to be as honest as I can about the good and bad of travel to Nusa Penida. We really enjoyed the village-like vibe on the island and, despite a few frustrations, we had a pretty good time there.

I hope this post will prepare you if you’re planning a trip to Nusa Penida. It’s always good to know what to expect so you can make the most of your time! If you have any questions or you had a different experience on Nusa Penida that we did, let us know in the comments below.

♥ Happy mindful adventures, Jane & Stephen

It’s easy to help us keep this blog going! Some of the links in this post are our personal affiliate links. If you book or buy something using one of the links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

Should you include a trip to Nusa Penida in your Bali itinerary? There are plenty of great reasons to go to this little island — but there are more reasons you might want to avoid it! Is a Nusa Penida trip right for you? Click for the answer! #bali #travel #indonesia

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How to Get to Nusa Penida From Bali: Fast Boat or Ferry From Bali

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: July 2, 2023

Categories INDONESIA , TOURS

How to Get to Nusa Penida From Bali: Fast Boat or Ferry From Bali

Nusa Penida has become one of the most popular islands to visit for those on a vacation in Bali. With its epic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and manta-ray experience, it’s starting to become more of a must-do than Bali itself. Getting to Nusa Penida from Bali by ferry takes ONLY 35-minutes by fast-boat but the actual transit can take longer with taxi’s and waiting times.

a group of people riding on the back of a boat

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET FROM BALI TO NUSA PENIDA

In this blog post, I’m going to break down the best THREE options to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. As the price goes up with each option, the transit time goes down and the transit becomes easier. There’s a way to get to Nusa Penida from Bali for every budget. The cheapest way is to book the Ferry with 12go and the easiest way is to book the Fastboat with hotel pick-up in Bali with GetYourGuide .

a group of people standing on top of a boat

How to get to the Nusa Islands

There are three main options to get to Nusa Penida depending on your budget and how many logistics you want to manage. Here are the three options with the cheapest first:

Book your ticket: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Lembongan – Book a regular ferry that leaves from Sanur to Nusa Penida on the reliable website 12go . You then need to moped or taxi across to Nusa Penida via another ferry/boat.
Book a fast boat: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida – This option is great as you go direct from Bali to Penida without having to stop in Lembongan. This option is only slightly more expensive than stopping in Lembongan. This is my favorite option of the three and can be booked on Klook .
Book a fast boat with hotel pick-up: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida – This option includes a fast boat from Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida but also includes pick-up from your hotel in Bali in a van. This option from GetYourGuide is a bit more expensive but takes all the hassle out of the transit from Bali to Nusa Penida.

CHEAPEST WAY: BALI TO NUSA PENIDA FERRY

Don’t have time to read the whole post? No problem! I’ll jump to the important bit. The best, easiest, most reliable way to book a ticket for the ferry to Nusa Penida from Bali is to go book online for the Ferry with 12go . This way you book at the correct price, have online proof of ticket, and don’t need to wait to book in person at the dock.

a picture of a picture of a picture of a picture of a picture of a

Nusa Penida Ferry

30-Minute Trip
Reliable online booking
Don’t need to line up

Kelingking, kelingking secret point, kelingking point, kelingking beach nusa penida, kelingking nusa penida,kelingking secret point nusa penida

TIPS FROM MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

I’ve personally made the journey 6 times on the ferry to and from Penida so I know the drill from all locations and have got you covered with this blog post about how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali and other locations. I’ll cover ticket prices, how to book, whether you need an open ticket or not, and also the different routes and options available.

GETTING TO THE FERRY PORT IN BALI

Bali is a large island, comprises of many different regions so depending on where you are staying in Bali, will depend on how long it takes to get to the port. All of the transits leave from the port of Sanur which is in Southeast Bali (Some do also leave from Padang Bai). It is approximately 45 minutes driving from Seminyak or 35 minutes driving from Kuta. Often traffic and multiple pick-ups from your van/taxi service will make that time a bit longer. If you are looking for a ferry ticket with hotel-pickup, this is the best option: Penida Fastboat + hotel pick-up in Bali with GetYourGuide .

SHOULD YOU BOOK ONLINE OR AT THE PORT?

You can head down to the port and book your ticket there but from my experience, it is always cheaper to book in advance online. Otherwise, you will arrive at the port, line up for a ticket then have to wait for the ferry whenever that is. If you book online you can simply arrive just before your ferry leaves. So best to book the ferry online with 12GO .

DO I NEED A SPEEDBOAT OR IS A FERRY OKAY?

If you travel to Lombok , it can be important to take a speed boat instead of a ferry. This can save you more than 3 hours in transit time due to the distance between Lombok and Bali. From Bali to Nusa Penida the distance is much shorter and a speedboat isn’t paramount due to the short distance. However, the ferry is the local transit option so you will naturally have to deal with a bit of chaos compared to a more expensive fast-boat option.

an aerial view of a small boat in the ocean.

GETTING FROM NUSA PENIDA TO NUSA LEMBONGAN

You can get from Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan and vice versa and you don’t need to book that in advance. There is a small boat leaving every hour. However it is possible to also book that leg of the journey with 12GO .

THE BENEFIT TO BOOKING ONLINE

I always book the ferry online with 12GO as the price is fixed and there are guarantees. I prefer not to have to haggle with the vendors on the street in Bali when I don’t have to because it’s easy to be misled and you never know how to trust.

Okay, so those are a few tips now let’s look at how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali via ferry or boat.

a man riding on the back of a blue and white boat

HOW TO GET FROM SANUR (BALI) TO NUSA PENIDA

The ferry leaves multiple times per day from Sanur (South-east Bali). To book the ferry to Nusa Penida online in advance for the guaranteed lowest price you can click the link below to reserve your ticket via the booking company I use for all of my train and boat tickets in Southeast Asia called 12GO . This online booking agency is generally pretty reliable all over Asia, so I stick with what works to avoid issues with new websites and agents. Below I have put the link to the search page for Sanur to Nusa Penida where the tickets are usually around $10 one way.

Book your ticket with 12GO: Sanur(Bali) to Nusa Penida Ferry

BOOKING THE CONVENIENT PACKAGE DEAL

If you prefer to have everything handled in a package deal , you will pay a bit extra but it can be convenient. Generally, at your hotel, hostel, or at a vendor on the street you can book an ‘open’ ferry ticket to Nusa Penida that includes a return ticket and pick-up and drop-off from your hotel. It will cost around $30-$40. You can also book the package deal online with GetYourGuide . This may sound expensive but when you consider you get the following:

Pick-up from hotel in Bali and dropped to Sanur Port
Ferry to Nusa Lembonga/Penida
Ferry back to Bali
Pick-up from Sanur Port and dropped at your hotel in Bali

The $40 ticket is an ‘ open ticket ‘. This means when you want to return back to Bali from Nusa Penida, you go to the office in Nusa Penida with your ‘receipt of purchase’ (or Nusa Lembongan) and ask for an ‘actual ticket’ for the next day. Pretty simple process.

The pick-up will get you from your hotel and is often a big van that is making several stops along the way. They are always full by the end so don’t think you have hit the jackpot with a full back-row to yourself. Enjoy it while it lasts. You will organize the pickup from your hotel when you make an online booking.

The journey to Sanur Port from Canggu takes about an hour, from Seminyak 45 minutes, from Kuta 35 minutes, and Ubud well just cross your fingers and hope for under an hour depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the port, the driver will hand you over to the representative who takes you straight to the office and they will tag your bag and give you a sticker so the boatmen know you are on the right boat.

It’s likely you will have to wait about an hour (possibly more) before your actual ferry leaves but that is just how it goes. Your big luggage will be put below the deck by the staff and you will take a seat. Tip: grab a window seat as it can often get stuffy and hot inside the cabin. Depending on the boat you may be able to get onto the roof and enjoy the wind. Keep your small bag with personal belongings with you during the trip.

When you arrive you will depart the boat and wait for the boys to pass your luggage down the chain until it is clear of the water. Welcome to Nusa Penida you have made it!

a man sitting on the back of a boat in the water

HOW TO GET TO NUSA PENIDA FROM NUSA LEMBONGAN

If you are on Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan and want to transfer between the two it is quite easy. There is a small boat operating pretty much every hour that you will pay about $4-5 for a ticket to ride across the channel. It is only about a 10-minute ride but you can take your full luggage if you want. It is possible to book this short ferry trip online with 12Go or you can book it in person when you arrive.

Many will leave their big luggage at their hotel on Nusa Lembongan and just take an overnight bag with a change of clothes for 1-3 days on Penida so they aren’t limited by too much luggage. It’s a good idea.

If you are on Nusa Lembongan trying to go to Nusa Penida the best place to get the boat is from the yellow bridge. There is a small unofficial-looking building there where you buy your ticket and wait. On the Nusa Penida side just head down to the Toya Pakeh Harbor and that will shuttle you across to Nusa Lembongan.

HOW TO GET TO NUSA PENIDA FROM BALI AIRPORT

The best way to get to Nusa Penida from Bali Airport (Ngurah Rai Airport) is to get a taxi or a Grab (like an Uber) at the airport to the harbor in Sanur called ‘Sanur Beach Harbor’ on Google Maps. It will take about 30-40 minutes from the Bali Airport to the Sanur Beach Harbor. I suggest NOT booking your ticket in advance in case you have a plane delay. The best thing to do is just get down to the harbor and then ask at any of the booths for a ticket to Nusa Penida.

HOW TO GET FROM NUSA PENIDA TO LOMBOK

It is possible to get from Nusa Lembongan to Lombok but not currently possible directly from Nusa Penida. That just means you take the 10-minute boat trip to Nusa Lembongan from Nusa Penida and you can skip across to Lombok without having to go all the way back to Sanur, Bali, which is pretty convenient.

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CAN YOU GET TO THE GILI ISLANDS FROM NUSA PENIDA

It is possible to get from Nusa Lembongan to the Gili Islands but not currently possible directly from Nusa Penida. That just means you take the 10-minute boat trip to Nusa Lembongan from Nusa Penida and you can make your way over to the Gili Islands without having to go all the way back to Sanur, Bali.

HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN YOU TAKE ON THE NUSA PENIDA FERRY

Almost all of the ferries have the same rule, allowing two pieces of luggage weighing up to 30KG in total. Interestingly, none of them actually weigh your baggage so I’m not sure how this is actually enforced. The luggage is stored on the deck, shielded by a sizable tarp to prevent water damage but I suggest keeping your valuables in your carry-on backpack as they do tend to throw the baggage around a bit.

IS THE FERRY TO NUSA PENIDA SAFE?

Generally the ferries seem quite safe but the safety standards also seem pretty loose. I’m sure there are life vests but are there enough? The ferries are often quite battered and old so that also doesn’t fill me with confidence. It’s only a short trip but on rougher days, I’m sure the risk does go up. I wish I could write that it is a very safe trip and you should have no concerns but due to cost-cutting and loose safety standards these ferries are not free of danger. A ferry sunk off Bali in 2018 with 50 people on board. Six people died in that incident. Another boat crashed and sank traveling from Bali to Nusa Penida in 2023. There were no casualties in that incident but passengers had to jump into the ocean in lifejackets and their belongings sank.

a group of people riding on a bus with their hands in the air

BEST NUSA PENIDA DAY TOURS

If you are staying in Bali.. take a day trip on a speedboat to explore the highlights of Nusa Penida. It takes just 35 minutes to get from Bali to Nusa Penida by speed boat. Yep, in just one day you can snorkel with Manta rays and visit lots of the best beaches and viewpoints.

Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour

Manta Ray Nusa Penida Tour (from Bali): Snorkeling with Manta Rays is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best wildlife encounters I’ve had in my life. The Manta Rays are majestic and very friendly. With a wingspan of 5m, these gentle giants cruise around you while you snorkel amongst them. The Nusa Penida Manta Ray Snorkel Tour includes pick up and drop off from your hotel in Bali and all transport and tickets included.

a man swimming under a manta ray in the ocean.

Nusa Penida Highlights Tour

Nusa Penida Highlights Tour : Get picked-up from your Bali hotel, take a 35-minute fast boat to Nusa Penida and then visit the most popular viewpoints, beaches and snorkel spots on the island. This small Nusa Penida Highlights Tour group tour is the most highly reviewed day trip for Nusa Penida Island. You’ll visit all the most popular spots and can request certain viewpoints on your itinerary. Places you will visit are sites like the ones listed below:

Angel’s Billabong
Kelingking T-Rex Beach
Broken Beach
Rumah Pohon Treehouse
Snorkeling at Crystal Bay
Thousand Island Viewpoint

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19 Best Things To Do in Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is one of the main highlights of Bali. Due to locations like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong tourism on Nusa Penida has taken a huge step up. Go on a Nusa Penida Day Tour from Bali or explore the entire island in a 3-day Nusa Penida Trip . These are the 19 Things To Do Nusa Penida.

1. Diamond Beach

Opposite Atuh Beach cliff is the most picturesque beach in the world: Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida. The viewpoint is the best place to see Diamond Beach. However, via the newly (2018) made stair, you can now also visit the beach. Taking a swim at this beach is not recommended due to its currents but this beach is still a must-see. You can also visit Diamond Beach on a combi tour of Nusa Penida.

Here are all your hotel options in Nusa Penida.

things to do nusa penida diamond beach stairs

2. Swim at Atuh Beach

On the eastern tip of Penida island are probably the two most beautiful beaches in the whole of Bali . Atuh is a small beach, a bit hidden away because of the two high cliffs on both sides. A small walk of 10-minute down the stairs is required to reach the beach.

Want to know how to get or where to stay on the island? Read our full Nusa Penida Guide .

3. Teletubbies Hill

A good place to watch the sunset in the area is at the so-called ‘Teletubbies Hill’. Countless soft-rounded, grass hills are what gave it this name.

4. Kelingking, the T-Rex

Kelingking viewpoint and Kelingking beach are what made Nusa Penida popular. You can climb all the way down from the top viewpoint to the beach, which might be the most difficult beach to reach in Bali. Getting to the beach takes about 40 minutes.

Read all about: Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida

things to do nusa penida kelingking beach

5. Tembeling Natural Pool

Tembeling is one of the best-kept secrets on Penida and one of our favorite things to do on Nusa Penida. The sweet water pool, hidden away in the jungle is a beautiful blue watered gem.

Only motorbikes can access this area. You can combine this with a west Nusa Penida Tour .

things to do nusa penida Tembeling natural pool

6. Tembeling Beach

Just a 5-minute walk from the natural pool is a white-sand beach where you can relax for a few hours. Don’t forget to have a look at the secret beach on the other side of the cove. Read all about Tembeling Forest and Beach on Nusa Penida .

things to do nusa penida Tembeling forest

7. Banah Cliff Point

A less-known sunset spot on the island is Banah Cliff Point. Like Tembeling, it is located on the west side of Penida island and quite easy to reach. The exact location on Google Maps .

8. Stay at Rumah Pohon Treehouse

Just 5-minutes from Atuh Beach is a hotel with a unique viewpoint. On a small cliff are three treehouses almost 360 degrees, surrounded by the ocean and an unbeatable view.

9. Thousand Islands Viewpoint

Overlooking the whole east coast of Nusa Penida is the best from the Thousand Islands Viewpoint. Located on the same point as the treehouse. The view on the 200-meter high cliffs and white-sand beaches are just one to take in for a moment.

things to do nusa penida Thousand Islands Viewpoint

10. Underground Temple: Goa Giri Putri

In North Penida, is the Goa Giri Putri temple. The religious sight is visited by many Balinese people. The entrance is quite impressive, to access you have to go through a small opening between the rocks. Visit this must-see on a multi stop tour of Nusa Penida ( book your tour here ).

Read: The complete 3-week Indonesia itinerary

11. Peguyanan Waterfall

On the South East cliffs of Nusa Penida, there is a hike where you can’t be afraid of heights. The walk is a 150-meter iron blue stairs, which takes you to the bottom of the cliff and shows you the most scenic areas. At the foot, there are a temple and a small waterfall with fresh water. But the views from the hike are way more spectacular.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Bali trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

things to do nusa penida peguyanan waterfall stairs

12. Diving Nusa Penida

Every month new dive resorts on Nusa Penida are opening their doors. Get training at the resort and in open water to finally get your PADI!

13. Penida Colada

Nusa Penida already has quite a lot of good restaurants. A relaxing hidden gem in the northern part is Penida Colada. A laid-back restaurant with good food and delicious drinks right on the beach.

things to do nusa penida coloda restaurant

14. Angel’s Billabong

The second most popular thing to do in Nusa Penida is visiting the natural infinity pool named Angel’s Billabong. Take a dip in the super clear water. Be aware not to go too near the edge of the pool since the sea washes over and can create dangerous situations.

things to do nusa penida angles billabong

15. Snorkel with Manta Rays

Manta Point in Nusa Penida is the place to be assured of seeing Mantas. Do a boat trip and snorkel with these giants. You can also book a day trip from Bali to spend the day snorkeling with these magical creatures. Indonesia has stunning marine life, especially around the Komodo Islands.

More about Komodo Islands boat tour

16. Crystal Bay, a must-do on Nusa Penida

A beautiful bay surrounded by palms, great for snorkeling and even better for watching the sunset. Right in front of the bay is a small island with a temple located on top that you can visit as well.

Read: The best beaches in Bali!

things to do nusa penida crystal bay sunset

17. Suwehan Beach

The clean white sand and refreshing sea breeze make Suwehan Beach worth a visit. You can swim, but be very careful with the strong current.

Read: Discover the most natural side of Bali in Sidemen

18. Stay at a beautiful bungalow

On Nusa Penida, accommodations range from basic homestays and guesthouses to beautiful bungalows and larger hotels. Stay in a beautiful bungalow (like La Roja ) on Nusa Penida and enjoy the full comfort on Penida Island.

things to do nusa penida bungalow accomodation

19. Broken Beach

The small impressive cove near Angel’s Billabong is called Broken Beach. Walk over a bridge made by nature. Unfortunately, you can’t visit the beach down there.

How to visit Nusa Penida

You can visit Nusa Penida easily from the main island of Bali, where there is an international airport with flights arriving from all around the world.

The ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida leaves 4 times a day: 8 AM, 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 16 PM, and 17 PM. The ferry takes 30 – 40 minutes, depending on how wild the water is.

There is no pier at Nusa Penida; you have to get on and off the boat walking through the water so it is advised to wear removable shoes. The boat staff will help you with your big pieces of luggage.

There are also plenty of day tours returning to Bali that explore all of Nusa Penida’s highlights. If your Bali itinerary is packed full but you still want to visit the famous Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, and the Goa Giri Putri Temple, a day tour is a great solution ( book your tickets here) .

Where to stay on Nusa Penida

Most accommodations on Nusa Penida are located in the west and north. We recommend picking one accommodation for all the days since you can get from one side of the island to the other in under an hour.

Hotels in Nusa Penida 😴

Best time to visit Nusa Penida

The best months for an amazing Nusa Penida island trip are between May and September, with August being the driest month on the island. This is also the best time to go snorkeling or diving in the crystal waters.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

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Tembeling: The Natural Pool of Nusa Penida

12 x things to do on nusa lembongan & ceningan, tips for the most beautiful places on nusa penida, bali.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hi Guys, this was really helpful for my Nusa Penida Planning. :)

Quick question, can you recommend a good spa place around?

Hi Gunjan, we’ve not personally been to a spa in Nusa Penida, but we’ve heard good things about Raja Lima Spa or Tejas Spa. Have an amazing time!

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17 Jun Nusa Penida Travel Guide: Perfect for Budget and Solo Travelers!

Over the years as pictures of the curved spine of Kelingking Beach have gone viral online, Nusa Penida has become a main attraction to visiting Indonesia. A part of a a trio of smallers islands, Nusa Pendia sits at the southeast coast of the main island of Bali. Here you will find less Western restaurants, a much quieter atmosphere, some untouched wilderness, and the iconic, epic coastlines!

In this travel guide you can find all the information needed to plan your own trip:

*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.

Additionally, World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Ways to Experience Nusa Penida

A trip to Nusa Penida can be experienced in different ways. For most people, visiting Nusa Penida means a taking a guided day trip tour from Bali. However, it’s becoming increasingly popular to go to Nusa Penida on your own, stay a few days and explore at your leisure time. There are pros and cons to both options and the way in which you decide to visit Nusa Penida greatly depends on any time limitations and how you like to travel.

Visiting On Your Own

Flexible planning, you’re on your own time

More planning involved on your part

Need to arrange getting to Nusa Penida

Must rent a motorbike or hire a driver

Ability to stay several days and explore the island in its entirety and experience a quiet paradise

Opportunity to explore many beautiful places, Nusa Penida is known for Kelingking Beach but there’s so much more

Visiting on a Tour

Structured day, possibly with a group depending on the tour

Usually package deal, everything planned for you

Transportation to the island usually included

Transportation on the island included

Tours are typically day tours from Bali without the option of staying on Nusa Penida

Tours usually only take you to the popular spots. And even if given the ability to choose where to go, your options are limited in just one day because of how far locations are from one another

In terms of price comparison, it depends. Exploring for one day on your own, could very well be much cheaper than a day tour package (depending on the tour). However, if you stay a few days, obviously the costs go up but you’re getting more experiences than a day tour.

As I mentioned, there are pros and cons to both, so choose whichever suits you best! Either way there’s no doubt you will enjoy this majestic island.

Booking a Day Trip Tour to Nusa Penida

A day trip can be taken on your own to the island, however with a shorter amount of time an organized tour may be more worth it.

Many days tours are offered by street vendors and hotels in Bali. However, you can also book ahead of time online. Below are some great options on GetYourGuide

Getting to and from Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is small island close to the mainland of Bali; to get there it is about a 30 minute boat ride from Sanur Harbor (on Bali). However, it can also be accessed from Nusa Lembongan or from Lombok. The most popular way is from Bali though.

Booking a Boat Ticket to Nusa Penida from Bali

*If you are taking a tour to Nusa Penida, boat transportation is usually included, but double check.

Securing a boat ticket to Nusa Penida can be done in many ways. Some hotels will help you arrange it, which may include pick up from the hotel and the boat to Nusa Penida.

You can also book online at 12Go or Klook , both of which are very reliable for all modes of transportation. Keep in mind, if you do book online, this should be done at least a day in advance. The longer you wait, the price usually goes up.

The other option is the old school way, booking from a vendor. There are many vendors on the streets within Bali who will provide transportation and tours to Nusa Penida. Or you can wing it, and show up to Sanur Harbor and buy your ticket from there. Boats and ferries leave everyday, I would just recommend showing up early.

Whichever way you buy your ticket though, I recommend comparing prices across the board and weighing your options. Some ways of booking may be more expensive than others, however, some may include transportation to Sanur Harbor.

What I did:

I booked a ticket for a speedboat online at Klook , the day before, which was 165,000 IDR (~$12 USD). I actually ended up missing my boat due to oversleeping and not reading the fine print about arriving early, but they just stuck me on the next boat leaving at no extra cost, so no problem. Don’t panic if this happens to you!

In summary..

Ways to Book a Boat Ticket to Nusa Penida:

At your hotel
From a street vendor
Online at 12Go or Klook

Tips When Booking:

Compare prices
Haggle/bargain if you can
Consider the pros and cons and price differences of booking a ticket that includes transportation to the harbor vs. getting there on your own
Book as early as possible to get a better price
Check your ticket for the time you’re supposed to arrive at the harbor

Getting to Sanur Harbor

Most speedboats and ferries to Nusa Penida will leave from Sanur Harbor. When purchasing your ticket, I would double check that this is your departure point. After doing so, I would check Google Maps to see how far away you are from Sanur Harbor, because given its location and Bali traffic, it might take you up to 45 minutes drive to get there. This detail is important to planning your arrival time so you don’t miss your boat (like me lol!).

If you’re taking a tour, most likely it will provide hotel pickup to the harbor, therefore you will not need to worry about the logistics of getting there. Make sure this is the case though.

If you are not on a tour, the cheapest way to reach Sanur Harbor is using the GoJek or Grab app. You can also take a taxi, this is a good option to support locals.

When you arrive at Sanur Harbor, there’s a small fee for drivers to enter the parking lot, to avoid this fee just have them drop you off outside of it and walk in. Be sure to arrive early at the harbor before your boat leaves. And don’t worry if you missed breakfast, there’s a lot of places to buy food and drink at the harbor!

Arriving at Nusa Penida

After about 30 minutes on a speedboat, you will arrive at Nusa Penida. If you’re on a tour, a vehicle will be waiting for you.

Otherwise, unless you have prior arrangements, at the harbor you can bargain with someone to rent a motorbike or catch a ride to your hotel or next destination. Don’t worry about no one being there, if anything its overwhelming how many people bombard you with offers. I wasn’t ready for this, so keep a cool head, b e prepared to be rushed and given higher prices, and use your haggling skills!

If you decide pay a driver, depending on where your hotel or hostel is on Nusa Penida, it’s about 100,000 IDR (~$7 USD) to get there with one of the drivers from the port. (2019 price)

From Nusa Penida Back to Bali

If you booked a tour, your transportation back will obviously be covered. However, if not you simply go about it the same way you did to get there. Hotels on Nusa Penida will have information about returning back to Bali, or you can book online on 12Go .

Transportation on the island

How to get around Nusa Penida is a detail I did not consider before coming and a lot of people don’t. Unlike Bali there are no rideshares, public transportation, or taxis. It’s either you rent a motorbike or car yourself, or you have a private driver.

Renting a motorbike

Renting a motorbike on Nusa Penida is a popular option, especially for backpackers on a budget staying a few days. But although it’s a cheap option, there is one thing to consider: the roads on Nusa Penida are notorious for being really, really bad. There are tons of potholes and many portions of the road are just torn up gravel, most of which are up and down steep hills and curvy roads.

I know many people think they’re invincible, but seriously driving a motorbike in Nusa Penida is only for experienced drivers. If you do opt to rent a motorbike, be extremely cautious, wear a helmet, and have travel insurance – I saw a lot of accidents.

To rent a motorbike, you can do so from your accommodation, from a vendor, from the harbor when you arrive OR online here . Motorbikes should be around 75,000 IDR ($5 USD) per day.

Renting a motorbike with a driver

When I visited Nusa Penida, I had never driven a motorbike in my life. When I heard about the roads, I knew it would be really stupid to try on my own. Now after seeing those roads, I know I could have gotten really hurt, even if I did know how to drive.

But being on a budget, I didn’t want to break the bank getting a private car to go around the island by myself, so I actually paid someone working at my hostel to drive me around on their motorbike. It was a lot of fun and I got to witness beautiful views without the stress of driving myself.

I paid 300,000 IDR (~$20 USD) per day. To do this, just ask your hotel or hostel if they offer the service, if not they most likely will know someone to call.

Renting a private car with a driver

If you’re not traveling alone, renting a private car with a driver is a really good option because it’s safer than a motorbike and you can split the price with your fellow travelers. When you arrive at the port of Nusa Penida, you can hire a driver there, just by asking one of the men. You can also book from your hotel/hostel, or online at Klook or GetYourGuide . Renting a private car with driver is around 500,000 IDR (~$35 USD) per day (2019 price) .

Places to See on Nusa Penida

On the west coast of nusa penida:, 1. kelingking beach.

Photos of this unique, curved coastline is what has started to draw more and more people to Nusa Penida; it’s probably the most visited part of the island! And even if you’ve already seen a thousand photos online, it’s unreal to personally stand in front of the T-Rex shaped cliff, and watch the blue waves roll into the rock face.

Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) and entrance fee 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) (Unless you’re driving yourself on a motorbike, you usually won’t have to pay this).

Arrive early morning if you want to miss the crowd.

2. Angel's Billabong

Most people describe Angel’s billabong as a natural infinity pool because when it’s low tide, it sits above the ocean water and you’re able to swim there. If you’re like me and didn’t know this, you might end up there at high tide! You won’t be able to swim, but you will see how clear the water is and you’ll witness some massive waves coming in and hitting the rock face!

Cost | Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) – you only pay once for Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Manta Bay Viewpoint

Tip | if you want to swim here, you need to come at low tide. ask the locals when this is, 3. broken beach.

Walking distance from Angel’s Billabong is Broken Beach. This cove is surrounded by cliffs that eventually form a natural bridge. Although you are not able to go down to the beach, the overlook is still a sweet spot. Watching the waves roll in through the opening in the wall was mesmerizing.

Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) – you only pay once for Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Manta Bay Viewpoint

To really get the full experience, make sure and walk around the cove and over the natural bridge!

4. Manta Bay Viewpoint

Manta Bay is just on the other side of Broken Beach. Sometimes, you are able to look down and see the magnificent manta ray swimming below. When I visited, I wasn’t able to see any because there were so many waves, but because it’s so close to Broken Beach, its worth it to check and see!

Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) – you only pay once for Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Manta Bay Viewpoint

Go at low tide to have a better chance of spotting a manta ray!

On the East Side of Nusa Penida:

5. pura goa giri putri cave.

On my way to the East Coast of Nusa Penida, I stopped at Pura Goa Putri Cave which is a Hindu Temple inside a cave! In order to enter, you have to crawl through a small opening. Once inside the ceiling opens up and you follow a pathway leading to multiple prayers sights and then come out the back of the cave. It’s really so interesting!

20,000 IDR (~$1.50 USD)

Bring a sarong if you can, as you have to cover your knees to enter a Hindu temple. However, if you don’t have one, they do offer some at the temple for you to borrow.

6. Diamond Beach

Diamond beach, like Kelingking beach, has started to really blow up on social media. And for good reason! This beach is paradise, but (when I visited) without the crowds.

5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) for parking and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) entrance – this covers Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach

When going down to the beach, be careful on the stairs as they become more narrow.

7. Atuh Beach

Atuh Beach is the most “commercial” of the beaches meaning it has plenty of lounge chairs and local food vendors or warungs. I ate a delicious lunch here with an incredible view of crystal clear water. Also, if you buy food or drink, they offer you a chair for free to lounge in later!

5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) for parking and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) entrance – this covers Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach

Many people who look up photos of Atuh Beach see photos of Sebele beach, which has been mistakenly called Atuh Beach. Sebele beach is actually on the other side; I did not know this when I visited; I definitely need to go back to see that beach too!

8. Thousand Island (Pulau Seribu) Viewpoint

Thousand Island Viewpoint Nusa Penida Bali

This viewpoint was probably my favorite! There was no one there except for a few people passing through, so I got to sit and enjoy the view for awhile without any disturbance. And that’s really what you need to take in this view, because it’s absolutely magnificent!

5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) to park and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) for entrance – this covers Thousand Island Viewpoint and Rumah Pohon Treehouse

This place is interchangeably called Thousand Island Viewpoint or Pulau Seribu; it’s the same place!

9. Rumah Pohon Treehouse

The Rumah Pohon Treehouse is another instagram phenomena. Just next to the Thousand Island Viewpoint, the treehouse offers another perspective of the cliff and is a picture perfect scene.

*I was definitely under the impression the treehouse was just a cute place for pictures, etc. however you can actually book to stay there! Keep in mind, it is very simple accommodation, just a mattress from what I’ve heard, so you’re really just paying for the view.

5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) to park and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) for entrance – this covers Thousand Island Viewpoint and Rumah Pohon Treehouse

Keep going past the treehouse, up the hill for another lookout!

Other Places to See on Nusa Penida

These places are a little more off the beaten path, and I never got to chance to visit myself. Next time!

Suwehan Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Online Fast Boat Nusa Penida (@penidago) on Apr 20, 2020 at 12:00am PDT

Peguyangan Waterfall

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝓒𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓶𝓮 𝓚𝓲𝓷𝓸 ♉️ (@kino.doan) on Apr 30, 2020 at 8:13am PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Online Fast Boat Nusa Penida (@penidago) on Apr 22, 2020 at 9:00pm PDT

Seganing waterfall

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laurie ～ (@laurie.desmarais) on Jul 30, 2018 at 5:09am PDT

Crystal Bay Beach Nusa Penida

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nicko Melendres (@nicko.stark) on Apr 24, 2020 at 3:58am PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kamen Bali Tour (@kamenbalitour) on May 5, 2020 at 8:39pm PDT

Tembeling Beach, Natural Pool and Forest

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elise | Travel photography (@escapewithelise) on Mar 12, 2020 at 10:15am PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daria Kvitkova 🌷 (@kvittkova) on Jan 25, 2020 at 12:31am PST

Saren Cliff Viewpoint

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Penida tomorrow trip (@travelling891) on May 4, 2019 at 8:55pm PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cullen Wooller (@cullenwooller) on Jul 1, 2018 at 4:50am PDT

Sebele Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by #ForeverVacation Bali (@forevervacationbali) on Jun 29, 2020 at 11:39am PDT

Snorkeling and Diving at Nusa Penida

Manta point.

Although there are several spots for snorkeling and diving off the coast of Nusa Penida, the most famous is Manta Point. Manta Point is where tons of manta rays come to feed (naturally, not fed by humans). So although it is not guaranteed you will see any, there is still a big chance you will see many gigantic, manta rays!

When I went snorkeling here, I was actually sea sick from the boat. But I wanted to see these beautiful creatures so badly I jumped in the water anyways. And I’m so happy I did. My mind was absolutely blown! Manta rays surrounded me. They glided through the water so gracefully, the movement of their body portraying them as if they were flying. And they’re not shy at all either; many times they would swim right at me, and I had to dodge their gigantic body. Manta rays are not dangerous at all, however, to touch them you risk damaging their skin.

Despite the sea sickness, this was one of the most magical moments of my life and I highly recommend anyone traveling to Nusa Penida do it. If you’re taking a day trip, it’s possible to book a tour that includes this. However, if not you can book with a dive company on the island.

Snorkeling with Manta Rays Nusa Penida Bali

I booked my snorkeling tour through Mambo Dive Resort and thoroughly enjoyed snorkeling with them. They were a lot of fun, very respectful of nature, informative, and it was reasonably price at 350,000 IDR (~$25 USD). We went to two snorkeling places, Manta Point and a spot to see coral (either Gamat or Crystal Bay). There are some snorkeling companies that will offer 4 or so snorkeling points, but I personally recommend only doing two (one being Manta Point) so you can spend more time at Manta Point.

Other snorkeling spots at Nusa Penida besides Manta Point:

Crystal bay, toyapakeh wall point, buddha temple, where to stay on nusa penida.

If you’ve decided there’s so much to see on Nusa Penida and you would like to take your time and explore, there are plenty of accommodation options on this small island, from budget to luxury.

If you’re a solo traveler and looking to save some money, hostels are the way to go. When it comes to hostels, Nusa Penida has quite a few for such a small island. And they’re definitely budget friendly! Hostels range from $5-15 USD, and some even have a pool .

When I visited Nusa Penida I stayed at Packer Box Hostel , which was simple, but clean and comfortable and I met some amazing people there!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Packer Box (@thepackerbox) on Aug 11, 2019 at 9:34pm PDT

If you’re traveling as a group of 2, private rooms can also be a really cheap option to split. Many of the hostels on Nusa Penida offer private rooms that are just as much as a dorm option at another hostel. On Hostelworld private rooms range from $15 – 40 USD.

Nusa Penida has a number of resort hotels featuring spas, pools, a tropical breakfast, and all for affordable prices. Some highly rated ones are Blue Harbor Beachfront Villas & Resto , Ocean Terrace Suite and Spa , Semabu Hills Hotel , and Akusara Jungle Resort . Most are around $50 USD but reaching no more than $150 USD.

→ Search for more hotel deals in Nusa Penida

Tip When Booking Accommodation on Nusa Penida:

While you get excited about beautiful places and are mind blown by how cheap they are, don’t forget to check the location. Nusa Penida is a small island, but it takes a very long time to get places. So weigh the pros and cons of accommodation options and proximity to where you want to visit.

Best Time to Visit Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida can be explored at any point in the year! However, it’s best May to September when it’s almost guaranteed dry weather.

Map of Every Location Mentioned in this Post

And there you have it, your guide to Nusa Penida! If I missed something or you have any questions, leave a comment below . 😊

More Resources for Your Trip to Indonesia

Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Thailand along with some recommendations:

If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others, Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability !

Canguu: The Farm Hostel
Ubud: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel OR The Wayan House OR Ubud Rice Field House
Nusa Penida: Packer Box Hostel OR Nuansa Penida Hostel
Seminyak: My Capsule Bali
Kuta (Lombok): Pipes Hostel
Gili Air: H20 Yoga & Meditartion Center OR Tipsea Turtle
Gili Trawangan: Atlas Gili

Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Indonesia because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays – also for cheap!

Flights to Indonesia are typically cheapest to Jakarta but shouldn’t be too much more directly to Bali/Denpasar. I flew to Singapore and then flew to Bali which is also a good option. Domestic flights within Indonesia can be more or less affordable especially if traveling light. There are ferry options, but the waters between island can be pretty wild so if you can, I recommend flying. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner .

BUSES/Ferries/& more

The easiest ways to search for ways to get around Indonesia are with 12GoAsia and Klook . Both platforms show various options (ferries, buses, flights, etc.) so you can compare option and prices in English. Check 12GoAsia out here and check out Klook here

Travel insurance is a must for every trip to ensure you’re covered in unexpected situations. My go to travel insurance is always WorldNomads which is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here .

If you’re a digital nomad looking for travel medical emergency insurance, I also suggest Safety Wing .

Tours & Experiences

There’s a lot of free thing to do in Indonesia and/or experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours and experiences though like snorkeling, cooking classes & more then I most recommend Klook and GetYourGuide for Indonesia.

Know Before You Go

Check out my Indonesia Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.

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Nusa Penida is a sprawling island with plenty of activities to keep you busy, regardless of how long your stay is. To make the most of your time, it's important to know how to get around. In this guide, you'll find information on popular hiking spots, options for renting scooters, motorbikes, cars, or hiring a driver, and prices to help you plan your travels.

Planning your trip to Indonesia and to Bali ? Look no further for practical information about Nusa Penida . Learn about the best ways to navigate the island and the current state of its roads. You’ll find all the information you need here. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Nusa Penida is a sprawling 200 km2, twice the size of Paris, but lacks public transportation. A handy guide is a must!

Nusa Penida ‘s roads are undergoing renovations, making it increasingly convenient to travel around the island. Some destinations, however, require navigating bumpy dirt roads. Renting a scooter or motorbike is a popular option for seeing the sights, but there are other choices available. For those less confident on two wheels, hiring a car with a driver may be a more preferable option for a guided tour of the island.

Walking in Nusa Penida

Exploring Nusa Penida: Hiking Trails and Adventures

Due to its vast size, it’s impossible to explore the entire island of Nusa Penida on foot unless you’re an avid hiker with ample time on your hands. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of beautiful hikes to enjoy .

I have personally explored the trail from Crystal Bay to Broken Beach , which offers stunning views. Another excellent hike can be found in the primary forest of Temeling , which involves a pleasant two-kilometer (one-way) walk after parking your scooter or getting dropped off by your driver before a long descent.

For a more leisurely stroll, consider walking from your hotel in Sakti to Crystal Bay , Gamat Bay , and Amok Sunset Bar . Additionally, you’ll likely encounter many schoolchildren on their way to or from school as you explore the island.

Tips for Scooter Rental and Driving on Nusa Penida

For adventure enthusiasts, a scooter is a great way to explore Nusa Penida at your own pace. You can effortlessly navigate the island’s various sights and pause at any viewpoint to take photos or soak in the scenery.

Rent a scooter in Nusa Penida

I recommend renting from Bikago . They have been operating since 2014, offering high-quality scooter rentals with impeccable service in Bali. They have 8 branches in Bali. But they are set to open a new shop on April 15th, 2024 at the Toyapakeh port, right where the fast boats from Sanur arrive. Enjoy a brand new fleet of well-maintained rental scooters and motorcycles with Bikago. With competitive pricing, online booking confirmation, and comprehensive insurance options, Bikago provides exceptional services to visitors looking to explore the scenic roads of Nusa Penida. All scooters come with helmets and a first aid kit.

Is it safe to drive a scooter in Nusa Penida ?

Although helmets are not mandatory in Nusa Penida, it’s safer to wear one. The rental company may not provide helmets unless specifically requested, so it’s essential to ask for one. It’s also recommended to wear sturdy shoes and at least a tee-shirt. I’ve noticed many tourists driving their scooters without helmets, shirts, or proper footwear, which may be comfortable, until an accident occurs, especially on roads with gravel.

A driving license is usually not required to rent a scooter in Nusa Penida, but it’s worth remembering that your insurance may not cover you if you don’t have an international driving permit . So I strongly advise to have one. You can get one valid up to 3 years in less than 8 minutes on line.

Scooter in the rain

Don’t Let the Rain Ruin Your Bali and Nusa Penida Experience

If you plan to visit Nusa Penida island or Bali during the rainy season, I highly suggest purchasing a poncho for just a few euros . They come in various colors and provide excellent protection from the rain. When you see the locals stopping to don their own ponchos, it’s time to follow suit, as you could easily become drenched within seconds.

While Nusa Penida typically receives less rainfall than other parts of Bali, with less than 1000mm annually, it’s always wise to have a raincoat on hand when riding your motorbike.

Or check the weather forecast !

Annual Rain in Bali

Safe Driving Tips for navigating Nusa Penida roads

Nusa Penida Island’s road network has undergone a significant refurbishment, including the road that encircles the island. This road runs along the entire north coast from Toyapakeh to Suana, travels up to Atuh Beach and Tanglad, crosses the entire island, and eventually leads to a fork towards the recently renovated Crystal Bay Beach. Some new crossroads have also been constructed.

Driving around the island on these newly constructed roads is a pleasant experience. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the following three rules:

Drive on the left-hand side of the road in Indonesia and Bali. Be mindful of fast-moving cars and trucks and keep your left-hand side when encountering them. Avoid driving on small paths close to cliffs and stick to proper roads. One unfortunate incident has led to a fatality.
Slow down before turns or descents as most accidents occur due to hard braking in such situations with gravel on the road.
Don’t drive too fast as you may come across a large truck, a child, or an animal at any time. Personally, I do not swerve for toads, which are frequently encountered in the evening or at night, or hens. However, I make an effort to avoid dogs and … pigs. It’s also essential to note that new roads may transition abruptly to old ones. I had my only significant accident while driving to Atuh Beach due to this sudden transition.

And again, I highly recommend to wear a helmet, proper shoes, and at least a tee-shirt when driving a scooter.

get around in Nusa Penida on roads with animals

Beware of animals on the roads !

On Nusa Penida dirt roads

While some of the newly refurbished roads on Nusa Penida island are of high quality, the majority of the other roads are average at best. And even poor in some cases. This is especially true for the crossroads that lead from the main road to the sea. However, the worst of these, the road leading to Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong , has seen significant improvement.

To test your driving skills on the island, it is advisable to begin with the destinations accessible by good roads, such as Crystal Bay, Goa Giri Putri , Atuh Beach , and Kelingking Beach . If you do not feel entirely comfortable, it is recommended to hire a driver for more exotic locations such as Suwehan Beach .

Road to Suwehan Beach

Driving at night in Nusa Penida?

Complete darkness sets in approximately 45 minutes after sunset, typically around 7 p.m. However, driving at night in Bali or Nusa Penida can sometimes be more comfortable than during the day, particularly on well-maintained roads. Fewer cars and trucks are on the road, and their headlights provide ample visibility. However, it is important to exercise caution and drive at a slower pace, particularly on roads that are not well maintained.

Map of Nusa Penida and its road network

Namaste Bungalows hotel has produced a map of Nusa Penida island, which accurately reflects the quality of the road network. However, it should be noted that the map has anticipated road renovations south of Tanglad to Suwehan Beach and Tabuanan that have not yet been completed. For a high-resolution PDF version of the map, please leave a comment below or send an email.

In addition, Google Maps is an excellent resource for navigating Nusa Penida island. The distances and travel times provided by Google are generally accurate, taking into account the road conditions. However, it is essential to verify the correct spelling of each location before typing it into the search bar. For example, to reach Temeling, it must be typed as “Tembeling.”

Mapsme, unfortunately, is not recommended as it has limited knowledge of the roads on Nusa Penida, and tourists have been lost in remote areas following its directions. For your convenience, you can also access my Google map of Nusa Penida , which includes the top 15 sites to see on the island.

Map of Nusa Penida, Bali

Nusa Penida Taxi and Transport

If you are traveling with a lot of suitcases, the most convenient option would be to arrange for your transfer from the port through your hotel. Alternatively, you can find drivers at the port who can transport you and your luggage to your hotel, but the prices may be higher. It’s not uncommon for drivers to charge IDR 300,000 or more for a trip to a location such as the tree house near Sekartaji. It’s important to note that drivers on the island have an agreement to charge lump sum prices, which makes it challenging to negotiate. Generally, the average price for a trip ranges from 150,000 to 200,000 rupiahs.

Rent a car in Nusa Penida ?

It is not possible to rent and drive by yourself a car on Nusa Penida island. To explore the island, you will need to rent a car with a driver for half or full day trips. In some cases, the driver may also act as a guide. This option is particularly useful if you are traveling with a group of people and wish to visit the island’s most remote locations. However, it is important to note that prices are higher than those in Bali. Typically, drivers will charge 550,000 rupiahs for the west tour, which includes Broken Beach and Kelingking Beach. And 650,000 rupiahs for the East tour, which includes Atuh Beach. Six passengers can typically fit in one car, making it a relatively cost-effective option for larger groups.

Alternatively, if you are traveling solo, you can rent a scooter with a driver.

get around with a boat

Boat trips in Nusa Penida

There are numerous options available for boat excursions. Among them, the most popular one is the snorkeling tour that allows you to witness the majestic Manta rays . If you prefer a more immersive experience, scuba diving is an excellent opportunity to explore the coastline and its seabed. Additionally, public and private boats run between Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan islands. They charge approximately 60,000 rupees per way.

I hardly saw any on the island. It must be said that it is quite hilly, with a peak higher than 500 meters above sea level. But if you have your own bike and you feel like it, this may be an original way to get around in Nusa Penida !

Where to stay in Nusa Penida ?

When I first came to Nusa Penida in 2015 there were only 2 hotels on the island. There are now 450 listed on Booking.com . Read the selection of my favorite places to stay in Nusa Penida . They are all located in between Toyapakeh and Crystal Bay because it is more authentic and less busy than the north coast. And from there you can reach pretty much any attraction in Nusa Penida in less than 1 hour.

Many hotels are offering Getaway Deals for stays between April 4 and September 28, 2023.

Any question on how to get around in Nusa Penida?

I will be happy to answer any questions ! Just contact me or post a question !

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The Best Nusa Penida Travel Guide 2019

A tropical paradise island just 30 minutes from Bali, Nusa Penida should be on everyone’s bucket list. You can see most of the sights in just a few days, or take a little longer and explore the parts of the island that tourists don’t usually go to. In this travel guide I’m going to let you in on all of the essential information you need to know for your visit to Nusa Penida.

Don’t forget to read my Nusa Penida 3-Day Itinerary!

Quick links, how to get to nusa penida.

How to get around Nusa Penida
What to do on Nusa Penida
Where to stay on Nusa Penida
The best places to eat and drink on Nusa Penida
Other important information

Kelingking beach, Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a 30 minute boat ride from Bali, with boats departing from Sanur on the east of the island. There are many different choices of company to go with but on our most recent trip we went with Dwi Manunggal Tickets are IDR150k each way and there were around 25-30 people on the boat – with life jackets for all of us.

We booked our seats in advance by calling the number on the above website. You can also buy a ticket at the pier from one of the many booking offices. Locals pay IDR100k and the tourist price is IDR150k so don’t let anyone charge you more than that. If you do buy at the pier it is possible to haggle and get the price down to around IDR120k.

After you get off the boat on Penida walk off the beach, turn right into the parking lot and there will be a booking office on your left. If you need to contact your accommodation or book somewhere to stay this place has wifi and the password is written on the desk at the back. They’re pretty sound about letting people connect.

Getting Around

There are two options to seeing Nusa Penida island: a guided tour or a DIY tour. If you’re comfortable riding a scooter I would definitely recommend the DIY tour as it’s not only the cheapest way to see the island, but the drives here are spectacular and you would be missing out by taking a car.

Organised Tours

I run a Nusa Penida one-day tour which takes you from Bali to see the best sights on Nusa Penida. Click here to check out my tour and book in!

Renting a scooter

If you decide to rent a scooter you can rent one at the pier when you arrive. Prices are around IDR70k per day, and make sure you insist on a helmet. Petrol costs IDR10K per litre and is available as you drive around (keep an eye out for glass bottles of blue liquid outside shops and restaurants). Always fill your tank because some of the sights here are quite remote and you don’t want to be stuck.

You won’t have much phone reception while you’re on Penida, especially when you’re driving around, so make sure you either download offline maps or star each location you want to visit on Google Maps . That way you can easily route yourself while you’re driving (for this reason I recommend having one bike with two people on it so that one person can navigate).

What To Do On Nusa Penida

I’ve written a handy 3 day itinerary for your time on Penida, which you can read here!

Where to stay

There’s a variety of accommodation on Penida depending on your budget, but the trickiest part for me was finding the right area to stay in. I wanted to find somewhere that was close to restaurants and bars, conveniently located to all of the things we wanted to see, and also had a real island feel about it – I wanted feel as far from the hectic madness of Bali as possible!

In the end we picked Tandjung Cottages and it was absolutely perfect! It’s just a few minutes drive to the pier and lots of great restaurants, and on one of the main roads through Penida which made it easier to get around the island. Each wooden hut is en suite with hot showers, air conditioning, comfortable beds and free breakfast served to your balcony each morning. We paid £28 per night, which is a little above our usual budget but it was worth it.

Some other popular places to stay are:

Nuansa Penida Hostel (£11 per night) – One of the best reviewed accommodations on the island and with dorm rooms and private huts. Great location for sightseeing and close to the pier, bars and restaurants.

Kabeh Jati Garden Villa (£22 per night) – 12 minute walk from the beach, on the east coast of Penida, these unique wooden huts are great value for money and get awesome reviews.

Atuh Forest Cottage (£24 per night) – Secluded, romantic huts close to Atuh Beach. Stay here if you have a scooter and are looking for a romantic escape.

Coco Resort (£60 per night) – Traditional bungalows with a restaurant, large pool and well located close to Crystal Bay.

Semabu Hills (£80 per night)- A luxury hotel near the pier with a stunning pool and restaurant that looks out over incredible views. This is one for a treat.

There are a lot of great looking guesthouses and huts close to Atuh Beach and Kelingking beach – the top two places to see on Penida. However these are both pretty remote spots so I wouldn’t recommend staying here unless A: you are driving a scooter and B: you are happy to be isolated and not have much to do in the evenings.

Where to eat & drink

As you drive around the island you’ll pass many small restaurants offering traditional Indonesian food for super cheap prices. I would definitely recommend stopping at these for lunch! All local food is made fresh, so if you have allergies or food preferences you can ask for alterations. I wouldn’t avoid these out of fear of food poisoning as the only place we were ill after food on the island was the only western place we went to!

Warung Jungle is a popular spot in the evenings for tired backpackers to fill their stomachs after a day of riding around the island. Their red snapper is highly recommended and they cook their omelettes in coconut oil which tastes devine! They serve beer and wine if you’d like to have a couple of drinks, and we were able to walk here from our accommodation.
Penida Colada is one of the top rated places on the island and very popular for cocktails and western food. Two of our group came down with food poisoning after eating here (from the fish and the vegetable curry) so I would be wary about eating here.

Dishes to try

Try Mie Goreng (Fried noodles with an egg), Nasi Goreng (Fried rice with an egg), Soto Ayam (Sour chicken soup), Cap Cay (Stir fried vegetables), or Gado Gado (steamed vegetables with an egg, tempeh and satay sauce).

Other things to note

The roads are terrible

I know you’ll read this on every Penida blog but the roads are REALLY bad in parts of the island. Be very careful if you are driving around in some areas. The main road that runs from the pier on the west of the island to Atuh beach in the east is fine, apart from some potholes in places, and the views along this particular road are spectacular. Even if you are nervous about driving, this route will be fine. I highly recommend riding it as the sun is going down, it’s the most insane view!

The roads going to Broken Beach and Kelingking beach are the worst of the lot. We spoke to many people who turned around rather than drive down them – but if you’re slow and careful they’re ok. The routes to Tembaling forest and Banah Cliff point are rocky in parts and quite steep, so take care when driving these too.

There are only 2 or 3 ATMs on the island

The number changes depending on who we asked, we found 2 ATMs. These frequently run out of cash so make sure you have enough money before you leave Bali. We actually ran out of cash and Tandjung Cottage let us pay our bill by PayPal. If you do run out of money, chat to your accommodation and see if they have alternative ways to pay.

Be careful when booking tours

If you decide to do a snorkelling trip be very careful about who you book with. We found that tour operators will tell you anything to get your money. We had a few places we specifically wanted to go to and were told they would be on our 3-4 hour tour. However we didn’t go to any of these places and the tour only lasted a couple of hours. Do a little research and pick a good company to go with. Don’t take offers from people you meet that offer you tours.

Bring a first aid kit

Like anywhere in South East Asia, food poisoning can happen even in the best restaurants. Bring a first aid kit with you stocked with rehydrating salts, charcoal tablets and other medications that might help.

That’s everything you should need for your trip to Penida! If you have anything to add then let people know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading! Steph x

stephmylifetravel

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Nusa penida travel blog — the fullest nusa penida travel guide & suggested 3 day itinerary.

Nusa Penida Island is a neighboring island of Bali in the Southeast, if you love the sea, you must definitely visit Nusa Penida for a few days to explore, the beach and sea here is the most beautiful in Bali combined with the cliffs that create a majestic, overwhelming, spectacular scenery that there are no words to describe its beauty.

What to do & where to visit in Nusa Penida? — 15+ best places to visit, must-do & best things to do in Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida day trip — Suggested Nusa Penida 1 day itinerary & What to do 1 day in Nusa Penida perfectly?
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A travel paradise, Nusa Penida island is greeting all of you

So, is Nusa Penida worth visiting, what to do in Nusa Penida and how to plan a perfect Nusa Penida trip for the first-time? Let’s check out our Nusa Penida travel blog (Nusa Penida blog) with the fullest Nusa Penida travel guide (Nusa Penida guide, guide to Nusa Penida) from how to go Nusa Penida from Bali, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and things to do in Nusa Penida as well as suggested Nusa Penida 3 day itinerary on how to spend 3 days in Nusa Penida to find out the answer!

This is also the place most people come to check-in when coming to Bali with the symbol is a mountain back with the shape like a T-Rex tyrannosaurus in Kelingking beach (But I find it more like a whale).

Next to Penida island are two small islands: Lembongan and Ceningan, these two islands are connected by a very stunning Yellow Bridge, and most of the population, the place to eat in the evening is concentrated in Lembongan, and the tourist attractions, beautiful scenery is in Penida.

Nusa Penida travel blog: How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali?

Nusa Penida Island is only about 30 minutes by boat from Bali, so it is completely possible to go in a day, but when you plan a trip, you should stay for about 3 days to explore the whole island.

Nusa Penida Island is still quite pristine and from Bali, the only way is traveling by boat, there are daily express boats, ferries from Bali to (from Sanur beach).

There will be 5 daily boat trips at: 8am, 9am, 10:30am, 4pm and 5pm. The fare is about 200,000 IDR ($13.65)/way. If you getting from Ceningan and Lembongan, go to the Yellow Bridge to catch a boat to the main island of Penida (15 minutes).

There is a little note that every year Bali has a day called “Day of the silent ocean” calculated according to the fourth full moon of the year (google search for more clarity). On this day, there will be no boat service, so please pay attention to search first.

Another note is that from Penida to Lembongan, the last boat trip is about 4:30~5pm, so you should pay attention to the time to get to the pier on time.

After that hour, the tide will be low, it will be difficult to move, so there is no boat to take anywhere, if any, you will have to hire a fishing boat at sky-high prices.

Close-up of a boat ticket to Nusa Penida island

Nusa Penida travel guide: Where to stay in Nusa Penida?

There are many options: Lembongan or Penida. If you stay in Lembongan, it will be more crowded and bustling, and there will be more dishes and restaurants in the evening.

If you stay in Penida, it will be more country style, more popular, less bustling and shops. But going out every day, it will not take time and money to rent a boat to Penida island, but most of the places of interest to explore are located on Penida island – the largest island.

In my opinion, just stay in Penida for convenience, on the last day, return to Lembongan for one night because Lembongan and Ceningan are connected by a bridge, so you can explore both.

And the best is spend 4~5 days in all these 3 islands.

My family stayed in Penida for 1 night at La Nusa Homestay Hotel in a remote area, deserted but the room is clean and nice. The space is as airy as a resort, cheap.

The next day, I rented a room at Kakiang Guesthouse in Lembongan ( Agoda.com , Booking.com ) – this area is quite far from the Yellow Bridge and the port, but the price is cheap and the room is clean and nice, then I rented a motorbike to getting around.

Or refer to Kastapar Bridge Lembongan , quite close to the bridge, the center but the price is quite cheap (~$20/night).

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Adiwana Warnakali Resort ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
Hotel Arsa Santhi Nusa Penida ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
Semabu Hills Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
Mahaloka Valley ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top & best hotels in Nusa Penida on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Nusa Penida guide: How to getting around on the island of Nusa Penida?

There are 2 ways to getting around the island you can choose.

Rent a motorbike to explore by yourself: Cheap (50,000~100,000 IDR/day/piece), active, comfortable, riding while watching beautiful scenery along the way (who likes to travel this way will understand). However, I do not recommend riding a motorbike, if you do, you should be a firm driver because the road on the island is quite bad, traveling in the left hand, so it’s easy get fall with weak drivers. I saw a lot of tourists get into motorbike accidents.

Riding-Motorbike-in-Nusa-Penida-Share-Roads

Renting a car with a driver: More expensive (550,000 IDR/car/day) but going faster (because the driver is familiar with the road) and safer.

Nusa Penida blog: What and where to eat in Nusa Penida?

If you go and back to the mainland in the same day, then there is nothing to discuss because taking a tour will include eating and drinking at spots along the way. Or if you ride a motorbike, you can go to any restaurant to eat, but there are many options to choose from.

Mostly evenings!

I stayed in both Nusa Penida and Lembongan, note that in Penida, in the evening in the center, there are a few cafes with live music that you can come and drink beer and smoothies.

Food doesn’t have a lot of options, the streets were dark, don’t focus on eating and drinking. In Lembongan will be more bustling and vibrant, with more eateries.

We only stay in Lembongan for one night, so there are not many food reviews here. My family chose to eat seafood at the seaside restaurant Mama Mia Bar & Grill to cool off, the food is quite good, but for me, it is a bit less and of course the restaurant is crowded with a nice location, so what do you expect to be affordable, right?! But at night when the tide went down, there is nothing to see =)))

In the dark, the water receded so much that people waded between the two islands to catch something.

Nusa Penida trip blog: Where to go, what to do in Nusa Penida & things to do in Nusa Penida

Here are the activities and places to visit to check-in in Penida: (should go all because every place is beautiful).

Scuba diving or snorkeling

I said that the sea in Penida can be said to be the most beautiful in Bali, so don’t experience, it’s too pity. If you don’t try scuba diving, snorkeling is fine.

On the island, there are many tour operators that sell tours, that take you explore about 3 or 4 spots in one morning:

Manta bay: This is the place to watch Manta ray. I don’t know if it’s normal how it is, but the day I went, the waves were super big and scared. However, the captain still told me to go swimming and watch the fish normally – at that time it sounded like a sock :v. And diving here with big waves brought a very SCARY FEELING because… the water is very DEEP.

Nusa Penida-most beautiful islands in Southeast7

Crystal bay: This place is a small beach, the sand is not very white. But if you watch the sunset, this place is probably the best.

Gamat bay + Wall spot: The 3 diving spots above are mainly for coral diving – and according to the captain, there are a lot of fish. But the only thing that impressed me was the SUPER HUGE coral reefs! The remaining color was a bit pale, the fish is not much. There’s only las spot with super big blackfish.

You can book a tour to explore the island of Nusa Penida through this LINK , or rent a car with a driver to take you out according to your desired itinerary via this LINK , renting a motorbike to go out on your own through this LINK is also ok. On this island, they often say that the price is very challenging, so please book in advance with peace in mind!

single fin bali,best beach club in uluwatu,uluwatu beach club,top beach clubs in uluwatu (1)

Yeah, Bali is famous for surfing, Penida is also a very popular spot for surfing in Bali, but that’s not for the newbies because the waves in Penida are quite strong and dangerous for the inexperienced ones.

Usually visitors will join a surfing course in Kuta, Canggu. But the water there is not as blue as in Penida, I will definitely come back to learn how to surf well and go to Penida to surf, haha.

Yellow Bridge

This is the bridge connecting the two islands of Lembongan and Ceningan, the path is small. Here, I don’t have many words to write other than pictures.

Blue Lagoon + Mahana Point

All I can say is beautiful :)). And this is also the point to try the feeling of jumping from the cliff into the sea. But also pay attention to the sea and the weather before jumping because the sea in Penida is rough sea, so it’s a risk.

I arrived early in the morning at low tide and could not experience the jump feeling, missed the chance again.

You can refer to the snorkeling tour via this LINK or this LINK , or the scuba diving tour through this LINK .

West Penida

This is the back of a T-rex dinosaur, the symbol of Penida in particular and Bali in general. Interestingly, Kelingking was also discovered in 2003 or 2006 by a group of divers, then it was exploited for tourism and became a must check-in point in Bali.

In addition to the checkin at the legendary back, you can also climb down to the bottom beach through a small steep staircase. Requirement is physical strength to climb down and up.

Angel Billabong and Broken Beach

The 2 places close to each other and a must visit in Penida. I illustrate with pictures that you will know why.

Tembeling Beach and Forest

This is a spot with a small lake near the Tembeling beach, people often come and call it Tembeling natural swimming pool, besides, the beach and… I missed it again because I didn’t have enough time.

Tembeling is not visited by many Southeast Asian tourists, and is rarely mentioned because it takes about half a day to reach Tembeling and Peguyangan Waterfall.

Peguyangan Waterfall

The way to it is also quite far and climbing down is not easy, but BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Stairs down the cliff edge, one side is the deep sea with strong waves, but the destination is a temple on the cliff and a waterfall pours into a small natural pool, soaking in it, overlooking the extremely majestic sea. I guarantee you will want to stay there forever.

East Penida

This part, people also come less often because they often come to check-in at the back of the dinosaur, but it is a regret if not to come because this side is equally beautiful, and also because few people come, it is even more natural and beautiful.

Atuh Beach – Diamond Beach

I combined them into a combo because these 2 beaches are located right next to each other. But when you come, you should park your means at Diamond Beach and then walk to Atuh beach.

These 2 spots are nothing special but BEAUTIFUL and PRISTINE, it has something as beautiful as in Kelingking, but also has its own unique look. True to the name Diamond Beach, it deserves that name. Beautiful like a precious diamond.

These 2 beaches, please note that swimming needs attention because at Diamond Beach, the waves are super huge, watch out for rolling out to sea. And the waves here are so big that “the waves knocking my pants down are real” – I almost lost my pants :)).

And remember to search the tide schedule first because if you come here when the tide recedes, the sea will be empty, ugly or full of rocks (most people come here around 10am-2pm, it’s comfortable and beautiful, if you have poor dignity, you’ll get stuck haha) .

Because the tide is different every day, there are days when the water recedes late, and the water rises to cover all the sand on Diamond beach, so there is nothing to come down to play :))

Tree house + Thousand Island View

Also right next to Diamond Beach. From Diamond beach go to the left is Atuh Beach, and to the right is Tree house + Thousand Island View.

Tree house is just a tree house, very unique and if you have the conditions, it is also good to stay here. Why is it a place to visit? Because from the tree house, take pictures with a very beautiful view of Diamond beach.

In addition, Thousand View is also right next to it, which is also a point to see a beautiful panorama of Diamond beach.

This is also a beautiful, blue beach, in the middle there is a rock like this, very interesting but I missed it due to not enough time and my driver advised not to come because this spot is still very wild and have not exploited the way down, so climbing down is very dangerous.

Other points

In addition, there are many, many other points waiting for you to discover, I have only listed the most typical points, so 3 days may still be not enough.

How to visit Nusa Penida: Some notes when coming to Nusa Penida Island

I also mentioned above sections:

If you return to Lembongan, remember to return to the port in Penida before 5pm.
It is recommended to go by car for safety and to save time. Exercise well before going because you have to climb up and down a lot.
Eating at Nusa Penida also depends on the restaurant, cheap or expensive, but the common point is to remember to exchange money first on the big island because it is expensive to exchange here.
Remember to bring enough sunscreen, remember to bring water when you go out because you are very thirsty due to hard activities like workout.

Nusa Penida 3 day itinerary: Suggested 3 days in Nusa Penida

Here is a suggested Nusa Penida 3 day itinerary for you refer to if you plan to spend 3 days on the island.

Day 1: Bali – Penida

Morning: Usually will mainly depart at Sanur beach, come here around 7:30am to buy tickets to get on the boat (or buy in advance from the day before). Arriving Penida, spend the morning diving and snorkeling.
Afternoon: Explore, playing around the Yellow Bridge, Blue lagoon, mahatan point. Return to Penida in the evening to go out early the next day (or stay in Lembongan the next morning catch the boat to Penida early).

Day 2: West Penida

Rent a car – go to Kelingking in the morning – Angel Billabong and Broken Beach
Afternoon: Tembeling Beach & Forest and Peguyangan Waterfall. Overnight stay in Penida.

Nusa Penida 3 day itinerary: Day 3: East Penida

Morning – noon: Atuh beach + Diamond – Suwahan beach. The main thing here is to go to the beaches, so you don’t have to travel much, so it will be less tiring than explore West Penida.
At around 3pm, started to return to catch the boat back to Bali (I’m not sure about the last boat back to Bali, so ask the hotel to know more. Otherwise, back in early the next morning).

This is a comfortable itinerary, or else you can refer to my Nusa Penida itinerary for a little more than 2 days and still go all the way but it will be very tiring.

Day 1: Bali – West Penida

To save time, I accept more expensive but for quick, I bought a full day tour including snorkeling and exploring the western half of Penida: Kelingking – Angel billabong and Broken beach. Overnight in Penida.

One of the gorgeous scenes in Nusa Penida island

Go early in the morning to Tembeling Beach + Peguyangan waterfall. Afternoon -> afternoon continue to explore East Penida from early morning. Breakfast along the way and around 10am to A Thousand viewpoint, then head to Diamond beach and down to Atuh beach for lunch.

After having lunch and resting until about 1:30pm, we went to Peguyangan waterfall, because we had to return to the port before 5pm to catch the boat to Lembongan, so we could not reach Tembeling in time.

The reason is because the roads to attractions are very bad, so traveling takes time, hopefully later they will repair the roads, so you can go comfortably.

Nusa Penida-most beautiful islands in Southeast10

Take advantage of exploring the Yellow Bridge, Blue lagoon and return before 8 am to leave the island (go this way, you only just go to Manhattan point to see, but you can’t jump off.

It sounds like a short time to go, but the timeline will be extremely hard and each stop will not stop long (so regret).

To book a tour or rent a car, you can contact this Mr. Sugar. Very enthusiastic and kind (he bought me a cheaper boat ticket to Gili than usual): Whatsapp: +6285238378669

To summarize, to be able to eat and play comfortably and feel Penida, you should stay here for about a week. Trust me, it’s not a waste of time. Although it is hard to travel, Nusa Penida is worth checking out as it is one of the most beautiful destinations in Bali, I think.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Nusa Penida and Bali you can refer to

Bali All Time Favourites Private Day Trip
Bali Private UNESCO Heritage Sites Trip
Nusa Penida Full Day Trip from Bali
Bali Swing and Waterfall Full Day Tour in Ubud
Bali Instagram Tour
Private Ngurah Rai Airport Transfers (DPS) for Bali
Private Sightseeing Custom Tour for Bali
Private Sightseeing Custom Tour for Ubud & Surroundings
Bali Private Car Charter
3G/4G Prepaid SIM Card (DPS Airport Pick Up) for Bali
4G Portable WiFi for Bali
4G Portable WiFi for Indonesia from Uroaming
4G LTE WiFi (MNL Delivery) for Asia
Nusa Penida Day Tour from Bali
Snorkeling Experience in Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida Day Tour from Bali With Photographer
Fast Boat Ticket between Bali (Sanur) and Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida Join In Tour from Bali
Nusa Penida Private Car Charter
Nusa Penida Scooter Rental
2D1N Nusa Penida Tour from Bali (Include Overnight Accommodation)
Nusa Penida Instagram Day Tour from Bali by Liburan Bali
Nusa Penida Custom Tour from Bali
Nusa Lembongan and Manta Bay Snorkeling Experience
Diving Experiences in Nusa Penida by Legend Diving Lembongan
2D1N – Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan Tour from Bali
Fast Boat Ticket between Bali and Nusa Penida by Golden Queen

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Here’s What To Pack On Day Trip To Nusa Penida

H ave you ever seen photos from Bali’s coastline where if you look closely, the water and cliffs resemble a Tyrannosaurus Rex head? Did you ever see images of crystal-clear blue water with a ridge that appears to be shaped like a diamond from the water? These popular destinations are Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida. It’s the largest offshore island in Bali , just southeast of the main island.

Both of these destinations have become popular tourist attractions because of social media and travel influencers. It’s all because the island’s iconic cliff views are unlike anything else in the world. Nusa Penida is one of the “Most Instagrammed” travel destinations. However, people don’t tell you how much work it takes to get these beautiful pictures.

Everything To Know About Nusa Penida

The tropical climate in Bali means it’s hot and humid year-round with temperatures averaging 87 degrees. As you travel more south of Nusa Penida, it’s relatively drier and hotter than Bali. The only way to get to Nusa Penida is by boat. From there, your local guide will have an itinerary. It varies depending on what part of the island you want to see. You can choose between the eastern side, the western side or a combination of both.

Diamond Beach is located on the eastern side, and Kelingking Beach, known for its T-Rex head image, is on the western side.

Your time in Nusa Penida will be worth it, if you prepare for what’s to come. There’s a lot of hiking and some scary heights. While some people do it, it is recommended that travelers use extreme caution on Diamond Beach. The trek is dangerous for even the most seasoned hiker.

If you are interested in traveling to Nusa Penida, here is everything that you should make sure to pack.

Sun Protective Clothing

Sun-protective clothing is a must during your hikes around Nusa Penida. You will realize that there’s not much shade from the sun, no matter which side of the island you choose to explore.

There are a lot of brands on the market that specialize in clothing that protects your skin against the sun.

Coolibar’s LumaLeo Tank

For women who want to wear something light for hikes, try a Coolibar LumaLeo tank. They come in various colors, so you can choose the aesthetically pleasing ones for your pictures along the rugged trails.

The athleisure cotton tank top is the perfect base for sun wraps or jackets. It is made with UPF 50+ protection. There’s also a higher neckline and an extended tank sleeve for extra protection against the sun.

Coolibar’s Morada T-Shirt

Coolibar’s UPF 50+ Morada Everyday T-shirt for men features the brand’s well-known ZnO fabric. The fabric contains tiny particles of zinc oxide. This ingredient is used to block UVA & UVB in better sunscreens. These ZnO particles don’t wash or wear out.

Similar to the women’s styles, this t-shirt comes in almost a dozen colors. It allows you to pick and choose colors for your next adventure.

FURTALK’s Straw Hat

You don’t have to choose between quality, style and effectiveness with the Furtalk’s Straw Hat.

This beach hat offers high UV UPF sun protection with its full brim and sun blocker function. It is a great hat to wear with a dress or hiking gear. The hat’s foldable design makes it easy to pack in your carry-on or checked-in luggage.

It is available in eight different colors and in various sizes.

Mission Cooling Boonie Hat

There’s much to love about Mission’s cooling boonie hat. It offers protection from the sun for beach, hiking and fishing days. It also comes equipped with laser-perforated mesh panels in the crown to maximize airflow.

The hat protects you from the sun and keeps you cool with its HydroActive cooling fabric.

EleVen by Venus Williams’ Game. Set. Match. Body Lotion

The sun protective clothing isn’t enough. You need to have good sunscreen to apply multiple times throughout the day. Tennis superstar Venus Williams has a sunscreen that’s especially good for darker skin tones. It’s one of the few sunscreens targeted for people of color that offers a higher SPF.

EleVen by Venus Williams Game. Set. Match. Body Lotion SPF 50 is a clean daily-use sunscreen that combines sun protection with skin-calming hydration. The lotion actively works to prevent dry skin and protect it from the sun. It’s formulated to be water and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes, which means it’s perfect for your Nusa Penida adventure.

Be My Green Bag’s Backpack

When it comes to Nusa Penida, a light backpack with a drybag is an excellent option. It will have enough space for you to pack all of your items on your trip. It will also provide a space to keep your sweaty or wet clothes.

The Be My Green Bag’s backpack is lightweight, but has roomy pockets to pack different goods. It has separate dry and wet items. This bag is also rainproof.

DripDrop Hydration Packs

It’s vital to drink water throughout your adventure in Nusa Penida. Heat-related illnesses are common among tourists who are not used to physical activity for extended periods of time outdoors. Dehydration affects 75 percent of people daily. It negatively impacts physical and mental performance. You should take breaks frequently during your travels, but also have a plan to hydrate faster. Items, such as DripDrop hydration packets, are perfect if you begin to experience signs of heat exhaustion.

The packets have a precise ratio of sodium electrolytes, glucose, potassium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin C for maximum immune support.

Our editors love finding you the best products and offers! If you purchase something by clicking on one of the affiliate links on our website, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you

Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia

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I read and saw on youtube that in case of Sanur we need to travel through water to get into the boat, as there is no proper pathways. That is why need your input

Thanking you in advance

Warm Regards

5 replies to this topic

There are fastboat services from Sanur (most services), Kusamba (couple of services) and Padangbai (1 service).

From Padangbai there is also a big RORO

not true with the boat from Sanur. There is a harbour. There are multiple companies with 3 or 4 services each way daily out of Sanur.

From Padangbai there is only 1 service fastboat service a day with http://www.baliekajaya.com

It goes to the Buyuk Harbour near Sampalan in the north east side NUSA PENIDA. There are piers.

If going from Padangbai may as well get the big RORO ferry into Sampalan. Runs “sometimes” twice a day (over the years the service has varied from once to twice a day). Goes into Sampalan. Costs a few $.

There is a pier.

NUSA PENIDA

At Nusa Penida Toyapakeh harbour there is a pier. Some companies also have floating piers. However some times the boats beach. This may be due to tide.

Buyuk near Sampalan there are piers.

The harbour at Sanur is fairly new. You may have watched an older video.

There is now a new (as of the end of 2022) terminal at the northern end of Sanur for passengers departing from Sanur/returning to Sanur.

Passengers no longer need to walk off the beach into the shallow water & onto the fast boats.

Exit the terminal, down the escalator/stairs, a ramp & onto the pier where the fast boats dock/are docked.

Thanks @NotaPigsty,@Hamish07 and @Summerhama58 for your prompt reply

It really helps in planning my travel to Nusa Penida.

Few More doubts.

1) Do I need to book the Ferry/boat in advance or I can get the tickets easily at the counter on the date of travel

where exactly are you staying after Ubud .

If returning to Ubud then just leave it at the hotel or if returning to a different hotel in Ubud just move your luggage to them before getting your boat. Sometimes even the hotel you are leaving will keep your luggage for you. Often free.

If you are going elsewhere then http://www.balistoreluggage.com is a reputable company.

Used them ourselves on our last trip when we did our side trip to Perth. Didn’t need my dive gear so we left one bag with them.

They picked up our bags the day before our flight to Perth and dropped them off at our hotel on return.

If you turn up at Sanur harbour there are numerous companies with different timetables.

You will have the hassle of trying to decide which company to use and could end up at the “wrong” harbour in relation to your accommodation.

You also have to take into account any “on Nusa Penida” hotel transfer. Unlike Bali mainland where you can often get transfers included or offered Nusa Penida transfers generally not included or offered.

Therefore you also have to arrange any NP Hotel transfer.

If you go to a tourist booth in Ubud you can book your fastboat and Ubud to port transfer. Also the “tourist booth” will tell you which NP harbour they use.

You choose departure time and you get to haggle on the price.

You could then also book a return with any Bali port to Hotel transfers.

With this you could be offered Sanur or Kusamba port.

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50h Yin Yoga Teacher Training in Bali April 2024

Nusa Lembongan, Bali

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About this trip

Our 50-hour YTT Yin Yoga will provide you with the required knowledge of philosophy, history, and anatomy to understand the principles of this holistic practice. You will experience in your body and your mind the benefits of the asanas and their variations with two classes a day. This will allow you to practically apply the theory and gain practical insight into the different ways of teaching Yin Yoga.

You will get all the tools you need to sequence your lessons, teach with confidence, and find your style. You will become a Yin Yoga teacher certified by Yoga Alliance who can guide and support your students on their journey.

What is Yin Yoga?

Yin yoga is slow-paced yoga that blends the principles of yoga with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. Its practice helps to soothe, release and restore the body and mind. Each asana is held for several minutes which gives the opportunity to work more deeply on the body in full awareness and to find stillness and peace.

Yin Yoga being a modern practice, continues to evolve which allows for creativity. It is also the perfect yoga to complement a more dynamic yoga practice and find the balance between yin and yang.

What you will learn ?

What is Yin Yoga |

Definition

Yin and Restorative Yoga

Equipment and use of the props

History and Principles of Yin Yoga |

Yin yoga in the History of Yoga

The Evolution of Yin Yoga

Philosophy |

Taoism and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Yin and Yang

Asana lab |

How to practice?

The edge, alignment, rebound

Fundamental asana, modern ones: their options and benefits

Meditative state

Physical practice |

2 practices a day for applying concretely the theory and discovering different kinds of sequences

The functional anatomy and the body system

Connective tissues & fascia

Teaching Tools |

Sequencing a Yin class: structure, duration, topic, etc.

Cues and voice: the power of the words and the importance of the tone of the voice

More than asana: integrate other practices in your Yin class such as pranayama, meditation, mantra, etc.

About Savasana

Find your teaching style

Everyone! Whether you are a beginner in this practice or more advanced or whether you are already a yoga teacher or simply want to embrace a healing journey through yourself, this training is made for anyone who wishes to discover or deepen their knowledge of Yin. yoga.

What’s included

50h of the in-person training course
Breakfast on every training day
Manual course manual printed book
yoga Equipment Yoga mats, bolster, blocks...
Beverage Water refill, tea and coffee
Certificate Certificate upon completion | Yoga Alliance International
Accommodations optional

What’s not included

Lunch & Dinner Average cost 300.000 Rp per day
Personal expense

Available Packages

Super Early Bird Tuition has to be booked 90 days before the training starts and includes the course and the breakfast.

Please add your accommodation below if you wish.

Early Bird Tuition has to be booked 60 days before the training starts and includes the course and the breakfast. Please add your accommodation below if you wish.

Regular price, please add your accommodation below if you wish.

Available options

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IMAGES

Nusa Penida Travel Guide
Pin on The Kalon Blog: Lifestyle, Fashion & Travel
Nusa Penida Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Nusa Penida • 20 Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
Ferry to Nusa Penida schedules, prices and online tickets
Nusa Penida Island: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Nusa Penida dive in Bali ❤️❤️

COMMENTS

Nusa Majesty
Spend less with incredibly low hotel rates on TripAdvisor®. We make booking your hotel quick & easy. Save money too!
Nusa Penida Island In Bali: Travel Guide & How To Visit
From Bali, the only way to reach Nusa Penida is by speedboat or ferry, with the speedboat journey taking about 45 minutes or so. There's no airport in Nusa Penida, so the closest place to fly is the international airport in Bali (DPS). You can shop for flights to Bali at Skyscanner. There are a bunch of speedboat companies in Bali making the ...
20 Helpful Nusa Penida Travel Tips To Know Before You Go
Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Penida make up the Nusa Island group, and exploring them is a great addition to any Bali trip. Nusa Penida is the largest and most rugged of the three islands. However, it's still a small and much less crowded version of Bali with dreamy turquoise water, rolling hills, epic cliffs, coves, and white-sand ...
Nusa Penida: A Complete Guide To Paradise
Nusa Penida, a serene retreat off Bali's southeastern coast, is a jewel in Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands. Known for its dramatic cliffs and white-sand beaches, the island's landscape, including the iconic Kelingking Beach, is a testament to nature's artistry, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
A Complete Travel Guide to Nusa Penida: The Blue Paradise Island
Nusa Penida is undoubtedly the largest and the most popular of the three Nusa Islands located near mainland Bali. Home to the iconic T-Rex shaped cliff (aka Kelingking Beach), breath-taking landscapes, and some of the bluest waters in the world, it is a beautiful destination famous for its rare rock formations and incomparable natural beauty.
How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali (March 2024)
At present, fast boat services from Sanur to Nusa Penida commence from 7:30 am, with the last departure at 5.20 pm. Similarly, services from Nusa Penida to Sanur begin at 7 am and conclude with the last departure at 5 pm. Angel Billabong is one of the most dependable fast boat companies, known for their safe and efficient services.
A Complete Travel Guide to Nusa Penida: 11 Best Beaches ...
Even though Nusa Penida is on the tourist radar, it still feels largely pristine. Why you should visit Nusa Penida. Nusa Penida is spectacularly beautiful.. The southern and eastern coastlines are rugged with steep cliff sides offering drop-offs of hundreds of metres; full of viewpoints to white sandy coves with azure waters.. Kelingking Beach (or T-Rex as its popularly called) is the absolute ...
A Detailed Nusa Penida Itinerary
Below are the approximate prices and times of the ferries to Nusa Penida: From Bali (Sanur Harbor) | ~$17 - $25 USD | 1 Hour. From Gili Trawangan / Air | ~$45 USD | 2 Hours. From Nusa Lembongan | ~$10 USD | 20 minutes. » If coming from Bali, most ferry companies include hotel pick up with the cost of the ticket.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NUSA PENIDA
NUSA PENIDA DAY 1: WESTERN SIDE. KELINGKING BEACH. Kelingking Beach is one of the most photographed places in Nusa Penida and it's easy to see why. Sometimes referred to as the "dinosaur cliff" because the shape resembles a T-Rex, Kelingking Beach is a must see stop.
The Best Travel Guide to Nusa Penida Island, Bali
How to get to Nusa Penida island. Our travel guide to Nusa Penida covers how you can get here from a variety of destinations. Sanur is the main ferry port to get between the islands. The public boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida costs just 50,000 Rupiah, with a journey time of 90 minutes. These boats only depart once full so have no real set timetable.
How To Get To Nusa Penida (Everything You Need To Know)
Getting to Nusa Penida from Bali is quite easy, with several options available such as taking a speedboat or a ferry from Bali. It is important to book your ferry ticket with a reputable tour company. Also, keep in mind the time and schedule of the boats as well as the season and weather, to avoid a bumpy ride.
27 Best Things To Do On Nusa Penida: Ultimate Guide
NUSA PENIDA ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE. This is the original travel guide for Nusa Penida. When I first traveled to the island back in 2017, the most in-depth online guide had just a few places to visit mentioned in it. I set out over the next few years to document and list all of the top places to visit on Nusa Penida Island.
Backpacking Nusa Penida
Tickets for the Nusa Penida-Nusa Lembongan public boat will cost 50,000 rupiah. Travel time is 10-15 minutes. Most people travel from mainland Bali to Nusa Penida by catching a fast boat at Sanur. From Sanur, there are a dozen ferry companies offering transfers throughout the day so you shouldn't be lack of options.
Nusa Penida Trip
3. Planning Your Trip. 4. How to Get There. 5. What to Expect on the Island. The first time we went to Nusa Penida, in 2015, it was a real escape from the tourist crowds of Ubud. Gone was the bumper to bumper traffic and the buzz of a million motorbikes. Gone was the endless stream of sightseers and spiritual seekers.
How to Get to Nusa Penida From Bali: Fast Boat or Ferry From Bali
Below I have put the link to the search page for Sanur to Nusa Penida where the tickets are usually around $10 one way. Book your ticket with 12GO: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida Ferry. Sanur - Nusa Penida More info / Tickets. Ferry Sanur - Nusa Penida $ 6.68-11.78 30m - 1h.
How to Get to Nusa Penida from Bali: Fast Boat or Ferry
The fastest option for getting to Nusa Penida is now just 20 minutes by booking the fast boat from Kusamba Port to Sampalan Beach. There is now a cheap fast-boat ticket-only option you can book online departing from Sanur Harbor for less than $10 USD. There is new 2.5-hour fast ferry connecting Lombok to Nusa Penida.
19 Best Things To Do in Nusa Penida
1. Diamond Beach. Opposite Atuh Beach cliff is the most picturesque beach in the world: Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida. The viewpoint is the best place to see Diamond Beach. However, via the newly (2018) made stair, you can now also visit the beach. Taking a swim at this beach is not recommended due to its currents but this beach is still a must-see.
Nusa Penida Travel Guide
Nusa Penida Travel Guide: Perfect for Budget and Solo Travelers! Over the years as pictures of the curved spine of Kelingking Beach have gone viral online, Nusa Penida has become a main attraction to visiting Indonesia. A part of a a trio of smallers islands, Nusa Pendia sits at the southeast coast of the main island of Bali.
Get around Nusa Penida : Your 2024 Guide
In addition, Google Maps is an excellent resource for navigating Nusa Penida island. The distances and travel times provided by Google are generally accurate, taking into account the road conditions. However, it is essential to verify the correct spelling of each location before typing it into the search bar. For example, to reach Temeling, it ...
The Best Nusa Penida Travel Guide 2019
Nuansa Penida Hostel (£11 per night) - One of the best reviewed accommodations on the island and with dorm rooms and private huts. Great location for sightseeing and close to the pier, bars and restaurants. Kabeh Jati Garden Villa (£22 per night) - 12 minute walk from the beach, on the east coast of Penida, these unique wooden huts are ...
Nusa Penida travel blog
Scuba diving | nusa penida travel guide | nusa penida travel guide. Crystal bay: This place is a small beach, the sand is not very white. But if you watch the sunset, this place is probably the best. Gamat bay + Wall spot: The 3 diving spots above are mainly for coral diving - and according to the captain, there are a lot of fish. But the ...
Kuta to Nusa Penida
Alternatively, you can take a vehicle from Kuta to Nusa Penida via Sanur, Sanur, and Nusa Penida in around 2h 27m. Bus operators. Perama Tour. Kura-Kura bus. Ferry operators. Starfish Fast Boat. Local Ferry Indonesia. Idola Express. Tanis Lembongan Express.
Here's What To Pack On Day Trip To Nusa Penida
As you travel more south of Nusa Penida, it's relatively drier and hotter than Bali. The only way to get to Nusa Penida is by boat. From there, your local guide will have an itinerary. It varies ...
Ubud to Nusa Penida via Sanur or Padang Bai
What is the best route/mode of transport from Ubud to Nusa Penida, via Sanur or Padang Bai. I read and saw on youtube that in case of Sanur we need to travel through water to get into the boat, as there is no proper pathways. That is why need your input. Thanking you in advance. Warm Regards. Prakash
Room rate La Plage Apartments, Nusa Penida from 24-04-2024 ...
La Plage Apartments - Book online La Plage Apartments hotel in Nusa Penida from 24-04-2024 - 25-04-2024, get the best hotel deals with no booking fee only on Traveloka
50h Yin Yoga Teacher Training in Bali April 2024 in Nusa Lembongan, Bali
A small, peaceful island, Nusa Lembongan is covered with pristine white sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, and lush jungle. Just as beautiful as Bali, but tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the tourism crowds, Nusa Lembongan is the perfect place to escape to for a transformational spiritual journey through yoga.
Basa Bali Nusa Penida
Basa Bali Nusa Penida utawi Basa Nosa olih penganggé inggih punika dialek Basa Bali, dilaek niki inggih punika basa asli anak pribumi pulo Nusa Penida miwah kelod muah pasih Badung.Basa Bali Nusa Penida masoroh basa Austronésia miwah dadi basa paling cénik sorohné di Bali, kuang-lebih liuné 59 ribu panutur asli Basa Nosa.. Parsébaran. Mangkin, dialék Nusa Penida wantah akéh kaanggén ...

Nusa Penida Island In Bali: Travel Guide & How To Visit

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Transport: How To Get Around On Nusa Penida

What To Do In Nusa Penida

• Paluang Cliff Viewpoint

• Broken Beach

• Crystal Bay

• Banah Cliff Point

• Tembeling Cave & Beach

• Atuh Beach

• Nusa Penida Treehouse (Rumah Pohon)

• Diamond Beach

• Teletubbies Hill

• Suwehan Beach

• Suwehan Tree House

• Goa Giri Putri Temple

• Nyanyad Beach

• Peguyangan Waterfall

Best Nusa Penida Photo Spot

Best Nusa Penida Beaches

Nusa Penida Hike List

Nusa Penida Island Map

More Things To Do In Nusa Penida

Best Sunset Spot In Nusa Penida

Water Sports In Nusa Penida

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling In Nusa Penida

What To Bring

Nusa Penida Restaurants

Nusa Penida Massage & Spa

Other Nusa Penida Tips

Is Nusa Penida Safe?

Nusa Penida Wildlife

Best Time To Visit

Is Nusa Penida Worth It?

How Long To Stay

Nusa Penida Itinerary

Nusa Penida Hotels

Where We Stayed

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Exploring the world, one place at a time.

Know Before You Go

Where is Nusa Penida?

How to get to Nusa Penida?

Getting to Nusa Penida from Bali

Getting to Nusa Penida from Nusa Lembongan / Nusa Ceningan

Getting to Nusa Penida from Lombok / Gili Islands

How to get around Nusa Penida?

Rent a scooter

Get a taxi / shuttle

Book a private car with a driver

What is the best time to visit Nusa Penida?

How many days are enough for Nusa Penida?

Best Nusa Penida Day Tours

Where to stay in Nusa Penida?

Best places to see in Nusa Penida

Kelingking Beach

Diamond Beach

Rumah Pohon Tree House

Thousand Islands Viewpoint

Peguyangan Waterfall

Angel’s Billabong

Broken Beach

Crystal Bay

Goa Giri Putri Temple

Teletubbies Hill

Paluang Cliff

Banah Cliff Point

Tembeling Beach and Forest

Suwehan Beach

Where to eat in Nusa Penida?

Map of the best places in Nusa Penida

Best day trips from Nusa Penida

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Ceningan

Tips for visiting Nusa Penida