The Ultimate Guide To Nusa Penida Island: How To Get There, Where To Stay, What To Do & More!

The Nusa Islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida are becoming very popular destinations for people coming to Bali seeking a little break from the crowds.

Our guide to Nusa Penida Island will help you see why these islands are seeing so much interest and you’ll learn what’s to do there, where you can stay, how to get around and more!

Where Is Nusa Penida Island?

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Nusa Penida Island is found to the Southeast of Bali. It’s about 25 kilometres (or 15 miles) from the mainland.

It’s one of three Nusa islands, and it’s not far at all from its neighbours Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Many people visit all three if they intend to stay for a few days.

The most popular of the three islands is Nusa Penida Island because it has some incredible beaches and amazing clifftop views.

Is Nusa Penida Safe?

Yes! Nusa Penida Island is one of the safest places you’re ever likely to visit on holiday.

Petty crime does exist, as it does everywhere, but it’s rare. Violent crime is almost unheard of.

The local islanders are well known for their hospitality and kindness to travellers.

The only way to get into trouble in Nusa Penida would be to show disrespect to the local temples, religion or culture.

The Best Time To Visit Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida’s climate tends to be more dry and more sunny than that of Bali and that means it’s a great location to visit all year long.

It is less crowded during the rainy season, which means you might get a better price on a hotel room but it also means that the days tend to be both hot and humid, which can be a bit draining if you want to explore.

In the dry season, which is also the high season, you tend to get a pleasant onshore breeze and more sun, but less humidity. It’s better weather for sunbathing and for hiking.

Photographers might want to aim to visit Nusa Penida at the end of the rainy season because that’s when the green foliage of the island tends to be at its best.

How Long To Stay On Nusa Penida?

Young woman tourist on Bali swing at Diamond beach at Nusa Penida island Bali, Indonesia

A lot of people come to Nusa Penida Island for a day trip, and if that’s all the time that you have, that’s just fine.

However, day-trippers tend to spend rather more time queuing for the best spots to take photos than they do relaxing.

We’d recommend spending 3-4 days in the Nusa Islands and most of that time in Nusa Penida.

That will let you see the best of the island without rushing and it will mean you can see Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan too.

However, if you love to dive and would prefer the relaxed diving of Nusa Penida to that on mainland Bali, you might want a week or more.

How To Get To Nusa Penida Island?

things to do gili air ferry fast boat
Picture Source: saltinourhair.com

How To Get To Nusa Penida Island?

Firstly, you need to get to Bali and then the vast majority of people will fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (which is sometimes called Denpasar Airport) and it’s the only airport there.

Then, you need to opt for either the fast boat (speed boat transfers) to Nusa Penida Island or the much slower ferry.

You can book tickets for the fast boat transfer from the Bali Res Centre. They’re our favourite local travel agency and can ensure you get the best boat company available.

The boat departs from the area around Sanur Beach. You will be given a life jacket when on a speedboat and you should use it. Accidents aren’t that common on these boats, but they can happen and you want to be safe.

This journey is usually pretty uneventful but you should know that if the waves are over 2 meters high – it can be very bumpy.

Your total trip time on a speedboat is about 45 minutes.

If you don’t mind being less comfortable than on a fast boat and taking twice as long to get to Nusa Penida, you can take the Padang Bai Ferry.

This ferry service leaves twice a day, once at 10.00 a.m. and once a 2 p.m.

We’re not huge fans of ferries in Indonesia, they do have poor safety standards. We’d prefer to get to Nusa Penida in one piece. But, if you need to take a scooter or car with you, this is really your only option.

What To Bring When You Visit Nusa Penida

If you want to be properly prepared for your time on the island, you probably want to bring the following things with you.

Now, don’t panic, you can buy most of this stuff on the island but a.) it will cost more than it would elsewhere and b.) it might not be of the highest quality.

We’d take:

  • A fully waterproof bag – if you have electronic kit, make sure it goes in a completely waterproof case. Cameras and laptops tend not to survive being dunked in seawater. It’s worth paying for a reputable manufacturer’s bag for this. Saving $50 on a bag is a false economy when you’re surveying the ruins of your $3,000 camera.

  • A fully waterproof phone pouch – sea water will damage even waterproof phones. A small lanyard-style waterproof pouch will let you use your phone without it getting destroyed.

  • Snorkelling gear – so many people come to Nusa Penida to swim that it’s nice to have your own gear (you can rent but it will be well worn and may not be very comfortable). It works out cheaper than renting too if you use it 2-3 times.

  • Water shoes – These shoes will protect your feet when walking on rocks and help you grip surfaces when they’re wet. Nusa Penida is not famous for its excellent hospitals, try to avoid injuries when you can.

Where Should You Stay In Nusa Penida Island?

Nusa Penida has plenty of awesome places to stay and there’s something to suit all budgets, though, as with everything – supplies here must be shipped out from the mainland.

That means Nusa Penida’s accommodation options tend to cost a little more than their equivalents in Bali.

Choosing a hotel in advance lets you focus on your Nusa Penida itinerary when you’re there rather than missing out on the beautiful beaches to shlep around hotels trying to find one at the right price.

Luxury Hotels for your Nusa Penida Itinerary Include:

maua nusa penida resort bali
Picture Source: jelajah-indonesia.co.id
  • MAUA Nusa Penida Bali – This upmarket villa complex gives every visitor a private plunge pool and sun terrace

  • Penida Bambu Green Suites – This is a lovely eco-friendly place made mainly out of bamboo.

  • Atalaya Villas Nusa Penida – You’ll find private pool villas and standard suites rubbing shoulders here.

Mid-Range Options Include:

sembabuh hills resort nusa penida bali
Picture Source: semabuhills.com
  • The Kama – This is in a lovely location just a few steps from the beach and you can see Mount Agung from the rooms on a clear day!

  • Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida – We love their two infinity pools and their stunning harbour views.

  • Daphila Cottages – With an outdoor dining terrace this mid-range villa complex is great for families.

Budget-Friendly Options Include:

la roja bungalows hotel nusa penida bali
Picture Source: instagram/@larojabungalows
  • La Roja Bungalows – This eco-friendly bungalow complex has an awesome pool and the complimentary breakfast is super tasty.

  • Green Valley – This lovely three-star hotel has a nice pool, private terraces and a great location!

  • Saka Boutique Hotel – This hotel is very stylish and you can get a room with a separate living room or terraced area.

About Day Tours To Visit Nusa Penida

It is easy to arrange a day trip to Nusa Penida and if you don’t have much time in Bali, that may be your best option. Contact the Bali Res Centre if you need a day trip.

However, we would note that they’re a bit rushed and you may find yourself being rushed from place to place and spending more time in queues and traffic than you might like.

We’d recommend more than a day for your Nusa Penida itinerary if you want to get the best out of the island but a day trip is definitely better than nothing.

Is There A Tourist Fee For Nusa Penida Island?

Yes and while that sounds like a bad thing, in practice, we’ve found it to be a very good thing.

When your boat arrives in Nusa Penida, you will be greeted by an official who relieve you of 25,000 IDR in exchange for a pass.

The pass gets you access to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan as well as Nusa Penida.

This is good because it’s put a stop to all the small charges that used to be levied all over the islands for each site, etc.

Now, you pay this one, small, fee and you’re done!

How Do You Get Around The Island?

Nusa Penida is much smaller than mainland Bali but that doesn’t mean that it’s small enough to walk everywhere.

In fact, you could spend hours driving around the perimeter of the island and you will need some transport here.

You can rent a motorbike but given the awful state of the roads, we’d recommend that you don’t.

If you must rent a bike, always wear a helmet, honk before bends and hills and ensure that you give cars plenty of room to pass. The roads are super narrow and overtaking cars often clip bikes in passing.

You’re better off renting a car with a driver, which isn’t much more expensive than it is in Bali.

It is possible to take a taxi from the docks or your hotels and these tend to be reasonably priced and much less likely to be a rip-off than on the mainland.

However, Grab and Go-Jek do not work in Nusa Penida. So, don’t rely on ride-sharing apps to get you back from wherever you are going.

What To Do When You Visit Nusa Penida Island

There is a lot to do in Nusa Penida and if you love spending time outdoors and in the glorious Balinese sunshine, you will never be bored during your time here.

Snorkelling With Manta Rays: An Unforgettable Experience

Indonesia, Bali, Nusa Penida, Reef manta ray, Manta alfredi

Manta Rays are among the biggest members of the ray family and these incredible creatures can have a wingspan of up to 5 metres.

They are not sting rays and cannot harm a human being in any fashion. That makes manta rays the ideal snorkelling companions in Nusa Penida and a swim with the manta rays is a truly unforgettable experience.

We’d recommend contacting the Bali Res Centre before you visit Nusa Penida if you want to spend time with the manta rays as it’s a very popular experience and can be fully booked on the day.

Swimming with manta rays is one of the most unique experiences that Nusa Penida has to offer.

Peguyanga Waterfall: Hiking The Blue Stairs

This is a wonderful waterfall to experience and it’s part temple and part pilgrimage site too.

However, to get there, you need to walk down a steep hill and the final part of the hike involves climbing down some steep stairs (blue ones).

That means this area is not suitable for people with mobility issues.

It’s worth visiting though and if you’re lucky you may find a local practising the water blessing ceremony at the temple here.

Seganing Falls: Getting Real High In Nusa Penida

If you suffer from vertigo, skip on to the next attraction in Nusa Penida. the climb up to Seganing Falls sees you on a narrow path scaling a vertical rock wall.

The fence protecting climbers from a fall can best be described as rickety. So, tread carefully.

It’s worth it though! The trek is one of the most rewarding that we’ve tried in Bali.

However, the waterfall itself is not that spectacular.

Snorkelling @ Toyapakeh: Underwater Adventure

Woman with mask snorkeling

Toyapakeh is one of the most popular places to enjoy snorkelling on Nusa Penida.

It has lovely clear waters and there are so many fish and marine animals here that you won’t believe how amazing it is.

The current is quite strong here and you will need to swim against it after being dropped off by your boat.

Angel’s Billabong: Awesome Tide Pools

Rear view of woman with hat and backpack contemplating nature. Female looking at ocean view. Angel’s Billabong, Bali.

High tide is a bad time to visit the tidal pools at Angel’s Billabong. You need to use an app to check the time of low tide at Angel’s Billabong, instead, and then visit at that time.

Angel’s Billabong is home to beautiful crystal clear waters that allow you to see the tide pools and their contents with total clarity.

Photographers love Angel’s Billabong too because it’s got some very interesting rock formations that lend to strong leading lines.

We’d recommend that you combine a visit to Angel’s Billabong with a visit to Broken Beach as they’re very close to each other.

Thousand Island Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu): Panoramic Wonder

Young woman traveler enjoying and looking beautiful sunrise at Thousand island viewpoint in Nusa Penida island Bali, Indonesia

The name “Pulau Seribu” means “thousand island”.

The Thousand Island Viewpoint has a spectacular panoramic view over the cliffs, the Indian Ocean and many, many smaller islands off the coast.

You’ll want to take your camera and ideally be there at sunrise or sunset for the best light and shots from this amazing place.

You will need to pay 10,000 IDR for parking at this spot and we’d recommend that you take something to drink for the hike to the viewpoint proper.

Manta Ray Viewpoint: See Giant Manta Rays

You don’t need to swim with the rays to see them. If you opt to visit this viewpoint near the place called Broken Beach then you will find that you can see the rays in the ocean below you!

Yes, the clear waters of the Indian Ocean combined with the extreme size of the rays makes it super easy to take some great photos of the largest rays without even getting your toes wet!

We could spend hours here watching the rays break the surface and then dive down deep again. Manta Point above Manta Bay is ideal for having fun and you can see plenty of people Manta Ray Snorkeling at Manta Point too.

Kelingking Cliff Lookout: Sunset Views

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Picture Source: Freepik

The lookout is a long way up from the beach and if you want to visit Kelingking Beach after you spend time at the Kelingking Beach lookout, you should be aware that it’s not accessible to wheelchair users.

However, you will get some awesome photos from the lookout.

And we’d point out that it’s often called “secret point” because it’s much less crowded than some of the other photo spots on Nusa Penida (like Broken Beach which is awesome but packed).

Nusa Penida Treehouse (Rumah Pohon): It’s For Rent!

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The are other treehouses on the island of Nusa Penida but this is the original and, in our view, the best.

It’s near the Thousand Island Viewpoint which makes it very easy to get to and it makes for an amazing shot for your Instagram. It’s essential for any Nusa Penida itinerary.

What we like most about this area is that you can actually rent this treehouse and live on the top of the cliff if you want to.

Given what a huge tourist draw the treehouse is, we’re surprised that it’s still operating as a rental property. It might make more money as a small museum.

Banah Cliff Point: Off-The-Beaten Path

If you love brutal cliffs with majestic views over nature then you’re going to love this viewpoint.

We would point out that you will have to hike a bit to get there and the terrain can be a bit rough. This is definitely not accessible to folks with mobility issues.

However, the photographs you can take from here are likely to be among the most unique in your time in Bali. There will be no queues of tourists at Banah Cliff Point.

Diamond Beach Viewpoint: Coastal Views

If follow Atuh Beach down to the right-hand side, you will eventually come across a staircase leading up the hill.

Instead of providing a vantage over Atuh Beach, it provides an amazing view of Diamond Beach, instead.

The bay forms an immense leading line for your shots here and it’s a great place to grab something for your Instagram feed that many others won’t have seen before. The natural pools here glitter like diamonds in the sun.

Abangan Hills Viewpoint: Rice Paddy Views

Spectacular Terrace near Abangan Hill on the Way to Suwehan Beach, Nusa Penida Island, Bali, Indonesia

This little viewpoint is on the road to Suwehan Beach and it’s on a little hill known as “Abangan Hills”.

You can take shade under one of the trees there and take some lovely shots of the rice paddies below.

We’d recommend getting there early so that you get the glorious golden hour light of sunrise spilling over the rice fields.

Saren Cliff Viewpoint: Swings And Views

You’ll find this viewpoint further down the coast from Tembeling Beach. You can find a shortcut from the beach to the viewpoint but it’s not on any maps of the area – so, proceed at your own risk.

It’s a very bumpy journey to get out to this place and you may prefer to walk rather than take a bike.

But once you get there, you will have it pretty much all to yourself. It seems that it was once a big draw with tourists and there’s a sign up labelling the viewpoint and a nice swing to enjoy (and take some photos on).

We loved danging our feet over the cliff edge here and just watching the ocean lap at the attractive shores of Nusa Penida.

Gamat Bay Snorkeling: More Rays

Gamat Bay is not the most popular spot for rays, which is odd because it’s one of the best in our opinion.

The waters are a little colder at the more popular spots (such as Manta Point and Manta Bay) which is great because it means it’s a refreshing dive in the Balinese heat.

Depending on how deep you can dive, you can see the best of the marine life in Nusa Penida from up to 20 meters below the waves!

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again this is the highlight of any Nusa Penida trip.

Puncak Mundi: Temples At Heights

This is the highest point above sea level on Nusa Penida and it’s home to a series of traditional Balinese Hindu temples.

If you want to get to this part of Nusa Penida, be warned, it’s up some fairly steep hills and you may not be able to make it on a scooter, a more powerful bike will make it easier.

It’s best to visit at prayer times or during a festival if you want to get the most out of this spiritual experience in Nusa Penida.

Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave: Spiritual Experiences Underground

This amazing cave in Nusa Penida is one of the most popular cultural attractions and it is also a place of deep spirituality.

You will have to enter via a gap in the cliff that is said to resemble the mouth of a sacred animal.

Remember to be quiet as many locals in Nusa Penida come here to meditate and pray. There are many delicate Hindu Shrines in this cave and they are very attractive.

Just be careful not to disturb worshippers when you take photos here.

Teletubbies Hill: Rolling Hill Formations

Yellow Hills with some Jungle between, Nusa Penida Island, Bali, Indonesia

Teletubbies Hill? We confess we thought this would be a Nusa Penida tourist trap. After all, who names a hill after a British children’s TV series?

Yes, Teletubbies Hill is actually a very nice place and while the hills here aren’t quite as impressive as the chocolate hills in Bohol, for example, if you’re in Nusa Penida they are definitely worth a visit.

It’s an excellent place to fly a drone (in fact, all of Nusa Penida is good for drone enthusiasts, it’s a long, long way from an airport) and you can get amazing aerial shots of the rolling hill formations.

Pura Paluang: The Car Temple

They call this temple in Nusa Penida the “car temple” and that’s because in the centre of the altar guarded by two fearsome devas is umm… a car.

The whole complex is a beautiful example of Balinese architecture and we’d be happy to spend a few hours here to take photos in the best possible light.

However, even if you just have a few minutes to explore, it’s worth seeing this lovely piece of cultural heritage on Nusa Penida.

Buddha Point: The Underwater Temple

This is one of the most unique features of the Nusa Penida coastline, it’s a fully underwater temple complex.

It’s a great place to spend a day snorkelling and you’ll find that the architecture here is very reminiscent of the Borobudur Temple in Java though underwater.

The huge Buddha statues are quite amazing and if you have a waterproof camera to use, this could be a great place to light up your Instagram feed from.

The Most Instagrammable Place In Nusa Penida Island

So, with all these exciting places to photograph, which would we say was the best spot for the perfect Instagram image?

We’d go with Diamond Beach but it could very easily be the Nusa Penida Treehouse. They’re both great locations and in the right light, the photos you get are really striking.

The Best Beaches In Nusa Penida Island

Because Nusa Penida is much smaller than Bali, it has a much larger coastline relative to its overall size.

And that means you get access to a ton of great beaches in Nusa Penida and we’ve rounded up the best of them for you.

The Rock Arch & Atuh Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali

atuh beach nusa penida island coastline sunset

Atuh Beach is absolutely gorgeous. It is a white sand beach with incredible cliffs looming over it and some really cool rock structures too.

There is a rock arch that lies offshore from Atuh Beach and there is a string of smaller islands that runs even further out.

It’s the kind of place that everyone loves to get some Instagram snaps of and a trip to Nusa Penida isn’t complete without a trip to Atuh Beach.

You can visit the Nusa Penida treehouse at the same time too as it’s very nearby.

Just be warned high tide leaves very little beach available for sitting on, go at low tide for the best time.

Kelingking Beach “T-Rex”/Kelingking Beach Secret Point

kelingking beach bali indonesia

If you stand on the cliffs above this awesome Nusa Penida beach, you will quickly see that the rock formations look like a T-Rex!

Kelingking Beach is a very popular place with tourists and it’s a great place to chill out with a few beers and let the waves lap at the shore.

The name “Kelingking” means “Pinkie” and it refers to the smallest finger on your hand.

We would note that this beach has some strong undercurrents and novice swimmers should stay out of the water.

Crystal Bay Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali: Clear Waters

Manta Bay or Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida Island, Bali, Indonesia

Crystal Bay Beach is the most popular beach in Nusa Penida by a barnyard mile. That’s because it faces due West and you get the best sunset views from Crystal Bay Beach.

Crystal Bay is also where most of the local boat snorkelling tours pick up their passengers and it’s only a short drive from the main port.

As you’d expect Crystal Bay gets its name from the incredibly attractive clear waters and you can always be sure that swimming here will be brilliant.

The only downside of Crystal Bay is that when a coach party stops by, it can get very busy, indeed.

Broken Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali: The Ultimate Arch

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Picture Source: balioasistourandtravel.com

Broken Beach in Nusa Penida gets its name from the archway that spans the entirety of the cove and where the break in that arch, allows water in and out of the beach to the ocean.

The arch took many centuries to form and it’s a very impressive sight to behold. However, you cannot swim in the cove that it protects – there’s no access from Broken Beach at all.

If you want a swim near Broken Beach, head to Angel’s Billabong which is just around the corner.

Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali: Unique Rock Formations

Diamond Beach is possibly the prettiest beach in Nusa Penida and that’s a pretty impressive achievement when you consider how many beautiful beaches Nusa Penida has.

Diamond Beach gets its name from the pools in the rocks that glitter like diamonds in the sun and the diamond-shaped rock that sits in the shallows of the sea.

The sand at Diamond Beach is only accessible down a steep cliff staircase and while the views from this staircase are amazing, it won’t accommodate any wheelchairs.

Tembeling Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali: Forest & Natural Pools

Girl standing on Tembeling Beach with view of coastline at Nusa Penida island, Bali Indonesia

The most famous feature of this beach is the Tembeling Natural Pool which forms a natural infinity pool and it’s great for swimming in and taking photos from.

If you love nature it’s also surrounded by a forest. Tembeling Beach is thus one of our favourite spots in Nusa Penida because it offers such a wonderful juxtaposition of the two extremes of Balinese nature – beaches and jungles.

There are plenty of white sand beaches in Nusa Penida but rather fewer places like the Tembeling Natural Pool and beach.

Suwehan Beach, Nusa Penida: Towering Cliffs & A Steep Climb

Suwehan Beach was temporarily cut off from the world in 2018 when an earthquake destroyed the steps down to this Nusa Penida beach.

Yet, it took less than a year for the locals to fully repair them, though we have to report we’re not entirely convinced these steps are safe.

Yet, it’s a great beach to visit and one of our highlights of Nusa Penida.

Pandan Beach, Nusa Penida: Adventurous Swimming Location

You get to Pandan Beach from Crystal Bay but most people never find the path and go.

That means you get an incredible beach all to yourself in Nusa Penida and it’s not very far from the action!

Just be warned, there are no beach vendors here, bring your own food and drink, etc.

Nyanyad Beach, Nusa Penida: Hard To Find But Worth It

Paluang Cliff on Nusa Penida Island, Bali, Indonesia

This beach on the Southern tip of Nusa Penida seems to be almost undiscovered by tourists.

It’s a great place to visit, with a 15-minute hike from the road on well-made concrete steps all the way to the beach.

There’s also a nice temple complex and virgin white sand awaiting you.

Smoke Beach, Nusa Penida: Humans In The Mist

This isn’t the best beach in Nusa Penida but it is the only place in Nusa Penida where the tide hits the rocks and turns into a huge mist cloud!

It’s definitely worth visiting and experiencing it just once.

Lumangan Beach, Nusa Penida: Total Privacy

This is just a short walk from Broken Beach but given that most Nusa Penida tourists are on day trips, most people don’t see Lumangan Beach.

It’s an excellent location for swimming and soaking up the sun.

Bulian Beach, Nusa Penida: Hidden Gem

A few minutes further up the coast from Lumangan Beach is Bulian Beach, it too is a hidden gem and sees almost no tourists.

If you want privacy and the luxury of a beach all to yourself in Nusa Penida, this is where to go.

Batu Siha Beach, Nusa Penida: Hardcore Beach Lovers Paradise

You have to want to see Batu Siha Beach because it’s a 4-hour walk along the clifftops to get there.

But if you do? We guarantee that you’ll be the only ones there.

Sebele Beach, Nusa Penida: Private Seclusion

There are no amenities at this beach so take your snacks, suntan lotion, etc. but it’s only a very short walk from Atuh Beach and again, you will get it almost to yourself.

Hikes On Nusa Penida Island

Girl on the path making selfy leading fromTembeling pool, Nusa Penida Bali Indonesia

If you love to hike in nature, then Nusa Penida is a great place to do it. Our top hikes on this island include:

  • Kelingking Beach & Cliff – This is the best-known Nusa Penida hike by a mile. You walk along the cliff, head down a very steep set of stairs and then end up at the white sand beach that is Kelingking Beach.

  • Tembeling Beach & Forest – This combination of beach and jungle is pretty rare even in Bali and when you throw in the sea cave and the area that looks like a natural pool. You can’t go wrong.

  • Batu Siha Beach Trail – This is a very hardcore hike but it has the advantage of seeing almost no tourists, only locals. You’ll be worn out when you’re done but the beach is worth getting to.

If you love hiking, make sure to check out the best hikes in Bali

Where To Enjoy Sunset When You Visit Nusa Penida

Sunset on beautiful Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia

Nusa Penida is home to so many places that are great for watching the sun go down that picking highlights is hard.

However, we like Crystal Bay if you want a nice, relaxed beach environment to watch the colours on the waters.

You could also try the Amok Sunset restaurant which has some great views and cold cocktails to enjoy.

Head to the other side of the island for sunrise, though, and the Nusa Penida Treehouse is a great place to start your day.

Water Sports In Nusa Penida Island

Nusa Penida offers some of the best water sports in Bali and you can do any or all of the following here:

Boat Charters (Snorkelling, Fishing, or Chilling)

It’s not that expensive, particularly if you share the costs with others, to rent a boat and explore the island’s waters.

You can then fish, snorkel or just chill with an esky full of beers and watch the world go round.

Talk to the folks at Bali Res Centre if you want to arrange a boat charter before you go to Nusa Penida.

Jet Ski Safari

jet ski

Everyone loves jet-skiing and we confess that the only thing that has stopped us from taking a jet ski around Nusa Penida is that it’s pretty pricey.

There’s only one company on Nusa Penida that rents jet skis and their monopoly is clearly pretty profitable.

Scuba Diving & Snorkelling

Scuba diver in Cancun, Mexico

You can swim safely pretty much anywhere in Nusa Penida but it’s worth taking a trip to swim with manta rays or the mola mola fishes (you need to go scuba diving for these huge local fishes).

For basic snorkelling just head to Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay or the Toyapaken Wall. You can even do them all in a day if you’re in a burry!

Where To Eat In Nusa Penida

mambo beach cafe nusa penida
Picture Source: booking.com

There are plenty of excellent places to eat in Nusa Penida though it’s a little light on fine dining options.

We’d recommend trying:

  • Warung Forest

  • The Chill Penida

  • Mambo Beach Cafe

  • Warnakali Restaurant

  • The Rich Penida

  • Warung Lonto

  • Holy Penida Restoran & Bar

  • Warung J Pudak

  • Amok Sunset

  • Coco Penida Bar & Restaurant

Where To Be Pampered In Nusa Penida

aloe spa nusa penida
Picture Source: instagram/@aloe.spanusapenida

Nusa Penida doesn’t rival Seminyak or Ubud for its spas but they’re not bad at all and the location is amazing.

We’d recommend checking out these spas in Nusa Penida for thorough pampering at a reasonable price:

  • Avocado Spa Nusa Penida

  • Aloe Spa Nusa Penida

  • Devie’s Spa Nusa Penida

  • Little Papaya Home SPA

  • Mere Spa Nusa Penida

  • Dhipalia Massage and Spa

  • Coco Tree Spa

  • Cempaka Spa Beach Warung

  • Tropical Bamboo Spa

  • D’asih Spa

Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan

Aerial Drone Photo of coastline in Nusa Lembongan Ceningan Bali Indonesia

If you’re only in Nusa Penida for a day, you will find that Nusa Penida itself offers more than enough to hold your interest but if you’re staying for a few days, you should visit the sister islands of Lembongan and Ceningan.

They’re nearly as beautiful as Nusa Penida and offer plenty of new things to explore too.

FAQs

Is It Worth Going To Nusa Penida When You Visit Bali?

Yes. It may have no nightlife and some fairly challenging terrain but Nusa Penida is a great place for a quick break from the Bali mainland.

Once you’ve seen Broken Beach, Tembeling Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Diamond Beach and Kelingking Beach there’s plenty more to do on a Nusa Penida Trip.

It’s something of a hidden gem still too because many tourists will never leave the mainland.

Is Nusa Penida Very Touristy?

No, but yes. If you come on a day trip to Nusa Penida, you will be forgiven for thinking it’s always crowded.

That’s because nearly 90% of the island’s visitors come on such trips and when they’re all crowded around Angel’s Billabong, for example, it’s going to seem packed.

The reality is that once you get away from the day trippers, the island is nearly empty in comparison to the mainland.

And when they go home at night? Nusa Penida is pure bliss.

Is Nusa Penida More Expensive Than Bali?

Yes and no. Nusa Penida is more expensive than Bali on a like-for-like basis but if you’re used to fine dining and ultra-luxury villas, Nusa Penida is more mid-range and thus, cheaper.

You should be aware that there are very few ATMs on Nuse Penida and it’s a good idea to take as much cash as you need with you. Most businesses in Nusa Penida don’t take cards.

How Do You Get From Bali to Nusa Penida Island?

You can take a ferry or a speedboat to Nusa Penida from Sanur Beach in on the Southeastern Coast of Bali.

There is no commercial airport in Nusa Penida.

Why Is Nusa Penida So Famous?

We’re not sure “famous” is quite the right term but Nusa Penida is the most popular place in the Nusa group of islands because it has the best beaches and cliff-top views.

How Do I Book A Holiday In Nusa Penida?

We always recommend that you book your Nusa Penida holiday through the awesome people at Bali Res Centre .

This locally based travel agency can help you find the best deals on Nusa Penida and give you all the latest up-to-date information as to what’s going on in the area too.

Final Thoughts On The Nusa Islands & Nusa Penida Island

Nusa Penida is one of the hidden gems of Bali and if you want to enjoy Broken Beach, Crystal Bay, Kelingking Beach, Atuh Beach, Nusa Penida Treehouse, etc. why not get there before the masses discover it?

If epic coastline, pristine beaches, huge cliffs, turquoise waters, and a natural infinity pool are your idea of a good time, you will love Nusa Penida.