Nusa Penida
An exotic island off Bali's coast, famed for dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Nusa Penida
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An exotic island off Bali's coast, famed for dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life.
"It’s the Instagram model of the Bali province, with views so breathtaking they might just knock your flip-flops off. [^Review]"
🎒 Wear Hiking Shoes
Essential for steep, slippery trails to beaches like Kelingking and Diamond.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. You can buy water, but it's pricier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kelingking Beach
Southwest Coast
Iconic T-Rex shaped cliff with a challenging descent to a pristine beach. Breathtaking panoramic views from above.
Diamond Beach
Northeast Coast
Stunning white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise water, framed by dramatic cliffs. Requires a steep climb down.
Angel's Billabong
West Coast
Natural infinity pool carved into the rocks, offering a unique swimming experience. Be cautious of strong currents.
Manta Point
South Coast
Prime spot for snorkeling and diving with majestic manta rays. Choose tours that go to Manta Point, not Manta Bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Best Views
Navigating Nusa Penida: Roads & Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Wear Hiking Shoes
Essential for steep, slippery trails to beaches like Kelingking and Diamond. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. You can buy water, but it's pricier.
💊 Motion Sickness Aid
Boat rides can be rough; take pills and sit at the back for stability. +1
💰 Book Reputable Boats
Choose well-reviewed speedboats from Sanur for a safer journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Wear Hiking Shoes
Essential for steep, slippery trails to beaches like Kelingking and Diamond. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. You can buy water, but it's pricier.
💊 Motion Sickness Aid
Boat rides can be rough; take pills and sit at the back for stability. +1
💰 Book Reputable Boats
Choose well-reviewed speedboats from Sanur for a safer journey.
🛵 Scooter or Driver?
Scooters for experienced riders; drivers offer comfort on rough roads.
📸 Early Bird Advantage
Arrive at popular spots before 9 AM to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
🤿 Snorkel Safely
Be aware of strong currents; choose Manta Point over Manta Bay for better sightings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nusa Penida is lauded for its breathtaking, Instagram-worthy scenery and stunning natural beauty, offering a more rugged and less developed experience than Bali. However, visitors should be prepared for challenging road conditions, steep and sometimes dangerous hikes to beaches, and potentially higher prices for some services. The island's raw, wild charm is a major draw, but its infrastructure and accessibility can be a deterrent for some.
"AVOID this island,it’s not worth it. Most of the locals are not that friendly and look at you as a walking atm. The prices are high and the roads are in utter ruins. Sun-loungers at the beach cost 200k,unreal. Most of the beaches are very rocky or you have to climb super dangerous steep steps to access. The family at my lodging were very nice and welcoming and the villa I rented was beautiful. I was met at the port with a motorbike from the people I contacted which was nice. The views are quite nice but again that’s all that’s really here. NOT recommended"
SICILIAN-AMERICAN
"Nusa Penida is like Bali’s little sibling – smaller, quieter, but oh-so-stunning. It’s the Instagram model of the Bali province, with views so breathtaking they might just knock your flip-flops off. Only 25 kilometers from Bali (basically a stone's throw if you have a really good arm), this exotic island offers scenery so good you’ll forget how many stairs you’ve climbed to get those perfect photos.
Sure, you can do a whirlwind day trip from Bali and cram everything into a few hours, but honestly, why rush? Stay a few days, soak in the vibes, and give your camera a workout. Between the jaw-dropping photo ops, scenic hikes, and crystal-clear beaches, Nusa Penida is a paradise for both adventurers and people who just want to lie on the sand pretending to read a book.
Getting to Nusa Penida is straightforward – hop on a speedboat or a ferry from Sanur Beach in Bali. The speedboat ride takes about 45 minutes, which is just enough time to reapply sunscreen or practice your "I woke up like this" selfie pose. With multiple departures daily, you’re spoiled for choice.
Once you’re on the island, the West is where the party’s at: Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Crystal Bay, and Paluang Cliff are the star attractions. Over on the East side, you’ll find the dazzling Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach, perfect for those who like their beaches with a side of dramatic cliffs.
Fair warning, though – with the influx of tourists, the island could use a serious Marie Kondo clean-up session. So, while you’re snapping your millionth photo, remember to leave nothing but footprints and maybe pick up a bit of trash. Let’s keep this gem sparkling for everyone to enjoy"
Sunil Kumar
"Great views, you'll have to ride a boat from Bali. Bring umbrella as it's either too hot or it rains suddenly. It's nice to have a private transportation so you can visit famous attractions if you're short of time. Good for dayntrip!"
Edrea Panugan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by speedboat from Sanur Beach in Bali, which takes about 45 minutes. There are multiple departures daily. You can also find ferries, which are slower but cheaper. Some travelers opt for tours that include transport from their Bali accommodation.
Due to the island's rough roads, many visitors hire a private driver or join a day tour. Renting a scooter is an option for experienced riders, but be prepared for challenging terrain.
Yes, a Nusa Penida day trip from Bali is very popular, with many operators offering organized tours.
Speedboats are the quickest option, typically taking around 45 minutes from Sanur.
No, ride-sharing apps like Grab and Gojek are not available on Nusa Penida. You'll need to arrange transport through local drivers or tour operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, most popular attractions on Nusa Penida, such as Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach, have entrance fees. These are usually collected by local villagers.
Viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach are generally accessible throughout the day. However, visiting early in the morning (before 9 AM) is highly recommended to avoid crowds.
Yes, there are typically small entrance fees for accessing the beaches and viewpoints on Nusa Penida, often collected by local communities.
Day tours from Bali can range significantly, but expect to pay around $125 AUD per person for an inclusive tour. Prices can vary based on inclusions and the operator.
Many visitors find a private driver worthwhile for efficiency and comfort, especially if you're short on time or uncomfortable with scooter rentals on rough roads.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Top attractions include Kelingking Beach for its iconic cliff views, Diamond Beach for its beauty, Angel's Billabong for its natural pool, and Manta Point for snorkeling with manta rays.
The descent to Kelingking Beach is steep, slippery, and challenging, requiring good physical condition and proper footwear. +2 Some find it dangerous, while others deem it worth the effort.
+1
Light, breathable clothing is recommended. For beaches with steep climbs like Kelingking and Diamond, wear sturdy hiking shoes or trainers. +1
Yes, the waves and currents around Nusa Penida can be very strong and dangerous, leading to accidents. Be extremely cautious, especially when swimming or near the water's edge.
For the best chance to see manta rays, book a tour that specifically goes to Manta Point. Avoid tours that prioritize Manta Bay, as they may be more crowded and less successful.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Nusa Penida offers a range of dining, from local warungs serving Indonesian dishes to more upscale restaurants catering to tourists. Many day tours include lunch.
Yes, many restaurants and warungs offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in more tourist-frequented areas. It's always good to ask.
You'll find local warungs and cafes near major attractions, though prices might be higher. Packing some snacks is a good idea.
A meal at a local warung can be quite affordable, while restaurants catering to tourists will be more expensive. Expect to pay more for beachside dining.
Many day tours include lunch, which can be convenient. The quality can vary, but it's often a good way to experience local flavors without searching for a restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Broken Beach are incredibly photogenic. The dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters offer stunning backdrops.
Early morning, just after sunrise, and late afternoon, before sunset, offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
While the viewpoint is popular, consider the challenging hike down for different perspectives. Drone photography can also capture the scale of the T-Rex shape.
Generally, there are no strict photography restrictions at most natural sites, but be mindful of local customs and avoid intrusive photography of people. Drones may require permits in certain areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for beach and snorkeling shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for a private driver will make getting around much easier and safer for families. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to do justice to the expansive views. Consider a drone for unique aerial shots of the cliffs and coastlines, but be aware of any local regulations. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill and Challenge of Kelingking Beach
Navigating Nusa Penida's Rough Roads and Transport
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit