Nusa Penida has quickly become one of the most popular destinations in Bali – and for good reason. With its jaw-dropping cliffs, turquoise waters, sacred temples, and some of the most stunning beaches in Indonesia, Nusa Penida is a paradise for adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Located just a short boat ride away from mainland Bali, this rugged island offers a more authentic, untouched charm compared to Bali’s crowded hotspots.
If you’re planning to visit, here’s the ultimate guide to Nusa Penida – including the best things to do, practical travel tips, itineraries, where to stay, and FAQs to help you make the most of your trip.
🏝️ Why Visit Nusa Penida?
Unlike Bali’s mainland, Nusa Penida feels raw, wild, and less commercialized. You’ll find:
- Towering cliffs with panoramic viewpoints
- Hidden white-sand beaches
- World-class snorkeling and diving (manta rays & coral reefs)
- Sacred temples and cultural spots
- Rolling hills and untouched countryside
It’s a destination where adventure meets serenity – perfect for those seeking both exploration and relaxation.
📍 How to Get to Nusa Penida
From Bali (Sanur to Nusa Penida)
The easiest way to reach Nusa Penida is by fast boat from Sanur Beach:
- Travel time: 40–45 minutes
- Price: IDR 150,000–250,000 one way
- Schedule: Boats run regularly from morning to late afternoon
From Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan
You can also take a short local boat across the Yellow Bridge connecting these smaller islands to Nusa Penida.
🚖 How to Get Around Nusa Penida
- Scooter rental: Most popular option (IDR 75,000–100,000 per day). Roads are rough and steep in places, so only rent if you’re confident driving.
- Private car/driver: Safer and more comfortable, especially if traveling in a group (around IDR 600,000–700,000 per day).
- Guided tours: Ideal if you want convenience and local knowledge.
📅 Best Time to Visit Nusa Penida
- Dry Season (April–October): Best time with sunny weather, calmer seas, and clear snorkeling conditions.
- Rainy Season (November–March): Still possible, but expect slippery roads and rougher waters.
- Peak Season: July–August and December holidays. Visit early morning to avoid crowds.
🏖️ Top 20 Things to Do in Nusa Penida
Here’s a complete list of must-visit attractions and activities:
1. Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff)
- Most iconic spot on the island
- Famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff and turquoise waters
- Hiking trail leads down to the beach (challenging but rewarding)
- Best time: Sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds
2. Angel’s Billabong
- Natural infinity pool formed by tidal rocks
- Crystal-clear water with vibrant colors
- Tip: Visit at low tide to swim safely
3. Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
- Circular bay with a natural rock arch
- Great photography spot
- Can’t swim here, but views are breathtaking
4. Crystal Bay
- Best beach for swimming, snorkeling, and sunsets
- Calm waters and beautiful coral reefs
- Popular for relaxed afternoons
5. Snorkeling with Manta Rays
- Go to Manta Point or Manta Bay
- Year-round manta sightings (up to 4–5 meters wide)
- Best done with a local tour operator
6. Diamond Beach
- White sand beach with diamond-shaped rock formations
- Newly built staircase makes access easier
- Perfect for sunrise and photography
7. Atuh Beach
- Neighboring Diamond Beach
- Stunning offshore rock formations
- Less crowded, great for swimming
8. Rumah Pohon Tree House (Molenteng)
- Instagram-famous treehouse overlooking Diamond Beach
- Magical sunrise and early morning views
- Can even stay overnight for a unique experience
9. Thousand Islands Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu)
- Panoramic viewpoint of small islets rising from turquoise waters
- Often combined with Diamond Beach & Rumah Pohon
10. Teletubbies Hill (Bukit Teletubbies)
- Rolling green hills resembling the Teletubbies show
- Great for landscape photography
- Best during the rainy season when the hills are lush and green
11. Peguyangan Waterfall
- Accessed via steep blue stairway along a cliff
- Sacred site with holy water springs and small temple
- Stunning views of the ocean at the bottom
12. Goa Giri Putri Temple
- Unique temple hidden inside a giant limestone cave
- Narrow entrance, but leads to a vast sacred chamber
- Important site for Hindu ceremonies
13. Gamat Bay
- Excellent snorkeling spot with vibrant coral reefs
- Rich marine life including turtles and colorful fish
- Less crowded compared to Crystal Bay
14. Toyapakeh
- Known for strong currents and excellent diving
- Great spot for drift diving with rich marine biodiversity
15. Banah Cliff Point
- Dramatic viewpoint with an offshore rock arch
- Fewer tourists compared to Kelingking
- Perfect for sunset photography
16. Suwehan Beach
- Remote, hidden gem with white sand and crystal waters
- Triangular-shaped rock adds to its charm
- Requires a hike down, so best for adventure lovers
17. Tembeling Natural Pools
- Natural freshwater pools hidden in the forest
- A secret spot popular among locals
- Great for a refreshing dip after hiking
18. Mahana Point Cliff Jump (Nusa Ceningan side trip)
- For adrenaline seekers, combine with a day trip to Nusa Ceningan
- Cliff jumps from 5m and 10m platforms
19. Snorkeling at Wall Point & Buddha Temple
Unique snorkeling sites with underwater Buddha statuesGreat for underwater photography
20. Explore Local Villages
- Visit traditional Balinese villages
- Try local dishes and interact with locals
- Experience authentic island culture beyond the beaches
🗺️ Suggested Nusa Penida Itinerary
1-Day Trip (West Nusa Penida Highlights)
- Kelingking Beach
- Angel’s Billabong
- Broken Beach
- Crystal Bay (sunset)
1-Day Trip (East Nusa Penida Highlights)
- Diamond Beach
- Atuh Beach
- Tree House (Molenteng)
- Thousand Island / Raja Lima
1-Day Trip (Mix Trip Nusa Penida)
- Diamond Beach
- Tree House (Molenteng)
- Thousand Island / Raja Lima
- Kelingking Cliff
2-Day Trip (West + East)
- Day 1: West highlights (above)
- Day 2: Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, Rumah Pohon, Thousand Islands Viewpoint
3-Day Trip (Full Exploration)
- Day 1: West highlights
- Day 2: East coast + Teletubbies Hill
- Day 3: Snorkeling/diving + hidden beaches (Suwehan, Tembeling)
🏨 Where to Stay in Nusa Penida
Luxury
- Adiwana Warnakali Resort – cliffside resort with stunning views
- Maua Nusa Penida – modern villas with infinity pools
Mid-Range
- Semabu Hills Hotel – spacious rooms, ocean views, infinity pool
- Ocean Terrace Suite & Spa – cozy stay with excellent service
Budget
- La Roja Bungalows – charming wooden huts
- Nuansa Penida Hostel – social and affordable for backpackers
🍴 Best Places to Eat in Nusa Penida
- Penida Colada Beach Bar – beachfront cocktails & food
- Warung Jungle – authentic local dishes
- The Chill House – great for vegans and vegetarians
- Green Kubu Café – good coffee with views
⚠️ Travel Tips for Nusa Penida
- Start your day early to avoid crowds and heat
- Wear proper footwear for hikes (trails can be slippery)
- Carry cash (many places don’t accept cards)
- Expect bumpy roads – travel time is longer than it looks on maps
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water
❓ FAQs About Nusa Penida
1. Is Nusa Penida safe?
Yes, but roads are rough and steep, so drive carefully if using a scooter.
2. How many days should I stay?
2–3 days is ideal to explore both west and east sides.
3. Can I visit Nusa Penida as a day trip?
Yes, but you’ll only cover the west or east side highlights.
4. What’s better – Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or Ceningan?
Penida: Best for adventure, cliffs, manta rays
Lembongan: Relaxed vibes, beaches, cafes
Ceningan: Small, quiet, perfect for a day trip
🌏 Final Thoughts
Nusa Penida is more than just Bali’s side trip – it’s a destination that deserves its own spotlight. From iconic cliffs like Kelingking to hidden gems like Tembeling pools, from manta ray encounters to sacred temples, this island offers raw natural beauty and authentic Balinese culture.
Whether you’re here for a quick escape or a longer adventure, Nusa Penida will leave you in awe.
