Tucked away from the bustling tourist spots of Bali, Nusa Penida is a gem waiting to be discovered. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, this island offers a peaceful escape with stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches. With its rugged cliffs, unique rock formations, and underwater treasures, Nusa Penida is an adventure lover’s dream and a haven for nature enthusiasts.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about Nusa Penida, from its breathtaking beaches and dive spots to travel tips for making the most of your visit to this enchanting island.
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Reaching Nusa Penida is relatively easy. Most travelers take a fast boat from Sanur Beach in Bali, with the journey taking about 45 minutes. There are several fast boat services operating daily, so getting there is convenient. If you’re staying in Ubud or Kuta, you can book transport packages that include hotel pick-up, boat transfer, and a return trip.
For those who prefer a scenic route, you can also opt for a boat ride from Padang Bai or Nusa Lembongan, another nearby island. The view during the boat ride is a highlight itself, with glimpses of Bali’s coastline and the sparkling blue waters of the Bali Sea.
The best time to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season, which lasts from April to October. The weather during these months is pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and clear skies. This is the perfect time to explore the island’s beaches, cliffs, and underwater world.
During the rainy season, from November to March, some roads on the island can become difficult to navigate due to mud and slippery surfaces, especially the unpaved ones. If you’re visiting for diving, keep in mind that visibility in the waters is best during the dry months.
While Nusa Penida is still developing as a tourist destination, it boasts several must-see spots that attract adventurers and photographers alike. Here’s a rundown of the top attractions you should add to your itinerary:
No excursion to Nusa Penida es exhaustiva sin visitar Kelingking Beach. Famous for its iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff, Kelingking is a photographer’s dream. The stunning viewpoint offers panoramic views of the turquoise waters below and the striking cliff formation.
For those who are up for a challenge, you can descend the steep stairs to reach the secluded beach below. While the climb is not for the faint-hearted, the reward of standing on this hidden white-sand beach is worth every effort. Be cautious, as the path can be narrow and uneven.
Located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida, Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool formed by tidal waves. When the tide is low, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters and admire the stunning rock formations surrounding the pool. The sharp contrast of the vibrant blue and green waters with the rocky cliffs makes it a popular spot for photography.
Just a short walk from Angel’s Billabong is another must-see spot—Broken Beach, a circular rock formation with an archway that allows the sea to flow in and out. Though swimming here isn’t possible, the view is breathtaking, and it’s an excellent place for drone photography.
For beach lovers and divers, Crystal Bay is the perfect destination. Known for its calm, clear waters, this beach is ideal for snorkeling and swimming. It’s also one of the best dive spots on the island, offering a chance to spot Mola Mola (Sunfish) during the right season, as well as other marine life like colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and schools of fish.
The sunset views from Crystal Bay are mesmerizing, making it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring the island.
On the eastern side of Nusa Penida lies the picturesque Atuh Beach. Surrounded by towering cliffs and rock formations, this secluded beach is known for its dramatic scenery and calm waters, perfect for a peaceful swim. The crescent-shaped coastline and the lush greenery make it an excellent spot for a quiet getaway.
Atuh Beach is best visited during low tide when you can walk along the soft, white sand and explore the nearby rock pools.
Adjacent to Atuh Beach is Diamond Beach, a recently developed destination on the island. The climb down to the beach is via a newly constructed staircase carved into the cliffs, offering spectacular views along the way. Diamond Beach is known for its white sands, crystal-clear waters, and towering cliffs, making it one of the most photogenic spots on Nusa Penida.
If you’re looking for something different, Peguyangan Waterfall is a unique experience. It’s not just a waterfall but also a sacred site with a temple at the base of a cliff. To reach the waterfall, you’ll need to descend a series of blue steps down the cliffside. Once at the bottom, you’ll be greeted with stunning ocean views and a series of small waterfalls and pools.
Nusa Penida is a world-class diving destination, attracting enthusiasts from all over the globe. Its rich marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters make it a top spot for underwater adventures.
One of the most famous dive sites around Nusa Penida is Manta Point, where you can swim with the majestic Manta Rays. These gentle giants are a sight to behold, gracefully gliding through the water. The dive site is about a 30-minute boat ride from the island, and manta sightings are common year-round.
For experienced divers, Gamat Bay is a hidden gem known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The underwater visibility is excellent, and you can expect to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the elusive Mola Mola during the right season.
Located near Nusa Lembongan, Toyapakeh is another popular dive spot with excellent coral formations and a wide variety of marine life. The current can be strong here, so it’s recommended for experienced divers. However, the rich underwater ecosystem makes it worth the challenge.
If you’re not into diving, you can still enjoy the underwater beauty of Nusa Penida by snorkeling at Crystal Bay, Manta Bay, or other nearby locations.
Once you’ve arrived on the island, the best way to get around is by renting a scooter. The roads on Nusa Penida are quite rugged, so a scooter offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace.
However, if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter, you can hire a car with a driver to take you to the island’s main attractions. Guided tours are also available, especially for those who prefer an organized itinerary.
Nusa Penida offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury villas. Here are a few popular areas to stay:
Nusa Penida is a captivating destination that offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking along rugged cliffs, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or exploring hidden beaches, the island has something for everyone. Its untouched charm and off-the-beaten-path feel make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a different side of Bali.
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