From Bali to Nusa Penida | Places not to be missed
Nusa Penida is the dream island which faces the east coast of Bali and which attracts more and more tourists year after year with its breathtaking views from its high limestone cliffs, its dream beaches, its lush jungle and its seabed inhabited in particular by Manta rays to meet while scuba diving or simply snorkeling. From Bali to Nusa Penida island takes 30 minutes by boat (Sanur harbour to Nusa Penida).
This place is the largest of the 3 Nusa islands, is located southeast of Bali, about 30 minutes by boat from Sanur (south of Bali). With its incredible views, turquoise waters, underwater life and breathtaking beaches, Nusa Penida is a little gem that you cannot miss during your trip to Bali.
The island of Nusa Penida is part of the province of Klungkung in Bali but is less developed than the mother or main island. In recent years Nusa Penida has been experiencing a craze from travelers looking for adventures, places less frequented by tourists or to swim with manta rays. This island is only beginning to emerge from its lethargy so if you want to explore it before its tourist boom don’t delay too long as change can happen quickly.
Nusa Penida is the largest of the islands of the archipelago which also includes the other two islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. It has only been a few years since tourism has developed on this island, yet there are many spots, many activities to do and magnificent landscapes to see.
How long does it take the ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida?
The ferry ride or speedboat from Bali to Nusa Penida typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes. However, travel times can vary based on factors such as the specific departure point in Bali, the destination in Nusa Penida, and the sea conditions on the day of travel. It’s advisable to check the ferry schedule and inquire about the estimated travel time from the particular port you plan to depart.
How to go from Seminyak to Nusa Penida?
The best way to get from Seminyak to Nusa Penida is by car, then by a ferry, it takes around 1 hour including transfers. Driver from Seminyak to Sanur Beach Port, then take a fast boat for 30 minutes ferry journey.
If you prefer by bus and ferry which takes 3h 40m and costs Rp 260000 – Rp 350000.
How to get to Nusa Penida?
The Nusa Islands are 30 minutes from the port of Sanur by speed boat. There are two ways to get there: by “normal” boat and by speed boat. We had read that the speed boat was very violent and that generally it was vomito party… On these glamorous notes, we still decided to take a speed boat because 30 minutes vs. 2 hours of crossings the choice is quickly made.
From which port?
Several ports in Bali offer services to Nusa Penida. Common departure points for speedboats to Nusa Penida include Sanur Beach, Padang Bai, and Serangan. The specific port you depart from may depend on the speedboat service you choose, as different companies operate from different locations. It’s advisable to check with the speedboat provider or service you plan to use to confirm the departure point.
Places not to be missed in Nusa Penida
Here are the must-visit places in Nusa Penida, ensuring you make the most of your adventure on this breathtaking island!
#1 – BROKEN BEACH (Pantai Pasih Uug)
Locally known as Pantai Pasih Uug. It is a rock-like coastal formation found on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida. This place is marked by its formation in the shape of an arch where the waves of the Indian Ocean come crashing down. Broken Beach is a great spot for amateur photographers and those looking for scenic views. Adjacent to this place there are also macaques. Also if you are lucky you may be able to spot the silhouettes of these beautiful creatures that are manta rays swimming near the surface of the water.
Natural bridge and archway on Broken beach, Nusa Penida Island. Aaron Rentfrew, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The legend says that at this place was a village which was cursed by a man. The village collapsed, leaving a gaping hole in the cliff and was thus named Broken Beach. What to do in Nusa Penida in the morning, when the majority of tourists are sleeping?
Do not hesitate any longer and go for a tour of the cove. Enjoy the invigorating ocean air and admire this unique spectacle. Listen carefully and listen to the waves crashing along the cliff… Enough to give you energy for the rest of the day!
#2 – DIAMOND BEACH “The most beautiful beach on the island”
In Nusa penida, access to Diamond Beach has to be earned: one of those descents to be done on foot, but this incredible little cove is worth all the effort.
Diamond Beach, formerly Korawa Beach is located right next to Atuh Beach. Only a rock advanced in the sea separates these two heavenly corners. Located east of the island of Nusa Penida, this place is one of the most beautiful shores of the island. From the sky, admire a white sand beach and turquoise blue water.
Anyway, barely arrived at the top of the stairs, the spectacle that awaits you is simply amazing. It is a truly idyllic setting. Take the time to descend and admire this landscape that you will not have the opportunity to see again any time soon.
Diamond Beach is one of the most beautiful shores on the island. Its unspoiled beach is a real delight for the eyes. Neighboring Atuh Beach, it is in our opinion the most beautiful beach on the island with that of Kelingking. Once parked in the car park at the top, you will have to pay the entrance fee to the site because it is protected. By this way you also have the possibility of accessing Atuh and Diamond Beach. Take the opportunity to admire the incredible view from the heights of the cliffs of Nusa Penida. It is absolutely sumptuous!
Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia. Stryn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Access the Diamond beach
To access the beach, you just have to go down a fairly steep staircase. The steps have been carved into the rock and in some places the passage is really not great. Once at the bottom, discover a virgin beach bordered by cliffs at the foot of which you will discover small caves that will bring you a bit of freshness. Be careful, this beach is ideal for lounging, but not for swimming. Indeed, as so often in Nusa Penida, the waves are violent and can quickly drag you offshore if you are not an experienced swimmer. If you want to take pictures, you will discover two atypical spots:
- A swing suspended between two coconut trees, facing the sea
- A human-sized bird’s nest like a suspended bubble
It takes 15 minutes to descend and 20 minutes to ascend.
# 3 – THE CAVE: GOA GIRI PUTRI
One of the cultural attractions of the island. To go to this cave where there is a temple you will pass in front of signs indicating the direction all along the main street Ped Buyuk. An altar and a temple guard guard the entrance to this cave which is unique because to access it you have to go through a narrow opening in the rock. You will have to remember to lean enough to be able to access the cellar which is incredibly spacious, it is said that this cellar can accommodate up to 5,000 people.
And no, it’s not dark down there as you might imagine because electricity was installed in this basement a few years ago. Several Hindu temples are present in this cave as well as one for the Buddhists. We come here above all to pray to ask for protection, prosperity but above all for spiritual purity. The Balinese believe that by visiting this cave they can cure illnesses.
#4 – CRYSTAL BAY
It is a bay with 200 meters of white sand on the west coast of Nusa Penida. Despite its isolation, the bay is fairly well accessible thanks to its developed access roads.
In addition to its beach full of palm trees, the bay is well known for its beautiful snorkeling site. Near the edge you can swim but you still have to pay attention to the currents that are present in Nusa Penida.
This very touristic place is known for its magnificent beach, its turquoise water and the many activities you can do there. Among others:
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Surf
- Swim with dolphins
- Boat trip
- Sunset to admire without moderation, etc.
This place is famous since it is an absolutely wonderful scuba diving spot where you will have the opportunity to see many different species of fish. If you have never dived, now is the time to do your baptism!
Also, in the evening in Indonesia, we really recommend that you take advantage of the sunsets! The sky is on fire and the atmosphere is incredible. Crystal Bay is the perfect place to admire the sunset and drink a cold Bintang (the local beer).
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Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida – Bali. Magul, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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#5 – PEGUYANGAN WATERFALL
This source that flows into the sea is worth it! You will have to conquer more than 750 steps including 450 meters of vertiginous descent since the staircase in question is built along the cliff. It is better not to look down so as not to be seized with panic. Adventurous this waterfall is calling you!
#6 – SEGARA KIDUL TEMPLE
Few people know this temple whose access is difficult. As you will have understood, the infrastructures of Nusa Penida are not yet fully developed, The Segara Kidul temple is located near the Peguyangan waterfall which we were telling you about just before and you will indeed have to take the 700 steps that lead to this temple. Where is the statue of Kanjeng Ratu Kidul or also known as Nyi Roro Kidul who is the queen of the south sea and whose color is green.
We believe that it is better not to wear green if we are at the seaside because we risk being carried away by a wave. There are also 3 altars at this temple intended for Vishnu, Brahma, Shiave and also a sacred spring where the Balinese take advantage of it to purify themselves.
#7 – THE TELETUBBIES HILLS
If we talk to you about Teletubbies you probably remember these 4 characters for children and the sets of this show. And as the resemblance is obvious with these hills of Nusa Penida to those of Teletubbies they have therefore taken this nickname of Teletubbies Hills / Bukit Telettubies.
It is better to go there in the morning or at the end of the afternoon so as not to suffer too much from the heat.
This place is ideally visited at the end of the rainy season or just at the beginning of the dry season, otherwise the hills will be rather straw-colored. On site, put on good shoes and do some trekking in this extraordinary setting. If the weather is clear, you will be able to see, from the top of the hills, Mount Rinjani which is the second largest volcano in Indonesia, as well as the island of Lombok.
Read also: From Bali to Lombok | Complete guide to visit Lombok Island
#8 – TEMPLE POINT / BUDDHA TEMPLE
Temple Point or also known as Buddha Temple is located between Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida and it is one of a kind. At 7 meters deep were put there statues of Buddha and stupa. On a Buddha there is even an anemone which gives the impression that the statue has hair on its head. Sea lovers you will be enchanted by this spot!
#9 – THE T-REX OF NUSA PENIDA: KELINGKING BEACH
When we talk about Nusa Penida this place is the one that have become the icon of this island. Photography lovers will be delighted. In any case, note that it is quite an adventure to go down to the beach and especially to go back up.
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Kelingking Beach. LukeTriton, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This beach combines beauty and sport
Kelingking Beach. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular places on the island. And we can tell you that once in front of this huge little finger (Kelingking means little finger in Indonesian) your breath will be taken away. You will be amazed by the immensity of this cliff and in awe of the color of the water.
This beach combines beauty and sport. Understand that to descend to this splendid beach that you can see from the top of the cliffs, you will have to take a steep “staircase” that is very dangerous since it is not very secure. In fact, the path to descend is narrow and built with pieces of wood, placed askew, as steps.
Slowly, be careful, it’s dangerous
We tell you because we went down to the beach. The slope is steep and the path is not suitable if you have two left feet… If you want to go down, take your time, good shoes and above all water. It takes about 20 minutes to descend and 30 minutes to ascend.
When you put your feet on the magnificent beach of Kelingking, take the time to admire the immensity of the cliffs that surround you. It’s pretty amazing how small you really feel down there. If you swim, be careful, the currents are very strong!
Tips: come early in the morning, even if you have to leave at night to arrive at sunrise. You will avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy the most beautiful lights.
#10 – ANGEL’S BILLABONG
A magical place that awaits you with this magnificent infinity pool and its captivatingly colored waters. But don’t be fooled by the beauty of this pool, which can be dangerous. Indeed some people have already died there by being carried away by a wave without any chance of surviving because of the strong currents. We therefore advise you not to risk your life just for a photo…
Angel Billabong in Nusa Penida. Sasuke Shinozawa, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The natural pool at Nusa Penida, ANGEL’S BILLABONG
What to do in Nusa Penida? If there is one place you should not miss on the island, it is Angel’s Billabong. This absolutely incredible place is a natural pool that fills up at each high tide and then lets its visitors swim in it at low tide. Whatever time you go, the show will be different, but still just as grandiose:
At high tide, you can admire the monstrous waves filling this natural basin. It is truly an impressive sight to admire. Of course, it is impossible to swim there at this time. You would be thrown into the ocean in less time than it takes to tell.
At low tide, you can swim there! When the ocean has receded, it gives way to a pool of clear water where the gentle rays of the sun are reflected… A real delight for the eyes and a real moment of happiness: a swim facing the sea in a setting heavenly.
#11 – TANGLAD WEAVING VILLAGE
This village is located in height, the road which leads to it is something but it deserves to be seen. Life in this beautiful village is peaceful. You can see the women weaving at home, a job that sometimes requires several months of work to complete.
Very little known to tourists, the remote village of Tanglad is a true haven of peace. Meet these women who perpetuate traditional weaving by making pieces by hand.
You will discover two kinds of fabric: Cepuk, which is a traditional weaving or Rangrang, which is more modern with geometric shapes. Natural dyes are applied manually. Imagine that some parts require more than three months of work! A real work of art made on old manual looms. Spending time with these women is a real moment of peace. They are very smiling and take pleasure in answering your questions. Besides, do not hesitate to buy them a piece to help them continue to live from their art.
#12 – SUWEHAN BEACH
Another beautiful beach in Nusa penida that some compare to Dreamland beach in Bali. Like many beaches in Nusa Penida there is still a staircase to access it, in any case it remains uncrowded.
If you don’t know what to do in Nusa Penida, Suwehan Beach is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Located on the east coast, it is a place almost unknown to many tourists. If you go there at low tide, you can not only enjoy its beach, but also swimming.
Ideally, go there in the morning, to enjoy the rays of the sun that caress its shore. In the afternoon it is completely shaded. To get there, all you have to do is descend a staircase of more than 300 steps along the cliff. An easy challenge, since it has been completely rebuilt! And it’s an incredible chance, because you can now enjoy the site safely.
# 13 – CAR TEMPLE: PALUANG TEMPLE
A unique and interesting place with its 2 cars placed there in this temple and act as altars. What might look like cars are not, it’s just the shape given to these altars made of stone. Discover the history of this extraordinary temple!
# 14 – THE PERCHED HOUSE OF NUSA PENIDA: RUMAH POHON (Treehouse)
Located at the viewpoint of the Thousand Islands this place is one of the attractions of the island and is not far from Atuh beach. This house is known thanks to the photos on Instagram that were taken in this place. To know that this house can be rented but that you should not have high expectations as to its comfort or cleanliness, you have been warned.
#15 – MANTA POINT
One of the reasons why travelers like to go to Nusa Penida: to try to swim with manta rays while snorkeling or diving. The Manta Point is in fact the area’s manta ray cleaning station, but as they are wild animals it is not guaranteed that you will be able to see them all the time. Also to know that there is current at this place, we advise you to organize your sea trip to this spot with real diving clubs even if it will be a little more expensive than taking a local with his boat.
Safety is priceless and we have already had clients who have snorkeled at Manta Point just passing by a local with his boat and told us that they feared for their safety in the water because of the currents and the non-supervision of the organizer of this excursion.
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Manta Point in Nusa Penida. Tilonaut, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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# 16 – TEMPLE: PURA DALAM PENETERAN PED
The Ped temple is the best known temple in Nusa Penida it is also known as Pura Penataran Agung Ped, it contains a shrine dedicated to Jero Gede Macaling.
It is a source of power for those who practice black magic and a place of pilgrimage for those who seek protection from evil and disease. The legend says that anyone who prays or meditates at this temple will receive balance between the corporeal world and invisible world.
Read also: Bali Heritage, Culture and Traditions
#17- TEMBELING FOREST NATURAL POOL
It is a place that is great for a nice hike and offers a beautiful view of nature as well as a tranquil atmosphere. If you enjoy walking Tembeling Forest is the perfect choice for you, the descent is through thick, green vegetation and the forest is filled with the melodious calls of native birds.
After arriving at the end of the path you will be rewarded by bathing in the pools.
Tembeling Forest has 2 pools one spiritual and another for men and one for women. If you go even further at the end a beautiful beach will appear and you will not want to leave.
#18 – SEGANING WATERFALL
Adrenaline lovers, this stunt is made for you! Small reward at the end of this dangerous staircase the waterfall and the view of the sea.
In fact, more and more people are going there. And we understand why when we get to the bottom. Well the way to get there is really dangerous so you will need a good physical condition, good shoes and a lot of water to get there. If you have vertigo, you can get stuck because at times. The passage is super narrow and the barrier that “protects” you is made of pieces of wood attached to each other.
You will have the opportunity to relax once you have descended, in a small pool of fresh water from the surrounding rock. The show is magnificent, you are facing the sea and the waves break on the rocks below. It is clearly a must on the island!
Allow 20 minutes to descend and 30 minutes to ascend.
Ferry companies and ports of arrival in Nusa Penida
If you have already booked your speedboat ticket, you can check below which boat company arrives at which port in Nusa Penida.
Ferry Companies to Toyapakeh Harbor
| From Sanur (southeast of Bali): | From Kusamba (northeast of Bali): |
|---|---|
| Angel Billabong Fast Cruise Dwi Manunggal Crown Fast Cruises El Rey Junior Sri Rejeki Gogun Fast Boat Angkal Fast Boat Semabu Hills Fast Boat |
Maruti Express Semabu Hills Bateau rapide |
Ferry Companies to Buyuk Harbor
| From Sanur: | From Serangan: |
|---|---|
| Caspla Bali Sea View Speedboat Marlin Fast Boat Speedboat Dream Beach Express Speedboat |
Gili Getaway |
Ferry companies to Sampalan port
| From Sanur: | From Kusamba: |
|---|---|
| Idola Express Caspla Bali Mola-Mola Express S’Gening Fast Boat |
Gangga Express Sekarjaya |
Our advice for a successful stay in Nusa Penida
Here are some additional tips to ensure that your stay and itinerary are complete:
- Stay at least 2-3 days on the island. Do not stay only one day as some tours may offer.
- Night falls at 6:30 p.m. and the island is large so take your precautions if you go exploring by returning early enough to avoid driving at night.
- We repeat, pay attention to the current at sea!
- Go scuba diving with Warnakali. For a baptism, an outing, passing your PADI… you will not regret what you will see underwater. Nusa Penida certainly has the most beautiful diving spots in the area. The coral is not too damaged (besides almost all the diving centers come by boat to the island because it is the best spot to dive with manta or marbled rays, turtles, fish and corals with miles colors…).
Best Dive Spots in Bali: A Guide to the Best Underwater Wonders
Sources: CleverlySmart, PinterPandai, The World Travel Guy
Main photo credit: Gunadhi (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Main photo description: Broken beach Locally known as Pantai Pasih Uug.
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