A Traveller’s Ultimate Guide to Nusa Penida Island

Nusa Penida is easily accessible from Bali, and you can get there by boat or ferry. If you opt for the boat, you will be able to get tickets from one of the many local travel agencies, but make sure you do your research beforehand. Check travel times, ticket prices, and safety measures.
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The speedboats usually take around 45 minutes to get to the island and the boat rides are uneventful but scenic.
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If you have a car or scooter that you want to take to Nusa Penida, your only other option is the ferry, which leaves twice a day. The biggest ferry operator from Bali to Nusa Penida is Padang Bei Ferry and you can depart from Sanur Beach or Kusamba Port.

If you want to explore Nusa Penida, you’ll have quite a few options to get around the island. It’s important to note that, even though the island is smaller than Bali, and there are many roads and paths, it’s still not small enough to walk everywhere.
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In fact, to get across the entire island, you could spend a few hours driving around. But the preferred method of transportation is absolutely up to you.
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One of the best and safest options is to rent a car with a driver. This type of transport is pretty inexpensive and having a skilled and knowledgeable driver can help you see some top attractions.
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You could also rent a taxi, which is usually stationed on a dock or close to a hotel. Again, they’re usually very reasonably priced, but make sure you get recommendations from your tour operator or travel agency to avoid getting ripped off.
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It’s also important to note that, unlike Bali, ridesharing apps like Grab and Go-Jek don’t work in Nusa Penida.
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Finally, you will see many locals on Nusa Penida riding motorbikes and you will be able to rent one for yourself. However, the roads are pretty narrow and in somewhat bad shape, which means you need to take extra precautions. Always wear a helmet, honk before bends and hills, and ensure you give cars plenty of room to pass.

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Nusa Penida or are looking to stay a few days and properly explore the island, you might need to bring a few things. Of course, these are just suggestions and even if you don’t bring any of these things with you, you will likely be able to buy them on the island. However, you might not get the best selection of products and the prices might be a bit steeper.
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Some recommendations include a waterproof bag and a waterproof phone pouch. If you’re bringing electronics to any of the beautiful beaches on Nusa Penida, you need to make sure your tech is protected from the saltwater.
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Another tip, especially if you plan on diving or snorkelling at this small island, is to bring your own gear. While you will be able to rent it on Nusa Penida, the rented gear is often worn out and might not be very comfortable. So if you enjoy doing water sports in Nusa Dua, bring your kit.
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If you plan on hiking or visiting some of the less-developed beaches in Nusa Dua, you should consider bringing water shoes. These shoes will protect your feet when walking on rocks and help you better grip wet surfaces.

Nusa Penida has many great places where you can stay and that accommodate all budgets. However, as with everything else, the supply of these accommodations is much smaller than in Bali and the options tend to be on the pricier side. What’s more, if you choose to stay in Nusa Penida for a night, make sure you book well in advance as the rooms fill up quickly.
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To ensure you have stellar accommodations and access to top-shelf amenities, book your stay at Club Med Bali. Club Med Bali is the ideal place to dive into outdoor adventures while taking in the wonderful nature and cuisine of Indonesia. It’s where you can rejuvenate your body and appreciate artful moments.
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If you want to go to Nusa Penida, you can check out the west part of the island with Club Med. The exhilarating excursion starts early in the morning with a drive to Sanur harbour, followed by a quick speed boat trip to the island.
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Once you arrive, you will be able to explore the western part of the island and visit the Kelingking beach. You will also get to see Billabong and the Broken Beach, before heading off to Crystal Bay for some downtime.

Having a Nusa Penida day tour or even staying for a few days there will give you the opportunity to do and see so much. Luckily, the island has so much to offer and there’s an activity for every budget, interest, and itinerary. Here are just some of our top picks.
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Snorkelling With Manta Rays
Snorkelling with manta rays is probably one of the most popular activities to do in Nusa Penida. Manta rays are the biggest members of the ray family, with a wingspan of up to 5 metres and there’s no shortage of these majestic creatures in Indonesia.
They’re very peaceful animals that can’t harm humans, which makes them ideal snorkelling companions. You can find tour operators that will take you on snorkelling early in the morning and you’re likely to see them while staying close to the surface.
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The best spots to see manta rays are Manta Point, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and Toyapakeh Wall. Luckily, all of these sites are close by and you can see all of them during your Nusa Penida tour. You should also keep in mind that Manta Point is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that only allows snorkelling, but not diving.
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Snorkelling at Toyapakeh
Toyapakeh is not only a harbour that serves as the primary arrival point, but also one of the best snorkelling sites on the entire island. There, you’ll have a chance to admire the corals and aquatic fauna, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the elusive mola mola. Not only that, but given good weather, you can have a great view of Mount Agung.
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In addition to the vibrant corals, you can also see schools of Platax, fusiliers, sweetlips, and jacks, as well as tuna, and giant trevallies. Toyapakeh is also the common starting point for other snorkelling tours. From there, you can easily get to Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay, and even see the statue of Buddha, sunk in front of Nusa Ceningan.
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Buddha Point
Buddha Point is a group of underwater Buddhist temple statues near Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan. The statues are only around five metres deep and can easily be reached without scuba gear.
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There, you will see a three-metre-tall Buddha statue surrounded by bell-shaped stupas that look similar to the ruins at Borobudur Temple in central Java. If you decide to check out Buddha Point, take extra precautions as the currents can be strong.

Hiking Peguyangan Waterfall Blue Stairs
Another popular activity to try before going back to Bali is hiking the Peguyangan Waterfall Blue Stairs. Recommended only for the more adventurous hikers, the path is steep and gets the adrenaline going.
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The Blue Stairs hike leads to Peguyangan Waterfall, which is a small waterfall and natural swimming pool at the bottom of a cliff. You can reach it by climbing down hundreds of steps on a bright blue stairway.
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Even though it’s not for the faint of heart, the ocean and cliff views are truly magnificent, which is why it’s one of the best-rated hikes on the island. There’s even a charming scenic hotel atop the cliffs, which features stunning views of the whole area.
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Visiting Seganing Waterfalls
Seganing Waterfalls are the perfect spot to admire the beautiful Indonesian landscapes. Climbing down to the waterfall takes around 20 minutes, following a small path carved into the cliff.
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If you’re in a hurry or want to head over to a popular Nusa Penida beach, you don’t have to make the descent down the steep cliffs. There’s a small bamboo platform that overlooks the cliff where you can take some amazing photos.
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Now, the Seganing trek is arguably one of the best ones on the entire island. However, it’s important to note the waterfalls are pretty small and not as impressive as other ones you might see on the island. Either way, the walk up (and down) is sure to get your heart rate up and you’re guaranteed some beautiful sights.

Visiting Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool that forms thanks to the erosion of the volcanic rock shelf. It’s a huge tourist attraction, and deservedly so, but if you don’t take the right precautions, it can be dangerous.
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Located on the west coast of Nusa Penida, Angel’s Billabong is accessible by car or scooter. The best time to visit this natural phenomenon is during low tide because, during high tide, the pool disappears beneath the waves.
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Luckily, there are many viewpoints overlooking the infinity pool where you can stand and take some incredible pictures. Another thing to do at Angel’s Billabong is to visit the swing and take the perfect shot.
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However, it’s crucial to remember that while you might see people swimming there, it’s not advised because it can be very dangerous. Both low and high tides present a serious problem to swimmers due to the large waves crashing over the pool. These strong waves can drag even the strongest swimmers out to sea, which can be deadly.
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Seeing the Thousand Island Viewpoint
Your Nusa Penida travel itinerary should also include the Thousand Island Viewpoint. Pulau Seribu or Thousand Island Viewpoint is a spectacular spot located on the southeast coast of Bali.
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The cliff-side viewpoint offers panoramic views of the surrounding smaller islands, affectionately known as Thousand Islands. Standing at the viewpoint, you can see the turquoise blue sea, dramatic cliff formations, lush green vegetation, and even Atuh Beach.
Catching a Sunset on Kelingking Beach
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Nusa Penida Treehouse (Rumah Pohon)
There are many charming tree houses scattered all across the island, but Rumah Pohon is first and (arguably) the best. A wooden tree house, overlooking the ocean, Rumah Pohon features basic amenities, but more than makes up for it with stunning views.
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If you book your stay at the Nusa Penida Treehouse, you’ll be able to fall asleep with the sounds of geckos chirping in the trees. When you wake up, you’ll be witness to an incredible sunrise over the Raja Lima Islands, with dolphins and manta rays swimming in the distance.
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Paluang Cliff Viewpoint
An incredible viewpoint just a five-minute drive from Kelingking Cliff, Paluang Cliff gives you amazing views over the scenery. As you walk up to the edge of the cliff, you will see the other side of Kelingking Cliff, along with a green island next to it, and Embon Beach at the bottom of the cliff wall.
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Just a quick two-minute walk from Paluang Cliff, you’ll find Pura Paluang, which is a quirky shrine known as the car temple. Keep in mind that if you decide to go to Pura Paluang or the cliff, there is an entry fee.

In addition to snorkelling and diving in Nusa Penida, the island offers some of the best water sports opportunities in all of Bali. If you want to spend a day on the water, snorkelling, fishing, or simply relaxing, you can charter a boat. Boat charters are relatively inexpensive, especially if you share the cost with others.
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Another activity is a jet ski safari, where you can explore the clear waters. However, as there is a limited number of jet ski operators on the island, the price can be pretty steep.
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Luckily, most of the beaches on the island allow swimming and they’re pretty close to each other. That means that during your stay on Nusa Penida, even if it’s for a day, you’ll likely be able to visit many different beaches.

Located at the highest point on Nusa Penida, Puncak Mundi is home to a series of traditional Balinese Hindu Temples, offering views of the beautiful island scenery. There, you can even see some monkeys running around and frolicking in their natural habitat.
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During the full moon and other sacred days for Balinese people, the Puncak Mundi is full of worshippers from nearby villagers. Like many of the steeper parts of the island, the walk-up can be somewhat challenging. You might not be able to make it up on a scooter, but a more powerful bike should make it easier.
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If you can, try to visit Puncak Mundi during a festival or prayer times because the temple truly comes alive. Of course, make sure you’re respectful of the worshippers and that you’re dressed appropriately.

Nestled inside the largest cave on the island, the Goa Giri Putri Temple holds great spiritual significance for Balinese people. Many devotees embark on a pilgrimage to this holy site, travelling from Bali to take part in a complete purification ritual, which consists of five stations within the cave.
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After a donation and a quick purification ceremony, you will be able to enter the temple. But beware, the cave walls can be pretty close together, so it’s not a good idea to visit if you’re claustrophobic.
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The last ceremony of the ritual is open to tourists, and you can see a Hindu and Buddhist ritual. Once you get out of the Goa Giri Putri temple and leave the cave, you will be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views over a valley.

No matter how many days you plan on staying on the island, you will have access to some of the freshest seafood around. Whether you want Indonesian food, international choices, or vegetarian and vegan options, you will likely find it all on the island.
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Even though prices are slightly higher than on the mainland, the food in Nusa Penida is still more reasonably priced compared to Kuta or Seminyak.

If you’re looking to visit the other Nusa Islands, you can get to them from Bali by ferry or speedboat.
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If you get to Lembongan, make sure you explore the Devil’s Tears, which is an outcrop that sucks the seawater in before it explodes with a boom. There’s also Dream Beach, with a great shorebreak and excellent waves for surfing.
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If you’re looking for adventure and adrenaline-rushing activities, you should also consider a visit to Nusa Ceningan. Albeit small, the entire island offers many opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and cliff diving.
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One of the biggest attractions on Nusa Ceningan is the Blue Lagoon, which boasts incredibly clear, turquoise waters. The cove, which is nestled against the cliff, is a hotspot for adrenaline junkies who love cliff jumping.
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Another location that offers great opportunities for cliff jumping, as well as relaxing, is Mahana Point on Nusa Ceningan. Close to the Point, there is a restaurant, a bar, a diving board, as well as a ladder for safe re-entry.
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Final thoughts
An incredible island with tons of opportunities for hiking, diving, snorkelling, and relaxing – Nusa Penida is a place like no other. It’s perfect for a day trip or even to stay for a couple of days and the itinerary practically writes itself.
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If you’re planning a memorable trip to Bali and want to incorporate a fun stop at Nusa Penida Island – book your holiday with Club Med today! Located in the enchanting Nusa Dua, Club Med Bali is our eco-chic resort, boasting 391 rooms, 4 pools, 3 bars, 2 restaurants, and so many amenities.
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In addition to the all-inclusive service, Club Med Bali offers 34 included activities, along with 13 on-demand ones. Book your stay today at our all-inclusive resort in Bali, Indonesia today!

Arguably one of the most Instagrammable spots on the island, Kelingking Beach should definitely be part of your Nusa Penida itinerary. The famous cliff scene strikingly resembles a T-Rex and has been made popular by tourists.
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If you’re just looking for an incredible view and a great photo, you can stay up top. However, if you want to get up close to Kelingking Beach, you will need to make quite a hike down. The hike down takes around an hour and is steep in some parts, so it’s not for the faint of heart.
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If you do decide to go down to the beach, you will get to experience some of the most beautiful white sand. But be warned as this part of the island sees some strong undercurrents and it’s typically only recommended for stronger swimmers.

Diamond Beach, which you can find at the easternmost point of Nusa Penida, is famous for its incredible scenery. With its white sandy beach, clear blue waters, and massive cliffs, it’s truly a sight to behold.
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Diamond Beach got its name thanks to the diamond-like rock structures, which are scattered all around. Going down to the beach is easier here than on Kelingking because there are stairs carved straight out of the cliffs.

Broken Beach gets its name from the archway that spans the entire cove that breaks away, allowing water in and out of the beach. The arch has been formed over hundreds of years and it’s truly a sight to behold.
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Unfortunately, there is no way down into the cove, which means you can’t swim there. However, some boat tours do cruise into the cove and Broken Beach if the tide is right. If you’re staying on the island for a few days, ask around to see what the best time to visit would be.

Tembeling Beach is a small hideaway bay at the end of an adrenaline-inducing motorbike ride down through a forest. Along the way, you will also pass by the Tembeling natural pools, which are as beautiful as they are refreshing.