If you’re traveling to Bali, then you probably heard of its neighboring island Nusa Penida. Nusa Penida is a relatively underdeveloped island, which offers breathtaking nature, beautiful white-sand beaches, lots of cliffs and incredible view points. Overall, a photogenic place full of adventure that is worth a visit. Here is everything you need to know, when visiting Nusa Penida.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU STAY ON NUSA PENIDA
You basically have two options when planning to visit Nusa Penida: either doing a day trip or staying a couple of nights on the island. Depending on how much time you have, I would recommend staying for about two or three days to really experience and explore what the island has to offer. Most people decide on doing a day trip to Nusa Penida, so that the ‘popular’ places are always crowded during peak time. Therefore, staying on the island really has its advantages. We stayed three nights on the island and in my opinion that was the ideal duration.
HOW TO GET TO NUSA PENIDA
In order to reach Nusa Penida, you first need to head to Sanur Beach. Once you arrive at Sanur beach, you will see many open-air huts lined up directly at the beach. Each hut sells speedboat tickets to Nusa Penida. You can buy the tickets about 30 minutes prior departure or you can buy them online the day before.
THINGS TO DO IN NUSA PENIDA
If you decide to do a day tour, you will most likely need to decide between doing the west or east coast tour. As both sides are equally beautiful, I would (again) recommend to stay on the island and see it all. We booked a private driver for two days and explored each coast.
WEST COAST
Hike down Kelingking Beach
There is no doubt that Kelingking is Nusa Penida’s most famous spot. Located in the southwest of the island, this spectacular viewpoint is shaped like a dinosaurs head. Take your time and hike down to the beach. There are no stairs and the rail is not stable, so be very careful. The hike becomes more steep, the close you get to the beach. It took us probably around 30-45 minutes to reach the beach.
Head to Angel’s Billabong & Broken Beach
These two spots are situated in walking distance from each other. Broken Beach in another incredible shaped location in Nusa Penida and a great Instagram photo spot. Angel’s Billabong is a beautiful natural infinity pool. Be aware of the rough waves, if you decide to take a dip in the clear water.
Snorkel at Manta Point
Nusa Penida is well-known for its manta population. Therefore, many visitors will snorkel or dive to see these incredible creatures. However, on a calm and clear day, you will be able to spot mantas from Manta Point.
Relax at Crystal Bay
A beach surrounded by beautiful palm trees perfect to relax and snorkel. We spent an evening at Crystal Bay: taking our last dip of the day, having dinner by the beach, grabbing a beer and enjoying the sunset. It’s a popular hangout spot during the whole day.
EAST COAST
Enjoy the view at Diamond beach
One of the most picturesque view points in Nusa Penida is without doubt Diamond beach. Thanks to its turquoise waters and unique rock formations. The stairway down to the beach is also a famous Instagram spot. Head there early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Take a dip at Atuh beach
Close to Diamond beach, you can find Atuh beach. Athu beach is usually more busy, as you can actually swim here. Along the beach are small restaurants, so that you can grab drinks and food.
Visit the treehouse & Thousand Island Viewpoint
The treehouse called Rumah Pohon has probably the best view in Nusa Penida. Located near both beaches, you can actually rent out this accommodation. Imagine waking up to this view! Just a couple of steps further, there is Thousand Island Viewpoint. When reaching the lookout, you can admire the beauty of the island and the blue waters.
Goa Giri Putri Temple
This sacred underground temple (also known as Karangsari Cave) is located inside an actual cave. You can reach the temple by first climbing up some steps, then you need to crawl through an opening in the cave. Exploring the cave temple is quite a unique experience. To enter, you need to wear a sarong, which you can rent at the entrance.
HOW TO GET AROUND IN NUSA PENIDA
The most affordable mode of transportation is renting a scooter, if you’re an experienced driver and are comfortable driving a motorbike by yourself. However, as the streets are not always properly paved, the roads in Nusa Penida are quite bumpy. Therefore, a scooter might not be the best idea. I would recommend to get a driver for the day. It’s convenient, still affordable and just very practical. We payed around 30-40€ per day.
WHERE TO STAY IN NUSA PENIDA
Nusa Penida is not as developed as Bali, but in recent years more and more accommodations have been built. We stayed at La Roja Bungalows and loved it. A beautiful property, friendly staff and good location. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and I would can recommend staying here.
