Nusa Penida is its own district of Klungkung Regency. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful island in Indonesia, here’s a thorough guide to exploring Nusa Penida to help you make the most of your visit.
If you are a visual person like myself, here is my personal Google Maps list with all my favorite spots in Bali/Nusa Penida pinned: Google Maps
Nusa Penida was one of my favorite places in Indonesia. You don’t need many days there but I thought it was a good break from Bali’s party hustle and bustle.
First things first – How to get there
Getting to Nusa Penida
Most people Go to Nusa Penida as a stop through Bali and the island. It’s the easiest starting point.
To reach Nusa Penida, you can take a fast boat from a couple of beaches in Bali, but the most popular port is Sanur Beach. The journey itself takes about 30-45 minutes depending on the water conditions. However, the port can get quite congested at times. It’s best to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
You can book your trip with multiple companies directly, but there are also companies like Getyourguide or gilibookings that offer easy booking from multiple ports. No matter who you book through, I suggest you buy your tickets in advance (especially in tourist season) considering the ports and transfers can get really busy very fast!
The boats can get full and be quite choppy on the ocean waves, so if you are easily motion sick, remember to pack some pills or motion sickness bands.
The other possible ports that offer transportation to Nusa Penida are Serangan, Kusamba, and Padangbai.
Top Things to Do in Nusa Penida
The island may be small but it is filled with SO MUCH to do. If you love beach days or snorkeling you can spend weeks here and thrive. For now, I’ll start with my favorite sites the island has to offer.
1. Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach is arguably the most famous spot on the island. The iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff offers a panoramic view of the turquoise waters below. The hike down the cliff is pretty steep and challenging, but the stunning scenery and quiet beach below are an incredible reward that makes it worth every step.
Don’t forget your camera – this is a prime spot for Instagram-worthy shots.
2. Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach
Located close to each other, Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool where you can swim during low tide. Broken Beach, on the other hand, is a unique coastal formation featuring a natural archway that allows the ocean to flow into a pool. The contrast between the rugged rocks and the blue sea is truly mesmerizing.
3. Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach will always be close to my heart. The lookout onto Diamond Beach is a romantic site.
The sunrise views here are spectacular. You can stand on the top of the cliff looking out onto the water as the sun rises and watch the lights of the fishing boats follow the sun to the shore. Outlining the giant rocks, the sun carves some amazing shadows—a beautiful sunrise for a beautiful beach.
Additionally, The path to this beach is memorable for its stairs carved into the cliffside to get down. This beach makes you work for its beauty but that’s why it’s so engraved in my mind. It offers an experience.
4. Peguyangan Waterfall
For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Peguyangan Waterfall trek is a must. The journey involves descending a series of blue stairs attached to the cliffside, leading you to a sacred waterfall and a temple. The views during the hike are breathtaking, and the experience is truly unique.
5. Tembeling Natural Pool
Tembeling Natural Pool is a hidden gem surrounded by lush jungle. Nearby, there’s also a small beach and a cave to explore, offering a serene escape from the more touristy spots.
6. Goa Giri Putri Temple
The Goa Giri Putri Temple is a unique Hindu temple nestled within a limestone cave. Its unique location offers such an enriching and memorable experience.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the Goa Giri Putri Temple is also an adventure for the senses. The hike up to the temple offers stunning views of Nusa Penida’s coastline and landscapes. As you ascend, a sense of peace and anticipation. The cave itself is a marvel of natural beauty, with stalactites and stalagmites adding to the otherworldly atmosphere. Visiting Goa Giri Putri Temple is not just about witnessing a sacred site, but also about experiencing the blend of nature and spirituality that defines much of Balinese culture.
Inside, the temple’s serene and mystical atmosphere, enhanced by the dim lighting and echoing chants, provides a perfect setting for meditation and reflection. The temple is dedicated to various deities, and the rituals performed here, often accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of traditional Balinese gamelan music, offer a deep insight into the island’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
7. The Night Market
Address: No Jl. Nusa Indah No.11, Batununggul, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
The night market is a very different kind of destination. This is a market run by island locals for the island locals, but they are very welcoming to the travelers. This market is filled with food vendors offering so many delicious meal options all over the spectrum of sweet and salty. I had some of the best sweet cakes (look up the name for this) and noodles here. Hands down one of my favorite meals of the trip.
Snorkeling
Additionally, I highly recommend looking at some snorkeling tours around the island. Nusa Penida had some of the clearest waters I have ever seen.
Practical Tips for Nusa Penida
Transportation
Renting a scooter or hiring a local driver to get around the island is best. This island is not walkable and there aren’t any Grabs for easy and quick transportation. The roads can also be rough, so drive cautiously if you rent your own car.
Accommodation on the Island
There are various options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Staying near the main harbor, Toyapakeh, can be convenient for accessing amenities and restaurants. You can take a look at booking.com for ideas and recommendations.
For solo travelers, there are also plenty of hostels around the island that are available through Hostel World.
Best Timing to go to Nusa Penida
To avoid crowds and the heat, visit popular spots early (like, super early) in the morning or late in the afternoon. The best season to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season, from April to October.
Communication
Don’t forget about Cell Service! It helps to have data when trying to call a taxi, or looking up routes around the island, in addition to population updates at attractions. Especially considering it’s not a very walkable island. I use Airalo when I travel and it’s always been a blessing for me.
In Conclusion
All in all, Nusa Penida is a paradise. If you are in Indonesia, this island should be a must-stop on your list of things to see. It offers so much in culture, natural beauty, and engaging activities.
I wish you luck and happy memories on your travels!
About the Author
Hi, I’m Shannon. A small travel lover with a laptop.
I’m an avid plane rider and backpacker, currently traveling between lots of working days. This year I am making travel my #1 priority, and I plan to document it as much as I can.
