Nusa Penida

If there is anything that makes my heart beat faster it is a volcanic island with a jagged coastline. Nusa Penida is a perfect example of this! The island is famous for its spectacular beaches, cliffs and viewpoints that offer breathtaking ocean views. Moreover, the island offers a wide range of activities such as diving, snorkeling, surfing and hiking.

 

Whether you are looking for adventure or just want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, Nusa Penida has something for everyone. More on that in this blog!

The journey to Nusa Penida

Several times a day boats from different companies leave from Sanur harbor. If you come by scooter you can park it at the port for a fee. With any luck you will find a company where you can park the scooter for free in front of their store, but since I did not travel from Sanur to Nusa Penida I cannot advise on this. The trip takes about 35 minutes and a one-way ticket with costs about IDR 150,000 (€10), based on 12GoAsia.

 

I myself took the public boat from Nusa Lembongan (Yellow Bridge) to Nusa Penida for IDR 50,000 (€ 3.30). The boat ride took only about 20 minutes and I found myself cozy among the locals.

    Arrival on Nusa Penida

    Once you arrive on Nusa Penida you are greeted by numerous "cab, cab" and "motorcycle, motorcycle" hustlers eager to help you. Renting a scooter per day costs about IDR 80,000 (€5.30), with me personally choosing to walk a short distance from the port to Doel Hadi Scooter Rental for more security. Without any problems I rented a very fine (ultra modern) Honda Scoopy to explore the island with.

     

    In my opinion, a scooter is also the most convenient way to explore Nusa Penida. The island is quite large and the main highlights are located on both the east and west side of the island. Be prepared for island traffic, so no traffic lights and relatively narrow roads that are used as two-lane bike paths in the Netherlands. Distances seem fairly short in terms of kilometers, but it often takes you about 30 minutes to cycle about 15 KM.

     

    Tip:

    • Pay extra attention especially with oncoming traffic, so honk your horn if you approach a blind turn.
    • The road on the north side of the island is a bit busier, especially around the harbor.

     

    Update 04-2023:

    Hearing from some Balinese and news articles, it seems Bali wants to ban scooter rentals for tourists. This would be very unfortunate for those who like to explore the island by scooter, because for me it was the easiest way to explore the island. Before you leave for Bali, check carefully what rules apply so that you will not be faced with (unpleasant) surprises.

    By public boat, you can island hop from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida for just a few euros!

    Once on the island, the scooter is your best friend to transport you from A to B!

    Where to stay?

    Since the island is so big, it is definitely smart to think about your place to stay on the island in advance. I personally chose the Nuansa Penida Hostel, located near the harbor and attractions such as Kelingking Beach, Crystal Bay and the harbor where several diving schools are located.

    In my opinion, the Nuansa Penida Hostel is an above average luxury hostel, with a 2 swimming pools and beautiful bungalows that serve as shared sleeping quarters. In terms of facilities really one of the better hostels I have stayed in during my trip through Southeast Asia.

     

    From here it is (by scooter) approximately:

    • 1 hour to Diamond Beach
    • 45 minutes to Manta Point
    • 35 minutes to Kelingking Beach
    • 20 minutes to Crystal Bay
    • 10 minutes to Toya Pakeh harbor

    What to do in Nusa Penida?

    Beaches, viewpoints, an underground temple and swimming with manta rays!

    Visit Nusa Penida's stunning beaches

    Nusa Penida is an island full of hidden treasures, and its beaches are among the most beautiful in Bali. Whether you are looking for a secluded beach to relax and unwind, or the more adventurous beaches, Nusa Penida has something for everyone. In my opinion, here are some of the most breathtaking beaches on Nusa Penida:

    Diamond Beach

    A spectacular beach that gets its name from the diamond-shaped rock that flaunts in the water just offshore. It has been accessible since late 2018, when a path to the beach was carved into the side of the cliffs.

    To get there, you have to love a hike, as you will have to navigate about 15 minutes down the steps (carved out of the rock face). You have to make a few sharp turns, which requires good coordination, as well as a short section where you have to hold yourself up on a rope.

    Once down on the beach, you can see why the hike was worth it. Diamond Beach is still super unspoiled. The towering limestone cliffs surrounding the beach make you feel super small. And the soft white sand and beautiful silky turquoise water make you feel like you've landed in a tropical paradise.

     

    The waves are usually not too high at Diamond Beach, but always be careful if you plan to swim. The currents and waves at some places in Nusa Penida, including, therefore, Diamond Beach, can sometimes be surprisingly overwhelming.

     

    Navigate to Diamond Beach Car Park, from here the route is self-explanatory. Bring some food and drink for when you go down, especially if you want to stay on the beach a bit longer. Ideally, take the hike early in the morning, when it's not so hot yet.

    Atuh Beach

    Next to Diamond Beach you will find a quieter beach: Atuh Beach. In fact, before you take the walk down towards Diamond Beach, you can also walk a little bit (and turn left), then take the stairs towards Atuh Beach. These stairs are in great condition and the trip down only takes about 5-10 minutes.

    Once down, you will find breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and high cliffs. The beach itself is surrounded by two uninhabited Nusa Islands: Nusa Batuabah and Nusa Batupadasan. Together with the crystal clear water, this makes for beautiful pictures.



    The original stairs to get to Atuh Beach are in somewhat poor condition. Occasionally you pass very narrow ones and it's good to watch your steps. From the parking lot of Atuh Beach it is a walk of about 10-15 minutes via these stairs. Chances are that at the bottom you will be immediately greeted by the beach dogs. Especially if you take some food out of your bag. By the way, they don't hurt a fly and go away by themselves.

     

    Entrance: Free.

     

    If you go down through the Atuh Beach parking lot (via the original stairs that are in somewhat poor condition) and come back upstairs you do get virtually "required" to buy a drink. For a welcome bottle of orange juice after walking up, I paid €1.00. A small effort to do your bit for the vendor in question.

    Kelingking Beach

    Kelingking Beach is perhaps the most iconic beach on Nusa Penida. It is often compared to the shape of a dinosaur and offers breathtaking views of the ocean from the cliffs. Although the descent to the beach can be steep and challenging, it is well worth it to catch a glimpse of this spectacular piece of nature.

     

    The beach is only accessible via a steep staircase, but the effort of about 30 - 40 minutes is worth it for the breathtaking view from the white sandy beach.

    A few things to know before you visit the T-Rex beach:

    1. Prepare for a steep descent: To get to the beach, you will have to make a very steep descent of about 30-45 minutes. The path is narrow and can be quite steep in places, so be sure to wear good shoes.

    2. Be careful when swimming: Although the water looks crystal clear, the currents here can be quite strong and there is sometimes a strong undertow. Be careful when swimming and always stay near the shore.

    3. Bring plenty of water: It can get pretty hot during the descent and ascent, so make sure you bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. A banana or granola bar for some extra energy certainly won't hurt either.

    4. Take plenty of time: Getting to Kelingking Beach can be quite an adventure, so take plenty of time to enjoy the view and relax on the beach. Don't forget to also make time for the climb back up, since you don't want to climb up in the dark.

     

    You can also enjoy the view from the lookout point at the top of the cliff. Be careful here with the monkeys that are only too happy to grab your bottle of water out of your hands. The monkeys in Bali are and remain aggressive.

     

    Entrance fee: IDR 10,000 & IDR 5,000 for parking the scooter. Total €1.00

    Broken Beach

    A natural rock arch and an unusually shaped bay with clear blue water: welcome to Broken Beach. You can walk around the bay to explore Broken Beach from every angle. From one side you see the arch, from the other you see the beach at its most beautiful. A unique formation that you won't often see in other places.

     

    If you have a drone you should definitely fly this (when it is quiet), you will see that Broken Beach is circular in shape and looks like an enclosed beach. Only from the side can you see the beautiful arch where sometimes even boats sail towards it for a closer look at Broken Beach.

     

    The bottom is filled with turquoise water from the incoming waves, and there is even a small white sand beach. You can't actually go down to the beach because of the power of the waves. This area is also one of the popular hangouts for manta rays, so with any luck you will see some rays floating around in the sea.

     

    The road near the last part of the route toward Broken Beach is in slightly lesser condition, so be prepared for a galloping car or scooter. Parking at Broken Beach costs IDR 5,000 Rupiah, an entrance ticket costs IDR 10,000; all together about €1.00.

    Swimming with manta rays

    Manta rays are one of the largest marine animals you can encounter while diving or snorkeling in Bali. These majestic rays can grow up to 7 meters wide and are absolutely impressive to see up close. Nusa Penida, with Manta Point, offers the perfect opportunity for this, as this is a place they frequent.

    Officially, the best time to see manta rays is between May and September, when they come to the area to mate and feed. Keep in mind that this is a wild species, so there is no guarantee that you will see them. I myself went diving in March and was lucky to see them, but I've also heard stories that they don't report daily near the popular dive spots.

    As cool as it is to see the manta rays, make sure you remain respectful. Stay at a safe distance and don't touch them. Manta rays are endangered species and it is important to protect their natural habitat.

    The widely known Manta Point, one of Bali's most popular spots for diving / snorkeling!

    How to book
    If you drive by the harbor you will see numerous diving schools advertising diving / snorkeling to Manta Point. I myself did a Fundive with Blue Corner Nusa Penida, absolutely recommended! Professional instructors who make you feel comfortable underwater.

     

    I booked the snorkeling through my hostel (Nuansa Penida), also had a great experience with this. Visited several snorkeling spots and underwater footage was still taken by the instructor.

    The boat trip from the port of Nusa Penida to Manta Point takes about 35 minutes, during which you pass the T-Rex Beach, among other places. Nice to see this beautiful beach from a different perspective too!

     

    • Cost 2 fundives at Blue Corner: IDR 1,484,000 (€ 99.00)
    • Cost snorkeling tour via Nuansa Penida Hostel: IDR 200,000 (€13.50)

    Visit viewpoints

    Nusa Penida has numerous viewpoints, with some offering even more beautiful views than others. Because Nusa Penida is a volcanic island, it has a beautiful jagged coastline. The beautiful blue water, all the greenery on the rocks and the high waves crashing against the rocks make it the perfect place to enjoy the moment and unwind.

     

    More about Manta Point, the 1000 Islands Viewpoint and other viewpoints on Nusa Penida!

    Visit the underground temple

    Nusa Penida is not just about beaches, cliffs and viewpoints. There is a very unique Hindu temple on the island that will absolutely amaze you from the moment you enter it. Located along the north coast is the Pura Goa Giri Putri cave, at the top of a steep staircase.

    The temple is located in one of the largest caves in Nusa Penida. It is a sacred site, so every visitor downstairs must rent a sarong (should you not have one yourself) when buying the entrance ticket.

    The entrance to the cave is interesting, as you have to crawl through a small hole in the ground before entering the 300-meter-long cave. Once inside, the roof is about 15 to 20 meters high, so you don't have to worry about feeling claustrophobic.

     

    Before entering the cave, you are first blessed with holy water on your head. I myself was unlucky with the timing, as there was a ceremony that prevented me from going up the steps to a separate area in the cave. As a result, I didn't find it quite worth it.

     

    Entrance fee: IDR 55,000 including sarong rental

    Restaurant tips:

    • Near my hostel was Warung Tanah Barak, where you get a good plate of Indonesian food!
    • Warung Forest: Delicious Cap Cay food, moreover I liked the service from the friendly owner! mijn hostel lag

    Curious about the other 2 Nusa Islands?

    Read more about Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida in my 5-day itinerary for the three Nusa Islands!

    How many nights Nusa Penida?

    4 nachten is eigenlijk wel het minimale om Nusa Penida op een rustiger tempo te verkennen. Er is zoveel te zien dat je in die 3 volledige dagen zeker niet langs alle stranden en uitzichtpunten op het eiland kunt, maar je komt wel een heel eind. Helemaal als je nog een dag wil gaan snorkelen of duiken, maar ook nog een beetje wil relaxen is 4 nachten absoluut aan te raden.

     

    Onwards?

    • Ubud: 30 minutes on the ferry and 45 minutes from Sanur harbor
    • Uluwatu: 30 minutes on the ferry and 45 minutes from Sanur harbor
    • Sidemen: 30 minutes on the ferry and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Sanur harbor