Nusa Penida, an enchanting island located in the southeast of Bali, Indonesia, is a hidden tourist destination with unspoiled natural scenery. It is known for its dramatic cliffs, white sandy beaches, and marine life and is a destination for diving lovers. Nusa Penida is a great place to enjoy a weekend or holiday in Bali. This travel guide will give you everything you need to know about the best things to do, attractions, how to get there, top accommodations, best restaurants, and beach clubs to enhance your experience on this beautiful island.

How To Get There

Getting to Nusa Penida is relatively easy. It can be reached only by ferry from Denpasar. Tickets must be purchased at each ticket counter in the ferry area at the Sanur boat harbor.

1. Fast Boat from Denpasar
   The most common way to reach Nusa Penida is by ferry from Sanur harbor. The ticket price per person starts at IDR 150.000. The journey typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the departure point and sea conditions.
   
   

2. Hire Driver on Site
   Once you arrive on the island, you can hire a local taxi to explore Nusa Penida for your full-day tour in Nusa Penida; the price starts from IDR 600.000 per car.

The Best Nusa Penida Attractions

Kelingking Beach

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Nusa Penida Island, Bali, is Kelingking Beach. The exotic beach is visited mostly by tourists around the world. It is called Kelingking Beach because of a cliff that looks something like a finger. The main attraction is the stunning view from the top of the cliff. Selfies with the T-Rex are a must, but please be careful when taking photos there.

Diamond Beach

This beach is known as Diamond Beach because, from the top of the beach, there is a large rock on the side of the ocean that is shaped like a diamond and grown over with the trees. To get to the beach, visitors have to climb down hundreds of steps chiseled into the cliff edge and need fit stamina.

There are no facilities such as sundecks for sunbathing, kiosks or cafes, and no annoying tourists. Be aware that swimming is not allowed when the waves are very strong. We recommend visiting Diamond Beach in the morning. In the afternoon, the light of the setting sun will be blocked by the towering cliffs, which can be a very good object for background photos.

Atuh Beach

Atuh Beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs, crystal clear waters, and pristine white sands far from the hustle and bustle of itinerant traders. The beach is quite secluded. To get to the location, you will be led by a tour guide down quite steep steps, but the effort is well worth it upon arrival at the beach because of the beautiful beach and calm atmosphere. Atuh Beach is a must-visit place when in Nusa Penida. It is highly recommended for any adventure lovers to take amazing photos and capture each moment!

Angel’s Billabong

The beautiful viewpoint of Angels Billabong's natural lagoon/pond formation is a sight to behold and makes for a great photo backdrop. So are the surrounding cliffs with crashing waves. However, please be careful, as these waves can be unpredictable and suddenly become more substantial and higher! Please avoid cliff edges and swimming, especially if you are not young and very fit, and always be alert. Some of the infrastructure regarding information and signage for safety is substandard, considering the number of tours and tourists that come.

Broken Beach

Pasih Uug Beach, or Broken Beach, is a stunning natural wonder on Nusa Penida Island, Bali. Formed by natural fissures from the ocean's crashing waves, the beach features unique rock formations with turquoise waters below. Enjoy the natural beauty of this secluded spot, which is perfect for photography with its rugged coastline. The humidity is relatively high; bring some drinks and snacks to keep you hungry. We remind you to always preserve nature by not throwing trash or bottles and snack packs anywhere, putting them in a bag, and carrying them home until you find a trash can later.

Tree House

The Tree House is not far from Diamond Beach. It is called a tree house because, in general, the construction of the house utilizes large trees as supporting pillars, and most of the buildings are made of wooden planks. The Thousand Islands Viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view across the ocean and a glimpse of several small islands off the coast. You must descend several steep stairs from the parking location to the main viewpoint, which takes about 10 minutes. It is an easy trip by Penida standards but requires moderate fitness and mobility.

Popular Snorkeling and Dive Sites in Nusa Penida

Manta Point

Manta Point is one of the most famous dive sites in Bali, located on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida. This dive site is only accessible under favorable conditions due to limited coral growth. The underwater landscape features limestone rocks and sandy coves. Coral mantas (Manta alfredi) use these coves to clean themselves, socialize, and forage for food when plankton proliferates. Besides mantas, divers often see blue-spotted rays, eagle rays, bamboo reef sharks, turtles, and sunfish. This spot is suitable for divers and snorkelers of all experience levels. However, it's important to remember to always dive or snorkel with a buddy and to be mindful of your surroundings and the current to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is a destination for underwater divers and marine species. The dive site is renowned for being habituated to Mola Mola, moray eels, and leaf fish, providing a superb underwater experience. The journey starts from the coral plateau surrounding the bay's signature rock, where the mesmerizing blue waters lead us to the unique and rocky coral formations that characterize this dive site.

PED

PED offers an amazing drift diving experience full of vibrant corals and a variety of tropical fish. This dive site has a vast, shallow plateau offering an impressive marine life array. Sea turtles are frequent visitors to the site, and you may see them during your entire dive. While following the high plateau, we will come across a wall that takes us to the seafloor, where there is a good chance of seeing Mola-Mola during the season. However, be careful of the currents, which can be very strong. If you stray too far from the slope, the current can pull you further, so staying aware of your surroundings is important.

Labyrinth

The Labyrinth dive site is located west of Manta Point. It is a great place to spot manta rays amidst stunning underwater scenery. The dive sites in this area have a diverse range of coral reefs and marine species. Your chance to see manta rays makes it a must-visit destination for marine enthusiasts.

The five best beach clubs in Nusa Penida:

1. Nome Beach Club

Experience the best beachfront getaway at Nome Beach Club, where crystal-clear waters meet stunning sunsets. Enjoy excellent service, signature cocktails, and gourmet cuisine while soaking up the sun on the pristine beach or lounging by the pool.

2. The Chill Penida

Unwind at The Chill Penida, a tranquil beach club just minutes from Sampalan harbor. Enjoy delicious dishes, refreshing cocktails, and stunning ocean views while lounging by the club's infinity pool or relaxing on cozy chaise lounges.

3. Amok Sunset Beach Club

Amok Sunse Beach Club has a unique architectural style that combines traditional Balinese architecture with a modern bamboo design. Enjoy the beat of the music with a glass of signature cocktail, delicious food, and stunning views of Mount Agung and the Indian Ocean.

4. Virgin Beach Club

Virgin Beach Club situated on the beachfront, Virgin Beach Club, a restaurant and bar serves fresh seafood, international dishes, and cocktails. With a rustic charm and relaxed atmosphere, this club is the perfect place to relax and sunbathe.

5. Maruti Beach Club

Maruti Beach Club, is a beachfront restaurant and bar. Enjoy the serene ocean views, spacious swimming pool, and delicious cuisine while relaxing in the comfortable lounge area at the club or relaxing under the sun.

Conclusions

Nusa Penida is a breathtaking destination that offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. This island has something for everyone, from stunning beaches and vibrant marine life to rich cultural experiences. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Nusa Penida will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. Explore the top attractions, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the vibrant beach club scene as you immerse yourself in the island's charm.