Nusa Penida is fast emerging as a top destination for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation. This enchanting nusa penida island, one of the famous nusa islands near mainland Bali, offers a dazzling array of attractions – from towering cliffs and pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, you’ll discover plenty of things to do in Nusa Penida, from exploring the iconic Kelingking Beach to uncovering hidden gems like Tembeling Beach and Suwehan Beach.
Why Visit Nusa Penida?
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Nusa Penida is a spectacular destination that draws visitors from all over the world. If you’re looking for things to do in Nusa Penida, this island offers an abundance of experiences – from cliff jumping off a cliff edge to snorkelling among giant manta rays at manta point and manta bay. With its breathtaking panoramic views, soft white sand beaches, and crystal clear water, Nusa Penida is a must-visit nusa penida attraction for any traveller.
Getting to Nusa Penida from Mainland Bali
Source: Sanur Harbour
Travellers can easily get to Nusa Penida via fast boat from Bali to Nusa Penida. Departing from Sanur Port, the journey takes roughly 40 minutes. With modern fast boats and private air-conditioned transfers, exploring Nusa Penida has never been easier.
Use Google Maps to help navigate your way along the scenic routes, and soon you’ll be immersed in the beauty of this penida island.
Best Time to Visit Nusa Penida
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For optimum weather and calm seas, plan your visit during the dry season (April to October). Low tide is ideal for snorkelling at crystal bay beach and exploring natural pools like Angel’s Billabong.
Early mornings and late afternoons are perfect for witnessing sunset spots over the turquoise waters and for capturing breathtaking panoramic views from the thousand islands viewpoint.
An Exciting Day Trip to Nusa Penida
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A day trip is a popular option for those who wish to experience Nusa Penida’s highlights without an overnight stay. Whether you’re a beach goer eager to explore beautiful beaches like Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach, or an adventurer keen on cliff jumping at Kelingking Beach, this Nusa Penida itinerary is packed with excitement. Many visitors also enjoy beach hopping among picturesque beaches and beach clubs dotted around the island.
For a hassle‐free experience, Bali Res Centre offers expertly crafted tour choices – such as the Nusa Penida Special West & East Tour, East Nusa Penida Highlights, and Nusa Penida West Coast Adventure – that include round-trip fast boat transfers, private air-conditioned transportation, and knowledgeable guides to ensure you see the very best of this enchanting island.
Iconic Kelingking Beach: The T‑Rex Cliffs
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Kelingking Beach, often called the “T‑Rex Beach” because its diamond shaped rock formation resembles a dinosaur, is one of Nusa Penida’s most popular beaches. Set against towering cliffs and featuring a white sand beach below, it offers an unforgettable view. Even if you choose not to descend due to the steep climb, the panoramic vistas from the cliff edge are simply breathtaking.
Angel’s Billabong: Nature’s Infinity Pool
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Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool carved into the rock – a true spectacle of nature. With crystal clear water and a serene ambience, it stands as one of the best examples of a natural pool in Nusa Penida. Although swimming here isn’t recommended due to strong currents, the view alone makes it one of the most popular attractions on the island.
Broken Beach: A Natural Marvel
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Just a short walk from Angel’s Billabong is Broken Beach, locally known as Pasih Uug. This unique site features a natural arch that frames a circular bay, where turquoise waters crash against the weathered limestone cliffs. The dramatic scenery of this popular beach is a favourite among visitors seeking that perfect Instagram shot.
Diamond Beach: Secluded and Stunning
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Diamond Beach lives up to its name with its soft white sand and diamond shaped rock formations rising from turquoise waters. This secluded paradise on the southeastern coast of Nusa Penida offers a truly picturesque beach experience. Ideal for beach goers and photography enthusiasts, Diamond Beach is renowned for its pristine beauty and vibrant coral reefs visible from the shore.
Atuh Beach: A Hidden Gem on the East Coast
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On the east nusa penida coast, Atuh Beach is a must-visit for those in search of a tranquil escape. This beautiful beach, with its soft white sand and turquoise waters, is less crowded than its western counterparts. Its rugged cliffs and lush greenery make it a truly picturesque beach, perfect for relaxed beach hopping and enjoying the natural splendour of the island.
Crystal Bay: A Snorkeller’s Paradise
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Crystal Bay Beach is synonymous with crystal clear water and colourful coral reefs. This renowned snorkelling spot is home to rich marine life, where you can swim alongside vibrant tropical fish and even spot giant manta rays. For snorkellers and divers alike, the pristine conditions at Crystal Bay provide an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Manta Rays at Manta Point and Manta Bay
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One of the standout experiences on Nusa Penida is the opportunity to snorkel with giant manta rays. Whether you head to manta point or manta bay, these gentle giants glide gracefully through the water, offering a unique encounter with rich marine life. This is one of the top things to do in Nusa Penida and a highlight for any nature lover.
Additional Underwater Wonders: Gamat Bay and Toyapakeh
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For those keen on exploring beyond the well-known spots, additional snorkelling sites like Gamat Bay and Toyapakeh await. These locations are famous for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Here, the colourful coral reefs and rich marine ecosystems provide excellent opportunities to discover hidden underwater treasures.
The Thousand Islands Viewpoint: Panoramic Perfection
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No trip to Nusa Penida is complete without a stop at the Thousand Islands Viewpoint. This spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of tiny islands scattered across the vast bay. It’s a perfect location for sunset photography and a must-visit on any nusa penida itinerary.
Teletubbies Hill: A Surreal Landscape
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Teletubbies Hill is aptly named for its rolling, lush greenery that resembles the whimsical landscapes of the popular children’s show. This unique viewpoint in east nusa penida provides a tranquil setting where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the island’s hills while capturing some truly memorable photos.
The Molenteng Tree House: A Unique Island Icon
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For a truly unique perspective, the Nusa Penida treehouse – also known as the Molenteng Tree House – is a standout attraction. Perched high among the lush greenery, this structure offers breathtaking panoramic views of both the island and the ocean. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to capture stunning vistas and enjoy the serenity of penida nusa from above.
Tembeling Beach: A Hidden Natural Gem
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While not as widely known as Kelingking or Diamond Beach, Tembeling Beach is another gem worth discovering. With its natural pool set against a backdrop of lush greenery and towering cliffs, Tembeling Beach offers a quieter, more intimate experience for beach goers seeking pristine beaches and peaceful surroundings.
Suwehan Beach: Serenity on the Island
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Suwehan Beach is one of the less-crowded, yet equally beautiful, beaches on Nusa Penida. With its soft white sand and vibrant blue waters, this picturesque beach offers an ideal spot for relaxation and a quieter alternative to the more popular spots. Its untouched charm makes it a great destination for those looking to stay on Nusa Penida and truly unwind.
Cultural Treasures: Goa Giri Putri Temple
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Beyond its natural wonders, Nusa Penida also has a rich cultural side. Goa Giri Putri Temple, a unique cave temple nestled in the island’s rugged terrain, offers insight into local Balinese traditions. Visitors can observe religious ceremonies and appreciate the spiritual heritage that adds depth to the overall Nusa Penida experience.
Women who are menstruating are traditionally not permitted to enter the temple’s inner sanctum, as per Balinese Hindu customs.
Exploring the Nusa Islands: Beyond Penida
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While Nusa Penida is the star attraction, don’t forget to explore the surrounding nusa islands such as Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. These islands boast their own beautiful beaches, beach bars, and the iconic yellow bridge that connects Nusa Lembongan to the main island. Together, these islands offer a complete experience of the region’s natural beauty and vibrant marine life.
Practical Tips for Your Nusa Penida Adventure
Navigating Nusa Penida requires a little preparation. The island’s roads are often narrow and rugged, so it’s advisable to hire a professional driver or join a guided tour. Make sure you pack essentials such as sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, swimwear, a reusable water bottle, and a pair of comfortable walking shoes. These practical tips will help ensure that your visit to this best beach on Nusa Penida is both safe and enjoyable.
Essential Packing List
Before embarking on your Nusa Penida day trip, be sure to include the following in your packing list:
Sturdy walking shoes (ideal for cliff edge trails and steep descents)
Swimwear for a dip in the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong
Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to protect against the tropical sun
A water-resistant bag to keep your belongings safe while exploring bay beaches
A fully charged camera or smartphone to capture breathtaking panoramic views of the towering cliffs, tiny islands, and pristine beaches
Customised Tours with Bali Res Centre
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Bali Res Centre specialises in creating tailor-made experiences to help you get to Nusa Penida and explore its wonders with ease. Their tour packages – including the Nusa Penida Special West & East Tour, East Nusa Penida Highlights, and Nusa Penida West Coast Adventure – offer round-trip fast boat transfers, private air-conditioned transportation, guided itineraries, and delicious local meals.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay on Nusa Penida, their customised tours ensure you see the very best of this island, from cliff jumping near Kelingking Beach to exploring vibrant coral reefs at Crystal Bay.
FAQs: Your Nusa Penida Questions Answered
What are the top things to do in Nusa Penida?
Must-see attractions include Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay, Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and the Thousand Islands Viewpoint. You can also snorkel with giant manta rays at manta point and manta bay, explore teletubbies hill, and visit unique cave temples like Goa Giri Putri Temple.
How do I get to Nusa Penida?
Fast boat transfers from mainland Bali (typically from Sanur Port) are the most common way to get to this nusa penida island. Tours often include round-trip tickets and private transfers.
What should I pack for a day trip to Nusa Penida?
Bring sturdy walking shoes, swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a camera. Don’t forget your sense of adventure as you explore picturesque beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
Can I snorkel with manta rays?
Yes, many tours include snorkelling at manta point and manta bay where you can swim alongside giant manta rays amidst colourful coral reefs.
Are there any cultural attractions on Nusa Penida?
Absolutely. Besides its natural wonders, you can visit unique cultural sites such as the Goa Giri Putri Temple, which offers insight into local Balinese traditions.
Embrace the Unspoilt Beauty of Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida promises an unforgettable adventure – whether you’re beach hopping among pristine, picturesque beaches, marveling at the towering cliffs of Kelingking Beach, or exploring natural pools and vibrant coral reefs at Crystal Bay. From the soft white sands of Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach to the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong and the panoramic views from the thousand islands viewpoint, every moment on this island is a visual feast.
Get ready to visit one of the best beach destinations in Southeast Asia, from the popular beaches to hidden treasures like tembeling beach and pandan beach, Nusa Penida is waiting to offer you breathtaking panoramic views and memories that will last a lifetime.
Plan your next adventure with Bali Res Centre and discover why there’s no better time to visit Nusa Penida than now!
