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Nusa Islands
Nusa Lembongan
Captured by: Ruslana V. & Brandon Willoughby
Nusa Lembongan is a small and modest island located 30 minutes off the coast of Sanur, Bali. The voyage to Lembongan is both scenic and affordable, costing between $7-10 USD one way, depending on the season. Lembongan can easily be navigated by a scooter, available for rent at one of the many moped shops on the island. If you have little to no experience driving a scooter, rest assured, as Nusa Lembongan is a non-clustered, safe, and inspiring island to try for the first time. This destination attracts visitors with its laidback ambiance and its vast marine wildlife. Many locals will approach you regarding an excursion to snorkel with Manta Rays, and although the chances of an encounter with these majestic creatures are high, keep in mind that sightings are not always guaranteed. Nonetheless, there are endless highlights to be discovered in this area only, such as the famous yellow bridge connecting Lembongan to the twin island of Nusa Ceningan, as well as their easily reached sister island across the way, Nusa Penida.
Accommodation
Lembongan Hostel, Nyuh Gading Hoestay, Good Cheer Hostel, Dream Beach Hostel, Devadav ($)
Beach House Lago, Indiana Kenanga, Lembongan Beach Club, Ohana's, Villa Pasir ($$)
Restaurants
Green Garden Restaurant and Bungalows, Thai Pantry, Warung Pancer, Mangrove, Oka ($)
Bali Eco Deli, Pondok Baruna, La Bianca, Cloudland Bar, The Deck, The Sampan ($$)
Beaches
Jungutbatu Beach, Dream Beach, Pantai Selegimpak, Mushroom Bay, Pemedal Beach, Pantai Tanjung Sanghyang
Marketplaces
Lembongan Advertise, Holy Crab Lembongan Souvenir Shop, The Walking Tree
Nightlife
Hai Bar And Grill, Sandy Bay Beach Club, The Deck Cafe & Bar, Lgood Bar, Muntigs Bar & Restaurant
Devils Tear
Devils Tear is considered by locals to be one of the main highlights of Nusa Lembongan; however, it’s equally recognized for its dangerous terrain. Those seeking an adrenaline rush will find this private cove to be a memorable experience. At Devils Tear, imposing cliffs and powerful tides often result in drenching unsuspecting visitors. This destination is one of the busier areas on the island, but luckily, most travelers stay on the safer side of the cliffs nearing the shops and typically don’t venture further. You’ll be able to lose most of the crowd by going for a short stroll along the tide pools; just be mindful to watch the currents and avoid going too far out to ensure a safe and enjoyable time. When visiting Devils Tear, it’s best to arrive during sunrise or sunset, which delivers unforgettable views of the bay and its divine surroundings.
Mangrove Forest
Mangrove Forest is a terrain you might be surprised exists on the small yet diverse island of Nusa Lembongan. The northeast of the island is a complete contrast as the dense forest gives refuge to a wide range of exotic birds and other unique species. This ecosystem has become widely accessible to kayakers and tour companies, taking small groups on adventures into the mangroves daily. To preserve the beauty of this location and its indigenous wildlife, one should refrain from supporting tour companies that utilize motorized boats, as it damages and disturbs the nesting grounds that protect the wildlife in this reserve. To ensure the longevity of each species' survival, travelers should focus on supporting only reputable companies by conducting research and reviews before embarking on this remarkable yet delicate excursion.
Nusa Ceningan
Captured by: Guillem R.
Captured by: Michelle & Tobias Reissig
Music by: ASAP - Kill Them With Color
Nusa Ceningan is located 30 minutes off the coast of Sanur, Bali. It can be explored by taking a ferry to Nusa Lembongan and then driving over the famous yellow bridge that connects the two islands. A short walk from the iconic bridge are delicious warungs, scenic beach swings, and panoramic ocean views of Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida. Most visitors choose to come here only for an afternoon or a day trip, which is more than enough time to admire all the sights that dwell here. The initial point of contact for travelers visiting the island of Nusa Ceningan is the magnificent Blue Lagoon, the island's main attraction.
Highlights
Yellow Bridge Point, Blue Lagoon, The Old Tree, Bias Munjul, Abyss Zipline
Accomodations
Tatak Bunut Villa, Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas, D'reborn, Svaha Villas, The Kubu221 ($)
Indigo Blue, Aurora Beach View, Ocean Brothers, Sea Bridge Villa, Ceningan Resort ($$)
Restaurants
Ceningan Cliffs, Black Wood Coffee Shop, The Dungki Bendega Resto, Bakung, The Sand ($)
Blue Lagoon Resto, Sea Breeze, Mangrove Pool & Shisha Lounge, The View ($$)
Beaches
Blue Lagoon, Song Tepo Beach, Secret Point Beach
Nightlife
Three Island Bar, Dream Point, Ceningan Shisha Lounge, Klyf Club Blue, The Sand Ceningan, Agung Beach Club
Blue Lagoon
Captured by: Alexis Pubert & Brandon Willoughby
Blue Lagoon is is the most prominent highlight on Nusa Ceningan. This destination has enticed cliff divers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers worldwide to come and explore this azure tucked-away lagoon. Depending on the tides, you can scale the volcanic rocks and jump into the indigo waters below. If you’re interested in a swim, be mindful of watching the currents as they can, at times, be of great force. Unfortunately, the strength of these tides have resulted in casualties by drowning in the past, which is why we recommend extra precaution when visiting this attraction. If you’re not entirely comfortable in the water, it’s best to avert the swimming aspect of this adventure and instead appreciate the lookout point and all its electrifying views. Should time permit, hike both sides of the lagoon, which showcase entirely different perspectives of this fairytale-like destination that will leave you in complete awe.
Nusa Penida
Captured by: Mihaela Ioance
Music by: Gallant - Oh, Universe
Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa islands and requires far more than a day trip to properly explore. Travelers should set aside at least two to three days to take in all the unfathomable attractions that this island has to offer. Renowned spots such as Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, Atuh, and Angel Billabong are just a few gems that dwell here. Despite how Nusa Penida appears on a map, something to consider is that it can take several hours by moped or car to get around the whole island. This can be attributed to the roads’ infrastructure that has not yet caught up to tourist demand that continues to grow rapidly. Due to this, the road system is less than ideal for people who get car sick easily, as frequent bumps and potholes are expected throughout your time here. Travelers wishing to take on this island with as much ease as possible are encouraged to negotiate a fair deal with a local driver who will take you to your desired areas in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. This way, you can sit back, relax, and take in all of this island’s riveting views.
Highlights
Kelingkeling, Crystal Bay, Diamond Beach, Broken Beach, Angel Billabong, Goa Giri Cave Temple, Atuh Beach, Manta Point, Thousand Island Viewpoint, Teletubbies Hill
Accommodation
Nuansa Penida Hostel, Double' D Hostel, Write Hostel, Camar Cottage, Puri Hostel ($)
Tropical Glamping, Treehouse Rumon, Road Beach Homestay, Adiwana Warnakali, Semabu Hills Hotel ($$)
Restaurants
El Kane, Ogix Warung, Warung Jun, Warung Forest, Organica Vegeteran, The Sorent ($)
Amok Sunset, The Chill Penida, Sari Garden, Ba'bar Kitchen, Warung Jungle ($$)
Beaches
Kelingking, Crystal Bay, Diamond Beach, Atuh, Tembeling Beach & Forest, Suwehan Beach, Pandan, Lumangan
Notable Temples
Goa Giri Putri Temple, Pura Paluang, Pura Batu Mas Kuning, Pura Batu Medawu
Nightlife
Mahana Point (Surf Spot), Driftwood Bar, Penida Colada Beach Bar, AB Bar & Resto
Crystal Bay
Captured by: Alex & Yass
Music by: Ben Bohmer - Begin Again
Crystal Bay is an exceptional spot in Nusa Penida for snorkeling and sunset gazing. This destination is easily reached from the main harbor, where a quick scooter or car ride will introduce you to this charming harbor. To keep this bay protected, there is a small entrance fee of 5,000 rupiah ($0.35 USD), which is charged per vehicle. A real eye-catcher here is the rocky island formation known as Pulau Batumejinong, which frames the backdrop of this bay and shelters it from strong currents. Here, you’ll have the chance to rent out beach chairs and umbrellas where you can enjoy lunch and a beverage at one of the bay's oceanfront warungs. This destination welcomes visitors to stay a while as its turquoise waters and impressive marine life have often included the sightings of green sea turtles that make their debut if you keep a keen eye out in the water for them.
Accomodation
Ruji Ananta Cottage, Penida Bay Village, Puri Garden Penida, The Tinsi, The Dulu Penida Cottage, Mahaloka Valley ($$)
Restaurants
Gita Warung Grilled Fish, Warung Sunset, Segara Jaya Beach Warung Crystal, Warung Okasaka ($)
Broken Beach
Captured by: Brandon Willoughby
Music by: DJ Skhu - Sobabini
Broken Beach is located on the western tip of Nusa Penida, where an unexplainably circular cove shelters a tiny oasis below. While you can’t access the ocean here, the aerial perspective more than blesses travelers with a radiant outlook that creates the perfect ambiance for a photo op. Hiring a car/moped and making this side of the island a full-day excursion is encouraged, as this area only has its fair share of neighboring highlights to venture to conveniently, such as Angel Billabong and Manta Point. Since Broken Beach is a well-known attraction, crowds might feel overwhelming during midday, so an early start is always recommended for the least touristic experience.
Angel Billabong
Angel Billabong is the name given to Nusa Penida’s largest tidal pool. Although reminiscent of a natural hot spring, visitors should be mindful not to mistake this seemingly peaceful area for a safe place to swim. Even during low tide, the waves can often sweep inexperienced or unsuspecting swimmers out to the open sea, where calm waters can turn into whirlpools in an instant. Always heed the advice of local security before entering the water, and if you do, remain at the back of the billabong to ensure a safe and extraordinary experience.
Manta Point
Music by: Gallant - Episode
Manta Point is one of the best spots in Nusa Penida to witness these elegant creatures out in the wild. The ideal season for manta spotting is between March and June; however, many local divemasters have confirmed that manta rays are seen throughout the year with only a 10% chance of no encounter. With that said, prices for snorkeling tours start at $15 per person and go upward depending on the tour duration, the number of stops you prefer, and whether you'd like lunch included. You can reserve this excursion by speaking to your hotel receptionist, a trusted Nusa local, or by purchasing a reservation online. Boat tours depart from Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, providing convenient location options for all Nusa visitors. Although Manta Rays are harmless to humans, always remember you're in their home and that a priority should be respecting their space and livelihood by keeping 10 feet away at all times. This is to ensure you and the mantas are safe during your trip while enjoying this divine experience with these incredibly gracious creatures.
Tembeling Beach
Music by: Tinlicker - Just To Hear You Say
Tembeling Beach isn't an easily reached destination; however, the light at the end of the tunnel, or should I say forest.. immensely makes up for the challenges that visitors may face venturing down. That said, there are three ways to explore this secluded haven. One option, reccommended for only experienced riders, is to carefully drive down this steep mountain towards the hidden santuary below. If you're an inexperienced rider, you will be in luck, as at the entrance parking lot, you will spot locals on mopeds willing to drive you down for a fee between 50-100k ($3-$6 USD). If cash is unavailable, you may walk down to Tembeling, just be mindful that the journey is around 3k one way and can take up to an hour to reach. Should you muster up the courage to explore this hidden gem, you will be delighted to see a contrast between the oasis's left and right side. On the left, natural spring baths, and a white sand beach awaits for those seeking relaxation and fun in the sun. On the right, visitors are left in awe by the encapsulating beach, mysterious stacked stones, a scenic the swing set. ()
Goa Giri Cave Temple
Goa Giri Temple stands out uniquely amongst the rest of Nusa Penida attractions as it steers away from the endless selection of paradisaic beaches and provides a more spiritual approach to the Nusa islands. In Balinese culture, most of the population practices Hinduism, where nature is seen as spiritual, and this expansive cave is no exception. Covering one’s knees with a sarong as mentioned in other temples is required when entering this sacred underground location. Tourists are welcome to enter and explore around, but always keep in mind that this is a sacred temple requiring you to be respectful at all times. The entrance into Goa Giri is narrow and not easily accessible, however, the temple does expand into a vast, dimly lit cave where devotees can be seen praying to their higher purpose above.
Highlights
Rumah Pohon "The Famous Tree House", Diamond Beach, Coco Cliff, Belahph Point Sunrise, Nirwana Cliff, Atuh
Accomodation
Cave Beach Bungalow, Desila Beach House, Adara Beach Hut, Manta Cottage Seaview Plus ($)
Ogix Cliff Paradise, Malibu Huts, The Angkal Resort Nusa, The Somayan Bungalows Juan Beach Bungalow ($$)
Restaurants
Ogix Warung, Warung Forest, Lido Beach Bar & Resto, Point Plus Penida ($-$$)
Kelingking
Kelingking is the world-renowned T-Rex chiseled beach that many would attest is the emblem of the Nusa Islands. To enter, visitors must pay 5k Rupiah (less than $1 USD) for parking and are presented with a few options. One route is to take in this phenomenon, capture photos, and enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at one of the many warungs stationed here. Another option is to go where very few do and test yourself with the challenging but immensely rewarding climb down the famous Kelingking trail. The start of the hike uses standard effort, with man-made stairs guiding travelers down; however, it shortly turns into more of a Lara Croft adventure when ropes and near-vertical walls start to get involved. The trail has recently been constructed and improved, making the journey very doable, but it will be an exercise regardless of physical endurance. In about 45 minutes - one hour, you’ll be welcomed by mighty waves, stretches of white sand, and caves to explore. Swimming is not recommended as the currents are usually powerful and can pull swimmers far out to sea within the blink of an eye. Luckily, the view from the top of the stairs or the mysterious caves below is a great and safe way to experience this iconic, prehistoric-looking beach.
Teletubbie Hills
Teletubbie Hills which is also called Bukit Teletubbies, is located on the southeast side of Nusa Penida. This destination was given its name as its vivid contour of the hills are so green and round that it heavily resembles the scenery of the children's hit TV show, minus the colorful fluffy aliens, of course. Teletubbies Hills has peaked many travelers' interest as of recently, especially in the pre-wedding photography community. The best months to visit are during or right after the rainy season, which is December - April, when the hills are at its most lushest state. April - May sees less rain, making the hills a bit more yellowish-brown; however, it's still an exceptional spot to rest, take a breather, and enjoy that you're currently on a beautiful island in Indonesia, surrounded by mountains, oceans, and greenery. What more could you ask for?
Diamond Beach
Captured by: Brandon Willoughby
Diamond Beach is arguably the most picturesque beach in Nusa Penida. To witness this captivating destination, visitors must pay an entrance fee of 30k rupiah ($2 USD) to park and explore the area. The entry fee is well worth it, as you experience two highlights in just one location, with Atuh Beach just a few minutes walk away. In recent years, Diamond Beach has become easily accessible to visitors as local authorities have constructed a set of stairs that lead down to this exotic cove. Many tourists only stop for a photo op at the beginning of the stairway, so those looking for a secluded and more authentic experience are encouraged to venture down to this beloved haven. The journey is more than manageable; however, Diamond Beach can become unreachable during high tide as the ocean swallows up the narrow strip of sand, allowing not much room for visitors to walk around safely. If access to the beach is available, which is expected, feel free to relax and dip your feet in the water, just refrain from total submergence, as the currents are unpredictable and incredibly powerful.
Highlights
Diamond Beach Swing, Atuh Cliff, Atuh Beach, Thousand Island Viewpoint, Rumah Pooh Tree House, Nirwana Cliff
Atuh Beach
Captured by: Brandon Willoughby
Atuh Beach is located adjacent to several iconic sites in Nusa Penida, such as Diamond Beach, Rumah Pohon Treehouse, and Thousand Island Viewpoint. A 5-10 minute walk down these well-made stairs will present sight-seers with an up-close and personal perspective of this community's sacred temples, azure beaches, and delicious warungs. Warungs are known as mom-and-pop local restaurants that serve a variety of Indonesian and international dishes for good pricing and do a great job at making your taste buds incredibly happy. Bean bag chairs and sun loungers are available to rent for those seeking ultimate relaxation by the water with food, cold coconuts, and playful dogs to keep you company during your visit.
Highlights
Atuh Cliff, Diamond Beach, Thousand Islands Viewpoint, Twin Spring Water, Pantai Pelilit
Restaurants
Tropical Cliff, Lebah Ampuak, BB Warung Resto & Bar ($-$$)
Rumah Pohon
Captured by: Brandon Willoughby & Fred Wayfarer
Rumah Pohon is located within eyes reach of Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, and Thousand Island viewpoint. These three treehouses are available to rent out if booked in advance “here”. Keep in mind that this destination is all about the experience, as the amenities inside are not that of luxury. The treehouses provide space for two to three people, with a bed and fan to keep you comfortable. If simplistic glamping is close to your heart, rest assured, the views here more than make up for the absence of poshness. When visiting this destination there are two things to consider. One is that local monkeys tend to roam free here, often intimidating tourists who get too close to them. Another factor worth pondering is that tour companies arrive here as early as 8:00 a.m. for photos and to explore the grounds. In any case, this exotic lodging allows for unparalleled glimpses of sunrise and the countless islands illuminating in the distance.
Thousand Island
Thousand Island is one of the most notable lookout points on Nusa Penida. It takes roughly 5-10 minutes by foot to reach this remarkable viewpoint, with man-made stairs and rails aiding you along your way. The platform itself consists of a narrow clifftop, allowing only a handful of people to enjoy it at one given time. Luckily, many only spend a few minutes here for a quick photo op before continuing their travels. It's best to visit Thousand Island viewpoint early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the swarm of tour buses that explore this area. Sunrise is the most recommended time to visit this viewpoint, as the sun slowly elevates from the sea, bathing everything in its path with Penida’s warm morning glory.
Highlights
Rumah Pohon Tree House, Diamond Beach, Coco Cliff, Atuh Cliff
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