Nusa Penida boasts some of the most astounding views that Bali has to offer. The island remains fairly undeveloped with slow tourism growth. Exploration is not as easy due to lack of paved roads. Historically, Nusa Penida was thought to be inhabited by dark spirits. Not to worry, I didn’t pick up anything but natural beauty vibes while I was there. Speaking of …
Getting There…
You have a few options when it comes to getting there and exploring Nusa Penida.
Speed boat from Sanur: If you’re staying on the mainland and want to take a day trip, it is possible to visit Nusa Penida. I will caution you though, the seas dictate travel. The speedboats have limited times for runs and may not be able to thus, stranding you on the island. Without many accommodations surrounding islands offer, this may be risky. Boats usually leave between 0730-1000 AM and return between 1400-1700 PM.
Boat from Yellow Bridge: If you’re staying on nearby Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan head down to the Yellow Bridge. Here you can catch a number of boats to Nusa Penida. Our wonderful staff at Bersantai Villas booked everything ahead of time for us and gave us a ride down on the motorbikes.
Staying on the island: You can stay on Nusa Penida and spend more than one day. Make sure to book an accommodation that provides transport to the boat.
Our total for two people was 1,500,000 IDR ($106 USD)
- Motorbike to Yellow Bridge 200,000 IDR
- Boat ride to Nusa Penida 900,000 IDR
- Private driver around the island 400,000 IDR
Getting Around…
Yes, you can rent motorbikes to venture around Nusa Penida. However, I would recommend doing so. Safety standards are nearly nonexistent. Also, Nusa Penida’s roads are unpaved and extremely dangerous. I saw several tourists on the side of the road including injuries sustained while attempting to navigate. My advice is to hire a private driver who knows the roads as well as the sites. An awesome perk is that they will also take amazing photos for you!
And now, for the main attractions…
This natural infinity pool is carpeted by moss that blankets the reef below. You can swim here during low tide, but our guide warned us that it is very dangerous. Even during low tide waves crash into the pool without warning and pull swimmers out to sea.
A short walk from Angels Billabong, you will find Broken Beach. Although you cannot swim here, you can enjoy the view from above. Waves flow in under the natural arch and drain back out to sea.
I saw hundreds of Kelingking pictures before I went in person. No camera can put into perspective just how magnificent it truly is. Kelingking is the tallest cliff in Asia at over 1,000 feet high. You can go down to the beach if you’re willing to brave a steep hike. There are several tourist deaths each year due to hiking as well as getting stuck when the tide comes in. I preferred to watch the manta rays swim from above.
End the day at swimming in Crystal Bay! After a long day in the sun this is the perfect place to cool off with a coconut. The beach draws a crowd but is big enough to find a nice spot and soak up rays.