Located just 25 kilometers from Bali, the island of Nusa Penida is one of Indonesia’s most beautiful and exotic destinations.
The island of Nusa Penida is much smaller than Bali, but it has some of the most incredible scenery in the entire Bali province.
Over the years, we have visited Penida more than a dozen times, but it never gets old. There is no doubt that this island is one of Indonesia’s most beautiful places to visit.
It is possible to visit the island on a day trip from Bali (same-day return), but I think it is better to stay and spend at least a few days there. Nusa Penida has so many great photo spots, hikes, and other activities!
The purpose of this travel blog is to describe what to do in Nusa Penida, how to get there, where to stay, the best transport options, and some of the top sights to see. To help you plan your trip, I’ve included a handy Nusa Penida island map!
Key Takeaways
- Nusa Penida is a stunning destination with diverse landscapes, ideal for adventure seekers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
- Travel by fast boat from Bali to reach the island conveniently.
- Explore top attractions like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong, but also seek out hidden gems like Atuh Beach.
- Engage in activities such as snorkeling and hiking to make the most of your visit.
Why Visit Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida captivates travelers with its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. This island feels like a world apart from the hustle and bustle of Bali, offering a more tranquil and authentic experience. As soon as I set foot on the island, I was greeted by friendly locals and stunning landscapes that took my breath away. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to unwind in a serene setting.
Nusa Penida Day Tour Packages
GetYourGuide offers prearranged day trips to Nusa Penida, including hotel transfers, fast boat tickets, island tours, and same-day returns to Bali for those on a tight schedule.
Some of the top sights on Nusa Penida island are visited on these tours, including Kelingking Beach, Broken Bay, and more. We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of day tours and activities all over the world, and they’re great! It is highly recommended.
Book Now: Nusa Penida Day Trip
Where Is Nusa Penida?
The island of Nusa Penida is located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. About 25 kilometers (15 miles) separate Bali from the island.
The Nusa islands consist of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, together they are called the Nusa islands, but due to their scenic cliffs and stunning beaches, Nusa Penida is the most famous of the three.
How to Get to Nusa Penida
Getting to Nusa Penida is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Ferry or Fast Boat: The most common way to reach Nusa Penida is by taking a ferry or a fast boat from Bali. You can catch a boat from several ports, including Sanur, Padang Bai, and Amed. I recommend the fast boat for a quicker journey—it’s about a 30 to 45-minute ride.
- Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Companies like Mola-Mola Express and Gili Getaway offer reliable services.
- Arrival: Upon arrival at Nusa Penida, you can rent a scooter or hire a driver to explore the island. I opted for a scooter, which allowed me to enjoy the scenic roads at my own pace.
Visiting Nusa Penida Island – Tourist Fee
The entrance fee for tourists arriving by boat at Nusa Penida was introduced in 2023 to fund better infrastructure.
The fee is 25k Rupiah for adults and 15k Rupiah for children when you get off the boat in Penida. You can access all three Nusa islands: Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan.
Using this ticket also gives you access to all Nusa Penida’s main attractions and beaches, so you don’t have to pay a second fee at Kelingking Beach.
The change is a positive one, because in the past you had to whip out your wallet at every tourist spot in Nusa Penida. It was a bit tiresome. In today’s world, you pay once at the harbor and you’re done.
Transport: How To Get Around On Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, though smaller than Bali (with about 4 percent of Bali’s land mass), isn’t exactly tiny. If you want to see the best sights on each corner of the island, you can expect to spend hours driving around.
For exploring Nusa Penida, you can rent a motorbike (self-drive) or hire a car with a driver, just like in Bali.
Despite the rough and narrow roads in Nusa Penida, I don’t think motorbikes are a good idea here, although lots of people seem to do it without any problems. Be sure to wear a helmet, honk your horn before hills and blind turns, and pull over to the side to let cars pass. On the road, there isn’t much room.
I always rent a car with driver (you can book here) when I visit Nusa Penida because it’s safer and more comfortable, and the prices aren’t that much higher than what you’d pay in Bali.
You can rent scooters from your accommodation (or other places) in Penida for about 75k Rupiah (~$5 USD) per day with a full tank of gas.
It’s usually possible to arrange short taxi trips (like transfers from/to the dock) on the spot or through your hotel, but they aren’t very economical.
Grab and Go-Jek ride hailing apps are not yet available in Nusa Penida (only Bali), but maybe that will change in the future.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This period offers sunny skies, calm seas, and optimal conditions for outdoor activities. I visited in September, and the weather was perfect for exploring beaches and hiking.
Top Attractions
Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach, often dubbed the “T-Rex Beach” due to its distinctive shape, is a must-visit. The viewpoint offers jaw-dropping panoramas of the cliffs and the azure ocean. Hiking down to the beach can be challenging, but the stunning scenery is worth every step.
Image Source: Nusa Penida Tourism
Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool that overlooks the ocean. The water is crystal clear, and the rock formations create a unique landscape. It’s a great spot for swimming and taking Instagram-worthy photos. Just be cautious of the tides!
Broken Beach
Just a short walk from Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach features a stunning archway that allows waves to crash through, creating a mesmerizing sight. I spent a couple of hours here, soaking in the views and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Image Source: Nusa Penida Tourism
Atuh Beach
Atuh Beach is a hidden treasure that offers a more secluded experience. Surrounded by towering cliffs, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation. Bring a picnic and enjoy the tranquility as you listen to the waves gently lapping the shore.
Activities to Enjoy
While lounging on the beach is tempting, Nusa Penida has plenty of activities to keep you entertained:
- Snorkeling: The waters around Nusa Penida are rich in marine life. Join a snorkeling tour to discover colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. I booked a tour with Nusa Penida Snorkeling Tour, and it was an unforgettable experience.
- Diving: For those seeking adventure, diving spots like Manta Point and Crystal Bay are popular. You might even see manta rays gliding beneath you!
- Hiking: The island offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The views from the cliffs are simply breathtaking.
Nusa Penida Restaurants
Tourism is bringing lots of new restaurants and cafes to Nusa Penida, so now there are lots of options!
We recommend the following restaurants:
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The Penida Colada was one of the first great restaurants on the island, featuring a large menu, beach vibes, great food, and good presentation. It’s also a cool name!
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The Secret Penida Cafe serves Western and Indonesian cuisine on the beachfront in north Nusa Penida.
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It’s hard to beat Penida Espresso’s smoothie bowls, and they’re very reasonably priced. It’s nice on a hot day.
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One of the first indoor cafes on the island with air conditioning! Breakfast here is great.
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Ocean view pool with no minimum spend at The Chill! A wade-up bar and swings add to the nice atmosphere.
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Mother’s cooking at Warung Nengah Mesin. Delicious. It’s a local warung in the south of the island, so many major attractions are easily accessible.
Where to Stay
Nusa Penida offers various accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are a few recommendations based on my experience:
- Luxury: Semabu Hills Hotel – This hotel boasts stunning views, a beautiful infinity pool, and exceptional service.
- Mid-Range: D’Nusa Beach Club – A cozy option with modern amenities and close proximity to popular attractions.
- Budget: The Nusa Penida Hostel—a friendly hostel that’s great for meeting fellow travelers and offers clean, affordable dorms.
Nusa Penida Massage & Spa
In comparison to Bali, Nusa Penida doesn’t have a lot of massage places, but I’m sure that will change over time. After a long day of hiking or touring, a foot massage is the perfect way to relax.
The best massage place in Nusa Penida is Tejas Spa Warnakali, which has ocean views and is part of the Adiwana Warnakali Resort. There is no need to be a resort guest to get a massage at the resort.
You can find budget spas and massages in Nusa Penida at Little Papaya, Juara Spa, and Dhipalia Massage. I cannot vouch for the quality of these ones because we haven’t tried them yet.
Other Nusa Penida Tips
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Almost all restaurants, hotels, and other charges in Penida are cash-only. Bring plenty of cash with you from Bali. As for my bigger purchases (like hotels and drivers), I prefer to book them online, so I can pay with a credit card and save my cash for those little roadside warungs and fresh coconuts!
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There are very few ATMs in Penida. It seems that the Bank BRI booth at Sampalan is the most reliable, but you can only withdraw 1 million Rupiah per time.
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The Telkomsel network is strong in most areas of Penida, but you may lose service in some areas due to the island’s hilly terrain.
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Compared to Bali, Penida used to have very poor WiFi connectivity, but it has improved dramatically in the last few years, so most hotels offer good WiFi that can be used to browse, stream videos, and send emails.
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You can buy cheap snacks, drinks, toiletries, sunscreen, and other items at convenience stores, especially on the north shore. Sari Yoga Mart and Bagus Mart are two good options. They have a much smaller selection than what you’ll find in Bali, however.
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The locals in Nusa Penida speak Balinese with a distinct dialect, and although they understand Indonesian, they aren’t schooled in English (unlike in Bali). Because of this, most Nusa Penidans only know a little bit of English, so be patient and come prepared to explain things by pointing or showing pictures.
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There is some dengue fever in Nusa Penida, but it seems less common than in Bali, probably due to the drier climate in Penida. Visiting the beaches or any of the popular tourist sites won’t require bug spray, but there are mosquitoes in the Tembeling forest and Goa Giri Putri, as well as near some of the hotels in Nusa Penida. There is no malaria in Penida or Bali, so you don’t have to worry about anti-malarial medications. According to this Lancet study from 2018, the entire Bali province is malaria-free.
Is Nusa Penida Safe?
Nusa Penida is a very safe island!
Off and on, we live in Bali. In Penida, violent crime is unheard of, and petty crime is rare as well. Take normal precautions. Locals in this community are kind and hospitable.
The Balinese are religious people, so please respect the temples and local culture. Don’t hike any steep cliffs like Kelingking Beach if you’re not careful!
Nusa Penida Wildlife
The island of Nusa Penida is full of wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might even see some.
Penida is home to bats, spiders, monitor lizards, and monkeys (Balinese macaques). Kelingking Cliff and other places on the island are good places to see monkeys. Two endangered species of orange-purplish crabs live only on Nusa Penida island in the Goa Giri Putri cave.
A number of endangered bird species can be found at Nusa Penida, including the very nice Bali starlings. There aren’t many of these left in the wild, so sightings are rare, but hopefully their numbers will increase.
Nusa Penida is home to pythons, vipers, spitting cobras, and sea snakes. I have only seen the island pit viper (Trimeresurus insularis) here.
Snakes aren’t likely to be found in Nusa Penida’s main tourist spots. You should treat it with extreme caution if you do! There is no anti-venom available in Penida for snakes that are venomous in Bali.
While hiking in Nusa Penida, I almost stepped on a very venomous island pit viper. The snake, which was coiled up in the middle of the path, didn’t see my foot because its head was turned away from me.
A triangular head and bright red tail on a green body gave it away. In a less traveled part of the island, there was a lot of foliage. There was no tourist area nearby.
In Nusa Penida, you can snorkel or scuba dive with gentle manta rays and gigantic ocean sunfish (‘mola mola’), as well as other colorful fish and coral. In the waters around Penida, we’ve also seen sea turtles and dolphins.
Best Time To Visit
Since Nusa Penida has a drier, more sunny climate than mainland Bali, you can visit any month of the year.
It really depends on what you’re looking for when it comes to visiting Nusa Penida Island.
The rainy season in Bali lasts from November to April. At this time of year, it’s less crowded, and the rain is mostly at night, but the weather can be hot and humid at 90-95 F (32-35 C).
The temperatures are cooler and more breezy from May to August. Due to the high season, it’s a little crowded.
In my opinion, the best time to photograph Penida is right after the rainy season ends (March to May), when the island is covered with lush greenery.
May to August are the most comfortable months of the year if you’re looking for nice weather.
Is Nusa Penida Worth It?
Nusa Penida definitely deserves a visit if you’ve read this far and aren’t sure whether you should go.
The natural scenery on this island is some of the best in the Bali province, and in Indonesia for that matter. Aside from great photo spots, it has cliffs, caves, beaches, hikes, water sports, and more.
It’s becoming easier to get around the island, and there are lots of nice hotels and restaurants popping up. It’s well worth crossing the short distance from Bali to Nusa Penida to see everything this island has to offer.
How Long To Stay
Don’t take a day trip. Nusa Penida Island has a lot to offer. Even if you don’t snorkel, you need at least 2 days to see the best highlights.
I would recommend spending 3 to 4 days in the Nusa Islands, but you could easily fill a week, especially if you plan to snorkel or scuba dive.
Nusa Penida Itinerary
The following is an example of a 4-day itinerary for Nusa Penida:
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The first day was spent in West Nusa Penida. Explore Kelingking Beach, Paluang Cliff, Pererenan Cliff, Banah Cliff Point, and Tembeling Beach.
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Nusa Penida East: Day 2. Explore Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, Rumah Pohon Treehouse, Teletubbies Hill, and Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple.
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Day 3: Snorkeling and West Penida. Visit Angel’s Beach, Broken Beach, and Smoke Beach after a half-day snorkeling tour.
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South Nusa Penida on Day 4. Explore Suwehan Beach, Sekartaji Cliff (or Nyanyad Beach), Manta Point Overlook, and Crystal Bay.
To see more detailed information and photos, check out my full blog post about this Ultimate 4-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary!
Tips for Visiting Nusa Penida
- Plan Ahead: Given the island’s size and the number of attractions, planning your itinerary is essential. Prioritize the places you want to visit.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially when exploring the beaches and hiking trails.
- Respect the Environment: Follow local guidelines to protect the natural beauty of the island. Avoid littering and stay on marked paths.
- Cash is King: Many places do not accept credit cards, so carry enough cash for your expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Nusa Penida safe for tourists?
Yes, Nusa Penida is generally safe for tourists. However, exercise caution when swimming, hiking, or riding scooters, as some areas can be challenging.
2. How many days should I spend on Nusa Penida?
A 2- to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring the island’s top attractions without feeling rushed. This allows ample time for relaxation and adventure.
3. Can I do a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali?
Yes, many travelers opt for day trips. However, staying overnight allows for a more leisurely exploration of the island.
4. What should I wear when visiting?
Dress comfortably and consider swimwear for the beaches. Lightweight clothing, sturdy shoes for hiking, and sunscreen are essential.
5. Do I need travel insurance for Nusa Penida?
While it’s not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for peace of mind, especially when engaging in adventure activities.
