The best way to get to Nusa Penida is on a day trip tour from Bali. Several speedboat operators offer this service daily, and most include a transfer from your hotel in Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak or Kuta as part of the package.
From spectacular coastal cliff views to pristine beaches, this island offers something for every traveler. Here are a few highlights that should be on your list:
Thousand Islands Viewpoint
Located on the eastern side of Nusa Penida, Thousand Islands Viewpoint is famous for its breathtaking views. While the view is stunning by day, it’s even more incredible at night when you can see the stars and the moon. You can also take photos with the unique curved cliffs as your backdrop. It is best to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds.
After visiting Thousand Islands Viewpoint, make sure to check out Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong, two of the most popular hotspots in Nusa Penida. At the latter, you can find a small bay that was once a cave. It is a beautiful place to watch the sunset and has gorgeous rock pools.
You can also visit Rumah Pohon “Tree House,” which overlooks Thousand Islands Viewpoint. This is another popular Instagram spot in Nusa Penida and is a great place to take photos. You can stay here for a few hours if you want to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Just remember that both men and women must wear sarongs when entering temples on the island.
Angel’s Billabong
Located near Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong is a rock formation that looks like an infinity pool with gorgeous turquoise waters. This is a popular spot for photos and has been featured in many travel blogs and social media. The water is calm, and it’s safe to swim at low tide but only when the conditions are perfect.
You can walk around the top of the cliffs and enjoy the views or take a dip in the tide pools when the water is calm. Be careful, though, as the bottom of the pools can be sharp and rocky. Also, don’t go too close to the edge as the drop is steep.
This is a beautiful spot and one that should be included on any nusa penida trip You can also combine it with a visit to Broken Beach which is only a few minutes away. This is another popular destination and there are often tour groups in the area, so try to come early if possible.
Broken Beach
Broken Beach (Pasih Uug Nusa Penida) is a stunning natural attraction that captivates visitors with its pristine cove and dramatic cliffs. Its unique appearance owes to the inexorable forces of nature over millions of years.
You can visit this iconic spot with one of the many tour operators at the Sanur harbor. A single ticket will cost around $90 USD per person which includes the ferry to Nusa Penida, a van for the day, and all the other logistics.
Alternatively, you can rent your own scooter or car to get here. The trip should take about 45-60 minutes from the main docks and accommodations on the west side of Nusa Penida. Just be aware that the roads are very rough and even dangerous in some spots.
You can also combine your trip to Broken Beach with a stop at Angel’s Billabong and Crystal Bay. They share the same parking lot and are only a short walk away from each other. Just remember to be careful when entering the water as it can be quite choppy.
T-Rex Viewpoint
You’ll find yourself blown away by this unique cliff formation. Although you’ve probably seen it in a thousand pictures online, it’s still unreal to stand in front of it. It’s one of the most popular spots on Nusa Penida!
There’s a path that leads down to the beach but it’s steep, rocky and near-vertical at some points. It’s best to have a guide or a friend to help you out, especially in the afternoon when it can get really crowded here.
The view is absolutely worth it though! Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the hike down. There are two sets of handrails to hold on to as you walk down the trail. One set is a bit old and not secured as well, so don’t rely on it too much.
The best time to visit Kelingking is May until October when the weather is usually dry and sunny. Be sure to arrive early in the morning to avoid the big crowds and make it down to the beach before the sun goes down!
Crystal Bay
Located on the west coast of Nusa Penida, Crystal Bay is one of the most popular beaches for snorkelers and sunbathers. Its pristine waters are famous for their clarity and there are tons of sea creatures to be seen underwater. The beach is also a popular starting point for Manta Ray boat trips.
Although it takes a bit of a hike to reach this spot, the trek is worth it once you see the beautiful secluded beach. Its crystal clear water and palm-fringed beaches give it a tropical island vibe. The locals are friendly here too and they encourage visitors to relax and unwind. The best time to visit this spot is around sunset when you can enjoy a beer and watch the sunset over the ocean.
If you’re not confident enough to drive your own scooter, you can always hire a driver to take you to Crystal Bay from the main town and harbor of Toya Pakeh. There are several scooter rental shops in town and most accommodations will organize a driver for you.