An island adventure doesn’t need to begin and end with Bali. There is a whole archipelago of islands to explore, including the tropical and beautiful Nusa Penida.
Just a hop, skip and a jump from Bali, Nusa Penida is the perfect destination for incredible day trips and long weekends.
The island is jam packed with must-see natural sights, luxurious restaurants and beach clubs to keep you busy.
A tour of Nusa Penida can include hiking, swimming, snorkelling, lounging, and riding the island by motorbike to enjoy every inch of the small 210㎢.
Get ready for some serious wanderlust!
Getting from Bali to Nusa Penida
Start your island adventure off right with a boat trip across the ocean to Nusa Penida.
The main ports of Bali – Sanur, Tanjong Benoa and Padang Bai – all offer the route either by fast boat or public ferry over to Nusa Penida’s Toya Pakeh Harbour.
The fast boat will only take around 45 minutes, while the public ferry can take up to an hour.
Get ready for stunning views of the islands and crashing waves on your way to paradise.
Sanur Beach to Nusa Penida
If you are searching for ease, then Sanur Beach will be the best port for you.
It’s just a short drive from the popular tourist towns, Canggu, Seminyak and Kuta, and has a number of companies operating including Crown Fast Cruise, Mola-Mola Express and El Rey Junior.
Running regularly from 7am through to 5pm, there is a boat to suit every plan.
If you are planning a Nusa Penida day trip, catch the earliest boat possible to make the most of your time on the island. For those planning to enjoy a longer stay, then you have the freedom of a later boat.
Starting from just IDR150,000 (approx. US $10) for a one way ticket, a trip to Nusa Penida can be affordable!
Tanjung Benoa to Nusa Penida
Tanjung Benoa is close to Nusa Dua, and the ideal port for those staying in Uluwatu and Jimbaran.
It only operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and runs once a day – so you need to plan well!
A one way ticket costs around IDR150,000 and can be bought online or at the port, perfect for a last minute trip or long planned getaway.
Start your Nusa Penida tour off on a comfortable and clean boat ride.
Padang Bai to Nusa Penida
Padang Bai is the starting port for the public ferry.
A less fancy option at a fraction of the cost, for those who want the real local experience, this is the best transfer to Nusa Penida for you!
The public ferry is used by local commuters, and those wanting to head over to Nusa Penida with their motorbike.
Costing only IDR35,000 for a one way trip, if you are on a tight budget, it doesn’t mean you need to miss out on a paradise island trip.
Getting Around Nusa Penida
Hop off the boat and jump into your private transport or a hired motorbike.
Much like driving in Bali, Nusa Penida is a motorbike haven with rough terrain and towering hills that can make a beginner anxious.
Unless you are a pro-rider, I would recommend hiring a private driver and car for your stay – it is affordable, safe, and gives you a chance to relax.
Nusa Penida by Motorbike
It’s as easy to hire a motorbike in Nusa Penida as it is in Bali. Show a form of ID and you will be handed the keys to a freedom getaway.
The roads are a lot more rough and ready than the main island, so if you are new to the world of two-wheelers, this isn’t a place to try it out.
There are plenty of places to hire a bike right off the boat. For IDR75,000 (approx. US$ 5) you can put your adventure in your hands, as well as helmets – which must be worn no matter how short the ride.
I recommend filling up the fuel close to the harbour, as stations become far and few between as you head deeper into the island.
Nusa Penida by Rental Car
A Nusa Penida tour by car is much more comfortable and fun, especially if you are travelling with children.
Along with a private local driver, you can explore the landscapes and hotspots of the island with cool air-conditioning and local radio stations.
Look out the windows to bask in the beauty of the island from sprawling fields to tall cliff tops overlooking the ocean.
Up to 10 hours of a private car and driver will cost around IDR950,000 (approx. US$ 65).
You can sit back, relax and enjoy stunning scenery as you visit all of the tourist attractions Nusa Penida is famous for. Sounds perfect to me!
Where to Stay in Nusa Penida
After long days of exploring Nusa Penida, you need a comfortable and cosy spot to rest and unwind. The island is packed with stunning accommodations from hostels to private luxury villas that suit every budget.
Here are some of my favourite places to stay on Nusa Penida.
A Secluded, Idyllic Cottage
A traditional style home encompassed by rolling hills and lush views, House of Gubuk Paon is located a 20 minute drive from the harbour, close by to Kutampi and Sampalan beaches.
Ideal for those who are looking for a space away from crowds, surrounded by nature and completely private, the home has everything you need from a fully equipped kitchen to a lazy lounge area.
Accommodating up to 6 guests in the 1-bedroom space, House of Gubuk Paon is a perfect escape for a group of friends or family with children.
Cosy up and spend calm evenings after a day of touring Nusa Penida in your own private paradise oasis.
An Ocean View Paradise
Villa Victoria
Villa Victoria is a sprawling tropical haven overlooking the ocean from its cliffside position.
With a huge wooden decking, infinity swimming pool and the option of 1-bedroom or beachfront villas, it is a stunning place to spend a relaxed Nusa Penida trip.
Combining beautiful wooden architecture, furnishings and modern amenities, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
After a day of venturing the island, you can dip into the shared pool or jacuzzi, snuggle up in bed and spend time looking out over the endless turquoise views.
Each villa has a private kitchenette with all the facilities to prepare your morning coffee or evening snack.
Villa Victoria is a spacious and luxurious island resort.
Just a Moment’s Walk from the Beach
Crystal Bay Villa
Ideally located just a short walk from the famous Crystal Bay, this resort is a peaceful and beautiful spot to spend a romantic Nusa Penida adventure.
Cosy up with your loved one in one of the quaint poolside bungalows, dine over candle light and explore every inch of the paradise island.
Just 800m from its namesake beach, Crystal Bay Villa has a team of friendly staff who will be on hand to help arrange any extra services or excursions upon request.
Lounge, venture and spend quality time with your loved one, or friends, in this idyllic resort surrounded by towering palm trees.
A Luxury Island Bungalow
Tropical Glamping
A picture-perfect Instagram dream, Tropical Glamping is a bright bungalow paradise with ocean views, lush tropical surroundings and cosy amenities.
A peaceful and serene hideaway, it is a perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Nusa Penida.
The bed faces out over stunning views to wake up to bright blue skies and turquoise waters, with views as far as the eye can see.
With a thatched roof, en-suite bathroom and outdoor cinema – whether you are looking to spend a quiet stay away from the crowds, or use the bungalow as a base to explore everything the island has to offer, Tropical Glamping is a great option.
Traditional Wooden Bungalow in the Jungle
With intricate carvings, a canopy bed and modern facilities, Tanah Damai is immersed in nature, encompassed by jungles and overlooking expansive green views.
Ideal for a romantic retreat or nature-lovers escape, it is located away from the crowds but just a short walk to Gamat Bay.
An eco-friendly and conservational resort, there is no air-conditioning in the bungalow but well-placed air slots to allow for easy ventilation.
For a relaxing and comfortable stay without any harm to the environment, Tanah Damai is a peaceful and tranquil getaway.
Lavish and Modern Villa
Featuring from 2 – 4 bedrooms, The Arancia Villa is the height of modern luxury on Nusa Penida.
Situated on the hillside overlooking expansive views, it is a perfect place to bask in the sun and enjoy a calm day.
With a private swimming pool, modern bright bedrooms and homey amenities, you quickly settle in for a stay of a lifetime.
Just a 4 minute drive from Toya Pakeh harbour, close by to all the must-see tourist attractions and a moment from stunning beaches, The Arancia Villa is a central and comfortable base for a Nusa Penida tour trip.
Enjoy all the hotspots of the town with a luxurious and private accommodation to return to.
Types of Tours in Nusa Penida & Must-Visit Spots
Touring Nusa Penida can be done 1 of 3 ways –
- You can take the adventure into your own hands and explore the island yourself
- Hop onboard a fully catered day trip of Nusa Penida that will take you to the highlights of the island before heading back to Bali
- Spend a longer stay visiting each attraction without any rush with a private tour
It depends what kind of traveller you are as to which option will suit you.
Solo travellers and backpackers will love the first option to venture around on their own schedule. Whereas families and couples can enjoy planned out tours – whether a day or longer trip – to make sure they can check off each of the must-see spots.
Nusa Penida Day Trips
Organised day trips to Nusa Penida are a great way to be able to explore the island hitting all the must-see hotspots with a team of pro guides.
The price usually includes all travel and meals so you don’t need to worry about extra costs – other than souvenirs.
For someone on a quick stop-off in Bali, a one-day round trip is a perfect way to not miss out on the paradise island.
Starting around IDR 650,000 (approx. US $45) for a half day tour, there are many operators around Bali and Nusa Penida that have schedules packed with activities and extras.
Nusa Penida Private Tours
If you have some time to kill and want to have an extended Nusa Penida experience, spending a few nights on the island and enjoying private tours is a great way to be able to plan your own itinerary, without getting tired from riding a bike across the rocky roads all day.
With one of the affordable private drivers – as previously mentioned – you can create your own tour of Nusa Penida, hitting all the spots you want to see, along with the suggestions from the local driver.
Sit back and enjoy the landscape from the cool air-conditioning, and spend as much time as you wish at each stop.
It is the perfect middle ground for a more personalised tour. Although slightly more expensive, this is definitely my favourite to explore Nusa Penida.
13 Must-See Spots in Nusa Penida
So, you’ve chosen the type of tour to suit you, now – where do you go?
Here are all the must-see spots on the island including those which are on guided tours, and some hidden gems for travellers venturing off the beaten track.
Broken Beach
On the West coast of Nusa Penida, Broken Beach is one of the island’s most famous, and stunning, spots.
The little cove is encompassed with a sprawling cliffside that gives way to a completely natural and beautiful archway.
Allowing the ocean to flow in and out of the cove, the archway is picturesque and not to be missed. You can bask in awe of the wonders of nature from the cliffside view point.
Angel’s Billabong
Neighbouring Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong needs some careful planning before you visit – although travelling with a planned tour will have this figured out for you.
Depending on the high or low tide will determine what view you get from this incredible scenic attraction.
For the best views, head here early to catch low tide – around 8am!
But be aware, the attraction is incredibly popular and can get busy quickly.
Devil’s Billabong
What’s an angel without a devil? Hanging on another shoulder of Nusa Penida is Devil’s Billabong.
A cove of crashing waves, sharp rocks and crystal clear water, head here to catch some incredible pictures of the waves smashing the rocks and to get away from the regular tourist crowd.
Kelingking Beach
Known as Secret Point or T-Rex Beach, Kelingking Beach is the one tour stop-off point that companies use to lure in guests.
A Nusa Penida star, rightfully so, if you are heading out on a solo tour, make sure this is on the list.
The walk down the cliffside to the beach is dotted with magnificent viewpoints that offer a perfect picture, but heed the warnings.
A bamboo rail is all that separates the pathway from the cliff’s edge, you should remain vigilant and careful on your way down the cliff.
Once your toes plant into the brilliant white sand, the trek down is totally worth it.
Crystal Bay Beach
Crystal Bay Beach is the hotspot beach of the island with some of the best sunset views.
A starting point for snorkelling and diving tours, the white sand paradise is just 30 minutes from the harbour.
Lined with stalls, warungs and shops, it is an ideal place to spend a day on the sand relaxing.
Not only are the white sands and turquoise waters beautiful, you can snorkel right off the beach above the coral reef. Stunning!
Diamond Beach
The staircase leading you down to Diamond Beach gives you outstanding views of the cliff side, white sand and crystal blue waters.
Taking only minutes to get down, it is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island for a relaxing day in the sun.
Rarely found on Nusa Penida tour itineraries, this is a spot to check out for when you have some downtime to unwind.
Atuh Beach
A real tropical island oasis, Atuh Beach is the stuff of dreams.
A 10-minute walk down the cliffside will lead you past jungle viewpoints overlooking the stunning landscape until you reach the perfectly white sand.
Atuh Beach features its own beautiful natural archway that is magically aligned for majestic sunrise views – take note photographers!
Teletubbies Hill
We all know the iconic rolling hills of the Teletubbies – if you don’t, don’t tell me, I’ll feel old.
As the name suggests, this must-see spot in Nusa Penida is luscious, sprawling and unique.
It’s best to explore the vast hill formation by foot so you can stop to take pictures, look out over expansive views of Nusa Penida and enjoy the incredible scenery.
Included in 2 day tours, I love this spot on the island – even if for nostalgia.
Tembeling Natural Pool
Tembeling Natural Pool is an island hidden gem located down a rocky and rough road.
Off the beaten path, it is a spot for backpackers and adventurers to explore.
After a tough drive – not recommended for beginners – you will take a 30-minute hike down to the pools.
Encompassed with jungles, dotted with statues and fountains and etched into the surrounding stone cliffs, it is a romantic and idyllic utopia.
Manta Point
It’s time for us to head under the water.
Manta Point can be organised as its own Nusa Penida diving tour starting in Bali and heading back right after the dive is done, it can also be part of an island based adventure as part of a longer stay.
Spreading to a huge 5m in length, Manta Rays are not dangerous but can be incredibly intimidating. That being said, if you are a confident diver, this is an experience that should be at the top of your list.
Dip into the cool ocean waters right off the boat, and swim with the gentle giants in their own natural habitat.
Banah Cliff Point
Towering above the ocean overlooking panoramic West-facing views, Banah Cliff Point is one of the best places to catch a Nusa Penida sunset.
A still relatively quiet spot, it is a beautiful place to take some tropical pictures and watch the sun dip into the horizon.
Watch out on the rocky cliff edge as there is no safety barrier!
Thousand Island Viewpoint
There are numerous viewpoints along the Thousand Island cliff side.
Looking out over jutting rocks from the ocean and the coast of Nusa Penida, it is a stunning place to take in tropical landscapes and the paradise setting.
Peguyangan Waterfall
Peguyangan Waterfall is a sacred site on Nusa Penida that the locals use as a place for water rituals and blessings.
After venturing down the blue staircase hugging the cliffside, you will reach the ‘spouts’.
Each has a different meaning and you must shower under each to be fully blessed and cleansed. Dotted with spiritual shrines it is a place of healing.
The oceanfront spot has small fresh water pools that look out over the ocean for a relaxing and truly blissful experience.
If you have the time, Peguyangan Waterfall is definitely worth a visit.
3-Day Tour Itinerary for Nusa Penida
Now you know all the spots to hit, here is our suggested tour itinerary for a 3-day adventure around Nusa Penida.
The best way to tackle the island, and make sure you visit all the must-see spots, is to break the island into areas – East and West.
Day One in Nusa Penida
- Take the first boat over from Bali to make the most of the day. The trips start at 8am landing you on Nusa Penida early to start your adventure.
- Grab a rental bike or hop into your private car – I prefer touring with a car as it makes things easy. It also means you can get a head start on your tour without having to stop to drop off big luggage.
- First stop – Gamat Bay.
Whether you fancy dipping into the water right away, or just enjoying the view over the ocean, Gamat Bay is a great first stop to initiate your Nusa Penida tour. - Devil’s Billabong
Get some beautiful pictures of the angry waters crashing over the impressive rocks.
- Angel’s Billabong
You may have missed low tide, but Angel’s Billabong still provides some incredible views. - Broken Beach
This is another viewpoint where you can capture some beautiful pictures of the Nusa Penida landscape with the naturally made archway. - Kelingking Beach
This stop off will be dependent on your timings as you don’t want to be hiking the trail in the hot midday sun. Try to head here before it gets too hot, or after the midday hours to avoid heat exhaustion. Then spend the rest of your day relaxing on the sand. - Banah Cliff Point
Finally, your first day on the island should be memorable, which means a stunning sunset view from the Banah Cliff Point.
Day Two in Nusa Penida
- Tembeling Beach, Forest and Natural Pools
Today is adventure day, and it starts off strong with an adventure into the jungle to find majestic natural pools. - Peguyangan Waterfall
Next up, we are gonna connect with the spiritual side of Nusa Penida and cleanse in the waterfall and dip into the rock pools. - Manta Point
For the divers among us, you can skip those 2 spots and spend the day out in the ocean playing with the manta rays. - Teletubbies Hill
End the day in-land on teletubbies hill overlooking the expanse of the island as the sunsets.
Day Three in Nusa Penida
- Sunrise at Atuh Beach
Wake up early for your last day in paradise and watch a stunning sunrise at Atuh Beach - Thousand Island Viewpoint
Look out over the landscape from Thousand Island Viewpoint and Rumah Pohon - Diamond Beach
Spend some time relaxing around Diamond Beach – well deserved after battling the stairs! - Make the scenic drive back to the harbour
Drive through the jungles, palm trees and hills to reach the harbour to head back over to Bali.
Don’t hold me to this itinerary. I can’t promise it will be better than the professionally curated tours of Nusa Penida, however, it is an efficient way to explore the island from West to East.
And, there are plenty of stops in-between to check out!
Final Thoughts
There you go! Everything you should and need to know about touring Nusa Penida.
Whether you decide to sign up for an all-inclusive package tour of Nusa Penida, or create your own itinerary – even follow mine – the paradise island awaits your adventure.
From West to East, the island is packed with must-see spots, stunning natural sights and tropical beaches that you’ve only previously dreamed of.
Now you have all the information, start booking your Nusa Penida trip!
