Nusa Penida Travel Guide: Top Beaches and Things to Do

Nusa Penida Travel Guide: Top Beaches and Things to Do

Nusa Penida, a popular tourist destination like Bali, is a beautiful island renowned for its stunning views, cliffside beaches, and crystal-clear blue waters. Located southeast of Bali, Indonesia, it is part of the Klungkung Regency and, along with the smaller islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, forms a group of islands that are popular among tourists. Nusa Penida Island is an ideal destination for those who love adventure, nature, and photography. Plan to spend at least three nights there to explore as much as possible. You will find incredible activities on Nusa Penida, making it one of the top places to visit in Bali.

Things to do in Nusa Penida

Water Activities:

• Snorkeling: The best spots for snorkeling are Manta Point, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay, where you can get to see colorful fish and corals.

• Scuba Diving: Nusa Penida Island is great for scuba diving as it has clear water and big sea animals like manta rays and sunfish (mola-mola).

• You can also swim with Manta Rays, go hiking, and beach hop.

Adventurous Activities:

• Rent a Scooter: Explore the Nusa Penida Island yourself by riding on a rented scooter and visit beaches, hills, and viewpoints.

• Go Cliff Jumping: Some spots, like Mahana Point, offer safe jumping into the sea.

• Enjoy Hiking: Take a steep walk down the blue stairs along a cliff to reach Peguyangan Waterfall. There’s also a small temple and a stunning ocean view.

Top Places to Visit in Nusa Penida

1. Kelingking Beach:

Located on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida Island between Angel’s Billabong and Tembeling Waterfall, Kelingking is a world-famous beach for its dramatic cliff formation that looks like a T-Rex head when viewed from above. It’s a must-visit beach with panoramic views over turquoise waters, and the white-sand beach below makes it a breathtaking spot. You need to walk down a hard, steep path with bamboo railings that takes up to 1 hour to reach the beach. It’s quite tough, especially when the weather is hot, so it’s not recommended for everyone. You can just enjoy the view from the top. Once you are down at the beautiful and secluded beach, avoid swimming as it can be dangerous because the waves and tides are powerful without any lifeguards or any shade or facilities.

2. Atuh Beach:

Atuh Beach is located on the east coast of Nusa Penida Island, about 1.5 hours by scooter or car from Toyapakeh Harbor. It’s like a dream place with a secluded white-sand beach, clear turquoise water, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and towering rock formations. It’s a quieter place than the West Coast spots and offers breathtaking natural beauty without the large crowds. Walk down a very steep staircase to reach the amazing beach, which is at the bottom. Enjoy the cliffside viewpoint, a popular sunrise spot on the island, and take in the panoramic views of the beach and surrounding sea stacks.

3. Angel’s Billabong:

Angel’s Billabong is located near Broken Beach on the West coast of Nusa Penida Island, around 45–60 minutes from the main harbor (Toyapakeh). It’s a natural tidal pool carved into the coastal rock, filled with clear and calm water during low tide. It’s like a natural infinity pool with a breathtaking view of the ocean, a great spot to enjoy the view and take photos. Avoid visiting during high tide, as the waves can be strong and dangerous. Swimming at Angel’s Billabong is prohibited due to dangerous waves, which have previously swept people out to sea, and sadly, some have even lost their lives. But it doesn’t mean that you should avoid visiting this beautiful place. You can just enjoy the scenic views from a safe distance.

4. Broken Beach:

Broken Beach is one of the most famous spots located on the west coast of Nusa Penida Island at just a short walk from Angel’s Billabong and about 45–60 minutes from the main harbors. It’s not a beach you can walk on, despite its name. It’s a natural bridge with a big hole in the cliff and the ocean inside. It looks like a big pool surrounded by rocks and is one of the most popular attractions of Nusa Penida, but you can’t swim here as there is no access to the water. Still, it is one of the most beautiful and unique places on the island, great for taking amazing photos and sightseeing cliffs, turquoise water, and maybe even manta rays swimming below.

5. Crystal Bay:

Crystal Bay is a beautiful beach located on the west coast of Nusa Penida Island about 30–45 minutes from Toyapakeh Harbor by scooter or car. It is one of the most accessible beaches on the island, with soft sand, crystal clear waters, and palm trees all around. It’s one of the best sunset spots on the island and a great place to relax and soak up the sun on the sand. You can also enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and see colorful fish and coral. The beach offers facilities like toilets with a small fee, cafes, warungs, rental sunbeds, and snorkeling gear. You can buy drinks, snacks, and even rent beach chairs from local stalls and chill after a long day of exploring Nusa Penida Island.

6. Diamond Beach:

Diamond Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches located on the southeast coast of Nusa Penida, right next to Atuh Beach and near Thousand Islands Viewpoint. It takes about 1.5–2 hours from Toyapakeh or Sampalan harbors by car or scooter. It’s a picture-perfect beach with white sand, turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and sharp, diamond-shaped rock formations all around. It’s easily one of the most breathtaking beaches in Bali and beyond. You can admire the amazing view from the top, or get down by the staircase carved into the cliff to the beach. It’s a great spot for taking photos, relaxing, and enjoying the breathtaking scenic views.

7. Thousand Islands Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu):

The Thousand Islands viewpoint is located on the east coast of Nusa Penida, near Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach, and Rumah Pohon Tree House. It’s about 1.5–2 hours from Toyapakeh Harbor by car or scooter. It’s one of the best viewpoints in Nusa Penida, offering sweeping views of dozens of tiny islands, turquoise water, and tall limestone rocks rising from the sea. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves beautiful views and quiet places, and is one of the most dramatic sunrise spots on the island.

8. Rumah Pohon Tree House:

Rumah Pohon Tree House is a famous treehouse located east coast of Nusa Penida, next to Thousand Islands Viewpoint, and roughly 1.5 -- 2 hours from the main harbor by scooter or car. It has one of the most amazing views on the island, and is great for taking unforgettable pictures. It offers a panoramic view of tiny islands, blue ocean, and tall cliffs all around. Its stunning stairs leading to the treehouse are a prime spot for photography. There are a few tree houses available for rent where you can stay overnight. While they are very basic without AC and limited facilities, you can admire the sunrise view from your bed, which is unforgettable. It’s a great place for photographers, nature lovers, and sunrise chasers.

9. Tembeling:

Tembeling is a hidden spot located on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida, nestled deep in the forest. It takes around 45–60 minutes from Toyapakeh Harbor by scooter or car. It is a beautiful natural freshwater pool surrounded by lush jungle and limestone cliffs. The pools are cool and clean, perfect for a refreshing swim, and lead to a hidden beach nearby with soft black sand and crashing waves. The beach is not safe for swimming, but it’s stunning to explore, relax, swim, and enjoy the quiet nature away from the crowds. The Tembeling offers a serene escape from the more touristy parts of Nusa Penida with cool jungle pools, a hidden beach, and a peaceful forest setting. It’s a great off-the-beaten-path adventure for nature lovers and explorers.

Best Time to Visit

• It is best to visit from April to October in the dry season for sunny and warm weather with low humidity, perfect for exploring. The seas are calm, great for water activities, and offer clear views for sightseeing and photography.

• July and August are peak months with great weather, but they are more crowded and expensive.

• Try to avoid visiting in the rainy months from November to March when the humidity is high and the seas are rough, which can affect your travel plans.

Where to Stay

Toyapakeh & Ped (best for convenience and accessibility):

It’s ideal for first-time visitors, divers, and those without scooters at the central location with easy access to restaurants, shops, and dive centers.

• Recommended Options: Ari La Casa, The Cozy Bidara, Ped Cottage.

Crystal Bay (Best for Beach Lovers & Snorkelers):

It offers calm waters, white sand beaches, and sunset views, great for those seeking beach access and snorkeling opportunities.

• Recommended Options: Semabu Hills Hotel, Penida Bambu Green Suites, Mambo Hill Resort.

East Coast (Atuh Beach & Suana):

With cliffside views, secluded beaches, and high-end resorts, it is best for couples and travelers seeking luxury and privacy with scenic views.

• Recommended Options: BB Resort Villa, Atuh Forest Cottage, Akusara Jungle Resort.

Sampalan (Best for Local Culture and Amenities):

For travelers wanting to experience local life and easy access to amenities, including food markets, shops, and proximity to the harbor.

• Recommended Options: Tunjung Hill Cottage, Lina’s Villas, Ped Cottage.

Conclusion

Nusa Penida Island, Indonesia, is a true paradise that offers something for every traveler, from stunning cliffs and beaches to thrilling adventures and peaceful nature spots. Whether you’re relaxing at Crystal Bay, climbing down to Diamond Beach Nusa Penida, or enjoying the view from Thousand Islands Viewpoint, every moment on Penida Island feels magical. From snorkeling with manta rays to exploring secret pools, cliffs, and treehouses, Nusa Penida Island is a must-visit destination in Indonesia.

It’s time to book your flights to Indonesia for your dream adventure to Nusa Penida Island with Travelpodium to discover the stunning beaches, crystal waters, and unforgettable views.

FAQs about Nusa Penida Island

Q.1: Where is Nusa Penida located?

Nusa Penida is a small island located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. It's part of the Klungkung Regency and one of the three Nusa Islands, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

Q.2: What are the top attractions on Nusa Penida?

Some of the top attractions include Kelingking Beach (T-Rex cliff), Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay, Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, and Thousand Islands Viewpoint.

Q.3: Can I go snorkeling or diving?

Yes, Nusa Penida is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving spots, especially to see manta rays at Manta Point and coral reefs at Gamat Bay or Crystal Bay.

Q.4: Can I use a credit card on the island?

Few places accept credit cards, but cash is preferred, so bring enough Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are available but not always reliable.

Q.5: What cultural experiences can I have on Nusa Penida?

You can visit local temples like Pura Goa Giri Putri and observe traditional Balinese ceremonies. Dress respectfully and ask before photographing.