Last Updated on June 24, 2024 by Tia
This guide will help you uncover the best things to do in Nusa Penida, ensuring you make the most of your trip!
This beautiful island located southeast of Bali, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
With stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, Nusa Penida offers a plethora of activities for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
We’ll divide these activities by area, making it easier to plan your days on the island, as well as your Nusa Penida Accommodation.
Table of Contents
Is Nusa Penida worth visiting
1oo times YES!
Nusa Penida is definitely worth visiting for its breathtaking landscapes alone! There are unparalleled adventure opportunities, from hiking and cliff diving to exploring vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling and scuba diving.
Its natural beauty and less crowded atmosphere provide a unique and memorable experience compared to more touristy destinations in Bali.
But please be advised: This island is NOT for the lazy tourist. You will need to hike, trek, and squeeze through mountains to explore it. If you love the great outdoors and are up for an adventure, Penida is the island for you.
I have spent extensive time in Indonesia, and after Komodo National Park, I can safely say Nusa Penida is my favorite!
How many days in Nusa Penida
Spending at least 2 to 3 days in Nusa Penida is ideal for exploring its main attractions without feeling rushed. This timeframe allows for a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and experiencing the island’s natural beauty.
The Best Things to Do in Nusa Penida
To make the most of your trip and enjoy all the things to do in Nusa Penida, consider the following tips:
- Packing: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. carry portable phone chargers or camera batteries because you will be taking pictures constantly!
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples, and respect local customs and traditions.
- Footwear: Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential for hikes and steep descents.
- Safety: You will witness the incredible wonders of nature. Raw, rugged nature – which is often unpredictable. PLEASE be careful when hiking, swimming, and taking pictures.
With all of that being said, keep reading for incredible things to do in Nusa Penida!
West Nusa Penida
1. Kelingking Beach
Begin your adventure with a visit to the iconic Kelingking Beach. This spot is one of the best beaches in Nusa Penida and is renowned for its T-Rex-shaped cliff.
You can walk around and take pictures of the views and monkeys or you can choose to get down to the beach to swim.
To get there, take a hike down the steep path to the beach. (The word Hike will become a staple in this article!)
Once you reach the bottom, you’ll be rewarded with pristine sands and turquoise waters.
2. Angel’s Billabong
Next, head to Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool set against a stunning cliff backdrop. Check the tides before you go, though, as it can be dangerous during high tide.
Walk to the right side of the infinity pool and you will be rewarded with breathtaking waves crashing against the cliffs.
3. Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
Nearby, you’ll find Broken Beach, known for its unique archway that allows the ocean to flow into a pool.
The circular rock formation and the natural bridge are perfect for photo opportunities. It’s a short walk from Angel’s Billabong, making it ideal to combine.
4. Crystal Bay
Finish your day at Crystal Bay, a great spot for snorkeling in Penida and watching the sunset.
The coral reefs are vibrant, and you might even spot some Mola Mola fish if you’re lucky. Rent snorkeling gear from nearby shops and dive into the clear waters.
5. Scuba Diving
If you are into diving, then Indonesia will be extra heavenly for you! The underwater world is jaw-dropping – and you will see everything – from sharks to rays, mantas, mola molas, and giant turtles.
Nusa Penida has some excellent scuba diving sites, just waiting to be explored!
Central Nusa Penida
6. Goa Giri Putri Temple
Start your central Nusa Penida adventure with a visit to Goa Giri Putri Temple, the temple inside a cave! This sacred cave temple is hidden within a mountain.
To enter, you must first climb 110+ steps, then crawl through a narrow passage, but the vast cavern inside is worth it. While the entrance is entirely non-spiritual, the energy inside is very different.
You walk through the temples, observe the spiritual ceremonies exit on the opposite side of the mountain and walk back round a path to the car park.
Remember to dress modestly and bring a sarong. You can also rent one from the entrance. Duration: 30- 60 minutes
7. Teletubbies Hill (Bukit Teletubbies)
Next, explore the rolling hills of Bukit Teletubbies. These lush, green mounds resemble the landscape from the Teletubbies TV show.
The view is breathtaking, and it’s a great spot for a leisurely walk and panoramic photos.
I would particularly visit this spot with a drone- the images will be stunning!
8. Seganing Waterfall
Continue your journey to Seganing Waterfall, a less-visited gem.
Please ONLY visit this waterfall if you are an experienced hiker/trekker and are in great physical health.
The trek to the waterfall is very challenging, involving a steep descent. You have to zig-zag down the rock via a very steep and at times slippery path.
However, the effort is worth it when you see the secluded falls and the view of the ocean.
East Nusa Penida
9. Atuh Beach
On the east side of the island, start with Atuh Beach. Dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations flank this stunning beach. The water is calm and perfect for swimming.
To get there, you’ll need to hike down a path, but the scenery is worth it.
10. Diamond Beach
Next, visit Diamond Beach, known for its white sands and crystal-clear waters.
Again, you can choose to walk to the various viewpoints and take in the views. Alternatively, you can hike down to the beach!
The hike down can be challenging, but the picturesque beach, with its towering cliffs and palm trees, is a must-see.
11. Nusa Penida tree house (Rumah Poho)
While in the area, don’t miss the famous Tree House. It offers a unique vantage point overlooking the ocean and surrounding cliffs.
It’s an Instagram-worthy spot and a great place to take in the natural beauty of Nusa Penida.
12. Thousand Islands Nusa Penida Viewpoint
Adjacent to the Tree House is the Thousand Islands Viewpoint.
The view from here is stunning, with numerous rock formations jutting out of the turquoise waters.
It’s a perfect spot for panoramic photos and to soak in the island’s beauty.
South Nusa Penida
13. Peguyangan Waterfall – Nusa Penida Waterfall
Get ready for some more of that famous Nusa Penida Hiking! In the south, start with Peguyangan Waterfall.
To reach it, you’ll descend a series of blue stairs along a cliffside – around 700 steps (!), offering breathtaking ocean views.
At the bottom, you’ll find a (very) small waterfall and a sacred temple. The journey itself is an adventure.
Tias’s Tip: If you love waterfalls but don’t want to hike and trek – Bali has incredible waterfalls that are much more accessible/tourist-friendly.
14. Tembeling Natural Pool
Next, head to Tembeling Natural Pool. This secluded spot offers a natural pool surrounded by lush forest.
It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the tranquility and clear water make it a perfect place for a refreshing dip.
15. Amok Sunset – Nusa Penida Sunset
No better way to end the day than with Amok Sunset Beach bar ( check out my article on Nusa Penida beach clubs if this is fully booked!)
With two beautiful pools—one an infinity pool—overlooking the ocean, this is the perfect spot to end your day or a delicious sunset gourmet dinner.
How to get to Nusa Penida
First up, you need to fly to Bali which is the most common departure point, then get a ferry to Nusa Penida.
From Bali To Penida
Speedboats are the fastest and most popular way to reach Nusa Penida from Bali. There are multiple departure points in Bali:
- Sanur Beach: The most common departure point. Speedboats from Sanur Beach take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida.
- Padang Bai: Located in East Bali, speedboats from Padang Bai take about 45 minutes to an hour. This option is convenient if you’re staying in the eastern part of Bali.
- Serangan Harbor: Speedboats from Serangan Harbor take around 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida. This departure point is convenient for those staying in southern Bali.
Booking Tickets: You can book tickets online in advance or purchase them at the harbor. During peak seasons, it’s advisable to book ahead to ensure availability.
Cost: Speedboat tickets typically range from IDR 150,000 to IDR 300,000 per person, depending on the company and class of service.
Schedule: Speedboats operate multiple times a day, usually starting from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Check the schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
Nusa Lembongan to Nusa penida
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are two of the three Nusa Islands located southeast of Bali, with Nusa Ceningan being the third. Traveling between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida is very easy!
By Public Boat
Public boats are the most economical option for traveling between the islands. They typically depart from the Jungut Batu Harbor in Nusa Lembongan and arrive at Toyapakeh or Sampalan Harbor in Nusa Penida.
- Schedule: Public boats usually operate in the morning, with departures around 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. The return trips from Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan are often in the late afternoon.
- Duration: The journey takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cost: Tickets are affordable, usually costing around IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000 per person. (3-6 Euros)
2. Fast Boat
Fast boats provide a quicker and more comfortable journey between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
- Schedule: Fast boats have multiple departures throughout the day, making it easier to find a time that suits your schedule.
- Duration: The trip takes around 10 to 15 minutes.
- Cost: Tickets typically range from IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000 per person. (6-9 euros)
- Booking: You can book tickets online, through your accommodation, or directly at the harbor.
Nusa Penida vs Nusa Lembongan
Both part of the Nusa Islands trio near Bali, they offer distinct experiences for travelers.
Nusa Penida, larger and more rugged, is known for its dramatic landscapes like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and the underwater wonders of Crystal Bay, making it ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
In contrast, Nusa Lembongan is smaller and more laid-back, with beautiful beaches such as Dream Beach and Mushroom Bay, vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving, and a charming, relaxed vibe that appeals to those looking for a more leisurely escape.
Both islands provide unique and memorable experiences, but Nusa Penida stands out for its wild, untamed beauty.
On the other hand, Nusa Lembongan offers a more serene and accessible tropical getaway. Personally, I visited both, and spent 3 days on each island.
P.s If you have mobility issues, Nusa Penida will be very difficult to explore.
Scooter Rental Penida and Car Rental Nusa Penida
The best way to get around the island is either to rent a scooter or hire a driver. For some reason, no one will let you rent a car, unless someone else is driving it!
Some roads are steep and rough, so drive carefully, especially if you’re not an experienced rider.
Check out rental options and prices here
Thank you for reading!
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See you soon,
Love, Tia x
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