Last Updated on June 24, 2024 by Tia
Let’s explore the best Nusa Penida beaches, that you must add to your itinerary!
Nusa Penida, a picturesque island off the southeastern coast of Bali, boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in Indonesia.
This hidden gem offers travelers a unique blend of rugged beauty, crystal-clear waters, and untouched landscapes.
In this guide, I’ll provide you with essential details such as locations, swimming conditions, currents, and unique features of each unique beach.
Table of Contents
Nusa Penida Beaches – A unique list
You see, Nusa Penida Beaches are not your typical ”chill all day” beaches. They are unique, and dramatic, with many of them being unsafe to swim in, and quite a few of them requiring a hike or effort to get to.
But this, In my opinion, just adds to the allure.
It’s unlikely that you will witness anything like this in this magnitude anywhere in the world.
Especially up-close, it feels untouched, and entirely off the beaten path – regardless of its recent popularity.
In all honesty, it is breathtaking nature at its best.
So keep reading, because, whether you’re an adventurous explorer or a relaxed beach lover, Nusa Penida has a perfect spot for you.
1. Kelingking Beach
Location: Southwestern coast
Swimming Conditions: Suitable, but caution is advised
Currents: Strong currents
Unique Features: Iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff
Kelingking Beach is undoubtedly the most famous of Nusa Penida beaches. Its iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff offers an unparalleled viewpoint that has become a social media sensation.
Its located about three kilometers to the southeast of Broken Beach, so they can easily be combined in a day!
The descent to the beach is challenging but rewarding, with steep steps carved into the cliffside. It will take you a while to get down, and you will need to be in suitable shoes, not flip flops.
Once you reach the bottom, you’ll be greeted by powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Swimming here is possible, but be cautious of the strong currents. Kelingking Beach is ideal for those who love adventure and stunning landscapes.
2. Crystal Bay
Location: Northwest coast
Swimming Conditions: Excellent
Currents: Mild
Unique Features: Popular snorkeling spot
Crystal Bay is a haven for snorkelers and divers. This beach is one of the safest Nusa Penida beaches for swimming, thanks to its calm waters and mild currents.
The underwater world here is mesmerizing, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. You can spot colorful fish and even manta rays if you’re lucky.
The beach is also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset. Crystal Bay’s serene environment makes it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
3. Atuh Beach
Location: Southeastern coast
Swimming Conditions: Suitable
Currents: Moderate
Unique Features: Spectacular rock formations
Atuh Beach is a secluded paradise, surrounded by towering cliffs and unique rock formations.
Read all about this Atuh beach here
Tia’s Tip: Choose to visit during high tide for amazing photos!
4. Diamond Beach
Location: Southeastern coast
Swimming Conditions: Suitable
Currents: Moderate
Unique Features: Dramatic cliffside stairway
Diamond Beach, located near Atuh Beach, is another stunning spot on the southeastern coast. It’s named for its diamond-shaped rock formations and clear blue waters.
The newly constructed stairway carved into the cliffside makes the descent to the beach an adventure in itself. But compared to other beaches, it really isn’t all that bad!
Once you reach the bottom, you’ll find a beautiful beach with soft sand and inviting waters.
Swimming is possible, but be mindful of the currents. Diamond Beach’s dramatic scenery makes it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
5. Suwehan Beach
Location: Southeastern coast
Swimming Conditions: Suitable, but caution is advised
Currents: Strong
Unique Features: Secluded and pristine
Suwehan Beach is one of the most secluded Nusa Penida beaches, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.
The beach is accessible via a steep and challenging trek, but the effort is well worth it (are you sensing a pattern yet, with this island?)
The pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. However, be cautious of the strong currents.
Suwehan Beach’s untouched beauty and serene atmosphere provide an idyllic setting for relaxation and exploration.
6. Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
Location: Southwestern coast
Swimming Conditions: Not suitable
Currents: Strong
Unique Features: Natural rock arch and lagoon
Broken Beach, known locally as Pasih Uug, is famous for its natural rock arch and circular lagoon formed by the collapse of a cave.
YOU CANNOT SWIM HERE, as it is highly dangerous.
Should you skip a visit? Absolutely not!! The views from the top are stunning, with waves crashing against the cliffs and turquoise waters filling the lagoon.
It is simply magical, well worth a visit.
Read more details about Broken Beach here
7. Angel’s Billabong
Location: Southwestern coast
Swimming Conditions: Suitable during low tide
Currents: Strong during high tide
Unique Features: Natural infinity pool
Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool located near Broken Beach. This unique spot is formed by tidal pools that create a stunning natural swimming area during low tide.
Read all about Angel’s Billabong here
8. Manta Bay
Location: Southwestern coast
Swimming Conditions: Not suitable
Currents: Very strong
Unique Features: Manta ray sightings
Manta Bay is renowned for its frequent manta ray sightings, making it a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling in Nusa Penida
While the strong currents make swimming here unsafe, the bay’s clear waters and abundant marine life attract divers from around the world.
Watching these majestic creatures glide through the water is an unforgettable experience.
Manta Bay is one of the most well-known scuba diving spots in Nusa Penida – perfect for exploring the underwater wonders of the island.
9. Peguyangan Beach
Location: Southwestern coast
Swimming Conditions: Not suitable
Currents: Strong
Unique Features: Sacred temple and natural springs
Peguyangan Beach is famous for its sacred temple and natural springs. ( many say it is a waterfall – it really isn’t!)
The trek to the beach involves descending a blue staircase along the cliffside, offering stunning ocean views.
It is a steep hike (around 800 steps) but the staircase feels very secure. While the beach itself is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, the views alone make it worth the visit.
The 3 natural springs at the base of the cliffs are believed to have healing properties, adding to the uniqueness of Peguyangan Beach. Bring a swimsuit to dip into those!
10. Tembeling Beach and Forest
Location: Western coast
Swimming Conditions: Suitable in natural pools
Currents: Strong at the beach
Unique Features: Natural pools and lush forest
Tembeling Beach and Forest offer a blend of natural beauty and tranquility. The beach is accessible via a trek through a lush forest, leading to a hidden paradise with natural pools and a secluded beach.
Tembeling Beach’s serene environment and scenic forest make it a great spot for nature lovers and adventurers.
A few last words
Although unconventional, Nusa Penida beaches offer something for every type of traveler. From the iconic Kelingking Beach to the serene Tembeling Beach, each spot has its unique charm and beauty.
Click Here for the 15 most amazing things to do in Penida
Please remember to respect the natural environment whilst enjoying these stunning locations. Happy travels!
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See you soon,
Love, Tia x
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