Just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida Island feels like another world. Towering cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, hidden beaches wait at the end of steep staircases, and viewpoints stretch across horizons that seem endless.
Unlike its famous neighbor, Nusa Penida is still raw and untamed. Winding roads cut through small villages, temples stand watch above the ocean, and nature shows its power in every crashing wave. For travelers craving an authentic escape, the island offers adventure in its purest form.
Tourism here has been growing quickly. During peak season, Nusa Penida can welcome up to 7,000 visitors a day (Crosscelesta). Across the country, Indonesia recorded 5.44 million international arrivals between January and May 2025, a 3.8% increase from the previous year (RoadGenius). These numbers show how quickly this island has become a must visit destination for travelers around the world.
This Nusa Penida travel guide will walk you through everything you need to plan your trip: how to get there, the best things to do, and the highlights you should not miss, from the iconic Kelingking Beach to the dazzling sands of Diamond Beach Nusa Penida.
If you’re exploring Bali more widely, check our guide on the best places to stay in Bali for inspiration.
Visual: Nusa Penida Island’s Map by Google
I. Quick Planner at a Glance
Planning your visit to Nusa Penida Island is easier when you know the basics. Here are a few essentials to keep in mind:
- Ideal trip length: Two full days cover the west side highlights, while three days let you explore the east, including Diamond Beach Nusa Penida and the Thousand Islands viewpoint.
- Best time to travel: April to October brings calmer seas and sunnier skies. Crossings from Bali are smoother in the dry season. (Related read: best time to visit Bali)
- Getting around: Scooters are popular but roads can be rough. Hiring a driver is safer if you are not confident on steep or broken roads.
- Money matters: Cash is king on Penida Island. ATMs exist but may run out, so bring enough rupiah from Bali.
- Connectivity: Mobile data works in town, but signal is weak near remote cliffs and beaches.
With these quick notes, you can shape a trip that balances adventure, comfort, and safety.
II. Getting to Nusa Penida from Bali
Reaching Nusa Penida Island is simple, but knowing your options makes the trip smoother.
- Fast boats from Sanur: The most common route, with boats running from early morning until late afternoon. The ride takes about 45 minutes and arrives at Banjar Nyuh or Toya Pakeh Harbor. (Schedules and tickets available on Direct Ferries).
- Other Bali ports: Boats also leave from Serangan and Kusamba, though schedules are less frequent. From Padang Bai, a larger RoRo ferry carries passengers and vehicles, useful if you plan to bring a scooter.
- Tickets and booking: Seats fill quickly in peak season, so reserve online or buy a day in advance. Morning crossings are calmer, while afternoons can be rougher if the wind picks up.
- Arrival tips: Harbors on Penida Island are small, so expect simple facilities. Drivers and scooter rentals often wait at the pier, but pre-booking avoids hassle.
With the right ferry choice and timing, the journey from Bali is a straightforward start to your island adventure.
III. Getting Around the Island
Exploring Nusa Penida Island takes planning, since the sights are spread out and the roads can be challenging.
- Scooter rental: The cheapest and most flexible option. However, many roads are steep, narrow, and broken in parts. Only rent if you are experienced and confident.
- Private driver: A popular choice for visitors who want comfort and safety. Drivers know the best routes, handle the rough roads, and often act as guides.
- Car rental: Possible but less common, as parking at popular beaches is limited and the roads are not always car-friendly.
- Tour packages: Day tours from Bali or guided trips on the island cover major attractions, but they often feel rushed. Staying at least one or two nights gives you more freedom.
Whichever option you choose, expect longer travel times than the map suggests. Reaching the east coast or spots like Diamond Beach Nusa Penida can take two hours from the harbor, but the scenery along the way makes the ride part of the adventure.
IV. Best Places to Visit on Nusa Penida Island
From world-famous cliffs to hidden coves, Nusa Penida Island is packed with natural wonders that feel both dramatic and unforgettable. Here are the must-see attractions you should not miss:
1. Kelingking Beach
The iconic cliff shaped like a T-rex is the most famous view on Nusa Penida Island. The beach below is stunning, but the path down is steep and exposed. Most visitors admire the view from above, especially at sunset.
2. Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong
These two spots sit side by side on the west coast. Broken Beach is a natural arch framing turquoise water, while Angel’s Billabong is a tidal pool carved into the rocks. Waves can be powerful here, so enjoy the view from safe ground.
3. Crystal Bay
Known for calm waters and sunsets, Crystal Bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Boats also depart from here for diving trips to nearby sites.
4. Atuh Beach and Thousand Islands Viewpoint
On the east coast, Atuh offers soft white sand framed by cliffs. Just above, the Thousand Islands viewpoint gives sweeping views of the coast, with tree houses perched on the ridges.
5. Diamond Beach Nusa Penida
This is the jewel of the east. A staircase carved into the cliff leads to a stretch of white sand and dramatic rock formations. Swimming is risky due to strong currents, but the views alone make it one of the island’s must-see highlights.
Diamond Beach Nusa Penida – Staircase descent to dazzling white sand. (Pair it with our best beaches in Thailand if you’re Southeast Asia–hopping.)
V. Diamond Beach Nusa Penida Travel Guide
Diamond Beach is one of the most striking sights on Penida Island. Located on the east coast, it combines dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and a staircase carved directly into the rock. The beach takes its name from the pointed limestone formations that rise from the sea like glittering diamonds.
How to Get There
From the harbor, it takes about two hours by car or scooter to reach Diamond Beach Nusa Penida. The road is steep in places, so hiring a driver is often the safer option. Parking is available near the entrance, where small warungs sell drinks and snacks.
What to Expect
The descent to the beach involves a staircase cut into the cliff. While it looks dramatic in photos, the path is safe if you move slowly and wear good shoes. Once at the bottom, you will find soft white sand and incredible views of the rock spires. Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, but the scenery is unforgettable.
Best Time for Photos
Morning light hits the cliffs and beach directly, making this the best time for photography. By afternoon, the sun moves behind the cliffs, creating more shade (See more highlights on the Wonderful Indonesia tourism site).. Many travelers pair a visit here with nearby Atuh Beach or the Thousand Islands viewpoint for a full day on the east side.
Visiting Diamond Beach Nusa Penida is often the highlight of a trip. The effort to get there is rewarded with views that feel wild, raw, and uniquely Indonesian.
VI. Hidden Gems and Less Crowded Spots on Nusa Penida Island
Beyond the famous viewpoints, Nusa Penida Island has quieter corners where you can escape the crowds. These hidden gems show a softer, more authentic side of the island.
1. Paluang Cliff
Just a short walk from Kelingking, Paluang offers a wide view of the same coastline but without the crowds. It is sometimes called the “car temple cliff” for its unique shrine.
2. Banah Cliff Point
This lookout on the southwest coast has sweeping views of the ocean and a natural arch rising from the sea. Sunset here is spectacular and often enjoyed in peace.
3. Tembeling Forest and Natural Pools
Tucked away on the south coast, Tembeling features a shaded forest trail leading to freshwater pools and a hidden beach. The walk can be tiring but the reward is worth it.
4. Peguyangan Waterfall
Known for its long blue stairway down the cliff, Peguyangan is more of a sacred spring than a waterfall. At the base you will find small temples and platforms overlooking the sea.
5. Smoke Beach
This remote spot gets its name from the misty spray created when waves crash into the cliffs. It is rarely visited, but the force of nature here is incredible.
These places require more effort to reach, but they let you experience Penida Island at a slower pace, away from the busiest tour groups.
VII. Two Perfect Itineraries for Nusa Penida Island
Two Days West Coast Highlights
If you only have a short time, focus on the island’s famous west coast.
- Day 1: Start at Kelingking Beach in the morning before crowds arrive. Continue to Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong, then end the day with a sunset at Crystal Bay.
- Day 2: Explore hidden spots nearby, such as Paluang Cliff or Banah Cliff, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon before heading back to Bali.
Three Days East and West Adventure
With three days, you can experience both sides of Nusa Penida Island.
- Day 1: Follow the west loop—Kelingking, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay.
- Day 2: Head east for Diamond Beach Nusa Penida, Atuh Beach, and the Thousand Islands viewpoint. Stop by the tree houses for panoramic views.
- Day 3: Discover hidden gems like Tembeling Forest pools, Peguyangan Waterfall, or Smoke Beach before catching your return boat.
Looking for broader inspiration? Here’s our guide to the best destinations to visit in Indonesia.
These itineraries balance adventure with downtime and give you a full picture of what makes Penida Island unforgettable.
VIII. Where to Stay on Nusa Penida Island
Accommodation on Nusa Penida Island is growing quickly, but choices still range from simple homestays to boutique resorts. Where you stay depends on which part of the island you want to explore most.
1. Staying on the West Side
The west coast, near Crystal Bay and Toya Pakeh, is convenient for travelers who want easier access to Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. This area has more dining options, dive centers, and a mix of guesthouses and mid-range hotels.
2. Staying on the East Side
For those who want to catch sunrise at Diamond Beach Nusa Penida or explore Atuh Beach, staying near the Thousand Islands viewpoint saves hours on the road. The east is quieter, with fewer restaurants but breathtaking scenery right on your doorstep.
3. Types of Accommodation
- Budget: Homestays and hostels run by local families, usually with breakfast included.
- Mid-range: Boutique bungalows and villas with pools and ocean views.
- High-end: A small number of luxury resorts, often booked out months in advance during peak season.
Booking early is essential, especially if you plan to visit during holidays or peak travel months.
IX. Food and Beach Breaks on Nusa Penida Island
Eating on Nusa Penida Island is simple and relaxed. Most options are small warungs, beach cafés, or guesthouse restaurants, but they provide plenty of energy between long drives and hikes.
Where to Eat
- Local warungs serve nasi goreng, mie goreng, grilled fish, and fresh coconuts. They are budget-friendly and found near most beaches and villages.
- Beach cafés around Crystal Bay and Atuh Beach are perfect for snacks, smoothies, and chilled drinks after swimming.
- Boutique restaurants in the Toya Pakeh and Crystal Bay areas offer Western options and are popular with divers and longer-stay visitors.
Best Beach Breaks
- Crystal Bay is a great spot to relax between sightseeing, with shaded lounges and clear water for snorkeling.
- Atuh Beach pairs well with a visit to Diamond Beach Nusa Penida, offering calmer conditions for swimming and a few small food stalls.
Taking regular breaks not only keeps you refreshed but also helps you slow down and enjoy the easy island rhythm.
X. Photo Tips by Location on Nusa Penida Island
Photography is one of the biggest draws of Nusa Penida Island, and timing makes all the difference. Each spot has its own rhythm of light and angles.
Kelingking Beach
Arrive in the morning for fewer people and softer light on the cliffs. Midday sun can create harsh shadows, while sunset paints the bay in golden tones—perfect for wide shots from above.
Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong
Late morning is best, as sunlight fills the arch and tidal pool with color. Stay alert to ocean swells; dramatic waves often make for striking action shots.
Crystal Bay
Sunset is the star here. Framing the sun against palm trees or boats creates a postcard-perfect image. If snorkeling, bring a waterproof case for underwater shots.
Atuh Beach and Thousand Islands Viewpoint
Sunrise lights up Atuh Beach beautifully, while the Thousand Islands viewpoint is best captured early before the haze sets in. A wide lens captures the dramatic coastline.
Diamond Beach Nusa Penida
Morning light illuminates the staircase and the limestone spires in the water. By afternoon, the cliffs cast long shadows. Position yourself halfway down the stairs for the classic wide-angle shot of the entire bay.
With patience and good timing, your photos will capture the wild beauty that makes Penida Island so unforgettable.
XI. Safety and Responsible Travel on Nusa Penida Island
The raw beauty of Nusa Penida Island comes with challenges. Being aware of safety risks and traveling responsibly ensures your trip is memorable for the right reasons.
Safety Tips
- Cliff edges: Places like Kelingking and Paluang Cliff have steep drop-offs with little to no barriers. Stay well back from the edge when taking photos.
- Strong waves: At Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Diamond Beach Nusa Penida, waves can be unpredictable. Never swim in rough conditions and always respect local warnings.
- Road conditions: Many roads are narrow, steep, and broken. Drive cautiously if on a scooter, and consider hiring a driver if unsure.
- Heat and hydration: Carry plenty of water, especially when exploring remote viewpoints with no shops nearby.
Responsible Travel
- Respect local culture: Temples on the island are active places of worship. Dress modestly and follow customs when visiting.
- Protect the environment: Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid leaving trash, and carry reusable bottles.
- Support locals: Choose family-run homestays, warungs, and drivers. Your spending helps the community benefit from tourism.
Traveling safely and responsibly not only protects you but also helps keep Penida Island beautiful for future visitors.
XII. Budget and Practicalities for Nusa Penida Island
Knowing what to expect with costs and logistics makes exploring Nusa Penida Island much smoother.
Typical Costs
- Fast boat from Bali: Around 150,000–250,000 IDR one way, depending on season and operator.
- RoRo ferry from Padang Bai: Cheaper but slower, and mainly used for vehicles.
- Scooter rental: About 75,000–100,000 IDR per day.
- Private driver: 600,000–800,000 IDR per day, including fuel.
- Accommodation: Budget homestays from 200,000 IDR, mid-range bungalows around 500,000 IDR, and boutique resorts from 1,000,000 IDR or more.
Travel Tips
- Cash only: ATMs are limited and can run out of money. Bring enough cash from Bali.
- Connectivity: Mobile data is patchy outside main towns. Download maps for offline use.
- Time on the road: Even short distances can take an hour due to road conditions, so plan fewer stops per day.
- Booking tours: Reserve snorkeling and diving trips at least a day in advance, especially during peak season.
By setting the right budget and preparing for basic conditions, your time on Penida Island will feel easier and more enjoyable.
XIII. Frequently Asked Questions about Nusa Penida Island
1. How do I travel from Nusa Penida to the Gili Islands?
You can take a fast boat from Nusa Penida to the Gili Islands, usually via Padang Bai or direct transfers offered by some operators. Travel time ranges from 2 to 3 hours depending on the route.
2. What are the best hotels on Nusa Penida Island?
Accommodation ranges from budget homestays to boutique resorts. Popular choices include cliffside villas near Kelingking Beach and beachfront stays at Crystal Bay. Booking early is recommended in peak season.
3. How much does a Nusa Penida Island tour cost?
Day tours from Bali start at around 400,000–600,000 IDR per person. Private driver tours on the island cost about 600,000–800,000 IDR per day, depending on distance and inclusions.
4. Where exactly is the Island of Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. It is part of the Nusa Islands trio, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, and is accessible by boat in about 45 minutes from Sanur.
5. How do I book a Nusa Penida Island ferry?
Fast boats operate daily from Sanur, Serangan, and Kusamba in Bali to Nusa Penida. Tickets cost around 150,000–250,000 IDR one way. Booking online or a day in advance ensures availability.
6. What does a typical Nusa Penida Island tour include?
Most tours cover famous spots such as Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay. East coast tours add Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach. Private tours offer more flexibility.
7. Where is Nusa Penida Island located on the map?
Nusa Penida lies in the Badung Strait, just southeast of Bali. It is the largest of the Nusa Islands and is about 45 minutes away by fast boat.
XIV. Conclusion
Nusa Penida Island is Bali’s untamed neighbor, a place where dramatic cliffs meet turquoise seas and quiet villages sit beside world-famous viewpoints. Whether you come for a quick getaway or a longer adventure, the island rewards travelers who plan ahead and take their time.
From Kelingking’s T-Rex cliffs to Diamond Beach Nusa Penida’s glittering sands, every stop feels like discovery. Plan wisely, travel responsibly, and you’ll see why Penida is one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia.
With thoughtful planning, safe travel habits, and respect for the environment, your trip to Penida Island will deliver the kind of raw beauty that stays with you long after you leave.
