Nusa Penida: Complete Travel Guide to Bali’s Picturesque Island

Nusa Penida: Complete Travel Guide to Bali’s Picturesque Island

Nusa Penida, a stunning island paradise located southeast of Bali, Indonesia, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Renowned for its dramatic coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, Nusa Penida offers a perfect escape from the bustling mainland. Visitors can explore breathtaking spots like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay, each offering unique landscapes and photo opportunities. With its crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving, along with lush inland areas perfect for hiking it is a truly must visit island in Indonesia. Discover the untouched beauty and serene atmosphere of Nusa Penida, an island gem that captivates every traveler.

As of our visit in 2024, there is a 25K IDR entrance fee to the island.

• Quick Guide
• When to Visit
• Transportation
• Accommodation
• Where to Eat
• Beach Clubs
• Top Activities
• Best Beaches

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Quick Guide

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah

Primary Language: Indonesian is the official and national language of Indonesia. It is a standardized variety of Malay, an Austronesian language that has been used as a lingua franca in the multilingual Indonesian archipelago for centuries. However there are many dialects:

Dialects: Javanese, Sundanese, Balinese language, Minangkabau language, Betawi, Ambon, Medan, Batak

Important Phrases:

When to Visit Nusa Penida

Deciding when to visit Nusa Penida depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Nusa Penida enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season, from April to October, is considered the peak tourist season. Characterized by sunny days, lower humidity levels, and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island’s natural wonders, including stunning beaches and breathtaking viewpoints. However, it’s essential to note that accommodation prices may be higher, and popular attractions can be crowded during this time.

On the other hand, the wet season, from November to March, brings occasional rainfall and higher humidity levels. This also means however, fewer crowds and lower prices on accommodation and activities.

While some outdoor activities may be affected by the rain, the lush green landscapes and vibrant marine life during this time can provide a unique and immersive experience for travelers.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Nusa Penida depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and budget. Whether you choose to visit during the dry season for optimal weather conditions or during the wet season for a more budget-friendly experience, Nusa Penida’s stunning natural beauty and adventurous spirit await you year-round.

Transportation around Nusa Penida

While Nusa Penida may not have a sophisticated public transport network like larger cities, it still offers several modes of transportation to get around efficiently.

One of the most common forms of public transport in Nusa Penida is the motorbike taxi, locally known as “ojeks,” which are readily available for short trips and can navigate the island’s rugged terrain with ease.

Additionally, travelers can rent scooters or motorbikes to explore Nusa Penida independently, offering flexibility and freedom to discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Boat services are also available for traveling between Nusa Penida and neighboring islands like Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

While public transport options in Nusa Penida may be limited compared to other destinations, they still offer convenient ways to explore the island and experience its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and stunning viewpoints.

Accommodation on Nusa Penida

Annaya House:

Exploring around the island was a big priority for us so we wanted a location that would help make our adventures easily accessible. We chose Annaya House as it was centrally located making it not right next to anything, but closer to everything as a whole. The family who runs it is very kind. They make fresh breakfast every morning, offer scooter rental and even shared some home made plum liquor with us one night.

Hotels & Apartments:

If you want the chance to look for a wide variety of accommodations, in a full price range, here is you best search options:

Hostels:

If you are more interested in parties, nightlife and having automatic meet ups then maybe a hostel is for you! Check out the options here.

Where to Eat on Nusa Penida

Most of our meals were had at the beach clubs during this visit. There are plenty of places along the coastline offering a variety of dining options. We spent time getting work done for a large chunk of the day at beach clubs with good wifi and it made sense to eat while there so most of our food recommendations are below in the beach club section of this article.

Additional Recommendations:

• Amarata Penida
• Amok Sunset Bar & Restaurant

Beach Clubs

Penida Colada Beach Bar

Penida Colada Beach Bar on Nusa Penida is a beloved hotspot for travelers seeking a relaxed and vibrant beachfront experience. Nestled along the island’s picturesque coastline, this beach bar is renowned for its tropical ambiance, colorful decor, and stunning ocean views. The laid-back atmosphere is complemented by friendly service and regular live music events, making it an ideal spot for socializing and unwinding. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely lunch, sip on a signature cocktail, or watch the sunset, Penida Colada Beach Bar offers a quintessential beachside retreat on Nusa Penida.

Cactus Beach Club

Cactus Beach Club on Nusa Penida is a trendy and vibrant beachfront destination that offers an idyllic blend of relaxation and entertainment. Set against the backdrop of the island’s stunning coastline, this beach club is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, stylish decor, and panoramic ocean views.

Guests can enjoy delicious cocktails, fresh seafood, and a variety of international dishes while lounging on comfortable sunbeds or taking a dip in the infinity pool. With its live music, friendly service, and breathtaking sunsets, Cactus Beach Club provides the perfect setting for a memorable day out. 

Fees: there is a minimum spend that changes based on the seat selection you choose. This spend goes towards food and drinks so if you plan to stay a while or order some of the higher priced things, get the more comfortable beds.

Mambo Dive Resort

Mambo Dive Resort on Nusa Penida is a premier destination for diving enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure. Located conveniently near some of the island’s top dive sites, Mambo Dive Resort offers exceptional diving experiences with its state-of-the-art facilities and professional, friendly staff.

Guests can explore the vibrant coral reefs, encounter majestic manta rays, and discover the diverse marine life that thrives in the crystal-clear waters of Nusa Penida. The resort provides comfortable accommodations, delicious dining options, and a relaxing atmosphere, making it the perfect base for both novice and experienced divers. With its prime location and outstanding services, Mambo Dive Resort is the go-to spot for a memorable diving holiday on Nusa Penida.

Top Activities

Ruma Pohon Treehouse

Rumah Pohon Treehouse, offers a unique and enchanting stay amidst the island’s lush natural beauty. Perched high on a cliff, this treehouse provides breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise ocean, rugged coastline, and surrounding greenery. It’s a perfect spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking for an unforgettable experience.

The charming, rustic design of the treehouse, combined with its serene and secluded location, makes it an ideal retreat for relaxation and photo opportunities. Whether you’re waking up to a spectacular sunrise or enjoying the tranquil ambiance, Rumah Pohon Treehouse promises a magical escape in Nusa Penida.

Fee Info: this has become a way to make money for the locals. You will pay a parking fee, an entrance fee and a photography fee if you want to take photos at the treehouse. There are other “photo spots” in the area but the treehouse is the main attraction.

Teletubbies Hill

Teletubbies Hill on Nusa Penida is a captivating destination that mesmerizes visitors with its rolling green hills and panoramic vistas. Named after the whimsical hills from the popular children’s show, Teletubbies Hill offers a unique and picturesque landscape, characterized by its lush, undulating terrain that stretches as far as the eye can see.

This scenic spot is perfect for nature lovers and photographers, providing an ideal backdrop for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset views. Easily accessible and offering a serene escape from the island’s coastal attractions, Teletubbies Hill is a must-visit location that showcases the diverse natural beauty of Nusa Penida.

Best Beaches

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida is a pristine paradise that offers visitors a breathtaking blend of stunning natural beauty and serene tranquility. Nestled on the southeastern coast of the island, this idyllic beach is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and powdery white sand. Accessible via a scenic staircase carved into the cliffs, Diamond Beach rewards adventurers with panoramic views and a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and photography.

• How to Visit: scooter is easiest but you can have a driver as well
• Best Time to visit: Sunset is better for lighting
• Entrance Fee: 5k per scooter 10k per car PLUS 10k per person entrance (includes Auto beach as well) CASH ONLY
• Tip: if you plan to climb down wear proper shoes, you will have to climb down a rope on steep and narrow ledges
• Swimming: not the best as the waves are rough and full of sharp shells

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida is an iconic destination that captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty and dramatic landscapes. Known for its distinctive T-Rex-shaped cliff, this stunning beach offers panoramic views of turquoise waters and rugged limestone formations.

Accessible via a steep and adventurous trek, Kelingking Beach rewards intrepid travelers with a secluded stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters. Its perfect for sunbathing and exploring.

As one of Bali’s most photographed spots, Kelingking Beach is a must-visit for those seeking both adventure and breathtaking scenery. Experience the unrivaled allure of Kelingking Beach, a true gem in Nusa Penida’s crown of natural wonders.

• How to Visit: scooter is easiest but you can have a driver as well
• Best Time to visit: Sunset is better for lighting
• Entrance Fee: 5k per scooter 10k per car
• Tip: if you plan to climb down wear proper shoes, you will have to climb down a rope on steep and narrow ledges
• Swimming: not allowed

Additional Beaches

• Atuh Beach
• Broken Beach
• Tembeling Beach & Forest

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Copyright Notice: All material on this travel blog site is the sole property of Travel Munchers.  This includes blog posts, pages, design and all photos (whether watermarked or not). Any use of materials from this site without express written consent will be considered copyright infringement.