A Backpacker’s Guide to Nusa Penida, Bali

Martha Pillin
Nov 9, 2024
14 min read

Updated: Dec 20, 2024

Nusa Penida, an island just off the southeast coast of Bali, is a tropical paradise known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Less crowded than the mainland, this island offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking landscapes like Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Atuh Beach. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a laid-back traveler, Nusa Penida has something for everyone—from snorkeling with manta rays to exploring hidden caves and temples. In this blog, we'll dive into the must-see spots and tips for making the most of your visit to this stunning island.

Chapters

When To Go To Nusa Penida

How To Get To Nusa Penida

Accommodation in Nusa Penida

Food and Drink

Things To Do in Nusa Penida

When To Go To Nusa Penida

Dry Season (April to October)

The dry season is the best time to visit Nusa Penida, as it offers the most stable and pleasant weather. This period is characterised by sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and lower humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island’s attractions.

Temperatures range from 26°C to 30°C, making it warm but not unbearably hot. The evenings can be cooler, especially from June to August, so packing a light jacket is advisable.

Best for:

Sightseeing: Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel's Billabong are stunning during this season, with clear skies providing the perfect backdrop for photos.
Snorkelling and Diving: The calm waters and excellent visibility during the dry season make it ideal for underwater activities like snorkelling with manta rays at Manta Bay or diving at Crystal Bay.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities: With little to no rain, it’s a great time for exploring hiking trails, visiting the Thousand Island viewpoint, or taking boat trips to nearby islands like Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

Wet Season (November to March)

Nusa Penida’s wet season brings more frequent rainfall and higher humidity, but it can still be a good time to visit for those seeking fewer crowds and lower costs. Rainfall typically comes in short, intense bursts, so you can still enjoy the island when the sun comes out between showers.

Expect higher humidity, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C. Rain showers are more frequent, but they often clear up quickly. The seas can also be rough, which may affect boat trips and diving conditions.

Best for:

Budget Backpackers: Since the wet season is the low tourist season, you can find lower prices on accommodations and tours.
Peace and Quiet: Fewer tourists visit during this period, so you’ll have the island’s beaches and attractions more to yourself.
Photography: The lush greenery during the wet season creates a vibrant, natural backdrop for photos.

Shoulder Months (April and October)

If you prefer to avoid both the crowds and the rain, the shoulder months—April and October—are great times to visit. The weather is generally dry and pleasant, and tourist numbers are lower compared to the peak season.

Best for:

Milder Weather: These months often have pleasant temperatures and fewer rainy days.
Better Deals: You can still find good deals on accommodations without the large crowds.
Water Activities: Ocean conditions tend to be favorable for diving and snorkeling during these months.

Nyepi (Silent Day)

Held in March (dates vary by year), this Balinese Hindu day of silence can be a unique cultural experience. However, it's important to note that all activities, including boat trips and travel, come to a halt on this day.

Travel Tip

If your goal is to see manta rays or the famous mola-mola (sunfish), you’ll want to visit between July and October, as this is the prime season for marine life sightings in Nusa Penida’s waters.

How To Get To Nusa Penida

Getting to Nusa Penida involves a boat journey from Bali or other nearby islands. There are no direct flights or land routes to Nusa Penida since it is a small island off the southeast coast of Bali. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali and beyond:

From Bali to Nusa Penida

The most common and convenient way to reach Nusa Penida is by boat from Bali. Several harbors offer fast boat services, which are the quickest and most popular option. Here are the main departure points from Bali:

Sanur Harbour (Denpasar Area)

Sanur is the most popular and well-serviced harbour for boats to Nusa Penida. It’s located about 30 minutes from the Ngurah Rai International Airport and most tourist areas in southern Bali, such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud.

Fast Boat: Numerous operators provide fast boat services between Sanur and Nusa Penida. Boats typically run from early morning (around 7:30 AM) until late afternoon (last boat around 5:00 PM).
Duration: The fast boat ride takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions.
Cost: Fast boat tickets cost between IDR 150,000 to 300,000 (around £8 to £16) for a one-way trip, depending on the operator and the season.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the harbor. It’s advisable to book in advance during the high season (July-August).

Sanur Harbour has no dock, so passengers board the boat from the beach, which might mean wading through water.

Padang Bai Harbour (East Bali)

Padang Bai, located about 1.5 hours from Ubud or 2 hours from the Kuta/Seminyak area, offers both fast boat and ferry services to Nusa Penida. It is a quieter harbor compared to Sanur, and the seas here are usually calmer.

Fast Boat: Fast boats from Padang Bai take about 30 to 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida.
Ferry: The traditional ferry is a slower and cheaper option, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. It is primarily used for vehicles and local passengers.
Cost: Fast boat prices range from IDR 150,000 to 250,000 (£8 to £13), while ferries are cheaper, typically under IDR 100,000 (£5).

Serangan Harbor (South Bali)

Located near the Nusa Dua area and about 45 minutes from Kuta and Seminyak, Serangan is another option for fast boats to Nusa Penida. The harbor offers a slightly more upscale experience compared to Sanur.

Fast Boat: Several fast boat operators run daily services to Nusa Penida. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Cost: Prices for a one-way ticket range from IDR 200,000 to 400,000 (£11 to £21), depending on the operator and season.

From Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan

If you are already on the neighboring islands of Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan, it’s easy to hop over to Nusa Penida via a local boat.

Local Boat: Small boats frequently run between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. The ride is short, taking about 15-20 minutes.
Cost: Typically costs between IDR 50,000 to 100,000 (£3 to £5).

From the Gili Islands or Lombok

If you’re traveling from the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno) or Lombok, there are fast boat services to Nusa Penida, though they are less frequent and longer compared to routes from Bali.

Fast Boat: Fast boats from the Gilis or Lombok can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to reach Nusa Penida. Many operators stop in Bali before continuing to Nusa Penida.
Cost: Prices range from IDR 300,000 to 600,000 (£16 to £32) depending on the operator and the route.

Arriving in Nusa Penida

Once you arrive at Nusa Penida, you will disembark at one of the island’s main ports: Toyapakeh Harbor or Buyuk Harbour. Toyapakeh is the busier port, with more tourist services like transport options, cafes, and accommodation nearby. It’s important to arrange transportation in advance, as there are no taxis on Nusa Penida.

Transport on the Island:

Scooter Rental: The most popular way to get around Nusa Penida is by renting a scooter, which costs around IDR 70,000 to 100,000 (£4 to £5.50) per day. Make sure you are comfortable with riding on rough and steep roads.
Private Car or Driver: If you prefer more comfort, you can hire a car with a driver for a day. This typically costs around IDR 600,000 to 800,000 (£32 to £42).

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Accommodation in Nusa Penida

Double’D Hostel

Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and personal lockers.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, on-site café, and garden area.

Common Areas: Cozy lounge, outdoor seating, and communal dining space.

Extras: Scooter rentals, tour bookings, and airport transfers.

Location: Centrally located in Nusa Penida, close to restaurants and a short ride from popular attractions like Kelingking Beach.

Cost: £10–£25/night.

To view the hostel click here

Moon Hostel

Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with clean, comfortable beds, air conditioning, and personal lockers.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, outdoor pool, and dining area.

Common Areas: Social lounge, poolside seating, and garden area.

Extras: Scooter rentals, snorkelling tours, and airport transfers.

Location: Conveniently located near Nusa Penida’s main harbour and within easy access to popular attractions like Crystal Bay.

Cost: £12–£30/night.

To view the hostel click here

Camar Cottage and Hostel

Rooms: Mixed dorms with comfortable bunk beds, privacy curtains, air conditioning, and lockers; private rooms also available.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, shared kitchen, and on-site restaurant serving local and international dishes.

Common Areas: Poolside lounge, garden seating, and communal dining area.

Extras: Scooter rentals, snorkelling tours, and island excursions.

Location: Quiet and scenic area of Nusa Penida, a short drive from popular attractions like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong.

Cost: £10–£35/night.

To view the hostel click here

Nuansa Penida Hostel

Rooms: Mixed and female-only dorms with comfortable beds, privacy curtains, air conditioning, and personal lockers.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, shared kitchen, and on-site restaurant.

Common Areas: Poolside lounge, garden seating, and social dining area.

Extras: Scooter rentals, snorkelling trips, tour bookings, and airport transfers.

Location: Centrally located on Nusa Penida, offering easy access to beaches and attractions like Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach.

Cost: £10–£25/night.

To view the hostel click here

Tara Hostel

Rooms: Mixed dorms with cozy bunk beds, air conditioning, personal lockers, and privacy curtains.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, and outdoor terrace.

Common Areas: Relaxing lounge area and garden seating.

Extras: Scooter rentals, snorkelling tours, and local sightseeing arrangements.

Location: Centrally located on Nusa Penida, a short ride from popular attractions like Crystal Bay and Angel’s Billabong.

Cost: £8–£20/night.

To view the hostel click here

Lushy Hostel

Rooms: Mixed dorms with modern bunk beds, privacy curtains, power outlets, air conditioning, and secure lockers.

Facilities: Outdoor pool with a swim-up bar, free Wi-Fi, a rooftop terrace, and an open kitchen available for guests.

Social Vibes: Famous for its lively atmosphere, daily events, and movie nights under the stars.

Extras: Affordable scooter rentals, snorkelling tours to manta rays, and group island adventures.

Location: Strategically placed near Sampalan Harbour, within walking distance to eateries and a short drive to top attractions like Crystal Bay and Rumah Pohon Treehouse.

Cost: £12–£30/night.

To view the hostel click here

The Penida Project

Rooms: Mixed dorms and private rooms with clean, minimalist design, comfortable beds, and air conditioning.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, shared kitchen, and an on-site café serving fresh, locally inspired dishes.

Social Vibes: Community-driven atmosphere with eco-conscious initiatives and group activities like beach cleanups.

Extras: Scooter rentals, snorkelling and diving tours, yoga sessions, and cultural workshops.

Location: Conveniently located near Toyapakeh Harbour, offering easy access to attractions like Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay.

Cost: £10–£35/night.

To view the hostel click here

Write Hostel

Rooms: Mixed dormitories and private rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and secure lockers.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, and cozy workspace for remote workers or writers.

Social Vibes: Quiet and creative atmosphere, perfect for digital nomads or solo travelers seeking a calm space.

Extras: Scooter rentals, island tours, snorkeling trips, and airport transfers.

Location: Centrally located, close to local restaurants and a short ride from attractions like Crystal Bay and Broken Beach.

Cost: £10–£30/night.

To view the hostel click here

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Food and Drink

Here are some of my favourite cafes, restaurants and bars in Nusa Penida:

Cafes

1. Papila’s Coffee House

Known for its expertly brewed coffee, including cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos. They also serve great smoothie bowls, pancakes, and sandwiches for breakfast. The air-conditioned interior is a nice break from the heat.

Price Range: £3 to £6 for breakfast and coffee.

2. Penida Espresso

Penida Espresso offers freshly brewed coffee and espresso drinks using locally sourced beans. They also have an excellent breakfast menu with options like smoothie bowls, eggs benedict, and pancakes.

Price Range: £3 to £7 for breakfast and coffee.

3. The Chill Penida

This laid-back spot offers healthy and delicious breakfast options like smoothie bowls, fresh fruit plates, and granola. They also serve great coffee, fresh juices, and coconut water, making it a perfect post-morning activity stop.

Price Range: £3 to £6 for breakfast and coffee.

4. Penida Colada

Penida Colada is known for its laid-back vibe and fresh breakfast offerings like smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and pancakes. Enjoy your meal with a great view of the ocean, making it an ideal morning spot. Their coffee is also highly praised, along with fresh juices and coconut water.

Price Range: £4 to £8 for breakfast and coffee.

5. Warung Tu Pande

A hidden gem for those who want a more local and budget-friendly breakfast. Warung Tu Pande serves simple yet delicious breakfast options, including banana pancakes, omelettes, and Indonesian coffee.

Price Range: £2 to £5 for breakfast and coffee.

Restaurants

1. Amok Sunset

Amok Sunset is known for its stunning cliffside views, making it perfect for a sunset dinner. The ambiance is casual yet chic, with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

Price Range: £8 to £15 per person.

Best For: Sunset dining with a view.

2. Penida Colada

Penida Colada is a beachfront café and restaurant with a relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for any meal of the day, but especially great for a light, refreshing lunch or dinner with a view. They serve healthy dishes, fresh seafood, and signature tropical cocktails.

Price Range: £5 to £10 per person.

Best For: Casual beachfront dining.

3. The Gallery Nusa Penida

Known for its beautifully presented dishes and relaxed ambiance, The Gallery offers a fine dining experience with local ingredients. The restaurant is also famous for its art gallery that showcases local artwork.

Price Range: £7 to £12 per person.

Best For: Couples or special occasions.

4. Warung Tu Pande

A local favourite, Warung Tu Pande offers authentic Indonesian food at affordable prices. The restaurant is small and cozy, providing a genuine Balinese dining experience.

Price Range: £2 to £5 per person.

Best For: Budget-friendly local cuisine.

5. Coco Penida Restaurant & Bar

Located on the beach, Coco Penida is known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide range of dishes, including seafood, burgers, pizzas, and Indonesian classics. It’s a great place for both lunch and dinner.

Price Range: £5 to £12 per person.

Best For: Family-friendly dining with a beachfront view.

6. Organica Fresh and Tasty Food

Organica focuses on fresh, plant-based meals and smoothies. It’s the go-to place for health-conscious travelers looking for vegan or vegetarian options.

Price Range: £4 to £8 per person.

Best For: Healthy, organic meals in a peaceful setting.

7. Sari Garden Resto & Bar

Sari Garden offers an intimate garden setting with fresh, locally sourced seafood and traditional Balinese dishes. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner.

Price Range: £6 to £10 per person.

Best For: Romantic or quiet dining.

Bars

1. Secret Penida Bar

True to its name, Secret Penida Bar offers a quieter, more intimate setting compared to other beachside bars. It’s great for couples or those who want a more peaceful atmosphere. The bar serves a good selection of cocktails, wines, and beers.

Price Range: £3 to £7 for drinks.

Best For: A quiet evening or a romantic drink.

2. Penida Sports Bar & Kitchen

For those looking to catch a game or enjoy a social evening, Penida Sports Bar is the go-to place. With big screens showing sports and a wide range of drinks, it’s perfect for group outings. They also have pool tables and other games for entertainment.

Price Range: £2 to £6 for drinks.

Best For: Watching sports, group hangouts, and casual fun.

3. Sea Breeze Bar

Sea Breeze Bar is another great spot for beachfront drinks with a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. The bar offers a good selection of beers, cocktails, and fresh juices, along with some light snacks.

Price Range: £3 to £7 for cocktails and beers.

Best For: Beachfront drinks and watching the sunset.

4. Singabu Beach Bar

Singabu Beach Bar offers a fun and energetic vibe right by the beach, with colorful décor and live music on some nights. It’s perfect for those who want a vibrant, social atmosphere while enjoying a variety of cocktails, beers, and mocktails.

Price Range: £3 to £7 for drinks.

Best For: Lively beachfront vibes and live music.

5. Toyo Beach Bar

This small, rustic bar offers a more chilled-out experience, with a simple setup right by the ocean. The friendly staff, stunning views, and ice-cold drinks make it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring.

Price Range: £2 to £5 for drinks.

Best For: Relaxed, no-frills beachfront drinks with a quiet atmosphere.

Things To Do in Nusa Penida

1. Visit Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Beach)

One of the most famous spots in Nusa Penida, Kelingking Beach is iconic for its stunning T-rex-shaped cliff. The view from the top is breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. For those feeling adventurous, there’s a steep path leading down to the pristine beach below, though the hike is challenging.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

Travel Tip

The hike down to the beach is tough and can be slippery, so wear good shoes if you plan to go down.

2. Snorkelling or Diving at Manta Point

Manta Point is renowned for its clear waters and the opportunity to swim alongside majestic manta rays. The visibility underwater is excellent, making it one of the best diving and snorkelling spots around Nusa Penida. Apart from manta rays, you’ll also see a variety of colourful fish and coral reefs.

Book a snorkelling or diving tour to Manta Point. Most tours also combine other great spots like Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay for diverse marine life experiences.

Travel Tip

The best time for snorkelling and diving is during the dry season (April to October) when the waters are calm.

3. Explore Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach

Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool with crystal-clear waters, where you can take a dip during low tide. Nearby is Broken Beach (Pasih Uug), a stunning natural rock formation where a large hole in the cliff allows water to flow into a beautiful lagoon. Take a swim at Angel’s Billabong (check the tides to ensure it’s safe), and take a walk around Broken Beach for photo opportunities. The turquoise water and the natural arch make for incredible pictures.

Best Time to Visit: Visit during low tide for Angel’s Billabong; otherwise, the water can be too rough.

Travel Tip

Be cautious at Angel’s Billabong as the waves can be unpredictable, especially during high tide.

4. Hike to Peguyangan Waterfall

This isn’t your typical waterfall. The journey to Peguyangan involves descending a steep set of blue stairs along a cliffside. The waterfall itself is small, but it flows into sacred pools with beautiful ocean views. It’s also a spiritual spot for locals who come to pray. Hike down the stairs to the waterfall and pools. The view of the ocean along the way is incredible, and it’s a great spot to cool off after the hike.

Travel Tip

Visit in the morning or afternoon to avoid the midday heat and wear proper footwear as the steps can be slippery.

5. Relax at Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is one of Nusa Penida’s most beautiful beaches, known for its calm waters and stunning underwater visibility, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkelling. It’s also a fantastic place to watch the sunset.

Spend the day swimming or snorkelling, or rent a sun bed and relax. The coral reefs here are teeming with marine life, including turtles and colorful fish.

Travel Tip

You can rent snorkelling gear at the beach, but it’s best to bring your own to ensure quality.

6. Visit Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach

Atuh Beach is one of the most picturesque spots on the island, with white sands, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Just nearby is Diamond Beach, known for its dramatic cliffside views and newly-built stairs that allow you to descend to the beach. Hike down the steps to Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach for a swim, or just relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.

7. Go Cliff Jumping at Mahana Point

For thrill-seekers, Mahana Point offers one of the best cliff-jumping spots on the island. You can leap off a platform into the clear blue waters below. There’s also a small bar nearby where you can relax and watch the action if you’re not jumping yourself. Test your courage with a cliff jump (there are different heights), or simply enjoy the views with a cold drink in hand.

Travel Tip

Check the tide levels before jumping, as the water is safest during high tide.

8. Take a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are smaller neighboring islands that offer beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and more adventurous activities like cliff jumping and surfing. You can visit these islands easily by boat from Nusa Penida. Explore the beaches, visit the iconic Yellow Bridge, snorkel in the clear waters, or rent a scooter to explore.

9. Go to Tembeling Natural Pools

Tembeling Natural Pool is a hidden gem on Nusa Penida, offering a tranquil escape surrounded by lush forest. The natural pool is fed by a spring, and there’s a nearby beach with dramatic cliffs and beautiful ocean views. The location feels remote, adding to its allure.Take a dip in the crystal-clear pool, explore the surrounding forest, and relax at the small beach nearby. There are also smaller freshwater pools and caves to explore.