Nusa Penida. Done right!
- Keya
- Jan 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 15
Visiting Bali for the first time? Don’t skip Nusa Penida. The island plays by its own rules—transport, terrain and tides—so it can be confusing. This guide cuts through the myths and shows the smartest way to see it.
Nusa Penida is all edges and awe: limestone cliffs plunge into electric-blue water, manta rays loop over offshore reefs, and small coves hide between jagged headlands. The island’s wildness still rules—the swell is serious, paths can be steep, and travel times run longer than maps suggest.
What’s new is the soft infrastructure: smoother boat crossings from Bali, more local guides and ocean operators, added railings and parking at big viewpoints, and a growing scatter of cafés and stays near the harbours. Expect modest entry fees at some sights and the occasional queue for that postcard angle.
What hasn’t shifted is the drama of the coastline, the chance of a manta glide-by, and the need to move with respect—for tides, for temples, and for the communities who call this island home.
Here are some points to take note if you are heading to Nusa Penida by yourself or with the help of a tour company.
Before You Go
Bali Tourist Levy: Rp 150,000 per visit. Pay on the official Love Bali website or app and retain the QR receipt.
Local Entry Fee: Domestic and foreign tourists pay an entrance ticket of IDR 25,000 per adult or IDR 15,000 for children.
Both levy & fee can be paid at (lovebali.baliprov.go.id).
Getting There
From Bali (Sanur Port): Fast boats run to Banjar Nyuh/Toya Pakeh and Sampalan. Crossings take 30–45 minutes with multiple operators daily; last departures are typically late afternoon. Book online via AsiaFerries (asiaferries.com+2Maruti Fast Boat+2).
Alternative departures: You can also sail from Kusamba or Padangbai, sometimes the faster option for the northeast.
Getting Around the Island
Options: Hire a car with a local driver (easiest for first-timers), rent a scooter only if you’re confident, or join an organised tour.
Road Reality: The ring road is fair, but many access roads are steep, narrow and partly unpaved. Crashes are commn, so ride within your limits.
Top Areas & Must-See Spots
West Loop:
Kelingking (“T-Rex”) Viewpoint & Beach—iconic view, very steep trail, hazardous surf.
Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong—natural arch and tidal pool; keep distance from the edge due to rogue waves.
Crystal Bay—snorkel sunsets with calmer water.
East Loop:
Atuh Beach & Diamond Beach—limestone vistas, stairway descent; powerful shore break; heed “no swim” signage when posted.
Thousand Islands Viewpoint & Tree House Molenteng—panoramic ridge views.
Culture:
Goa Giri Putri Temple—cave temple; sarong and sash required.
Underwater:
Manta Point / Manta Bay—reef mantas year-round; go early, choose licensed operators.
Crystal Bay, Toyapakeh, SD Point—reef life and, in season, mola mola (cold upwellings).
Where to Stay (By Base & Vibe)
Toyapakeh/Banjar Nyuh: best for boats, dive shops, easy dinners.
Crystal Bay: sunset and snorkel access, quieter nights.
Sampalan/Buyuk: handy for east-coast sunrises and Diamond/Atuh daybreaks.
Suggested Itineraries
Day Trip (West Highlights): Early boat → Kelingking → Broken Beach/Angel’s Billabong → Crystal Bay swim/sunset → late boat back.
2D/1N (West + East): Day 1 West loop; Day 2 sunrise at Diamond/Atuh → Thousand Islands → mid-afternoon boat.
3D/2N (Add Ocean Time): Slot in a manta snorkel/dive morning (conditions permitting) and an easy north-coast roam.
What To Prepare:
Cash (carry small bills for parking/warung).
ESIMs (Telkomsel/eSIMs work best on the north/west coasts).
Sarong (cover shoulders/knees; rent or bring a sarong for visiting temple).
Rippy shoes, dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, motion tablets.
Licensed Tour Operator:
Any questions? Feel free to ask at our discussion group.
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