14 Tips and Activities for This Stunning Indonesian Island
Nusa Penida is a rugged and beautiful island located just off the coast of Bali . With breathtaking cliffs, stunning viewpoints, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. Staying on the island also makes it easy to avoid the crowds. But what are the must-visit places? Here are the best spots and activities on Nusa Penida!
Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
One of the most iconic spots on Nusa Penida is Broken Beach. This unique bay gets its name from the natural arch that allows seawater to flow through. The view here is absolutely breathtaking, and you can spend hours watching the waves crash against the rocks. There are a few small restaurants around Broken Beach where you can grab a bite or a drink.
Tip: Visiting Broken Beach by scooter? Be cautious! The road leading there is in poor condition.
On the way to Broken Beach from the parking lot, you’ll pass Angel’s Billabong, a natural rock pool. While it may be tempting to take a swim, we strongly advise against it! The waves here are unpredictable and dangerous, and several accidents have already occurred. It’s also unsafe to stand too close to the edge when the waves are rough, as people have been swept away by the strong currents.
Tip: Many day tourists visit the most famous locations during the daytime, making them feel crowded. One advantage of staying on Nusa Penida is that you can avoid the rush. Visit the hotspots early in the morning or around sunset when most tourists have already returned to Bali.
Kelingking Beach
If there’s one place you recognize from photos of Nusa Penida, it’s Kelingking Beach. The cliff view resembles a T-Rex and is one of the most famous sights on the island. You can take a steep staircase down to the breathtaking white sand beach—but don’t forget you’ll have to climb back up! If you decide to go down, be careful when swimming. The waves and currents here are strong, and people have gotten into trouble before.
Price: The only fee is 5,000 IDR for parking your scooter.
Aside from being a popular tourist spot, this area is also home to many mischievous monkeys. Be mindful of your belongings, and avoid taking out food, as the monkeys will snatch it from you before you even notice!
Note: Unfortunately, a large glass elevator is currently being built from the viewpoint down to the beach. This not only ruins the stunning view but will also make Kelingking Beach even more crowded.
Pura Goa Giri Putri: A Unique Temple
This is probably one of the lesser-known spots on Nusa Penida. The Pura Goa Giri Putri temple is located inside a massive cave. You enter through a narrow opening, but once inside, the cave is surprisingly spacious. Several altars are placed throughout, and the temple is still actively used for ceremonies, making for a truly unique experience. Before entering, you are required to make a donation, and you can decide the amount yourself.
Tip: Don’t forget to wear a sarong. You can rent one at the shop at the bottom of the stairs for 10,000 IDR.
Teletubbies Hill
In the heart of Nusa Penida, you’ll find Teletubbies Hill, named after the iconic hills from the children’s TV show. This is a great spot for a short hike or just to relax and enjoy the peaceful landscape. If you’re hiking, be cautious in the tall grass, as snakes can sometimes be present.
Thousand Island Viewpoint
Another incredible viewpoint is Thousand Island Viewpoint. This is also where you’ll find the famous treehouse that many influencers have taken photos at. Want a photo? You’ll need to pay 75,000 IDR and only get two minutes! Luckily, the view from other areas is just as stunning. If you don’t care about the treehouse, simply walk past it—at the end of the cliff, you’ll get the best view.
Price: 10,000–15,000 IDR per person and scooter.
Diving with Manta Rays
Nusa Penida is known for its manta rays, which can be seen around the coast. You can book a diving tour to see these majestic creatures up close—an unforgettable experience!
Note: We didn’t go diving with manta rays because Tessa finds snorkeling adventurous enough! However, we’ve heard amazing stories about it. If you’re up for an underwater adventure, we highly recommend it!
Peguyangan Waterfall
Via a blue staircase along the cliff, you can descend to Peguyangan Waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass a small temple, and eventually, you’ll reach the waterfall. Keep in mind that the water flow varies depending on the season. We drove to this spot but ultimately didn’t complete the hike down to the waterfall.
Our Bali Hotspots Always at Hand?
We make it super easy by bundling our tips in Google Maps. Convenient to use within your Google Maps app on your phone.
Beach Clubs or Cliff Clubs
After a day full of activities, there’s nothing better than relaxing at a beach club. The best places to enjoy a stunning sunset are Amok Sunset and Amarta Penida. From these beach clubs, you can overlook Nusa Lembongan. These are both popular spots, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot.
How to Get to Nusa Penida?
You can take a boat to Nusa Penida from several locations. Prices vary depending on the company. Most tickets can be booked online, through your hotel, or at a local tour office.
From Sanur (Bali): The fastest option, about 30–40 minutes. Cost: 130,000 IDR per person.
From Padangbai: Takes about 2 hours. Cost: from 130,000 IDR per person.
From Gili T: A long journey of 2.5–3 hours. Cost: around 366,000 IDR per person.
From Nusa Lembongan: A short 15-minute ride. Cost: about 50,000 IDR per person.
Transportation on Nusa Penida
Grab and Gojek on Nusa Penida
These apps don’t work well here. No local drivers are registered, and the island’s weak internet connection makes booking a ride difficult.
Rent a Scooter or Hire a Driver
Renting a scooter is the best option, costing around 70,000 IDR per day. You can easily rent one at the harbor, where many are available. The roads aren’t always in great condition, so if you prefer not to drive yourself, you can use shared local taxis or hire a private driver..
Where to Eat on Nusa Penida?
Recommendations for good restaurants:
- Penida Colada Beach Bar
- Secret Penida Restaurant & Bar
- Next Level Cafe
- Warung Camole
- Gelato by Massimo
- Manta Point Bar & Resto
Our favorite hotels on Nusa Penida
Staying on Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan?
Nusa Penida is perfect voor avontuur en natuur, terwijl Nusa Lembongan meer geschikt is om te relaxen op het strand en te genieten van beach clubs. Als je de tijd hebt, raden we aan om op beide eilanden te verblijven. Door op Nusa Penida te verblijven heb je de ruimte om het drukke dagtoerisme te vermijden. Anders kun je er ook voor kiezen om op Nusa Lembongan te verblijven en vervolgens met de boot naar Nusa Penida te gaan. Daar kun je dan voor een dag een scooter huren om het eiland te ontdekken.
How Long Should You Stay on Nusa Penida?
In about three days, you can see most of Nusa Penida’s highlights without rushing.
Tip: Not staying overnight? You can also visit Nusa Penida on a day tour from Bali.. This is a great option if you have limited time but still want to see the island’s highlights without worrying about transportation and planning. Many tours offer a complete experience, including transport, a guide, and lunch, so you can fully enjoy your day trip. Check out the available options..
Discover more of
BaliTopics
About us
Hi, we are Marlo and Tessa and have developed an enormous passion for traveling through our world trip in 2022. We like to share this with you through our adventures and tips, so that you too can make such an incredible trip.
Treat us to a cup of coffee
Hi! Are you happy with our free travel tips about the most beautiful places in the world? And has it helped you with your next trip? Then treat us to a cup of coffee by clicking the button below. We really appreciate that and this way we can write many more useful tips and tricks in the presence of a delicious cup of coffee 😉 Thank you!
Volg ons op social media
-
About us
Hi, we are Marlo and Tessa and have developed an enormous passion for traveling through our world trip in 2022. We like to share this with you through our adventures and tips, so that you too can make such an incredible trip.
English 
Dutch