Top 10 Things to Do on Nusa Penida, Bali
Nusa Penida is slowly getting the attention it deserves, rugged and beautiful with many things to do. Surprisingly there is a lot to do on this remote island of Bali, and choosing the best of the best has not been easy, but we have come up with a list that is all rounded from exploring into the deep sea or on land around the island and also finding all the secret nooks and picturesque spots.
Speedboats zip across daily from Sanur, Bali but mostly designed for people to go over and stay the night. This is all the better as this island has a lot of beautiful places to be explored and you would definitely more than a day to do that.
Here is our list of recommended top 10 things to do on Nusa Penida just for you:
Snorkeling off Crystal bay
This postcard worth beach aptly called crystal bay is one not to be missed on Nusa Penida. During low seasons, this beach is practically deserted, giving exclusivity which is now hard to find in the area of Bali, although it may not have the whites sand. Wedged between Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, the seas here are clear and it is also a great place to snorkel and enjoy the rich marine life.
Dive in the seas off Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida along with its sister Nusa Lembongan are popular islands for scuba divers. This is because the sea surrounding here is rich with marine life such as manta rays and whale sharks and the abundant corals. You will be able to find many tour operators that will take you out for dive trips here. The few popular diving spots around here are crystal bay, manta point, and blue corner.
Chill at Atuh Beach
This secret beach will take some time to find, surrounded by an amazing high cliff of limestone walls. The drive to get here is stunning and the trekking down the steep path to the beach gives the experience to remember. This beach is relatively unknown or the regular tourists just do not take the effort to come here, hence it’s well worth your time. Once arriving here, do spend the whole day chilling on this beautiful beach.
Kelingking Beach Secret Point
This beach is one of the must visit on Nusa Penida, and it is probably the most photographed section as well. The view from the cliff is simply beautiful, as you gaze off to the cliff stones that looks like a dinosaur chilling by the beach.
Marvel at the Broken beach / bay (Pasih Uug)
Thanks to its unique natural formation on the coastal rock, many people came here just to take a view and of course a photograph of the scene. Despite its name, it is not a beach but a sea tunnel through the cliffs. This hollowed cliff is also known as the bridge and is definitely a traveler’s favourite hunt.
Take a dip at the Angel’s Billabong lagoon
This is a lagoon set in between black volcanic rocks. It is located on a cliff down from the broken beach. Many people came here just to take pictures and some also attempt to swim but do be careful of the powerful waves that swept in. At the mouth of the river, the green-hued water is calm and clear.
Explore Gua Karang Sari cave
This cave is also known as Giri Putri, and it is more of a tunnel of 200m long. Many Buddhists and Hindus come here too to pray, as there is a temple located inside it. Besides the usual stalagmites and interesting cave features, there is also a stream that is believed to be of holy water.
Visit Pura Penataran Agung Ped temple
This temple is set in a pond and is greatly revered by worshippers from as far as Bali. It is located in the Ped Village on the main road. It is one of the most visited temples on this island and rightly so.
Take a swim in Tembeling water spring
This is a natural swimming pool in a rainforest surrounded by limestone cliffs. The fresh springs come from a cave that runs into the pool and then back into the ocean. Taking a swim here is special due to the dense forest surrounded it. Take note that there are separate pools for men and women.
Explore the island on two wheels
As there are still so many places unexplored in Nusa Penida, it is a good idea to rent a bike and go around hunting for your very own secret spots. Besides, you will be able to see more of the village life and check out other beaches that are dotted all over the island.
Nusa Penida with its rugged cliffs and clear blue seas are still quite unchartered despite being so close to the popular Bali. Come visit here before the rest of the world finds out. You will definitely find the sense of adventure here with its underwater activities and secret tourist attractions. If you want to explore further then head on to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan, the islands right next to it.
How to get to Nusa Penida and get around
There are speedboats from Sanur to Nusa Penida daily. There are also public boats daily but are not timed for day trips. Note that the seas are rough and you may have to wade through the water to the boats. Getting around Nusa Penida takes time because the roads are not well-maintained and steep, and the transport is limited. Most tourists rent a motorbike or charter a bemo or ojek.
Where to stay on Nusa Penida
Finding a place to stay in Nusa Penida * is not difficult. The top favourite hotel here is the Mahaloka Valley *, or if you are looking more for bungalow types, then it is either the Asoka Bungalow * with its traditional Balinese huts or the Kulkul Bungalows * for a homestay atmosphere.
Related articles:
Nusa Lembongan, Bali – What to Do, Where to Stay
Top 10 Things to Do in Sanur
Top 10 Things to do in Bali
Top 10 Things to Do in Lombok
Top 10 Best Bali Beaches
