Top 21 Things to Do in Nusa Penida, Bali

Imagine white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, epic viewpoints, manta rays and cute cafes. These are just a few of the best things to do in Nusa Penida Bali. There are so many must-see places to visit in Nusa Penida and you can spend as long as 10-14 days here if you have the time. But, for most, hitting the highlights of Nusa Penida can be done in 1-3 days. 

This guide will show you 21 of the top Nusa Penida things to do, and will have you booking your trip in no time!

READ MORE | Check out where to stay in Nusa Penida for every region and budget

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Where is Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida island is the largest island in a chain of three islands situated 45 minutes by boat off the southeast tip of Bali. NusaPenida is accompanied by Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan to create a traveller’s paradise and a must-see spot when visiting Bali.

How to Get to Nusa Penida

Bali to Nusa Penida

The boat to Nusa Penida from Bali runs from Sanur Beach Harbour and is the best way of getting to Nusa Penida island. The fast boat passenger ferry runs multiple times a day, and seven days a week. It’s always a good idea to be aware of local holidays before planning your trip to Nusa Penida, as this may mean the ferry schedule is limited during those times.  

BOOK | Check Price + Schedule of Boat to Nusa Penida

There is a less frequent ferry that transports cars to the island if you can’t do without your vehicle. This ferry takes much longer to get to the island, and really isn’t the best option for getting to Nusa Penida.

Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida

While Nusa Penida is the largest of the 3 Nusa Islands, there is much to explore on Nusa Lembongan during the day. Make your way to the ToyaPakeh Harbour located on the North coastline of Nusa Penida Bali and book your 10-minute small boat transport to Nusa Lembongan’s Yellow Bridge Harbour. 

No need to purchase early, as the tickets can be paid in cash, which is 50,000 IDR (around $3.50 USD) at any of the vendors on the beach. Boats run every hour or so and do expect to wait as boats tend to depart earlier and later than expected.

Day Trip from Bali to Nusa Penida

If you are looking for a fun-packed day that will have you from mainland Bali to Nusa Penida and back in one day, this day tour is the one for you. This Nusa Penida day trip will take you to Nusa Penida places to visit like Kelingking ‘T-Rex’ Beach, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and even Crystal Bay for snorkelling. The tour will include a hotel transfer to the harbour, a fast boat to and from Nusa Penida island, and a car charter. You can choose up to five people for this Nusa Penida tour.

BOOK | Nusa Penida Full Day Trip from Bali

Nusa Penida is full of Instagrammable spots, and if you are wanting to get the best photos of each spot, this full day tour may be for you. A group charter will transport you to Nusa Penida must see places like Kelingking ‘T-Rex’ Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong, and more. The tour even comes with a personal drone pilot.

BOOK | Nusa Penida Tour from Bali

Getting Around Nusa Penida

If you want to experience true island life, definitely rent a scooter upon arrival in the harbour as your Nusa Penida transport. A scooter is by far the best way of getting around Nusa Penida and seeing all the best things to do in Nusa Penida.

It can take up to an hour to get across the island and in recent years, Nusa Penida has made an effort to build a nicely paved coastal road that runs on the east side of the island, but many of the attractions will still have rougher patches. Make sure to ask for a helmet with your rental as a precaution, better to be safe than sorry!

The cost of a scooter rental, including a full tank of gas, will be 70,000 IDR a day (approximately $4.85 USD) from any vendor at the ToyaPakeh Harbour. 

Of course, there is always the option to book a private self-drive car charter if the idea of driving around a scooter is not your idea of fun. 

BOOK | Nusa Penida Private Car Charter

Where to stay in Nusa Penida

The island has some really great unique Nusa Penida hotels. I have taken the time to recommend the top ones I believe you will love! There is something for everyone on this list and I highly suggest staying in Nusa Penida to see all the island has to offer.

Autentik Penida Glamping | Mid-range Value 

Set on stilts among the jungle of Nusa Penida, is Autentik Penida Glamping. The luxury tents located a 5-minute drive inland from Crystal Bay in Northwest Nusa Penida is one of the most unique stays on the island. The designer camp comes with a beautiful shared pool and well-equipped tents with balconies to enjoy the view.

The Mesare Resort | Luxury

The Mesare Resort consists of luxury cabins nestled in the central interior of Nusa Penida. Well located if you plan to explore the entire island, as everything is within a 30-minute drive. This Nusa Penida hotel features attractive wicker furniture, outdoor showers, a shared pool, restaurant, and yoga shala.

Semabu Hills Resort | Luxury

Semabu Hills Resort will give you all the creature comforts of a classic western hotel chain. The resort features one of the most epic infinity pools in Nusa Penida with sweeping views of the jungle and ocean. This Nusa Penida hotel is located close to the ToyaPakeh Harbour for easy commuting to and from your fast boat ferry.

La Roja Bungalows | Budget

Located on the Northeast coastline of Nusa Penida, the La Roja Bungalows are budget-friendly. The cute individual bow-roofed houses surround a shared pool and are a great place to make friends and relax. The Northeast area of Nusa Penida also has the biggest concentration of western and trendy cafes to explore like Penida Colada Beach Bar, one of my favourites.

The Best Nusa Penida Things to Do

1. Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach is one of the best beaches in Nusa Penida. Also known as T-Rex Beach because the rock formation resembles a dinosaur, this beach is a Nusa Penida must see spot. You can stay at the top and admire the view, or trek down the steep stairs to frollick on the golden sand beach. Swimming is not recommended here due to the currents.

WHERE | Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida

2. Angel’s Billabong

Just down the coastline from Kelingking is Angel’s Billabong, Nusa Penida Bali. This scenic natural tidal pool is located right at Manta Bay, and is one of the best places to visit in Nusa Penida. Make sure to arrive at low tide, as the current can produce some scary waves crashing into the natural pool at high tide.

READ | Check out this comprehensive guide to Angel’s Billabong, Nusa Penida

WHERE | Angel’s Billabong, Nusa Penida

3. Broken Beach

Just a short walk from Angel’s Billabong is picturesque Broken Beach, Nusa Penida. This arched rock formation sits on the western coastline of Nusa Penida island as a natural gate between Manta Bay and the pool surrounded by the cliff’s edge. The heat here can get quite intense, so remember to bring your sunscreen and hat.

READ | Need for info? Peruse this complete guide to Broken Beach, Nusa Penida

WHERE | Broken Beach, Nusa Penida

4. Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach, easily takes the top spot on the list of best beaches in Nusa Penida. This idyllic tropical white sand beach with swaying palms, verdant cliffs, and cool rock formations, is an absolute Nusa Penida must see. Climb down the stairs that have been chiseled out of the side of the cliff and enjoy an experience you’ll always remember. Don’t swim here though, as the current is mighty strong!

READ | Get all the tips you need for visiting the epic Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida

WHERE | Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida

5. Atuh Beach

Just over the coastline from Diamond Beach is Atuh Beach. This stunning beach can be enjoyed all day long, coconut in hand. The current here isn’t as strong as Diamond Beach, which makes it perfect for frolicking in the waves.

Make your way here after you’ve visited Diamond Beach, just over the cliff viewpoint and down a set of steep stairs. If you plan on staying on the island for a few days, this is a great Nusa Penida things to do for a whole afternoon.

READ | The Most Instagrammable Places in Bali

WHERE | Atuh Beach, Nusa Penida

6. Rumah Pohon Tree House

The Famous Nusa Penida Treehouse has to be on anyone’s Bali tour and is one of the best things to do in Nusa Penida. The basic, but quaint, one-room house perches atop a tree overlooking the most beautiful part of the Nusa Penida eastern coastline.

Book your stay here on Agoda.com and make sure to rise bright and early for the most spectacular sunset of your life. 

READ | Get all the details with this ultimate guide to the Nusa Penida Treehouse

WHERE | Rumah Pohon Tree House, Nusa Penida

BOOK | Spent an unforgettable night at the Nusa Penida Treehouse

7. Thousand Island Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu)

Located at the same spot as the Nusa Penida treehouse is the Thousand Island Viewpoint. This viewpoint is a must see things to do in Nusa Penida.

Once you reach the treehouse, continue on up the cliff outwards to the sea and turn to the left. You will see an epic view of Diamond Beach and the Indian Ocean as far as the eye can see. The best time to visit is sunrise.

READ | Looking for other epic Bali viewpoints? Check out Lahangan Sweet, Bali

WHERE | Thousand Island Viewpoint, Nusa Penida

8. Tembeling Natural Pool

Tembeling natural pool is a relatively unknown tourist attraction wedged into the side of the western coastline of Nusa Penida. Some of the clearest water you will ever see, and a great view of the ocean and beach greets you at this Nusa Penida must see spot.

Be aware that the trek down to this place is a bit long, so make sure to plan enough time. Best visited in the afternoon’s golden hour if you can.

READ | The complete guide to Tembeling Nusa Penida

WHERE | Tembeling Natural Pool, Nusa Penida

9. Tembeling Beach and Forest

Tembeling Beach and Forest is connected to Tembeling natural pools. The lush rainforest and beach is a great place to visit if you want a more off-the-beaten-path location in Bali Penida island. Make sure to check out the Tembeling blue lagoon and secret cave on your way down to the beach.

READ | A Visitor’s Guide to Tembeling Beach and Forest, Nusa Penida

WHERE | Tembeling Beach and Forest, Nusa Penida

10. Goa Giri Putri Temple

The underground temple of Goa Giri Putri can be found halfway up the mountain on the northern side of Nusa Penida and is one of the best cultural things to do in Nusa Penida. The atmospheric temple can be reached up steep stairs, and through a crack in the wall, before entering a large cave. Make sure to rent the sarong before entering, as this is a religious site and should be respected by all. 

WHERE | Goa Giri Putri Temple, Nusa Penida

11. Crystal Bay Beach

If you are looking to play in the waves and do some snorkeling, Crystal Bay Beach is for you. The beach is one of the best places to visit in Nusa Penida if you plan to stay a couple of nights or more. Go early in the morning to see the sea life or arrive at sunset to enjoy a coconut from one of the many warungs and an epic view.

WHERE | Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida

12. Manta Ray Snorkelling

One of the Nusa Penida best things to do is snorkel with manta rays. These gentle creatures are an awe to see and this island, especially at Manta Bay, has some of the best sightings in Indonesia.

You can book a boat from Crystal Bay or Toya Pakeh Harbour from one of the locals there for around 300 000 IDR ($20 USD) for a group trip or rent a private boat with a captain for 800 000 – 100 000 IDR ($55-70 USD) depending on the duration and locations you would like to visit.

BOOK | Nusa Penida Snorkelling Tour

13. Peguyanan Waterfall

Another great things to do in Nusa Penida is the Peguyanan waterfall. This attraction is visited for the iconic blue staircase that floats down the side of the cliff. It takes about 20 minutes to descend. Make sure you don’t have an aversion to heights for this one!

There is a temple and a small waterfall at the bottom, where locals take a pilgrimage. You can use the 3 small spouts to cleanse yourself in the common water ritual. Don’t forget to stop on the stairs for one of the best views of the Nusa Penida Bali coastline. 

WHERE | Peguyanan Waterfall, Nusa Penida

READ | Looking for epic Bali waterfalls? Check out the hidden gem Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Bali

14. Teletubbies Hills

Teletubbies Hills is located in the southern region of Nusa Penida island. This spectacular natural attraction has tourists flocking to see the lush dome-shaped hills that when seen from above, create an interesting texture. Best if you have a drone to capture all this attraction has to offer.

WHERE | Teletubbies Hills, Nusa Penida

15. Banah Cliff Point 

The epic sunset spot of Banah cliff point is located between Kelingking Beach and Tembeling beach and forest. There are two separate spots here where you can ponder the great blue expanse and the NusaPenida coastline. There is also an arched rock formation out in the water to ogle at.

WHERE | Banah Cliff Point, Nusa Penida

READ | Are you a fan of epic viewpoints? Check out this guide to Bukit Cinta, Bali

16. Penida Colada Beach Bar

This little beach bar located on the northeast side of Nusa Penida is a local and tourist favourite alike. Pull up a bean bag and relax under an umbrella and watch the waves with a pina colada in hand. We especially enjoyed their avocado toast and fresh young coconut combo. If you are looking for where to eat in Nusa Penida, this is the spot for you.

WHERE | Penida Colada, Nusa Penida, Bali

17. Diving Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida Bali is one of the best diving sights in Indonesia and diving here is one of the most fun things to do in Nusa Penida. A plethora of marine life is at your fingertips including manta rays, mola mola sunfish, and even sea turtles. This is also a great place to get your PADI, too. Whatever your skill level, there will be something for you.

18. Day trip to Nusa Lembongan / Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Penida is the largest of the 3 islands located off the southeast coast of Bali. But, don’t be deceived by the small size of both Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan as they have so much to offer, including Devil’s Tears, Dream Beach, Jungut Batu Beach, and the Blue Lagoon.

Hop on a local boat heading out of the Toya Pakeh Harbour and take the 10-minute cruise over to these not-to-be-missed islands.

WHERE | Catch a boat to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan

19. Suwehan Beach

If you just can’t get enough of what Diamond Beach has to offer then Suwehan Beach is for you. Located on the southern tip of the Bali Penida island, it features clear strikingly blue water, white sands, and epic cliffs. Take the approximately 350 steep stairs down to this piece of paradise. Make sure to come at low tide only, as high tide engulfs the whole strip of sand.

WHERE | Suwehan Beach, Nusa Penida

20. Stay in a Cute Bungalow

Like most parts of Bali, the island of Nusa Penida is no exception when it comes to cute places to stay. Most of what you can find here are individual bungalow-style accommodations that can be quite economical to stay in. Try La Roja Bungalows for a centrally located base for your tour around and to see all the best Nusa Penida places to visit. It takes about 45 minutes to get everywhere on the island from here.

BOOK | La Roja Bungalows, Nusa Penida

21. The Chill Penida

Another cool hotspot on NusaPenida is The Chill. As aptly named, this beach bar is great for spending the day eating, drinking, swimming, and socializing. Located right on the ocean on the eastern coastline of Nusa Penida, it can’t get any better than this and is one of Nusa Penida best things to do. 

WHERE | The Chill, Nusa Penida

What to Take to Nusa Penida

Besides your usual belongings, I would suggest bringing the following things along with you to make the most of your visit to Nusa Penida:

DAY PACK | I travel with my WANDRD backpack, it comes with a compartment for your camera and tons of space for all your other goodies 

MIRRORLESS CAMERA | If you want to invest in something other than your camera phone (the newest phones have great cameras by the way), I purchased the Sony A7iii with a Sigma 24-70mm 2.8 lens. Couldn’t be happier. 

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | Let’s help save our planet from plastic pollution and carry around a reusable water bottle instead. I love my Swell water bottle as it stays cold for 24 hours and is lightweight. A LARQ water bottle would also fit the bill and has water purifying technology built right in.

More Tropical Paradise Inspiration

TEMBELING NUSA PENIDA | Crystal clear natural pools, a secret cave, white sand beaches, and nature galore, Tembeling Nusa Penida is one of the best things to do in Nusa Penida

NUSA PENIDA TREEHOUSE | The famous Rumah Pohon treehouse perches on the coastline cliffs of Nusa Penida

DIAMOND BEACH NUSA PENIDA | One of Nusa Penida’s best beaches, Diamond Beach brings white sand, turquoise waters, mighty cliffs, and rock formations. Adventure abounds.

ANGEL’S BILLABONG NUSA PENIDA | A scenic natural infinity pool on the west coast of Nusa Penida with tidal pool, volcanic rock, and views of Manta Bay

BROKEN BEACH NUSA PENIDA | A spectacular arched rock formation as a gateway between Manta Bay and a spectacular turquoise inlet on the edge of the western Nusa Penida coastline

THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN BALI | My top recommendations on where to get the perfect Instagram photo to wow your audience

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