Nusa Penida, also known as Penida Island, is a small island southeast of Bali in Indonesia’s Klungkung Regency. While it's technically part of Bali province, Nusa Penisa is actually a separate island—and the largest of the three Nusa Islands, alongside Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.
A popular tropical holiday destination, Nusa Penida is still relatively undeveloped – especially in comparison to Bali – and is a beautiful place to visit for its immaculate beaches, clear blue waters, and dramatic clifftop views. Just 45 minutes from Bali by fast boat, Nusa Penida is an incredibly popular day trip destination, but it’s also the perfect place to spend a few days unwinding away from the hustle and bustle of Bali.
In this guide, we’ll help you plan your trip to Nusa Penida – from how to get there, the top things to do, where to stay, the best places to eat and drink, plus a few handy tips for making the most of your time.
Guide to Nusa Penida
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Table of contents
- Where is Nusa Penida?
- Is Nusa Penida worth visiting?
- How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali
- Getting around Nusa Penida
- Top 10 things to do in Nusa Penida
- See the T-Rex cliffs of Kelingking Beach
- Swim with the majestic manta rays
- Snorkel from the shores of Crystal Bay
- Visit the natural arch of Broken Beach
- Hike the blue stairway to Peguyangan Waterfall
- Venture into the mystical cave temple of Goa Giri Putri
- Take in the breathtaking scenery of Atuh and Diamond Beaches
- Discover the secret pools of Tembeling Beach and Forest
- Swim in the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong
- Enjoy sunset at Penida Colada Beach Bar
- How to see Nusa Penida on a day trip
- Where to stay in Nusa Penida
- Best places to eat and drink in Nusa Penida
- Leaving Nusa Penida – where to next?
- Visiting Nusa Penida FAQs
Where is Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is a small Indonesian island, located roughly 20-25 km off the southeast coast of Bali. It’s easily accessible from Bali by fast boat or ferry, with travel times ranging from 20 to 60 minutes depending on your vessel and departure point.
Nusa Penida is one of three neighbouring islands—alongside Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan—that are collectively known as the Nusa Islands. Although they fall within Bali province, these islands are geographically separate and offer a more laid-back experience compared to mainland Bali.
Is Nusa Penida worth visiting?
Absolutely! Nusa Penida is one of the most breathtaking islands in Indonesia and is well worth the trip from Bali. The island is famous for its pristine beaches, clear waters, dramatic clifftop views, and world-class snorkelling spots – with the added benefit of far fewer crowds than Bali.
Nusa Penida is renowned for its natural beauty, from the iconic Kelingking Beach and its dinosaur-shaped headland to the natural infinity pool of Angel’s Billabong and the golden sands of Crystal Bay. Beyond its unique landscapes and perfect photo opportunities, Nusa Penida also offers some of the best marine life experiences in the region, like snorkelling with manta rays at Manta Point, exploring the colourful coral reefs at Crystal Bay, or diving at sites like PED and Mangrove.
While Nusa Penida is one of the most popular islands near Bali, it still has a relatively untouched and serene atmosphere and is far less developed than Bali. You won’t find many resorts or beach clubs, but it’s the perfect destination to explore and unwind – whether on a day trip or longer.
How to Get to Nusa Penida from Bali
The main way to get to Nusa Penida from Bali is by fast boat or ferry. Fast boats are the quickest and most popular option for tourists, with daily departures from several Bali ports including Sanur, Serangan, Kusamba, and Padangbai. Ferries offer a slower but more budget-friendly alternative.
Fast boat tickets range from IDR 150,000–300,000 (~AUD $15–30) one way, with a travel time of 30 to 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions.
The public ferry costs from IDR 31,700 (~AUD $3.20) one way and can take up to 90 minutes.
All visitors must also pay an island entry fee on arrival: IDR 25,000 (~AUD $2.50) per adult and IDR 15,000 (~AUD $1.50) per child.
Prices may vary, so we recommend confirming ticket and entry fees before your trip.
Below is a breakdown of the two main options for travelling from Bali to Nusa Penida:
Fast boats are the quickest and most popular way to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. Most boats depart from Sanur, with other services available from ports in Serangan, Kasamba and Padangbai. The journey typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on your departure point and the ocean conditions. The boats to Nusa Penida typically run from 7:30am until 5:20pm, with multiple departures throughout the day.
- Travel time: 30-45 minutes (depending on sea conditions)
- Cost: IDR 150,000 – 300,000 (~AUD$15 – 30) one way
- Departure ports in Bali: Sanur, Serangan, Kasamba, Padangbai
- Arrival ports in Nusa Penida: Banjar Nyuh (Toya Pakeh), Sampalan, or Buyuk
- Baggage limit: Usually up to 25-30kg; scooters not allowed
- Popular operators: Angel Billabong Fast Cruise, Maruti Express, Mola Mola Express, The Angkal, Axe Stone
Things to consider:
- Weather and water conditions can affect the timing of departure, and delays and rough seas are common.
- Sea sickness is common on this journey, so consider taking motion sickness tablets and try to look out of the boat towards the horizon.
- Some boats pause at sea for engine issues — this is rare, but not unheard of.
- Some fast boat fares include pick up from your hotel, so be sure to check
The public ferry to Nusa Penida from Bali is a slower but cheaper option – and the only option that allows scooters. It departs from Padangbai in East Bali at 10am and 2pm daily (only 10am on Sundays) and is mainly used by locals and cargo transport. While tourists can ride the ferry too, services are limited.
The journey takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on sea conditions, and departures are regularly delayed due to the loading of cargo.
- Departure times: 10:00am and 2:00pm daily (only 10:00am on Sundays)
- Travel time: 60–90 minutes (plus potential delays during loading)
- Cost: IDR 31,700 (~AUD$3.20) for adults; IDR 22,700 (~AUD$2.30) for children
- Scooter fee: IDR 60,000–80,000 (~AUD$6–8)
- Departure port in Bali: Padangbai
- Arrival port in Nusa Penida: Sampalan
- Ferry operator: ASDP Indonesia Ferry
Things to consider:
- Try to arrive early! Trucks and motorcycles are loaded onto the ferry before passengers are allowed to board, and the ferry departs once the vehicles are on board (even if it’s ahead of schedule),
- Services may be cancelled during bad weather, with little notice.
- The ferry can feel cramped and less comfortable than fast boats, especially during peak times.
Island entrance fee
All visitors to Nusa Penida are required to pay a small island entrance fee, which goes towards improving the island's infrastructure. This is usually included in tour or boat ticket prices, but if not expect to pay IDR 25,000 (~AUD$2.50) per adult and IDR 15,000 (~AUD$1.50) per child.
The island entrance fee only applies to Nusa Penida, not Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan.
Getting around Nusa Penida
Getting around Nusa Penida requires a bit of forethought and planning. Because there isn’t as much infrastructure as Bali, and many roads are steep, narrow and riddled with potholes, it pays to be prepared.
The main ways to get around Nusa Penida are by scooter, a private car with a driver, or joining a tour group.
The best – and safest – way to travel around Nusa Penida is by hiring a private car with a driver. While you can rent your own scooter or car, self-driving can be risky due to poor road conditions, especially if you’re not confident or experienced behind the wheel.
Keep in mind that ride-sharing services like Grab or Gojek don’t operate on the island.
And although the island is small - about 25-30 times smaller than Bali – it’s not practical to get around and explore on foot. This is largely due to the island’s hilly terrain, lack of sidewalks, and the fact that key attractions are spread out – often on opposite sides of the island.
Here’s a breakdown of your transport options on Nusa Penida:
Private Car & Driver
Estimated Cost:
IDR 600,000–800,000 (~AUD $60–80) for a full-day (8–10 hours)
Pros:
- Safest and most comfortable
- Local drivers offer guidance
- Cost-effective for groups
- Air-conditioned
- Less tiring
Cons:
- Can’t always access remote roads
- Costly for solo travellers
- Needs advance booking
- Less flexible
Scooter Hire
Estimated Cost:
IDR 70,000–100,000 (~AUD $7–10) per day
Pros:
- Affordable
- Maximum freedom
- Reach remote spots easily
Cons:
- Rough roads & steep inclines
- Not ideal for beginners
- Insurance often doesn’t cover
- Unsafe in wet season
Tour Group
Estimated Cost:
Varies by provider/inclusions day
Pros:
- Easy logistics
- Includes transfers/entry/lunch
- See highlights in a day
- Local guides offer insight
Cons:
- Fixed itinerary
- Less flexibility
- Rushed at times
Some tips for getting around Nusa Penida
- Allow extra travel time – Road conditions are rough in parts and can slow you down more than expected.
- Download offline maps – Mobile reception can be patchy, even with a local Bali SIM card.
- Install WhatsApp - Most drivers and tour operators on the island use it to communicate.
- There are no taxis or ride-shares – Pre-arrange your transport in advance
- Hire a driver if unsure – If you’re not experienced or confident on a scooter, this is the safest and most stress-free option.
- Avoid driving after dark – Many roads are poorly lit, so driving at night on a scooter can be very dangerous.
Top 10 things to do in Nusa Penida
1. See the T-Rex cliffs of Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach is located in the village of Bunga Mekar on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida and is famous for its iconic clifftop that resembles a T-Rex head. One of the island’s most popular attractions, it offers breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and a pristine stretch of sand surrounded by dramatic cliffs and sea caves.
You’ll get your shot of the famous T-Rex formation from the clifftops, but if you want to explore the beach and caves below, be prepared to tackle a steep staircase with several hundred steps each way.
As tempting as the turquoise water may look – especially after the hot hike down – swimming is currently banned due to strong currents. The ban was introduced in 2023 following a tragic drowning.
Nusa Penida is one of the best places in the world to swim, snorkel, and dive with manta rays. With their impressive wingspans and friendly nature, there’s nothing extreme about this water experience, and many consider it a highlight of a trip to Bali.
The most popular spots to swim with manta rays around Nusa Penida include Manta Point and Manta Bay. Manta Point is considered one of the best spots for manta rays, but it also has stronger currents, which can make swimming and snorkelling challenging. Manta Bay offers a more pleasant swimming experience – especially for more inexperienced swimmers – but as it’s only accessible by boat, you’ll need to book a snorkelling tour. Most tours will usually head to Manta Bay early in the morning for the best chance to spot the manta rays, and will include multiple snorkelling spots, like the famous Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay, which boast colourful coral reefs and vibrant marine life.
Located on the west coast of Nusa Penida, Crystal Bay is a sheltered cove with stunning clear blue waters and a 200m stretch of white sand. This coastal gem is one of Nusa Penida’s best beaches, offering ample opportunity to swim and snorkel, and is one of the best places on the island to watch the sun set.
Thanks to its colourful marine life, good water visibility, and calm conditions, Crystal Bay is a favourite with snorkellers and divers. The reef here is home to tropical fish, sea turtles, vibrant corals, and, on occasion, the elusive Mola Mola (oceanic sunfish). While many snorkelling and diving tours stop at Crystal Bay, much of the marine life is visible just offshore, making it a great spot for beachgoers to explore without a boat.
Broken Beach, known locally as Pasih Uug, is a geological wonder located on the west coast of Nusa Penida, not far from Crystal Bay. This iconic spot is famous for its naturally formed rock archway – a break in the cliffs that allows ocean water to flow into a circular cove. Over hundreds of years, the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean have carved this dramatic arch into the limestone cliffs, creating a spectacular scene for visitors.
Despite it being a beach, visitors aren’t able to swim in the water, but thankfully both Angels Billabong and Crystal Bay are nearby.
Peguyangan Waterfall, also known as Guyangan Waterfall, is a sacred site on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penid a, best known for its tiny cascades and the iconic cliffside blue stairway. Often called the “Blue Stairway to Heaven,” this steep staircase winds down the cliffside, leading to a serene temple and natural spring with ocean views. The hike takes about 15–30 minutes each way and requires moderate fitness.
As this is a spiritual site, visitors are asked to be respectful by cleansing at the entrance and wearing a sarong, which is mandatory to access the temple area.
Located on the northeastern side of Nusa Penida, Goa Giri Putri Temple is a sacred Hindu sites hidden within one of the island’s largest limestone caves. The naturally formed cavern is often used by locals for meditation and religious ceremonies and has a dimly lit, mystical atmosphere that adds to the spiritual experience. This sacred site offers visitors a chance to experience the local customs and spiritual life – visitors can even receive a blessing of holy water from the local priest.
Reaching the temple is part of the adventure. It’s perched halfway up a hill and requires climbing over 100 steep steps. At the entrance, you'll need to crouch or crawl through a narrow crevice in the rock—something to be aware of if you're claustrophobic. Once inside, the space opens up into a surprisingly vast chamber stretching approximately 300 metres and housing multiple shrines. Expect humid conditions inside the cave.
Nusa Penida is home to some of the best beaches in all of Indonesia, and Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach are amongst the top of the list – and they’re located just 5 minutes apart on the southeastern coast of the island. Both are paradises for beach lovers and photography enthusiasts, but each offers distinct features and amenities..
Diamond Beach is famous for its iconic staircase built into the cliffside and its dramatic rock formations — especially the diamond-shaped rock near the shore that gives the beach its name. On the beach, you’ll find a swing for photo opportunities, along with small bamboo huts and local vendors selling cold drinks and Indonesian snacks. Swimming has been banned here due to strong currents.
Atuh Beach is a quieter cove, surrounded by towering green cliffs, with calm turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The beachfront is larger and more developed than Diamond Beach, featuring restaurants and cafés that serve snacks, meals and drinks.
To reach Diamond Beach, head down the staircase to the right of the carpark – the stairs are steep and can be irregular, so watch your step, especially if your’e distracted by the stunning view. There are 166 steps down to Atuh Beach, and while it’s not as picturesque walk down as it is to Diamond Beach, the walk down is much easier.
Both beaches share the same carpark and are popular photo spots, so expect crowds, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
Tembeling Beach and Forest is a secluded and unspoiled coastal area situated on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida. This hidden gem features a pristine beach, natural swimming pools, and a lush, forested area, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The area is dense with various species of trees, plants, and wildlife, offering forest trails and unique flora and fauna. The natural rock pools, filled with crystal-clear spring water, provide a refreshing place to cool off and relax. The most magical spot is Tembeling Beach itself—a small but beautiful blue bay set below a cliff wall at the end of the forest. The vivid contrast between the bay and the surrounding cliffs makes it one of the most special places in Nusa Penida, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the island’s more populated areas.
Angel’s Billabong is a captivating natural pool near Broken Beach, located around 17 kilometres southwest of Toya Pakeh, one of Nusa Penida’s main ports. The emerald-green pool forms between limestone cliffs, creating a natural infinity pool that overlooks the open ocean beyond. When visited at low tide, it offers the unique chance to cool off in calm, crystal-clear water while soaking in dramatic views of cliffs and untouched coastline.
Swimming here is only possible during low tide — at high tide, waves crash into the rock pool with force, making conditions dangerous and often leading to the area being closed off for safety.
Getting to Angel’s Billabong is relatively easy, with just a short 5-minute walk from Broken Beach. This makes it simple to visit both of these natural wonders in one trip and maximise your time on the island
There’s no better way to wrap up a day of exploring than with a sunset cocktail in hand – and Penida Colada Beach Bar is one of the most-loved spots on the island to do just that. Located in the laid-back coastal area of Ped Village, this beachfront bar looks out over the ocean with panoramic views that stretch to Mount Agung on the horizon.
The vibe here is casual, with bean bags and hammocks scattered across the sand, creating the perfect setting to relax with a cold drink – make sure to try the signature Dragon Fruit Daiquiri! The menu caters to a range of tastes, offering everything from Western comfort food to Indonesian favourites, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available.
To top it all off, Penida Colada Beach Bar offers interactive live music performances and a Happy Hour with 2-for-1 cocktails. Be sure to check their website and social media for the most up-to-date information on events and specials.
How to see Nusa Penida on a day trip
Thanks to its close proximity to Bali (just 30-45 minutes by fast boat), it’s absolutely possible to explore Nusa Penida on a day trip – in fact, a day trip to Nusa Penida is one of the top things to do in Bali!
The easiest and most efficient way to do it is with a guided tour. These day trips typically include hotel pick-up and drop-off, return boat transfers, a local driver on the island, and entrance fees to major attractions. You’ll also follow a curated itinerary that covers many of Nusa Penida’s top sights in a single day.
Most day tours focus on the island’s west coast highlights, such as Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Crystal Bay. Some itineraries offer optional extras like snorkelling at Manta Point or Gamat Bay, swimming in natural pools, or cliff jumping for the more adventurous.
Organised tours depart from most major areas in Bali – including Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, Sanur, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, and Kuta – often with an early morning pickup and late afternoon/early evening drop-off to maximise your time on the island.
If you prefer to make your own way to Nusa Penida, be sure to pre-book your fast boat ticket for a departure between 7am–9am, and organise your on-island transport ahead of time – either by renting a scooter or hiring a private driver.
Here's an example itinerary if you're planning your own day trip to Nusa Penida - timings are rough estimates, but should give you a good idea of how to map out your day:
Sample Nusa Penida day trip itinerary
6am: Depart your accommodation in Bali (e.g. Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud) and head to Sanur Harbour. Allow 45–60 minutes depending on location and traffic.
7am: Arrive in Sanur and check in for your fast boat to Nusa Penida - most fast boats tend to depart for Nusa Penida between 7:30 and 8am. Pre-book your return ticket back to Bali.
8:15am: Arrive in Nusa Penida and meet your private driver or collect your rental scooter.
8:30am - 10am: Visit Kelingking Beach to take photos of the view of the T-Rex clifftops. Allow for extra time if you want to hike down to the beach and back up again.
10:30am - 11:15am: Stop at Broken Beach and Angel's Billabong. Allow for extra time if you want to take a dip at Angel's Billabong.
11:30 - 12:30pm: Head to Crystal Bay for a swim and a quick snorkel. Enjoy some time on the beach with a snack and drink from the beach warung.
1pm - 2:30pm: Enjoy a long lunch and cocktails Penida Colada Beach Bar
2:45pm - 3:15pm: Depending on your return fast boat time, go souvenir shopping before making your way back to the port.
3:30pm: Arrive back at the harbour and check in for your return boat to Bali.
4pm - 4:30pm: Board your fast boat back to Sanur.
5:30pm: Arrive back in Bali and make your way to your accommodation.
Where to stay in Nusa Penida
If you're planning to spend a night or two on Nusa Penida, there are several areas across the island that cater to different travel styles and preferences— whether you're after maximum convenience, epic sunsets, or something more secluded.
Top areas to stay in Nusa Penida:
- Toya Pakeh & Ped Area (Northwest): Close to the main port and well-connected to the rest of the island, this is one of the most convenient areas to base yourself. You’ll find a good mix of beach bars, cafés, restaurants, and affordable guesthouses, as well as a few mid-range hotels.
- Crystal Bay (West Coast): A quieter part of the island known for calm waters, white-sand beaches, and some of the best sunsets on Penida. It’s also a popular base for snorkelling and diving trips.
- Atuh & Diamond Beach Area (East Coast): Scenic and more remote, this side of the island offers stunning sunrise views and dramatic coastlines. Accommodation tends to be more basic, and you'll need transport to reach restaurants, shops, and other parts of the island.
For most visitors, staying on the northwest and west coasts offers the best access to Nusa Penida’s most iconic attractions – including Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong – as well as plenty of dining options and easier travel logistics. It's also where you'll find more luxury accommodation.
That said, areas like Southeast Penida (near Atuh Beach), Northeast Penida (Ped–Buyuk) are are ideal for those seeking a quieter and more authentic island experience, away from the main tourist flow.
Nusa Penida accommodation
Nusa Penida is far less developed than neighbouring Bali, so while there aren't as many large hotels or resorts, there’s still a wide variety of places to stay to accommodate for a range of budgets and tastes. — from luxe hilltop villas to simple beachside bungalows.
We recommend booking accommodation in advance, especially in peak season, to lock in the best options and deals.
Here are our top picks for luxury, mid-range, and budget stays in Nusa Penida.
If you're looking for a 4 or 5-star experience on Nusa Penida, these boutique luxury resorts combine comfort, views, and exceptional service.
1. Māua Nusa Penida
A 5-star resort perched above Gamat Bay in the northwest, Māua offers spacious villas with private pools and panoramic ocean views. The resort’s tranquil hilltop setting and attentive staff make for a truly unforgettable stay.
2. Pramana Natura Nusa Penida
Built into the cliffs on Nusa Penida's northwest coast, Pramana Natura offers breathtaking ocean views, and elegant, sophisticated rooms befitting its location. This 5-star hotel blends natural materials with contemporary design in its decor and delivers consistently outstanding service.
3. Adiwana Warnakali Resort
A secluded 4-star resort set 20 metres above the beach on the northwest coast, Adiwana Warnakali is known for its intimate atmosphere, ocean-facing terraces, warm hospitality, and little extras like floating breakfasts and candlelit dinners.
These well-located, stylish stays offer excellent value for money without skimping on comfort or charm.
1. The Mesare Resort
Centrally located inland with easy access to both the west and east sides of Nusa Penida, The Mesare Resort features 14 rustic-chic cottages surrounded by lush organic gardens. Its peaceful setting and welcoming staff make it a great choice for a relaxing, secluded stay.
2. Sagara Penida
Located on the east coast near Goa Giri Putri Temple, Sagara is a beautiful resort above the sea designed with a harmonious blend of bohemian and Grecian aesthetic elements.
3. Blue Harbor Beachfront Villas and Resto
With beachfront access and two pools, Blue Harbor on the northwest coast is a standout mid-range option — especially for snorkellers, as many tours stop nearby. The beautifully kept gardens and well-appointed villas make it feel far more luxe than the price suggests.
While Nusa Penida is often associated with luxury, the island still has plenty of budget-friendly options that deliver comfort, cleanliness, and character.
1. Penida Krusty Hill
These simple wooden cottages in Ped on the northwest coast offer a cosy and authentic stay close to the islands top attractions. This is a backpacker favourite and perfect for those looking to stick to a budget.
2. Sunset Hill Cottages
Set on a quiet hillside in Ped with stunning sunset views, this relaxed hostel-style stay offers spacious rooms, daily cleaning, friendly service, and good value. It’s close to dive schools, and while the on-site dining is limited, there are great local restaurants nearby.
3. Aryaginata Cliff Cottages
A peaceful retreat in northern Penida, Aryaginata features private bungalows with jaw-dropping ocean views. The setting — surrounded by banana, fig, and palm trees — feels wonderfully remote, yet you're only a short ride from town.
While Nusa Penida doesn’t have quite as many options for food and drink as Bali, the island is home to a growing number of fantastic restaurants and bars.
You'll find a strong focus on fresh, healthy fare — think tropical fruits, seafood, and Indonesian classics — alongside some Western favourites like burgers, pasta, and smoothie bowls.
Many of the best places to eat in Nusa Penida also enjoy stunning coastal views and relaxed, beachy vibes — perfect for a sunset cocktail or casual dinner. Happy Hour deals are common, so keep an eye out for discounts on drinks.
Here are some of our favourite Nusa Penida bars and restaurants:
- Kelingking Bar & Restaurant
Kelingking Bar and Restaurant is a popular spot known for its friendly service, affordable meals, and excellent selection of fresh juices and smoothies. The laid-back vibe and location near the iconic Kelingking Beach make it a great place to stop for a drink after sightseeing.
- Secret Penida Restaurant and Bar
Secret Penida is a locally owned Western-style beach club near the harbour and a local favourite. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and standout dishes like tuna tataki, smoothie bowls, and the popular Secret Curry (a spicy coconut tofu and jackfruit dish). The sunset views with Mt Agung in the background make this restaurant extra special. It also has vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
- The Rich Penida
The Rich Penida in Nusa Penida is a stylish restaurant described as a poolside tropical oasis. Featuring regular DJ and live music performances – and a chic indoor pool – The Rich has a great atmosphere and is great pick for both breakfast and dinner.
- Ogix Warung
Ogix Warung specialises in seafood and local Indonesian cuisine, served up with sweeping ocean views. It’s best known for its enormous grilled fish dishes and authentic local flavour.
- BTM Penida Bar and Restaurant
BTM Penida Bar and Restaurant is a welcoming, family-friendly venue that serves big portions of classic Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng, mie goreng, and homemade fried chicken. The relaxed atmosphere and consistently good food make it a reliable choice for dinner.
- Resto D’Uma
Resto D'Uma is a great lunch spot in central Nusa Penida with indoor and outdoor seating under the trees. The varied menu caters to different tastes, making it a popular stop for those exploring the island.
Honourable mentions
If you need a few more food recommendations, consider these tourist favourites:
- Penida Colada – A relaxed beachfront bar with live music and sunset views.
- Sunny Café – Healthy smoothie bowls and a great breakfast menu.
- Coco Penida – Solid coffee, Western meals, and chill vibes near the harbour.
Leaving Nusa Penida - where to next?
Wondering where to head after your trip to Nusa Penida? You’ve got a few great options: return to mainland Bali, or explore some of the nearby islands like Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Below, you’ll find helpful instructions on how to get from Nusa Penida to each of these destinations — plus the Gili Islands if you're looking to go further afield.
How to get from Nusa Penida to Bali
The most straightforward way to return to Bali from Nusa Penida is by fast boat or ferry. Boats depart from one of Nusa Penida’s three main ports: Buyuk Boat Landing, Toya Pakeh, or Sampalan. These connect to Bali’s ports at Sanur, Padang Bai, and Serangan.
- Travel time: Approximately 20 to 45 minutes
- Cost: Around IDR 150,000 to 350,000(~AUD$15 - 35) one-way
- Frequency: Boats run throughout the day, starting as early as 6am, with some departures every 30 to 60 minutes
How to get from Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan
To reach Nusa Lembongan from Nusa Penida, hop on a traditional jukung (small wooden boat) from Toya Pakeh Harbour. Boats from Nusa Penida arrive at the Yellow Bridge area in Nusa Lembongan, not Mushroom Beach. If you’re staying elsewhere on the island, you may need to arrange a local transfer.
- Travel time: About 20 minutes
- Cost: Approximately IDR 50,000 IDR (~AUD$5) per person
- Departure: Boats leave once they have enough passengers, usually until around 4pm
How to get from Nusa Penida to Gili Trawangan
If you’re keen to explore another island paradise near Bali, consider heading to Gili Trawangan, known for its car-free charm, snorkelling, and lively beach bars.
The most convenient way to travel is by direct fast boat from Buyuk Harbour via operators like Gili Getaway. Other ferry services include Bali Eka Jaya, Bluewater Express, Golden Queen Fast Boat, Marlin Fast Boat, Starfish Fast Cruise, Sugriwa Express
- Travel time: About 1 hour 30 mins to 1 hour 55 mins
- Cost: Varies between IDR 500,000 and 2,100,000 (~AUD$50–210), depending on the operator and time of booking
- Departure: Most ferries leave in the morning, between 9am and 11am.
How to get from Nusa Penida to Nusa Ceningan
There’s no direct boat from Nusa Penida to Nusa Ceningan. Instead, you'll need to take a jukung from Toya Pakeh Harbour to Nusa Lembongan and cross the Yellow Bridge (an iconic suspension bridge that connects Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Ceningan). This can be done either by foot or on a scooter.
Visiting Nusa Penida FAQs
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How long should you stay in Nusa Penida?
The ideal duration for a trip to Nusa Penida is 2 to 3 days to explore the island at a relaxed pace.
While day trips from Bali are popular and can cover top sights like Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay, spending at least two full days lets you see major attractions on both the east and west sides of the island — including Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, and Broken Beach — at a more relaxed pace.
If you’re into snorkelling or scuba diving, consider staying 3 days or more to visit famous dive sites like Manta Point and Crystal Bay.
Planning to visit Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan too? Then staying up to a week in the Nusa Islands region gives you time to island-hop and explore each destination properly
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Can you do a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali?
Yes, you can easily do a day trip from Bali to Nusa Penida via fast boat – but keep in mind it may feel like a rushed day, especially if you choose to do an organised tour. If you're short on time, aim to hit the main attractions like Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach, but be prepared to spend a lot of the day in transit.
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Do you need a scooter in Nusa Penida?
Scooters are the most popular way to get around Nusa Penida, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, roads can be steep, narrow and uneven, so if you’re not confident on a motorbike, it’s safer to hire a private driver or book a guided Nusa Penida tour.
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Can you swim at Nusa Penida beaches?
Some beaches like Crystal Bay are safe for swimming in calm conditions, but others – like Broken Beach, Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach – are known for strong waves and dangerous currents, and swimming may be prohibited. Always check local safety signs or ask a guide before entering the water.
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What should I pack for Nusa Penida?
Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes or sandals, and cash (as ATMs can be limited). A dry bag and portable charger are also handy for day trips.
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Is Nusa Penida safe?
Nusa Penida is generally safe for travellers, but take extra care on steep stairs, narrow cliff paths, and when swimming, as waves can be unpredictable. Scooter accidents are a common issue, so only ride if you’re experienced, or consider booking a driver or tour.
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When is the best time to visit Nusa Penida?
The best time to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is sunny and seas are calmer — ideal for seamless boat transfers and snorkelling in clear visibility. July and August are the busiest months, so visit in the shoulder seasons (May – June or September – October) for fewer crowds and great conditions.
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Is Nusa Penida better than Nusa Lembongan?
It depends on what you’re after. Nusa Penida is bigger, more rugged, and known for dramatic cliffs and adventure, while Nusa Lembongan is smaller, more relaxed, and easier to explore. If you want iconic views and natural attractions, go to Nusa Penida. If you prefer a slower pace with realxed and low-key cafes and beach bars, Nusa Lembongan may suit you more. The two are close and it’s easy to get transport between them, so why not get the best of both worlds?
