17 Jun Nusa Penida Travel Guide: Perfect for Budget and Solo Travelers!
Over the years as pictures of the curved spine of Kelingking Beach have gone viral online, Nusa Penida has become a main attraction to visiting Indonesia. A part of a a trio of smallers islands, Nusa Pendia sits at the southeast coast of the main island of Bali. Here you will find less Western restaurants, a much quieter atmosphere, some untouched wilderness, and the iconic, epic coastlines!
In this travel guide you can find all the information needed to plan your own trip:
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Ways to Experience Nusa Penida
A trip to Nusa Penida can be experienced in different ways. For most people, visiting Nusa Penida means a taking a guided day trip tour from Bali. However, it’s becoming increasingly popular to go to Nusa Penida on your own, stay a few days and explore at your leisure time. There are pros and cons to both options and the way in which you decide to visit Nusa Penida greatly depends on any time limitations and how you like to travel.
Visiting On Your Own
Flexible planning, you’re on your own time
More planning involved on your part
Need to arrange getting to Nusa Penida
Must rent a motorbike or hire a driver
Ability to stay several days and explore the island in its entirety and experience a quiet paradise
Opportunity to explore many beautiful places, Nusa Penida is known for Kelingking Beach but there’s so much more
Visiting on a Tour
Structured day, possibly with a group depending on the tour
Usually package deal, everything planned for you
Transportation to the island usually included
Transportation on the island included
Tours are typically day tours from Bali without the option of staying on Nusa Penida
Tours usually only take you to the popular spots. And even if given the ability to choose where to go, your options are limited in just one day because of how far locations are from one another
In terms of price comparison, it depends. Exploring for one day on your own, could very well be much cheaper than a day tour package (depending on the tour). However, if you stay a few days, obviously the costs go up but you’re getting more experiences than a day tour.
As I mentioned, there are pros and cons to both, so choose whichever suits you best! Either way there’s no doubt you will enjoy this majestic island.
Booking a Day Trip Tour to Nusa Penida
A day trip can be taken on your own to the island, however with a shorter amount of time an organized tour may be more worth it.
Many days tours are offered by street vendors and hotels in Bali. However, you can also book ahead of time online. Below are some great options on GetYourGuide
Getting to and from Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is small island close to the mainland of Bali; to get there it is about a 30 minute boat ride from Sanur Harbor (on Bali). However, it can also be accessed from Nusa Lembongan or from Lombok. The most popular way is from Bali though.
Booking a Boat Ticket to Nusa Penida from Bali
*If you are taking a tour to Nusa Penida, boat transportation is usually included, but double check.
Securing a boat ticket to Nusa Penida can be done in many ways. Some hotels will help you arrange it, which may include pick up from the hotel and the boat to Nusa Penida.
You can also book online at 12Go or Klook, both of which are very reliable for all modes of transportation. Keep in mind, if you do book online, this should be done at least a day in advance. The longer you wait, the price usually goes up.
The other option is the old school way, booking from a vendor. There are many vendors on the streets within Bali who will provide transportation and tours to Nusa Penida. Or you can wing it, and show up to Sanur Harbor and buy your ticket from there. Boats and ferries leave everyday, I would just recommend showing up early.
Whichever way you buy your ticket though, I recommend comparing prices across the board and weighing your options. Some ways of booking may be more expensive than others, however, some may include transportation to Sanur Harbor.
What I did:
I booked a ticket for a speedboat online at Klook, the day before, which was 165,000 IDR (~$12 USD). I actually ended up missing my boat due to oversleeping and not reading the fine print about arriving early, but they just stuck me on the next boat leaving at no extra cost, so no problem. Don’t panic if this happens to you!
In summary..
Ways to Book a Boat Ticket to Nusa Penida:
Tips When Booking:
- Compare prices
- Haggle/bargain if you can
- Consider the pros and cons and price differences of booking a ticket that includes transportation to the harbor vs. getting there on your own
- Book as early as possible to get a better price
- Check your ticket for the time you’re supposed to arrive at the harbor
Getting to Sanur Harbor
Most speedboats and ferries to Nusa Penida will leave from Sanur Harbor. When purchasing your ticket, I would double check that this is your departure point. After doing so, I would check Google Maps to see how far away you are from Sanur Harbor, because given its location and Bali traffic, it might take you up to 45 minutes drive to get there. This detail is important to planning your arrival time so you don’t miss your boat (like me lol!).
If you’re taking a tour, most likely it will provide hotel pickup to the harbor, therefore you will not need to worry about the logistics of getting there. Make sure this is the case though.
If you are not on a tour, the cheapest way to reach Sanur Harbor is using the GoJek or Grab app. You can also take a taxi, this is a good option to support locals.
When you arrive at Sanur Harbor, there’s a small fee for drivers to enter the parking lot, to avoid this fee just have them drop you off outside of it and walk in. Be sure to arrive early at the harbor before your boat leaves. And don’t worry if you missed breakfast, there’s a lot of places to buy food and drink at the harbor!
Arriving at Nusa Penida
After about 30 minutes on a speedboat, you will arrive at Nusa Penida. If you’re on a tour, a vehicle will be waiting for you.
Otherwise, unless you have prior arrangements, at the harbor you can bargain with someone to rent a motorbike or catch a ride to your hotel or next destination. Don’t worry about no one being there, if anything its overwhelming how many people bombard you with offers. I wasn’t ready for this, so keep a cool head, be prepared to be rushed and given higher prices, and use your haggling skills!
If you decide pay a driver, depending on where your hotel or hostel is on Nusa Penida, it’s about 100,000 IDR (~$7 USD) to get there with one of the drivers from the port. (2019 price)
From Nusa Penida Back to Bali
If you booked a tour, your transportation back will obviously be covered. However, if not you simply go about it the same way you did to get there. Hotels on Nusa Penida will have information about returning back to Bali, or you can book online on 12Go.
Transportation on the island
How to get around Nusa Penida is a detail I did not consider before coming and a lot of people don’t. Unlike Bali there are no rideshares, public transportation, or taxis. It’s either you rent a motorbike or car yourself, or you have a private driver.
Renting a motorbike
Renting a motorbike on Nusa Penida is a popular option, especially for backpackers on a budget staying a few days. But although it’s a cheap option, there is one thing to consider: the roads on Nusa Penida are notorious for being really, really bad. There are tons of potholes and many portions of the road are just torn up gravel, most of which are up and down steep hills and curvy roads.
I know many people think they’re invincible, but seriously driving a motorbike in Nusa Penida is only for experienced drivers. If you do opt to rent a motorbike, be extremely cautious, wear a helmet, and have travel insurance – I saw a lot of accidents.
To rent a motorbike, you can do so from your accommodation, from a vendor, from the harbor when you arrive OR online here. Motorbikes should be around 75,000 IDR ($5 USD) per day.
Renting a motorbike with a driver
When I visited Nusa Penida, I had never driven a motorbike in my life. When I heard about the roads, I knew it would be really stupid to try on my own. Now after seeing those roads, I know I could have gotten really hurt, even if I did know how to drive.
But being on a budget, I didn’t want to break the bank getting a private car to go around the island by myself, so I actually paid someone working at my hostel to drive me around on their motorbike. It was a lot of fun and I got to witness beautiful views without the stress of driving myself.
I paid 300,000 IDR (~$20 USD) per day. To do this, just ask your hotel or hostel if they offer the service, if not they most likely will know someone to call.
Renting a private car with a driver
If you’re not traveling alone, renting a private car with a driver is a really good option because it’s safer than a motorbike and you can split the price with your fellow travelers. When you arrive at the port of Nusa Penida, you can hire a driver there, just by asking one of the men. You can also book from your hotel/hostel, or online at Klook or GetYourGuide. Renting a private car with driver is around 500,000 IDR (~$35 USD) per day (2019 price).
Places to See on Nusa Penida
On the West Coast of Nusa Penida:
1. Kelingking Beach
Photos of this unique, curved coastline is what has started to draw more and more people to Nusa Penida; it’s probably the most visited part of the island! And even if you’ve already seen a thousand photos online, it’s unreal to personally stand in front of the T-Rex shaped cliff, and watch the blue waves roll into the rock face.
Cost |
Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) and entrance fee 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) (Unless you’re driving yourself on a motorbike, you usually won’t have to pay this).
Tip |
Arrive early morning if you want to miss the crowd.
2. Angel's Billabong
Most people describe Angel’s billabong as a natural infinity pool because when it’s low tide, it sits above the ocean water and you’re able to swim there. If you’re like me and didn’t know this, you might end up there at high tide! You won’t be able to swim, but you will see how clear the water is and you’ll witness some massive waves coming in and hitting the rock face!
Cost | Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) – you only pay once for Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Manta Bay Viewpoint
Tip | If you want to swim here, you need to come at low tide. Ask the locals when this is!
3. Broken Beach
Walking distance from Angel’s Billabong is Broken Beach. This cove is surrounded by cliffs that eventually form a natural bridge. Although you are not able to go down to the beach, the overlook is still a sweet spot. Watching the waves roll in through the opening in the wall was mesmerizing.
Cost |
Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) – you only pay once for Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Manta Bay Viewpoint
Tip |
To really get the full experience, make sure and walk around the cove and over the natural bridge!
4. Manta Bay Viewpoint
Manta Bay is just on the other side of Broken Beach. Sometimes, you are able to look down and see the magnificent manta ray swimming below. When I visited, I wasn’t able to see any because there were so many waves, but because it’s so close to Broken Beach, its worth it to check and see!
Cost |
Parking 5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) – you only pay once for Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Manta Bay Viewpoint
Tip |
Go at low tide to have a better chance of spotting a manta ray!
On the East Side of Nusa Penida:
5. Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave
On my way to the East Coast of Nusa Penida, I stopped at Pura Goa Putri Cave which is a Hindu Temple inside a cave! In order to enter, you have to crawl through a small opening. Once inside the ceiling opens up and you follow a pathway leading to multiple prayers sights and then come out the back of the cave. It’s really so interesting!
Cost |
20,000 IDR (~$1.50 USD)
Tip |
Bring a sarong if you can, as you have to cover your knees to enter a Hindu temple. However, if you don’t have one, they do offer some at the temple for you to borrow.
6. Diamond Beach
Diamond beach, like Kelingking beach, has started to really blow up on social media. And for good reason! This beach is paradise, but (when I visited) without the crowds.
Cost |
5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) for parking and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) entrance – this covers Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach
Tip |
When going down to the beach, be careful on the stairs as they become more narrow.
7. Atuh Beach
Atuh Beach is the most “commercial” of the beaches meaning it has plenty of lounge chairs and local food vendors or warungs. I ate a delicious lunch here with an incredible view of crystal clear water. Also, if you buy food or drink, they offer you a chair for free to lounge in later!
Cost |
5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) for parking and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) entrance – this covers Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach
Tip |
Many people who look up photos of Atuh Beach see photos of Sebele beach, which has been mistakenly called Atuh Beach. Sebele beach is actually on the other side; I did not know this when I visited; I definitely need to go back to see that beach too!
8. Thousand Island (Pulau Seribu) Viewpoint
This viewpoint was probably my favorite! There was no one there except for a few people passing through, so I got to sit and enjoy the view for awhile without any disturbance. And that’s really what you need to take in this view, because it’s absolutely magnificent!
Cost |
5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) to park and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) for entrance – this covers Thousand Island Viewpoint and Rumah Pohon Treehouse
Tip |
This place is interchangeably called Thousand Island Viewpoint or Pulau Seribu; it’s the same place!
9. Rumah Pohon Treehouse
The Rumah Pohon Treehouse is another instagram phenomena. Just next to the Thousand Island Viewpoint, the treehouse offers another perspective of the cliff and is a picture perfect scene.
*I was definitely under the impression the treehouse was just a cute place for pictures, etc. however you can actually book to stay there! Keep in mind, it is very simple accommodation, just a mattress from what I’ve heard, so you’re really just paying for the view.
Cost |
5,000 IDR (~$0.40 USD) to park and 10,000 IDR (~$0.80 USD) for entrance – this covers Thousand Island Viewpoint and Rumah Pohon Treehouse
Tip |
Keep going past the treehouse, up the hill for another lookout!
Other Places to See on Nusa Penida
These places are a little more off the beaten path, and I never got to chance to visit myself. Next time!
Suwehan Beach
Peguyangan Waterfall
Tembeling Beach, Natural Pool and Forest
Saren Cliff Viewpoint
Sebele Beach
Snorkeling and Diving at Nusa Penida
Manta Point
Although there are several spots for snorkeling and diving off the coast of Nusa Penida, the most famous is Manta Point. Manta Point is where tons of manta rays come to feed (naturally, not fed by humans). So although it is not guaranteed you will see any, there is still a big chance you will see many gigantic, manta rays!
When I went snorkeling here, I was actually sea sick from the boat. But I wanted to see these beautiful creatures so badly I jumped in the water anyways. And I’m so happy I did. My mind was absolutely blown! Manta rays surrounded me. They glided through the water so gracefully, the movement of their body portraying them as if they were flying. And they’re not shy at all either; many times they would swim right at me, and I had to dodge their gigantic body. Manta rays are not dangerous at all, however, to touch them you risk damaging their skin.
Despite the sea sickness, this was one of the most magical moments of my life and I highly recommend anyone traveling to Nusa Penida do it. If you’re taking a day trip, it’s possible to book a tour that includes this. However, if not you can book with a dive company on the island.
I booked my snorkeling tour through Mambo Dive Resort and thoroughly enjoyed snorkeling with them. They were a lot of fun, very respectful of nature, informative, and it was reasonably price at 350,000 IDR (~$25 USD). We went to two snorkeling places, Manta Point and a spot to see coral (either Gamat or Crystal Bay). There are some snorkeling companies that will offer 4 or so snorkeling points, but I personally recommend only doing two (one being Manta Point) so you can spend more time at Manta Point.
Other snorkeling spots at Nusa Penida besides Manta Point:
Gamat Bay
Crystal Bay
Wall Bay
Toyapakeh Wall Point
Buddha Temple
Where to Stay on Nusa Penida
If you’ve decided there’s so much to see on Nusa Penida and you would like to take your time and explore, there are plenty of accommodation options on this small island, from budget to luxury.
Hostels
If you’re a solo traveler and looking to save some money, hostels are the way to go. When it comes to hostels, Nusa Penida has quite a few for such a small island. And they’re definitely budget friendly! Hostels range from $5-15 USD, and some even have a pool.
When I visited Nusa Penida I stayed at Packer Box Hostel, which was simple, but clean and comfortable and I met some amazing people there!
If you’re traveling as a group of 2, private rooms can also be a really cheap option to split. Many of the hostels on Nusa Penida offer private rooms that are just as much as a dorm option at another hostel. On Hostelworld private rooms range from $15 – 40 USD.
Hotels
Nusa Penida has a number of resort hotels featuring spas, pools, a tropical breakfast, and all for affordable prices. Some highly rated ones are Blue Harbor Beachfront Villas & Resto, Ocean Terrace Suite and Spa, Semabu Hills Hotel, and Akusara Jungle Resort. Most are around $50 USD but reaching no more than $150 USD.
Tip When Booking Accommodation on Nusa Penida:
While you get excited about beautiful places and are mind blown by how cheap they are, don’t forget to check the location. Nusa Penida is a small island, but it takes a very long time to get places. So weigh the pros and cons of accommodation options and proximity to where you want to visit.
Best Time to Visit Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida can be explored at any point in the year! However, it’s best May to September when it’s almost guaranteed dry weather.
Map of Every Location Mentioned in this Post
And there you have it, your guide to Nusa Penida! If I missed something or you have any questions, leave a comment below . 😊
More Resources for Your Trip to Indonesia
Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Thailand along with some recommendations:
Hostels
If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others, Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability!
- Canguu: The Farm Hostel
- Ubud: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel OR The Wayan House OR Ubud Rice Field House
- Nusa Penida: Packer Box Hostel OR Nuansa Penida Hostel
- Seminyak: My Capsule Bali
- Kuta (Lombok): Pipes Hostel
- Gili Air: H20 Yoga & Meditartion Center OR Tipsea Turtle
- Gili Trawangan: Atlas Gili
Hotels
Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Indonesia because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays – also for cheap!
Flights
Flights to Indonesia are typically cheapest to Jakarta but shouldn’t be too much more directly to Bali/Denpasar. I flew to Singapore and then flew to Bali which is also a good option. Domestic flights within Indonesia can be more or less affordable especially if traveling light. There are ferry options, but the waters between island can be pretty wild so if you can, I recommend flying. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner.
BUSES/Ferries/& more
The easiest ways to search for ways to get around Indonesia are with 12GoAsia and Klook. Both platforms show various options (ferries, buses, flights, etc.) so you can compare option and prices in English. Check 12GoAsia out here and check out Klook here
Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for every trip to ensure you’re covered in unexpected situations. My go to travel insurance is always WorldNomads which is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here.
If you’re a digital nomad looking for travel medical emergency insurance, I also suggest Safety Wing.
Tours & Experiences
There’s a lot of free thing to do in Indonesia and/or experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours and experiences though like snorkeling, cooking classes & more then I most recommend Klook and GetYourGuide for Indonesia.
Know Before You Go
Check out my Indonesia Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.
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