9 Best things to do in Nusa Penida, Bali, in 4 days

Introduction: Nusa Penida Travel Guide

Nusa Penida is the largest of a trio of islands off the southeast coast of Bali, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. With its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and untamed nature, Nusa Penida offers a raw and authentic experience far removed from the more polished and tourist-oriented Bali mainland.

Covering an area of 202 km² and home to approximately 45,500 residents, Nusa Penida is known for its dramatic landscapes and elevated terrain, with its highest point reaching 524 meters. Despite growing in popularity, the island still retains a wild charm and feels refreshingly undeveloped compared to many other Indonesian hotspots.

We stayed four nights on the island and quickly realized that even that wasn’t enough to see it all. Nusa Penida is packed with stunning viewpoints, hidden beaches, and challenging but rewarding roads—and that’s what makes it so special.

If you do not have the time to spend a few nights on Nusa Penida, we would recommend visiting as a day-trip from Bali.

Getting there

The easiest and most common way to reach Nusa Penida is by first flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) on Bali Island. Once you’ve landed, head to the Sanur Port, located on the southeast coast of Bali. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the airport, depending on traffic.

From Sanur, several fast boat companies operate daily routes to Nusa Penida. Boats typically leave from early morning until mid-afternoon, with the ride taking around 30 to 45 minutes. You can either book your tickets online in advance (especially during high season) or simply walk up to the port and ask around, as many local vendors sell tickets directly at the harbor.

Most boats arrive at Toyapakeh or Banjar Nyuh harbor on the northwest coast of Nusa Penida, which is the main entry point to the island. Keep in mind that depending on the tide, boarding can be a bit wet—so sandals and shorts are your best bet!

Moving Around

Once you arrive on Nusa Penida, transportation options are limited, but getting around is still manageable.

The most convenient and flexible way to explore the island is by renting a scooter. You can rent one directly at the harbor upon arrival, or have your accommodation arrange a pick-up and a scooter rental for you. In our case, renting a scooter at the port was straightforward, affordable (around 70,000 to 80,000 IDR per day which is €4 to €5 per day), and hassle-free—no license checks or deposits were required. Just be ready to bargain a little, as prices are often negotiable.

While the island is improving its road infrastructure, many routes are still unpaved, narrow, and filled with potholes, especially those leading to popular attractions like Kelingking Beach or Angel’s Billabong. Expect bumpy rides and take it slow—driving here is part of the adventure.

🚗 If you’re not confident on a scooter, you can also hire a private driver with a car, but it will cost significantly more and may limit your flexibility.

When to visit

Nusa Penida has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and two distinct seasons—wet and dry. Here’s the best time to plan your trip:

Dry Season (April to October): This is the best time to visit Nusa Penida. The weather is sunny and warm, ideal for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island. The sea is generally calm, perfect for boat rides and visiting nearby Nusa islands. Expect more tourists during July and August, but overall it’s still far from Bali’s crowds.
Shoulder Months (April–June & September–October): These months are perfect if you prefer fewer people. The island is lush after the rainy season, and the roads are more manageable. Wildlife spotting (like manta rays) is excellent, and sunsets are breathtaking.
Wet Season (November to March): Expect heavier rainfall, especially in December and January. While it’s still possible to visit, the roads can get slippery and some viewpoints may be harder to reach. The rain usually comes in short bursts, so you might still get sunny hours during the day.

We visited in April and found it to be the sweet spot—great weather, manageable crowds, and stunning views.

Where to Stay

Here are a few great places to stay on Nusa Penida based on different budgets. Each offers a unique experience, whether you’re looking for ocean views, peaceful jungle vibes, or a cozy local guesthouse:

(€) Nyuh Gading Bungalow Nusa Penida: A cozy and affordable stay located near the harbor, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. The bungalows are simple but clean and comfortable, with a peaceful garden setting and friendly hosts.
(€€) Mambo Hill Resort: A charming mid-range resort with a stunning hillside view, peaceful surroundings, and an inviting pool. Great for those looking to relax in nature while still being close enough to explore the island.
(€€€) Pramana Natura Nusa Penida: One of the island’s most luxurious stays, this resort offers incredible ocean views, a dreamy infinity pool, and stylish rooms. Ideal for couples or anyone looking for a tranquil and upscale retreat.

Tip: We recommend staying on the west or north side of the island for easier access to restaurants and popular spots like Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay.

What to Eat

While Nusa Penida is more rustic than mainland Bali, you’ll still find some great places to eat—especially around the harbor area and in the north and west of the island.

Local Dishes to Try

Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) – often available with vegetables or tofu.
Mie Goreng (fried noodles) – just as tasty and easy to make vegan.
Gado-Gado – a salad with steamed vegetables, peanut sauce, and often tofu or tempeh.
Tempeh Satay – grilled skewers of tempeh with sweet soy glaze or peanut sauce.
Fruit Smoothie Bowls – refreshing and packed with local tropical fruits like mango, banana, and dragon fruit.

Things to do in Nusa Penida

Explore Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is a peaceful, secluded beach nestled along a 200-meter stretch of dark sand. It’s one of the best places on Nusa Penida to unwind and relax, especially since the island is still relatively untouched by mass tourism. The bay offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life just off the shore.

As the day winds down, Crystal Bay becomes one of the top spots on the island to watch the sunset—it’s simply breathtaking. For a bit of adventure, head to the far end of the beach where a hidden staircase leads through the woods to a secret viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views over the coastline.

Explore Angel’s Billabong

Angel’s Billabong is one of the most magical places on Nusa Penida. This natural infinity pool features crystal-clear water nestled between rugged rock formations, with the ocean cascading into it at the edge. When the tide is low and the conditions are calm, it creates the perfect spot to dip in and admire the dramatic surroundings.

However, this spot is also one of the most dangerous on the island. The ocean here can be unpredictable, and high tide can turn this peaceful pool into a hazardous place, with waves crashing violently over the rocks.

For safety, make sure to visit early in the morning—before the tide rises. As the day goes on, the sea becomes more aggressive, and entering the pool becomes extremely dangerous. Many accidents have happened here, so be cautious and respect the signs and advice from locals.

Go to Broken Beach

Broken Beach is one of Nusa Penida’s most iconic and photogenic spots. This stunning little cove is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and features a giant natural archway carved out by the ocean over centuries. The arch lets seawater flow in and out, creating a circular turquoise pool that’s mesmerizing to watch from above.

The name “Broken Beach” comes from the collapsed cliff that created this unique formation. While you can’t actually access the beach itself—there’s no path leading down into the cove—the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

It’s a peaceful place to take a break, snap photos, and admire the raw power of nature.

Snorkel at Manta Bay

One of the best things to do in Nusa Penida is to organize an early morning snorkeling trip to Manta Point. Most accommodations can help you book this tour, which brings you to a spot off the island’s west coast where majestic manta rays glide naturally through the water. Or you can also book it directly online to be sure about what you get.

These gentle giants are completely unbothered by your presence—you may even find one swimming right beneath you. It’s an unforgettable encounter, and one of those rare travel moments that feels truly magical.

After swimming with the mantas, your boat will usually head toward Crystal Bay for more snorkeling. Keep your eyes peeled—if you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish), one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures.

This is hands-down one of the most memorable experiences Nusa Penida has to offer.

Drive to Teletubbies Hill

Bukit Teletubbies is one of the most scenic spots in central Nusa Penida, known for its soft, rolling hills and sweeping views of the island’s lush, untouched landscape. It’s the perfect place to admire nature at work and take in the peaceful side of Nusa Penida.

Hop on your scooter and enjoy a scenic ride through winding roads until you reach these iconic green mounds. Whether you’re visiting in the dry season when the hills turn golden or the wet season when everything is bright green, Bukit Teletubbies is always worth the trip.

Don’t forget to stop along the way for photos—this is one of the most photogenic landscapes on the island.

Spend some time at Atuh Beach

Atuh Beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Nusa Penida, tucked away on the island’s remote eastern shore. The journey to get there is bumpy and adventurous, but the reward is more than worth it. Once you reach the end of the road, a short downhill hike will lead you to this postcard-perfect beach.

With its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and soft white sand, Atuh Beach feels like a slice of paradise far from the crowds. Spend your time sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of this stunning coastal spot.

Explore Goa Giri Putri Temple

Goa Giri Putri Temple is one of the most unique and sacred places you can visit on Nusa Penida. This Hindu temple is hidden inside a 300-meter-long cave and is an important pilgrimage site for locals, with many traveling from Bali to worship here.

To enter, you’ll need to wear a sarong, which you can rent at the entrance for a 20,000 IDR donation. After that, you’ll squeeze through a narrow crevice in the rock that suddenly opens into a vast and impressive cave. The atmosphere inside is mystical, filled with incense, offerings, and the sound of prayers echoing through the cavern.

It’s a cultural and spiritual experience not to be missed while exploring Nusa Penida.

Spot the local wildlife

Nusa Penida is an untamed gem, where nature still takes the lead. It’s not unusual to wake up to the sound of roosters crowing and later spot monkeys playing by the roadside as you explore the island on your scooter. You might even come across wild pigs and other animals freely roaming in the lush landscape.

The wildlife extends below the surface too. Nusa Penida is famous for its rich marine life—you can snorkel or dive with majestic manta rays and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish), along with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. Nature lovers will be in their element here.

Discover Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic and photographed places on Nusa Penida. Perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff shaped like a Tyrannosaurus Rex, the viewpoint offers jaw-dropping panoramic views over turquoise waters and the white sand cove far below.

In recent years, a steep trail has been created along the spine of the “T-Rex,” allowing adventurous travelers to hike down to the beach. While the descent is physically demanding and can be slippery, those who make it to the bottom are rewarded with one of the most stunning, secluded beaches on the island. Just be sure to wear proper shoes, take your time, and avoid hiking down in the heat of the day.

Good to know

Travel Tips for Nusa Penida

Fuel up often: Gas stations on the island are rare and usually located in the main towns. You’ll mostly find locals selling petrol in glass bottles along the road. It’s a bit more expensive, but essential—so top up when you see it, especially if you’re heading to remote beaches or the east coast.
Cash is king: Most local restaurants (warungs), snorkel tours, and scooter rentals only accept cash. There are a few ATMs in Toyapakeh and Sampalan, but they can be out of service. Bring enough cash with you when arriving on the island.
Don’t expect Bali-style tourism: Nusa Penida is still wild. You won’t find beach clubs, fancy cafes on every corner, or a polished tourist scene. But that’s the charm—it’s all about nature, rugged adventure, and local vibes. Be patient and embrace the slower pace.
No streetlights: The island gets pitch dark once the sun sets, especially on backroads. Avoid riding your scooter after dark—it’s not only dangerous due to poor visibility and potholes, but animals also roam the roads.
Download offline maps: Mobile signal is spotty, especially in the center of the island or near cliffs. Google Maps works great offline—just download the island area before you go. Maps.me is also a good alternative with hiking trails and viewpoints.

Safety Tips for Nusa Penida

Be cautious on cliffs and trails: Many of the island’s viewpoints like Kelingking or Peguyangan don’t have safety barriers. Trails can be narrow, rocky, and slippery—especially after rain. Wear proper shoes (not just flip flops) and stay away from edges when taking photos.
Don’t swim in rough waters: The beaches may look calm from afar, but the currents in Nusa Penida are strong and unpredictable. Crystal Bay and Atuh Beach are safer, but places like Angel’s Billabong or Broken Beach are not for swimming. Always ask locals if it’s safe before jumping in.
Snorkeling and diving: Whether you’re diving with Mola Mola or snorkeling with manta rays, always go with a certified operator. The sea can get rough and currents are powerful. Don’t try to do it on your own or with sketchy boats from the beach.

Bermain air basah, bermain api hangus – Playing with water, wet. Playing with fire, burned.

About the authors

We are Alex and Tina, a French-Serbian couple who met in China back in 2014. We spent three incredible years there before making France our home. Our shared passion for travel has been the heartbeat of our relationship for over 12 years, taking us across 44 countries and counting.

We launched TheDailyPackers in 2019 as a way to document our adventures. In 2026, we reached a major milestone by officially turning our blog into our full-time job. While we are still growing toward financial independence through this platform, every article we write is fueled by our mission to make your voyages easier through in-depth guides, honest advice, and the lessons we’ve learned from our own mistakes.

Our journey has not been without its storms. In 2023, our world changed forever when our first son, Poppy, was stillborn on November 25th. It was, and remains, the hardest chapter of our lives. In 2025, we were blessed with our second little boy, Milo. He has since joined our traveling tribe, and you’ll be seeing him—and the reality of traveling with a little one-on the blog more and more.

We hope to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity and resilience. Thank you for being part of our story.