What are the top things to do in Nusa Penida?

There are plenty of activities to do in Nusa Penida, from exploring hidden beaches and hiking scenic trails to visiting historic temples and snorkeling with sea turtles. If you're looking to understand the local culture (which is different from Balinese culture!), we would highly recommend visiting a local seaweed farm. The main attractions of Nusa Penida are: Kelingking Beach: that's the one that looks like t-rex! This is THE spot to take photos of the green 'dinosaur head' swallowing blue waves. You can walk down the "spine" of the dinosaur to get to the beach. But do be careful as the path is not great condition. Crystal Bay: has some of the clearest waters and the healthiest corals and fish life around. This makes it the perfect spot for snorkelling. Broken Beach: another marvel of nature, this pool of water is surrounded by limestone cliffs. Angel Bilabong: this is a natural infinity pool! These very impressive clear waters rival that of any pool. Wall Beach/Wall Point: another clear watered beach that is great for snorkelling with great fish and coral life Gamat Bay: a more wild and secluded version of Crystal Bay; it takes a bit of time to walk down an overgrown path to get to the beach, but it's totally worth it. Great for snorkelling as well! Manta Point: this the place to see the majestic manta rays!

How do I get to Nusa Penida from Bali?

Getting to Nusa Penida from Bali is easy and affordable. You can take a fast boat from Sanur or Padang Bai in Bali to Nusa Penida, which takes around 30-45 minutes. There are also options for private transfers and organized tours, which may include pick-up and drop-off from your hotel. It's always a good idea to book your travel in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Is a Day Trip enough for Nusa Penida?

If you choose to only go for a day, your itinerary will be limited to only one side of the island (East or West) and you will have to rush from place to place in order to catch the fast boat or ferry back to Bali. But you will still get to see quite a few of the famous attractions and Instagram spots. You may even be able to squeeze some snorkellig in! We do highly recommend going for at least 2 days so that you can enjoy the island at a more leisurely pace, get to see both East and West sides of the island as well as skip the crowds at the popular beaches by going in the evening or early in the morning.

Do I need to go with a guide?

You don't need to go to Nusa Penida with a guide - you can get your own ferry transfer across, and get a scooter on the other side. However, if you don't feel comfortable riding a motor bike (especially on windy, uneven roads) or would like a more comfortable experience (guides will have cars to drive you around the island), we highly suggest arranging a driver guide to take you around.

Do I need to train up?

No not at all! Just enjoy the fun and the sun!

What's the best time to go?

The best months to visit are All monthsWe recommend the above period because you would have the boat transfers available year round and there's really no bad time to go to nusa penida! however do note it is rainy season from december to end january, so you might want to avoid those months. but really, there's no bad weather in nusa penida! .

Are there any lesser known attractions or hidden gems on Nusa Penida?

Aside from the famous beaches and cliffs, a few of our favourite more secluded spots are: Tembling Beach and Forest - a cascading set of natural pools located in a majestic forest. The deeper you go, the more crystal clear the pools get! Peguyangan Waterfall - will need to descend a very steep set of wiry blue stairs, once you get to the bottom you will see an effervescent stream of water pouring over from a jutting cliff's edge. Getting up close to see a seaweed farm - one of the main forms of economic activity on the island aside from tourism; you'll need to get a guide to introduce you to a local farmer that will show you around the farm.

Do you have any accommodation recommendations for Nusa Penida?

We've listed a few of our favourite accommodations on Nusa Penida. Bukit Keker Cottage - this is the best budget option. Just 5 small wooden cottages with tin roofs on a hill. Very basic, but clean and neat and the views of Mt Agung, available to all 5 cottages, are amazing! Plus it's owned by a very sweet and accommodating local family. Adiwana Warnakali Resort - this one is quite a bit fancier, with spacious and comfortable rooms, an infinity pool and fab views of Mt Agung. It's located very close to diving and snorkelling spots, so if you are planning for some water sports, this is the right place to stay. Sunset Hill Cottage - this is another cozy budget option with simple and clean rooms. The property has a pool and is close to Toyapakeh Harbor, which is where most of the fast boats come in.

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Nusa Penida Trips

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Head to Nusa Penida for iconic views & snorkelling. The IG-famous sights (T-rex, Broken Beach etc) are on the West Side, but the authentic life is on the East side (iconic Teletubbies hill & seaweed farms). Top tip: Most people come on a day trip from Bali, but to avoid the crowds and experience its charm, we'd recommend 2 days here.

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