To reach Nusa Penida you need to take a boat from Bali. Many operators run regular services with tickets available online on 12go.
There’s plenty to do in this beautiful island. From coastal cliff views to sacred temples and even a waterfall that’s used for pilgrimages! So make sure to include this stunning destination in your upcoming nusa penida trip.
Day 1
Whether you’re staying on the island or taking a day trip from Bali, this itinerary will cover all the main attractions of Nusa Penida. Start your day by being picked up from your accommodation (if you have booked one) or the harbor if you’re on a tour and then heading to the iconic view of Kelingking Beach.
This is a jaw-dropping spot that is famous for its unique cliff formation that looks like the head of a T-Rex dinosaur. It’s unreal, and while I’m sure you’ve seen photos of it online, seeing it for yourself is truly special.
After you’ve had a good look, head down the stairs to the beach and take a swim in the epic swimming hole. This place feels like your own private natural pool, with whirling waves gently kissing the base of the cliff.
It’s also worth checking out the temple on the hill above, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You’ll be able to catch a sunset here, or visit the underground cave known as Giri Putri. This is home to a variety of animals including bats and lizards, as well as the rare Bali starling monkeys.
If you’re a wildlife lover, make sure to pack your snorkeling gear, as many of the beaches around Nusa Penida have great coral and fish. Having your own snorkel and mask will save you money, as renting on the island is expensive.
Day 2
The second day of the Nusa Penida trip will focus on the east side of the island. You will see a few more of the major attractions on this side of the island, but you will also have time to relax at Crystal Bay or take a longer walk to Pandan Beach, which is a much more secluded beach that overlooks Nusa Ceningan.
The first stop of the day will be at Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple. This unique temple is built inside of a large cave, and you can enter by maneuvering yourself through a small hole that opens into the cave. It is still a working temple, and Hindu ceremonies are often performed here.
Afterwards, you will drive to the west side of the island to visit Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach. Both of these attractions are incredibly photogenic and feature natural infinity pools that are framed by rocky cliffs. You will want to remember to bring plenty of water, as both of these locations have limited to no shade.
After checking out both of these beautiful spots, you will head back to Atuh Beach and catch the boat back to Lembongan or Bali. Be sure to have a packed lunch and extra battery power for your camera so that you can capture some of the amazing photos of this tour.
Day 3
Nusa Penida is the biggest of the three islands that sit off of Bali. It’s also a bit more difficult to get around than the smaller islands of Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan. But if you’re determined to see everything on this amazing island, then it is definitely possible!
Start your day at the epic swimming hole called Angel’s Billabong. This cliff-side pool is a jaw-dropping sight and can be accessed by descending some stairs. Next, head to Broken Beach, where picture-perfect cliffs wrap their protective arms around an azure lagoon.
From there, drive over to the famous Kelingking Beach. This craggy shoreline looks like a dinosaur’s head and is the most photogenic spot on the island.
On the way to Kelingking, you can visit Goa Giri Putri cave, a holy temple. It’s a good idea to bring a sarong with you because this is a place of worship.
Afterward, you can catch the fast boat back to Nusa Lembongan or even Bali. If you’re taking the ferry back to Bali, be sure to book your tickets online beforehand. This saves you time and hassle at the port! You can purchase your tickets here.
Day 4
If you’ve booked a full day trip, you’ll take a fast boat from Sanur Beach and cross the brilliant blue sea to Toyapakeh on Nusa Penida. On arrival, your local host will meet you to drive you around the island in an air-conditioned van. Your tour will see pristine white sand beaches, dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation.
First up on your itinerary is Diamond Beach, a gorgeous spot with an epic staircase built into the side of the massive cliff overlooking the crystal clear waters. After some time down at the beach it’s back up the stairs to a different point of view where you can enjoy the views from above and out over Nusa Ceningan in the distance.
Next on your tour is the Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple which is one of the most unique experiences on the island. It’s not like any other temple as you have to maneuver through a tiny hole in the side of the rock to enter, but once you do you’ll be greeted with the most amazing views and an authentic cultural experience.
You’ll then head to Kelingking Beach which is probably the most famous spot on the island. It’s a stunning curved beach with blue waves crashing over the cliffs that have become the backdrop for countless photos. It’s not as crowded as other beaches on the island and you can really appreciate the beauty of the landscape from a vantage point that isn’t spoiled by crowds.