Nusa Penida is one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular islands — and for many travelers, the highlight of their entire Bali trip. The dramatic scenery, pristine beaches, and manta rays in the turquoise sea are something few forget. Here's everything you need to know to experience Nusa Penida in the best possible way.
What is Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is the largest of three neighboring islands southwest of Bali — Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. The island is known for dramatic cliffs, white beaches, pristine nature, and rich marine life. Unlike Bali, Nusa Penida is still relatively untouched by mass tourism — making it one of the region's most unique destinations. The island is 45 minutes from Sanur by fast boat and can easily be visited as a day trip from Bali, or as part of a longer island-hopping tour.
Our day trip includes transport to the fast boat from Sanur, a local driver on the island, and visits to the main attractions — all arranged for you.
See Nusa Penida Day Trip →
Kelingking Beach — T-rex Island
Kelingking Beach is Nusa Penida's most iconic motif — one of the most photographed places in all of Indonesia. From the viewpoint at the top, you can see the cliffs forming a T-rex stretching into the turquoise sea. The picture you've seen hundreds of times on Instagram — this is the place.
It is possible to climb down to the beach, but it is a demanding hike on steep and sometimes slippery paths. Most people choose to enjoy the view from above — and that is more than enough. The view from the top is one of the most dramatic you will see in all of Southeast Asia.
Angel's Billabong
Angel's Billabong is a natural pool in the sea — formed by cliffs that stop the waves and create a calm, turquoise swimming pool right by the ocean's edge. The combination of clear water, dark cliffs, and the open sea in the background makes this one of Nusa Penida's most beautiful spots. Be aware of the tide — at high tide, the waves can be dangerous. Your driver will always know when it's safe to swim.
Broken Beach
Broken Beach is a natural bridge of cliffs over a circular pool connected to the sea. From the air, it looks like an amphitheater created by nature itself. It is not possible to swim here, but it is a fantastic photo opportunity — and it is often possible to see sea turtles in the water below.
Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay is Nusa Penida's finest beach — white sand, clear water, and a calm atmosphere. Perfect for relaxing after an active day of climbing and sightseeing. Snorkeling here is also excellent with coral reefs and colorful fish right off the beach.
Manta Rays
Nusa Penida is one of the best places in the world to see manta rays in the wild. These majestic creatures — with wingspans of up to 5–7 meters — swim calmly in the clear waters around the island and are one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Southeast Asia. The best way to see them is through snorkeling — a dedicated snorkeling trip that takes you to the best manta ray stations. This is included in our snorkel package and available as part of the Bali and Island Hopping tour.
Our snorkeling tour to Nusa Lembongan takes you to the best manta ray stations in the area — an unforgettable experience for most.
See Nusa Lembongan Snorkeling →
How to get there
Nusa Penida is reached by fast boat from Sanur — the trip takes about 45 minutes. Start as early as possible, preferably between 07:00–08:00; you avoid the crowds and get the best lighting conditions in the morning. Our day trip includes a driver who picks you up at your hotel and takes you to Sanur, and upon arrival on the island, a local driver will be waiting. The roads on Nusa Penida are sometimes steep and uneven — a local driver with good knowledge of the island makes the trip safer and more efficient.
Practical tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Best time | April–October (dry season). Avoid the rainy season November–March |
| Start early | 07:00–08:00 from Sanur. Attractions are empty in the morning |
| Bring | Sunscreen, hat, swimwear, water, and good footwear |
| Kelingking down? | Demanding climb — most choose to enjoy the view from above |
| Payment | Bring cash in IDR — not all places accept cards |
| Travel time | 45 minutes by fast boat from Sanur |
Day trip or overnight stay?
Nusa Penida can easily be experienced in one day — most Norwegian travelers take the island as a day trip from Bali and comfortably visit the main attractions. If you want more time for Crystal Bay, snorkeling, and the island's sunset, it might be worth staying overnight. If you want to combine Nusa Penida with the Gili Islands and other neighboring islands, see our Bali and Island Hopping tour which includes fast boat, accommodation, and the best experiences on all islands.
We arrange everything — transport from your hotel, fast boat from Sanur, and a local driver on the island. You just need to show up.
See Nusa Penida Day Trip →