Nusa Penida, a small island southeast of Bali, is a hidden gem that features stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and distinct wildlife. Its dramatic cliffs, immaculate white beaches, and vibrant marine life have quickly transformed Nusa Penida into one of the hottest spots among adventurers and nature lovers. Whether you want to explore hidden beaches, dive in colourful coral reefs, or hike through breathtaking natural landscapes, there are several things to do in Nusa Penida.
10 Things To Do In Nusa Penida
From viewpoints such as Kelingking Beach to tranquil splendours such as the Tembeling Natural Pool, there are many exciting things to do in Nusa Penida.
1. Visit Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach, located in Bunga Mekar, is perhaps the most iconic place in Nusa Penida. The T-Rex-shaped cliffs standing vertical over a turquoise sea create an eye-popping view that draws you from worldwide. Apart from its beauty, hiking down to the beach is an experience on its own. Right from the steep climb down to this one-of-a-kind beach, the breathtaking site and crystal-clear waters are well worth every single effort.
Best Time To Visit: May to September.
Entry Fee: ₹54 (IDR 10,000)
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
How To Reach: 45-minute ride from the main harbour
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
2. Explore Angel’s Billabong
Photo: Rustam Effendy / Unsplash
Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool located among rugged cliffs in Nusa Penida. It is close to Bali and is an ideal place for a cool swim during low tide. For those who want to take a dip in an environment of natural beauty, this perspective is one of the top things to do in Nusa Penida. Looking out into the ocean and enjoying a surreal experience while the waves crash close by on the rocks makes you feel calm and peaceful.
Entry Fee: Free
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
3. Discover Broken Beach
Photo: Chaitanya Maheshwari / Unsplash
Just near the Angel’s Billabong is Broken Beach in Nusa Penida island, one of the greatest coastal formations in the world, with an arch carved naturally in some rocks allowing the ocean to flow into a circular bay. Although you won’t be swimming here, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, and this beach is indeed one of the most scenic spots on the island; also is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of Nusa Penida’s coastline.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 24*7
4. Snorkel Or Dive At Crystal Bay
Photo: Touann Gatouillat Vergos / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Crystal Bay is amongst the great diving and snorkelling sites in Nusa Penida, Indonesia. The waters are peaceful, and underwater-rich life abounds. The beach itself is splendid, with dark blue waters and powder-fine sand backed by palms. Below the surface is a veritable wonderland of corals and sea life, lucky divers may spot the famous mola-mola (sunfish) which is a beautiful sight to watch and experience. It is one of the favourite doings among water-sport enthusiasts when in Nusa Penida.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Cost/Person: ₹2143 (IDR 4,00,000) for diving
How To Reach: 20-minute drive from the harbour
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
5. Hike To Atuh Beach
Atuh Beach has one of the closed paradises, with high cliffs and towering rock formations surrounding it. It is less crowded than the other parts of the island, which is why it is a perfect escape for peace seekers. A descent down a long flight of stairs will take you to the beach. Wait until you set foot on the white sands and the crystal waters to swim. You can find a swallow nest on the south side of the beach as it is rare to find and its price is expensive.
Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: ₹27 (IDR 5,000)
Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
6. Visit Thousand Island Viewpoint
Photo: Simone Dinoia / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
At the viewpoint of Thousand Island, Pulau Seribu, you can catch a great view of stunning mini-islands and breathtaking cliffs along Nusa Penida’s coast. You can also find the famous Treehouse-Rumah Pohon near the viewpoint, which is a fantastic place for pictures for photography lovers and for watching the sunset or sunrise. This is one of those breathtaking places to see Mother Nature’s beauty, making it a must-visit on a one-day trip to Nusa Penida.
Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
Entry Fee: ₹27 (IDR 5,000)
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
7. Swim At Tembeling Natural Pool
Photo: Ishan @seefromthesky / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located in the forest, Tembeling Natural Pool is a small hidden gem tucked away in the dense rainforest. After about a short trek through the forest, one arrives at the natural freshwater pool surrounded by cliffs and tropical greenery. This is a cool place to relax after a day exploring the island, and it is one of the most unique things to do in Nusa Penida. There is a smaller pool nearby that is privately situated and could be enjoyed for a swim.
Best Time To Visit: Morning
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
How To Reach: 1-hour drive and a short trek from the harbour
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
8. Visit Peguyangan Waterfall
Photo: Rio Hodges / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Peguyangan Waterfall is perched on the cliff at the very bottom; it is so-called as it features blue stairs going down to the waterfall and a small temple. Though not extensive, the beauty reveals itself when descending the trail, where you catch stunning ocean views on your way down. It’s considered to have sacred grounds; if you see locals visiting, they come with offerings for the temple. This one spot is the highest among the spiritual things to do in Nusa Penida.
Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
Entry Fee: ₹54 (IDR 10,000)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
9. Marvel At Manta Point
Photo: Nott Peera / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Manta Point is absolutely one of the best diving spots in the water. It has gentle mantas and views of the majestic creatures that people only get a chance to see once in their lifetimes. Dive centres on the island offer guides to Manta Point; a good dive guide will ensure to teach you even if you’re not diving; you will see the mantas from the surface while snorkelling. That’s one of the most thrilling experiences I’ve had getting involved with Nusa Penida.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Entry Fee: ₹4286 (IDR 8,00,000) for diving
Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
10. Visit Goa Giri Putri Temple
Photo: Sasuke shinozawa / Wikimedia Commons
Goa Giri Putri is a unique cave temple within a limestone hill in Nusa Penida. The entrance is a narrow way, but inside it opens into a big room containing several shrines and altars. This temple is a spiritual landmark for the Balinese core and offers you the chance to conceivably join the locals in their offering experiences. The temple is among the more spiritual things to do in Nusa Penida, having calmness and mystical experience.
Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: ₹107 (IDR 20,000)
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nusa Penida is a treasure of natural wonders and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you see yourself mingling with Manta rays at Manta Point or snorkelling at Crystal Bay, these places are undeniable things to do in Nusa Penida. With everlasting memories of its raw beauty and vibrant culture, it would be a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Alexander Nrjwolf / Unsplash