Nusa Penida: 2 Days Discovering Bali’s Natural Wonders

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Nusa Penida: A Dive into Wild Paradise

Nusa Penida reveals a different side of Bali—wilder, more expansive, and quieter. This still-preserved island, with its dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches, leaves a lasting impression from the very first moments. The horizon stretches endlessly, cliffs drop into deep blue waters, and nature still seems to hold sway over humankind.

On land and underwater, adventure is everywhere. Winding roads lead to secluded coves, steep trails unveil dizzying viewpoints, and the ocean depths sometimes reveal graceful manta rays. While some spots get crowded during the day, a short detour is often all it takes to reconnect with the raw tranquility that defines the island’s charm.

In just two days, we crossed spectacular landscapes, swam in crystal-clear waters, and discovered a more secret side of Bali. If you love unspoiled nature, wide open spaces, and the feeling of true escape, Nusa Penida is a destination that won’t leave you indifferent.

Getting to Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is accessible only by boat, from Bali or nearby islands. Several options are available, with varying durations and levels of comfort depending on your point of departure.

From Gili Trawangan

We traveled to Nusa Penida from Gili Trawangan. Direct speedboat connections link the two islands in 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the operator and sea conditions. Departures typically take place in late morning or early afternoon, arriving at Banjar Nyuh or Buyuk ports.

Pro tip: Seats are limited, so it’s best to book in advance, especially during high season.

From Sanur

Sanur is the most popular departure point for reaching Nusa Penida from southern Bali. Fast boats depart every 30 to 60 minutes between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., with a quick crossing of 30 to 45 minutes. Boats generally arrive at Banjar Nyuh or Sampalan, depending on the company.

Good to know: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before boarding.

From Padangbai

Less busy than Sanur, Padangbai is a good alternative if you’re staying in eastern Bali. The crossing takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, with departures in the morning.

Note: There are fewer daily connections, but the ride is often quieter and more budget-friendly—a great option to avoid the crowds.

Kelingking Beach: A jaw-dropping cliffside panorama

No visit to Nusa Penida would be complete without mentioning Kelingking Beach. From the cliffside viewpoint, the iconic T-Rex-shaped rock formation plunges into the ocean, creating a dramatic landscape where deep blue waters meet golden sand and lush vegetation. It’s one of the island’s most photographed and awe-inspiring spots—stunning in scale and surreal in atmosphere.

A dizzily beautiful viewpoint

From the top, the view is simply breathtaking. Towering cliffs, crashing waves, and endless turquoise stretch before you. Despite the crowds, it’s often possible to step slightly off the main trail to find a quieter spot and take in the scenery in peace.

The descent to the beach: a true adventure

It is possible to reach Kelingking Beach, but the hike down is not for the faint-hearted. The steep, uneven trail winds along the cliffside, with bamboo steps and ropes serving as makeshift handrails. It takes around 30 to 45 minutes to reach the beach—proceeding cautiously is a must. Along the way, each landing offers a new perspective over the cove and ocean, making the descent as beautiful as it is demanding.

A hidden beach beneath the cliffs

Once at the bottom, the contrast with the viewpoint above is striking. Few visitors make the descent, creating a peaceful, almost untouched atmosphere. Enclosed by towering cliffs, the beach feels raw and powerful, with white sand and crashing waves that embody the island’s wild nature.

Swimming is not recommended—the waves are strong and the currents dangerous. But walking barefoot on the sand, listening to the waves, and gazing out at the horizon make the effort unforgettable.

The climb back up: a challenge to anticipate

The return hike is intense, especially under the sun. Every step demands effort, and regular breaks are essential. Take your time, stay hydrated, and pause to enjoy the views on your way up. Reaching the top comes with a sense of achievement—one of the most powerful memories Nusa Penida has to offer.

Practical tips for visiting Kelingking Beach:

Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy softer morning light
If you plan to descend, be well prepared: the trail is steep and physically demanding
Wear proper footwear—avoid flip-flops, as the path is slippery and uneven
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen—there’s very little shade and the heat can be intense
Stay well away from the shore—the waves are strong and the currents extremely dangerous

Angel’s Billabong: An Emerald Lagoon Carved into the Rock

Among Nusa Penida’s most fascinating landscapes, Angel’s Billabong stands out for its raw elegance. Nestled between volcanic cliffs, this natural infinity pool reveals strikingly clear turquoise water, with reflections that shift with the light and tide. Carved into the rock over time, the basin forms a mineral jewel facing the open ocean.

A breathtaking natural spectacle

From the surrounding rocks, we admired the lagoon from different angles. At low tide, the bottom becomes visible, revealing shades of emerald and deep blue. The contrast between the lagoon’s calm surface and the crashing waves below creates an almost surreal atmosphere. Each distant wave adds to the feeling of raw power and isolation.

Steep cliffs offer a dramatic viewpoint over the coastline. Listening to the roar of the waves, you can truly feel the elemental force that has shaped these landscapes for millennia. This is a place to pause and take in the view—more to contemplate than to explore.

A fragile beauty to be respected

Angel’s Billabong draws visitors with its beauty, but it demands caution. At high tide, large waves can suddenly surge into the pool, making the site dangerous. Even if the water looks calm, swimming or venturing too close to the edge is strongly discouraged. During our visit, we chose to stay up high and simply enjoy the view safely.

Practical tips for visiting Angel’s Billabong:

Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best light
Don’t get too close to the edge—rocks can be slippery and waves unpredictable
Check the tide schedule, as the pool may be submerged at high tide
Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain is rocky and uneven

Broken Beach: A Natural Arch Facing the Ocean

Just a few minutes’ walk from Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach reveals a dramatic rock formation sculpted by erosion—an emblem of Nusa Penida’s wild coastline. These two neighboring sites can easily be explored on the same walk.

From the moment we arrived, the scene was striking: a massive arch carved into the cliff overlooks a perfectly round cove. Through the opening, turquoise ocean waters flow into a tranquil inner lagoon, creating a serene contrast with the crashing waves beyond.

Walking the trail that circles the bay, each viewpoint reveals a new angle: lush cliff walls, shifting reflections on the water, and the clean lines of the natural arch. The whole setting feels raw yet peaceful—a place patiently shaped by the sea.

Practical tips for visiting Broken Beach:

Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light
Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain is rocky and uneven in places
Be cautious near the cliff edges—there are no safety barriers, and the wind can be strong

Diving at Manta Bay: Encountering Manta Rays

Among the must-do marine experiences in Nusa Penida, diving or snorkeling at Manta Bay offers a rare moment—both visual and deeply sensory. This iconic site, accessible by boat from the island, is renowned for its regular visits from large manta rays, often seen just a few meters below the surface.

Their dark silhouettes stand out clearly against the deep blue water. They glide slowly, tracing graceful circles in near silence. Watching these creatures up close is an experience that’s as calming as it is awe-inspiring.

Several dive centers on the island offer excursions to Manta Bay, whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver. Conditions vary with the seasons, but even a short trip is enough to appreciate the richness of Nusa Penida’s underwater world—and to meet one of the ocean’s most fascinating species.

Crowds in Nusa Penida : Tips for Avoiding the Rush and Exploring Smoothly

While Nusa Penida still feels wilder than southern Bali, its iconic sites attract large numbers of visitors every day. From late morning onwards, narrow roads fill up with scooters and cars, especially around Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. Parking areas quickly reach capacity, and traffic can slow down noticeably in certain areas.

How to make the most of your visit

To fully enjoy the island, it’s best to start your day early. Arriving at opening time allows you to explore the landscapes in peace and take advantage of the soft morning light. During our stay, we consistently opted for early starts, which let us enjoy the sites without the crowds and move around more freely.

In the afternoon, it’s better to head toward quieter areas or stop for lunch at a warung with an ocean view, before continuing on to lesser-known spots like Atuh Beach or Suwehan Beach.

Getting around: scooter or private driver?

Roads on the island can be challenging—narrow sections, potholes, steep descents. If you’re confident on two wheels, a scooter offers the most flexibility. It lets you avoid traffic and move at your own pace.

But for more comfort—especially if you’re not used to driving in Bali or are traveling with others—hiring a private driver is a great alternative. It removes the stress of navigating while giving you the freedom to choose your stops.

With a well-planned itinerary and a mindful approach to peak times, you can experience Nusa Penida in a calmer, more enjoyable way—far from the crowds that can sometimes overshadow its beauty.

Nusa Penida, an Adventure of Raw Nature and Spectacular Views

Nusa Penida is an island that leaves a lasting impression. From its ocean-carved cliffs to secluded beaches and breathtaking landscapes, every moment spent here is a true immersion in wild, unspoiled nature.

Exploring the island takes some planning—and a bit of stamina—but the effort is more than worth it. From the dizzying viewpoint of Kelingking Beach to the natural arch of Broken Beach, each site reveals a dramatic scene where the ocean reigns with power and beauty.

If you’re drawn to dramatic scenery and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Nusa Penida deserves a place in your journey. It’s an island where every turn invites discovery—through silence, steep reliefs, and untamed beauty.

Our guides to exploring Bali

Articles by destination

Want to explore different sides of Bali? Each region has its own rhythm, scenery, and atmosphere. To help you fine-tune your itinerary, we’ve dedicated a full article to each stop on our journey:

Ubud: A Blend of Culture, Rice Terraces, and Balinese Traditions
Munduk: A natural haven filled with waterfalls and plantations
Sidemen: Far from the crowds, a deep dive into rural Bali
Gili Trawangan: The perfect island for snorkeling and laid-back vibes
Uluwatu: Surf, temples, and sunsets over the ocean

Our 2-week itinerary in Bali

Looking for an overview to help structure your trip? Check out our complete two-week itinerary, designed to balance exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion across Bali’s most beautiful destinations.

Plan your trip: our practical guide

Need concrete tips to organize your journey? Entry requirements, local transportation, budget, weather, useful advice… you’ll find all the essential information in our practical guide to planning a trip to Bali.

No matter how you like to travel, Bali has a thousand faces to discover. Whether your stay is focused on nature, culture, or pure relaxation, you’ll find everything you need here to plan a journey that truly reflects you.