Nusa Penida is one of those places that leaves you speechless from the moment you arrive. With towering cliffs plunging into the sea, hidden white-sand beaches, and viewpoints that make your heart race, this island just southeast of Bali is raw, powerful, and unbelievably beautiful. Unlike its neighboring islands, Nusa Penida still feels untamed, a place where nature takes center stage and every turn brings a new “wow” moment. Whether you’re visiting on a day trip or spending a few nights exploring, here are the 20 best things to do in Nusa Penida that will make you fall in love with this wild paradise.
📍 Where is Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is one of the three Nusa Islands, located just off the southeastern coast of Bali. It’s the largest of the trio (alongside Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan) and by far the most rugged. What makes Nusa Penida stand out is how untouched it still feels. The roads might be bumpy, and the journey adventurous, but once you set eyes on the cliffs, beaches, and turquoise waters, you’ll forget everything else. It’s like stepping into a natural postcard.
🛥 How to Get to Nusa Penida
The easiest way to reach Nusa Penida is by fast boat from Sanur Harbor in Bali, with boats running daily and taking around 30–45 minutes. It’s best to book your tickets in advance, especially during high season, to secure a spot on a morning departure when the sea is calmer.
🛵 Getting Around Nusa Penida
Once you arrive, getting around the island requires a bit of an adventurous spirit. The roads in Nusa Penida are infamous: narrow, steep, and riddled with potholes, especially on the way to popular spots like Diamond Beach or Peguyangan Waterfall. You can rent a scooter if you’re confident driving in tricky conditions, or hire a local driver with a car for a smoother experience. I chose to have a driver and loved the peace it gave me, and still an opportunity to explore hidden corners at my own pace.
📸 20 Best Things to Do in Nusa Penida
1. Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff)
This is the spot you’ve seen all over Instagram, and it’s even more incredible in person. The cliff here looks just like a T-Rex head jutting out into the ocean, and the view from the top is absolutely jaw-dropping. If you’re feeling brave, you can hike down the steep cliffside path to the beach below, where white sand meets dramatic waves. It’s a serious workout, but standing on that beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and crashing surf, felt like being in a lost world.
2. Angel’s Billabong
Tucked beside Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong is a natural rock pool formed by centuries of crashing waves. When the tide is low, it becomes an infinity pool where you can swim while gazing out to the open ocean. The colors of the water, vibrant turquoise and emerald green, are unreal. But be cautious: when the tide is high or waves are strong, it can be dangerous, so always check the conditions before taking a dip.
3. Broken Beach
Broken Beach is a natural wonder: a collapsed sea cave that left behind a circular cove, surrounded by cliffs and a natural rock bridge stretching across the water. There’s no access to the beach itself, but walking around the rim gives you the most stunning views. The way the sunlight reflects off the waves inside the cove is mesmerizing, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot manta rays swimming just beyond the arch.
4. Crystal Bay
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of relaxation and swimming, Crystal Bay Beach is your go-to spot in Nusa Penida. Tucked into a calm bay framed by palm trees and a tiny offshore island, the waters here are some of the calmest on the island, making it one of the few places safe and comfortable for swimming. The sand is soft, the vibe is peaceful, and the sunsets? Absolutely golden.
It’s also a great snorkeling spot, with colorful fish and coral just off the shore. Whether you’re starting your day here or winding down after chasing cliffs and waterfalls, Crystal Bay is one of the most relaxing things to do in Nusa Penida.
5. Snorkeling with Manta Rays
Swimming alongside manta rays in the wild is a moment I’ll never forget. Manta Point, just off the coast of Nusa Penida, is one of the best places in Bali to see these gentle giants gliding through the water. The snorkeling tours usually also include stops at Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay, where you’ll find vibrant coral gardens and colorful fish. It’s a must-do if you love marine life or just want an unforgettable underwater adventure.
6. Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach is a slice of heaven: pure white sand, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs that rise like walls on either side. The newly built staircase carved into the cliffside leads you down in a zigzag path with breathtaking views the entire way. While the waves here can be too strong for swimming, just standing on the sand, surrounded by that much raw beauty, is one of the most surreal experiences.
7. Atuh Beach
Just a short walk from Diamond Beach is Atuh Beach, another dreamy cove with soft sand and striking rock formations. Unlike Diamond, it’s a bit more relaxed and less dramatic, making it perfect for a peaceful swim or just lounging under a beach umbrella. Small warungs sell coconuts and snacks, so you can easily spend a few lazy hours here, soaking in the sun.
8. Thousand Islands Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu)
From this viewpoint, the horizon stretches endlessly, dotted with tiny limestone islands that rise out of the sea like floating mountains. The path here leads through a few cliffside viewpoints, each one more beautiful than the last. Early morning is the best time to visit: watching the golden light spill over the cliffs and sparkle on the water below felt like standing on the edge of the world.
9. Rumah Pohon Treehouse
Right beside the Thousand Islands Viewpoint is the now-famous treehouse, perched high on the cliff with panoramic views of the sea. It’s become a dreamy photo spot for travelers, and it’s easy to see why: the wooden stairs, the hanging vines, the view stretching into infinity. You can even stay overnight here if you want to wake up to one of the most unforgettable sunrises in Bali.
10. Peguyangan Waterfall & Blue Staircase
Peguyangan is a sacred site hidden down a steep cliffside staircase painted bright blue. The walk down hugs the edge of the rock, with incredible views of the ocean all the way. At the bottom, you’ll find a temple and a small natural spring waterfall. Locals often come here for spiritual cleansing, and visitors are welcome, as long as you wear a sarong and show respect. The journey down (and up!) is no joke, but 100% worth it.
11. Tembeling Natural Pool & Forest
This spot is a total hidden gem. Deep within a lush forest, Tembeling is home to a beautiful natural pool filled with fresh spring water, surrounded by tall trees and mossy rocks. It feels like stepping into a jungle oasis. From here, you can continue to a secret beach nearby, where huge boulders and crashing waves give the place a truly untamed vibe.
12. Teletubbies Hill
Yes, it really is called Teletubbies Hill! During the rainy season, this area turns into rolling green hills that look almost cartoonish. The views are soft and peaceful, totally different from the cliffs and beaches on the rest of the island. I loved just sitting up here in the breeze, watching the clouds roll over the hills like waves.
13. Banah Cliff Point
One of the quieter cliff viewpoints, Banah Cliff offers panoramic views of the ocean and a unique rock arch standing alone in the water. It’s not crowded at all, so it’s a great place to enjoy some quiet reflection with nothing but the sound of the sea.
14. Saren Cliff Viewpoint
Another peaceful spot that’s perfect at sunrise. The cliffs here are less dramatic than Kelingking, but the soft golden light in the morning makes this one of the most calming places on the island.
15. Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple
To enter this temple, you crawl through a small opening in the rock, which opens into a massive limestone cave hidden inside the cliff. It’s cool, quiet, and filled with spiritual energy. Local worshippers often gather here for prayer and ceremony: it’s a special place to witness a side that few tourists see.
16. Amok Sunset
Looking for a dreamy spot to end your day? Amok Sunset is a stylish cliffside bar and restaurant with beanbags, cocktails, and a killer view of, you guessed it, the sunset. The vibe here is cozy and relaxed, perfect for a romantic dinner or just soaking in golden hour with a drink in hand.
17. Sebuluh Cliff
This lesser-known cliff viewpoint offers sweeping ocean views without the crowds. I stumbled upon it while exploring randomly and ended up sitting here for nearly an hour, completely mesmerized by the waves and sea breeze. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down.
18. Toyapakeh Village
This little coastal village is one of the main harbors on the island, but it’s also a lovely spot to grab lunch, explore some local shops, or book a diving trip. It has a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that made me want to stay a little longer than planned.
19. Gamat Bay
Another fantastic snorkeling spot! Gamat Bay is known for its clear waters and healthy coral reefs, plus you can sometimes see sea turtles here. It’s also less busy than the main Manta tours, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a more peaceful marine adventure.
20. Paluang Cliff
Just a short walk from Kelingking, Paluang Cliff gives you a slightly different perspective of the same area, with far fewer people. It’s a great place to escape the crowds while still soaking in the iconic landscape.
🛏 Where to Stay on Nusa Penida
The best areas to stay:
- Near Toyapakeh – Close to the harbor and restaurants
- Crystal Bay – Laid-back, nature vibe
- Atuh Beach area – Best for sunrise lovers
🌙 Recommended places:
- Autentik Penida – Beautiful jungle bungalows
- La Roja Bungalows – Cute and colorful
- Semabu Hills – Breathtaking views & infinity pool
Personal favourites :
🛏 Bogus Cottage
If you’re spending a night or two on the island (which I really recommend), Bogus Cottage is a simple but lovely place to stay near the western side of the island. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the garden is lush and quiet, the pool is refreshing, and the staff are super welcoming and helpful. It’s just a short drive to Crystal Bay, which makes it ideal for catching sunsets or an early morning swim. I loved waking up here with the sound of birds in the garden and enjoying a slow breakfast before heading off to explore. For budget-friendly comfort with a peaceful vibe, Bogus Cottage was just right.
🍽️ Lunak Café – My Favorite Seafront Spot
One of my absolute favorite discoveries on the island was Lunak Café, a cozy seafront restaurant with dreamy ocean views and a super laid-back atmosphere. The vibe here is everything you want after a long, hot day exploring: soft breeze, chill music, and the sound of waves just a few meters away. Their food is delicious and well-priced, with options ranging from fresh seafood to smoothie bowls and local Indonesian favorites. I came here for a delicious seafood dinner. If you’re searching for a peaceful moment with good food and an unbeatable view, Lunak Café is a must. It’s the kind of place that turns a quick meal into a slow, beautiful memory.
📆 My Suggested 2-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary
Most people go to Nusa Penida for a short day trip, or (better option!) for a 2-day trip. If you choose a two-day trip, these are my must-visit recommendations:
Day 1 – East Side:
- Diamond Beach
- Atuh Beach
- Thousand Islands Viewpoint
- Rumah Pohon Treehouse
- Teletubbies Hill
Day 2 – West Side:
- Kelingking Beach
- Broken Beach
- Angel’s Billabong
- Crystal Bay
🛵 Stay overnight for a slower, more magical experience.
📦 What to Pack
- Sunscreen & hat
- Swimsuit + towel
- Good hiking sandals/shoes
- Water bottle
- Small backpack
- Camera
- Power bank
- Money
💛 Final Thoughts
Nusa Penida is wild and unforgettable. Yes, the roads can be brutal, and the sun is no joke, but the raw beauty of this island makes every bump worth it. If you’re looking for the dreamiest beaches, otherworldly views, and a taste of Bali’s wilder side, Nusa Penida is calling.
Don’t rush it, take your time, stay overnight, and let this magical island steal your heart like it did mine. 🌺
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