Nusa Penida has become one of the most popular places to visit near Bali in recent years. One of the main factors in its rise to popularity is that Nusa Penida’s Beaches are just so damn epic. They all seem to be at the bottom of monolithic cliffs, include dangerous hikes down sets of stairs, and have some of the bluest waters in all of Indonesia. Bali has some great beaches but I’ll argue that the Nusa Penida beaches might just be more impressive!
THE BEST BEACHES OF NUSA PENIDA
I’ve visited three times and explored all over Nusa Penida. It’s the kind of island where you can rent a moped and find yourself at a new beach every day. I’ve put together this list to help you explore all of the best Nusa Penida beaches. One of the best ways to visit many of the best Nusa Penida beaches in one day is on this Ultimate Nusa Penida Day Trip Tour from Bali or you can rent a car on Nusa Penida with private driver.
BEST NUSA PENIDA TOURS!
These are the four most popular Nusa Penida Tours. I’ve done all four and they are AWESOME!
- Manta Ray Snorkel Tour (from Bali) – Most amazing experience to swim with Giant Manta’s.
- Manta Ray Snorkel Tour (from Penida) This is the cheaper option if already on Nusa Penida.
- BEST of Nusa Penida Day Tour (from Bali) Most booked day trip fro Bali to Penida with all highlights
- Nusa Penida Car Rental with Driver: Great way to see all the highlights and tourist spots.
Atuh Beach – The Rock Arch
Atuh Beach is one of the most picturesque and beautiful beaches on Nusa Penida, an island off the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia. It’s s a stunning white sand beach surrounded by the huge cliffs and remarkable rock formations. An arch sits directly out from the shore while several islets string off in the distance.
- Location: Atuh Beach is situated in the eastern part of Nusa Penida Island. It is often visited along with the nearby ‘Rumah Pohon‘ or ‘Tree House’ attraction.
- Landscape: The beach is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine white sands, crystal clear turquoise waters, and striking cliffs. Just off the shore, there are remarkable rock formations and small islands.
- Activities: This beach is a perfect spot for relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The waters are calm and clear, making it an excellent spot for viewing marine life.
- Access: The beach is accessed by a somewhat challenging footpath and steep stairs down the cliff. The journey can be a bit tough but is usually considered worth it because of the extraordinary beauty that awaits.
- Facilities: There are small local restaurants or ‘warungs’ near the beach where you can enjoy some local food with the beautiful view.
- Timing: It’s advisable to visit during low tide because high tide can cover much of the beach. The sunrise view from Atuh Beach is also quite spectacular.
Read the full blog post: Beautiful Atuh Beach on Nusa Penida
TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY ON NUSA PENIDA
I’ve written a massive, detailed guide about the Best Places To Stay on Nusa Penida….BUT If you just want me three favorites right now, here they are!
- My TOP Pick: Atalaya Villas – Bungalow Style, Beautiful Palm Trees, Great Location.
- Beach Bungalow: Santen Bungalows– Stay on the beach, Best Value for Money
- Luxury: Nay Palad Hideaway – Oceanfront, Beach Access, Beautiful Pool
Kelingking ‘T-Rex’ Beach
The Instagram famous coastal cliffscape, which truly does look like a T-rex doesn’t disappoint. I still remember the moment I laid eyes on Kelingking Beach. I watched the crystal clear water slowly form into a wave before crashing below us, in what seemed like slow motion.
We took a short trek down the spine of the T-Rex and took in the epic drop-offs down each side. This is definitely my favorite thing to do on Nusa Penida and is just one of those landscapes that make you feel small. It’s easily the most popular beach on Nusa Penida, and for good reason. One of the best ways to visit Kelingking Beach is on this Ultimate Nusa Penida Day Trip Tour from Bali or you can rent a car on Nusa Penida with private driver.
Nusa Penida has so many amazing views making it hard to pick a favorite. But when the cliffs form in the shape of a Tyrannosaurus Rex at Kelingking Secret Point Beach it is bound to be a crowd favorite. Kelingking actually translates into English meaning Pinkie a term referencing the smallest finger on the hand.
- Location: Kelingking Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida Island, a popular spot with tourists visiting from Bali.
- Landscape: This beach is best known for its incredible T-Rex shaped cliff formation. The pristine white sand beach below is surrounded by turquoise waters, and the view from the top of the cliffs is breathtaking.
- Activities: Besides admiring the stunning views from the top, adventurous visitors can also descend the rugged path to reach the beach. However, the descent is quite steep and can be challenging. The beach itself is a great spot for relaxation and photography.
- Access: Reaching the beach from the viewpoint requires navigating a steep, narrow path which can be difficult for some. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring water. It’s also important to note that this path may not be suitable for everyone due to its challenging nature.
- Facilities: There are several small shops and stalls at the top near the parking area where you can buy drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Timing: The views from Kelingking Beach are spectacular at any time of day, but the cliffs glow with a special intensity during sunset. Due to the steep and somewhat precarious nature of the path, it’s advised to make the climb back up from the beach well before it gets dark.
Read the full blog post: KELINGKING BEACH (SECRET POINT) ON NUSA PENIDA
SWIM WITH MANTA RAYS ON NUSA PENIDA!
BEST TOUR: Enjoy swimming with Manta Rays on Nusa Penida Island with the most popular tour in Bali.
Option 1: Manta Ray Nusa Penida Tour (from Bali)
Option 2: Manta Ray Snorkel Tour (from Penida)
Crystal Bay Beach
Crystal Bay is probably the most popular beach on Nusa Penida for a number of reasons. It is the best sunset beach, facing directly west. This alone makes it a winner for people trying to have a sunset beer and watch the sun go down.
It’s also the jump-off spot for snorkel tours and is only a 30-minute drive from the main port, Toyapakeh. Most importantly, unlike many of the crazy beaches on Penida, you can snorkel and swim with relaxing conditions.
- Location: Crystal Bay is situated on the west coast of Nusa Penida Island, not far from the island’s main harbor. It’s a popular first or last stop on many tours of the island due to its convenient location.
- Landscape: Crystal Bay features a beautiful sandy beach set against a backdrop of lush green hills. Its name comes from the incredibly clear, crystal-like waters. An offshore rock outcropping with a small temple adds to the beach’s scenic beauty.
- Activities: Crystal Bay is a well-known spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life, which include the rare Mola-Mola (sunfish). Relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sunset are other popular activities.
- Access: The bay is easily accessible by both scooter and car with a spacious parking area. From the parking area, it’s just a short walk down to the beach.
- Facilities: There are beachside warungs (local restaurants) where you can rent sun loungers, buy drinks, snacks, or local meals. There are also places to rent snorkeling gear if you didn’t bring your own.
- Timing: While the beach can be visited any time of day, many prefer to go in the afternoon to enjoy snorkeling and stay to watch the sunset, which can be quite spectacular at Crystal Bay.
Read the full blog post: CRYSTAL BAY BEACH ON NUSA PENIDA
Broken Beach: The Arch Bridge
Broken Beach is an incredible little cove on Nusa Penida island. The highlight of the cove and the reason it is called Broken Beach is due to the archway that wraps around the bay allowing water to flow in and out from the ocean. Broken Beach is also one of the spots on the Ultimate Nusa Penida Day Trip Tour from Bali.
The arch at Broken Beach has been formed over many, many years and is now a true spectacle. From above the cove appears almost circular and closed in, however, at eye level the arch is quite high. Unfortunately, there is no way down into the cove for a refreshing dip although you can get in the water at Angel’s Billabong around the corner.
- Location: Broken Beach, also known as Pasih Uug, is located on the western side of Nusa Penida Island, close to another famous site called Angel’s Billabong.
- Landscape: Broken Beach is famous for its circular cliff formation, creating a kind of natural bridge. The site gets its name from this ‘broken’ or arch-like geological feature. The turquoise sea swirls beneath the arch, providing a spectacular sight.
- Activities: While you cannot access the beach itself due to the cliffs, the area offers stunning views and opportunities for incredible photography. There’s a pathway that allows you to walk around the entire formation for different perspectives.
- Access: Like most of Nusa Penida’s sites, the roads can be rough and a bit challenging, but Broken Beach is fairly accessible by car or scooter. From the parking area, it’s a short walk to the viewing spot.
- Facilities: There are a few local stalls nearby where you can purchase drinks and light snacks.
- Timing: Broken Beach can be visited at any time of the day, but many recommend going in the morning when it’s less crowded and the light for photography is particularly good.
Read the full blog post: BROKEN BEACH ON NUSA PENIDA, BALI
BEST CAMERA FOR BALI
The GoPro Hero11 is the BEST camera for traveling around Bali and Indonesia.
- Waterproof for snorkeling, island-hopping, hiking and beach days.
- Built-in stabilization for filming your travels and adventure activities
- 5.3K video and 27MP Photo to capture awesome memories of friends and family
Diamond Beach: Epic Staircase
Diamond Beach, located on the eastern tip of Nusa Penida Island in Indonesia, is renowned for its captivating natural beauty. The beach boasts an exceptional landscape characterized by pristine white sands, crystal clear turquoise waters, and towering cliffs. Its unique rock formations, reminiscent of glittering diamonds, give this beach its distinctive name. A steep staircase carved into the cliffs provides access to the beach, offering breathtaking panoramic views during the descent.
The most important rock though is the diamond-shaped rock in the shallows of the water. The beach is after all named after this diamond-shaped rock I believe.
- Location: Diamond Beach is located on the eastern tip of Nusa Penida Island, near Atuh Beach. It is a relatively newly accessible beach on the island.
- Landscape: The beach is known for its sparkling white sand, clear turquoise waters, and towering cliffs. The striking rock formations in the water, resembling diamonds, give the beach its name. It offers beautiful panoramic views from both the top of the cliffs and down on the beach itself.
- Activities: Besides relaxing and sunbathing, visitors can also go for a swim. However, be mindful of the currents and waves. Photography enthusiasts will also enjoy capturing the stunning landscapes.
- Access: Diamond Beach is reached via a staircase carved into the cliff, which can be steep and challenging but is equipped with a handrail. The descent provides incredible views of the surrounding area.
- Facilities: There is a small café at the top of the stairs leading down to the beach where visitors can enjoy a drink or a meal with a stunning view. Beach umbrellas are also available for rent on the beach.
- Timing: The beach can be visited at any time of the day, but early morning or late afternoon light makes for the most dramatic photos. The beach tends to be less crowded in the early morning.
Read the full blog post: DIAMOND BEACH ON NUSA PENIDA ISLAND
Tembeling Beach, Natural Pool and Forest
Tembeling Beach is a little hideaway bay at the end of a crazy motorbike ride down through the forest. Along the way, you will pass by the Tembeling natural pools. If you are looking for something a little off the beaten path and away from the tourist hot spots you may enjoy the adventure of Tembeling Beach, natural pools and forest.
After checking out the Tembeling Forest from within the canyon, which is like a scene out of a jungle movie, you can head down the spiral stairs towards the Tembeling Natural Pools. There are two but the first one is the biggest. Set nicely below the large cliff wall, the crystal clear water has a beautiful blue tone to it, which is strange considering all of the stones and cliffs around are orange and brown.
If you continue the trail down you will reach Tembeling Beach. It isn’t one of the best Nusa Penida beaches but it’s still great to check out. Big cliffs on either side dwarf the small patch of sand. The best swimming here is in the natural pools not in the ocean as the waves can get quite interesting here. Stay safe and watch the currents.
Read the full blog post: TEMBELING BEACH & NATURAL POOL
What are my favorite pieces of gear for the beach?
There are three pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go on a beach adventure. These are three items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my beach essentials.
- Quick-Dry Towel: A quick-dry towel is a must for travelers. It hardly takes up any room and dries in seconds.
- Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack: The beach can be a great place to ruin your precious gear so having this ultralight dry sack for cameras, phones and valuables mean you have a safe place to store everything.
- GoPro Hero 12: The best and easiest way to capture your underwater and snorkeling adventures.
Suwehan Beach
Suwehan Beach is a place that epitomizes Nusa Penida. You’ll find huge towering cliffs, crystal clear yet strikingly blue water, an insane staircase down to the beach and maybe a turtle or two. In 2018 an earthquake ruined the stairs but by the end of the year, the locals had fixed them enough to make the access possible.
- Location: Suwehan Beach is located on the southeastern side of Nusa Penida Island. Due to its more remote location, it’s less visited than other beaches on Nusa Penida.
- Landscape: The beach is notable for its pure white sands, clear turquoise waters, and towering cliffs covered in lush green vegetation. A striking rock formation known as the “sword” or “needle” juts out from the sea near the shore.
- Activities: The crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the beautiful surrounding area is great for relaxation and photography.
- Access: Accessing the beach is quite an adventure due to the steep path and approximately 300 steps that lead down the cliff to the beach. Good footwear is recommended.
- Facilities: Being a more secluded beach, facilities here are minimal. It’s advisable to bring your own food, water, and other necessities.
- Timing: It can be visited at any time of the day, but keep in mind the challenging ascent up the stairs, especially under the midday sun. The morning or late afternoon is often the best time to visit.
Read the full blog post: SUWEHAN BEACH ON NUSA PENIDA
Pandan Beach (hike from Crystal Bay)
If you are feeling a bit adventurous there is a path that leads you from Crystal Bay up and over the hill. What you will discover on the other side of the hill next door is the beautiful Pandan Bay. It is safe to assume you will be the only person there as most people just hang out at Crystal Bay.
There is one more bay called Puyung but I don’t think it’s accessible by walking. I will investigate on visit number four to Nusa Penida.
BEST NUSA PENIDA DAY TOURS
If you are staying in Bali.. take a day trip on a speedboat to explore the highlights of Nusa Penida. It takes just 35 minutes to get from Bali to Nusa Penida by speed boat. Yep, in just one day you can snorkel with Manta rays and visit lots of the best beaches and viewpoints.
Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour
Manta Ray Nusa Penida Tour (from Bali): Snorkeling with Manta Rays is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best wildlife encounters I’ve had in my life. The Manta Rays are majestic and very friendly. With a wingspan of 5m, these gentle giants cruise around you while you snorkel amongst them. The Nusa Penida Manta Ray Snorkel Tour includes pick up and drop off from your hotel in Bali and all transport and tickets included.
Nusa Penida Highlights Tour
Nusa Penida Highlights Tour: Get picked-up from your Bali hotel, take a 35-minute fast boat to Nusa Penida and then visit the most popular viewpoints, beaches and snorkel spots on the island. This small Nusa Penida Highlights Tour group tour is the most highly reviewed day trip for Nusa Penida Island. You’ll visit all the most popular spots and can request certain viewpoints on your itinerary. Places you will visit are sites like the ones listed below:
- Angel’s Billabong
- Kelingking T-Rex Beach
- Broken Beach
- Rumah Pohon Treehouse
- Snorkeling at Crystal Bay
- Thousand Island Viewpoint
How to get to the Nusa Islands
There are three main options to get to Nusa Penida depending on your budget and how many logistics you want to manage. Here are the three options with the cheapest first:
- Book your ticket: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Lembongan – Book a regular ferry that leaves from Sanur to Nusa Penida on the reliable website 12go. You then need to moped or taxi across to Nusa Penida via another ferry/boat.
- Book a fast boat: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida – This option is great as you go direct from Bali to Penida without having to stop in Lembongan. This option is only slightly more expensive than stopping in Lembongan. This is my favorite option of the three and can be booked on Klook.
- Book a fast boat with hotel pick-up: Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida – This option includes a fast boat from Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida but also includes pick-up from your hotel in Bali in a van. This option from GetYourGuide is a bit more expensive but takes all the hassle out of the transit from Bali to Nusa Penida.
MORE NUSA ISLANDS BLOG POSTS
There are a ton of epic things to do on Nusa Penida, but I also wrote detailed guides for all of the adventurous things to do on Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan. You can explore more of my guides by clicking one of the links below.
- NUSA ISLANDS GUIDE: LEMBONGAN, PENIDA, CENINGAN
- 27 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON NUSA PENIDA
- 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON NUSA LEMBONGAN
- 5 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON NUSA CENINGAN
- BEST CLIFF JUMP SPOTS IN BALI, INDONESIA
- WHERE TO STAY ON NUSA PENIDA: EAST & WEST REGION
- THE PERFECT 3-DAY NUSA PENIDA ITINERARY
- BEST NUSA PENIDA DAY TRIP TOURS FROM BALI
- HOW TO GET TO NUSA PENIDA FROM BALI VIA FERRY/BOAT
Gk
Friday 30th of December 2022
You forgot to mention that Crystal Bay is directly under the path of all the planes landing on Bali.. It sucks.
Jessica
Thursday 8th of August 2019
I’ve got to ask - what filter do you use on your photos? I love it. And I love the blog, I’ve use it loads since getting to Indo!!
irene
Tuesday 11th of June 2019
Great pics! the aerial capture of the beaches, makes you see how beautiful they are and appreciate nature. thank you for sharing.