Nusa Penida Beach Guide: 8 Best Nusa Penida Beaches

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.

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Facilities: There are small local restaurants or ‘warungs’ near the beach where you can enjoy some local food with the beautiful view.
6. 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

View on Booking.com

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.

1. Location: Kelingking Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida Island, a popular spot with tourists visiting from Bali.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Facilities: There are several small shops and stalls at the top near the parking area where you can buy drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.
6. 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)

Book Manta Ray Tour

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Facilities: There are a few local stalls nearby where you can purchase drinks and light snacks.
6. 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

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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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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