Discover the Natural Beauty of Nusa Penida

Kelingking Beach is the most iconic site on the island. It’s famous for a cliff formation that looks exactly like a T-Rex. Most people visit just to stand at the top and take photos of the white sand and bright blue water below. If you're feeling fit, you can hike down the steep, narrow path to the beach. It takes about 40 minutes and is very demanding. You'll need sturdy shoes and plenty of water if you decide to tackle the climb. For more tips on island life, check out our ultimate guide to Nusa Penida island.

Broken Beach is a unique natural rock arch that spans over a circular bay. You can walk all the way around the rim of the cliff to see the ocean rushing through the archway. It’s one of the most photographed Nusa Penida attractions because of the incredible contrast between the grey stone and the blue sea. Right next door is Angel’s Billabong. This is a natural tidal pool that acts as a crystal-clear infinity pool at low tide. You must check the tide charts before you arrive. It’s only safe to get close to the water when the tide is out and the waves are calm. 

Crystal Bay is the most accessible beach on the west side of the island. It’s a great spot to relax after a morning of cliff hopping. The water here is much calmer than at Kelingking, making it a popular place for swimming and snorkelling. It’s also the best spot on the island to watch the sunset. You’ll find local stalls selling fresh coconuts and snacks along the shore. It’s a nice change of pace from the more rugged and windy clifftops. 

Nusa Penida gets very busy between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm when the day trippers arrive from Bali. If you want to see the main viewpoints without the crowds, you should aim to arrive at Kelingking Beach by 8:00 am. Alternatively, visiting in the late afternoon after the last boats have left for Sanur provides a much quieter experience. The light is also much better for photography during these "golden hours."

The waters surrounding the island are world-famous for their marine biodiversity. Manta Point is the most popular spot for snorkellers and divers. It’s a cleaning station for giant manta rays, and you have a very high chance of seeing these gentle giants all year round. The currents can be strong here, so you should always go with an experienced guide. If you’re still wondering what to do in Nusa Penida, you can see more options for activities in our complete guide to things to do in Bali. 

Diamond Beach is located on the eastern side of the island. It was once only viewable from the top of the cliff, but a staircase was carved into the limestone a few years ago. Now you can walk down to the pristine white sand. The view from the stairs is spectacular. Just on the other side of the cliff is Atuh Beach. This area is known for its dramatic rock arches in the ocean and its calm, swimmable water. These two beaches are arguably the most beautiful spots on the entire island. 

Nusa Penida is part of a trio of islands. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are much smaller and easier to get around. You can often combine a trip to Penida with a night on Lembongan. A yellow bridge connects Lembongan and Ceningan, allowing you to cross between them on foot or by scooter. This island group offers a more relaxed, old-school Bali vibe compared to the busy mainland. 

Hiring a private driver or joining an organised tour is the most efficient way to see the island. The roads on Nusa Penida are notoriously narrow and bumpy. We don't recommend riding a scooter unless you're a very experienced rider. A guided tour ensures you hit all the major Nusa Penida attractions in the right order. Plus, you won't have to worry about navigating the confusing backroads yourself. 

You’ll need to take a fast boat from the mainland. Most boats depart from Sanur harbour in East Bali. The crossing takes about 45 to 60 minutes depending on the sea conditions. We suggest booking your tickets in advance, especially during the peak season from July to September. You’ll likely have to walk into the water to board the boat, so wear shorts and flip-flops.

A day trip is perfect if you have limited time and want to see the highlights. Most tours cover either the West Coast (Kelingking, Broken Beach) or the East Coast (Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach). If you stay overnight, you can see both sides of the island. Staying for one or two nights also allows you to enjoy the quiet evenings and early mornings when the island feels much more remote. 

As we mentioned, road conditions are a major factor here. Private cars with local drivers are the safest and most comfortable option. They know how to handle the steep hills and potholes. If you do stay overnight, you can hire a scooter for shorter trips around your accommodation. Just be aware that many parts of the island have very poor mobile reception, so download your maps for offline use. 

Staying at Club Med Bali makes your island exploration much easier. You can browse our holiday packages in Bali to find the right balance for your trip. Our team can help you organise a day trip that includes your boat transfers, lunch, and a private driver. This allows you to enjoy the adventure of the Nusa islands without the stress of coordinating the logistics yourself. Plus, you’ll have a gourmet dinner and a comfortable bed waiting for you when you return. 

Nusa Penida offers some of the most striking scenery in Indonesia. From the T-Rex cliff at Kelingking to the hidden sands of Diamond Beach, it’s a destination that rewards curiosity. It is the perfect place for anyone who loves nature, photography, or marine life. You'll leave with memories of limestone cliffs and some of the clearest water you've ever seen. 

Using our resort as your base simplifies your entire Bali travel experience. You get to explore the wild side of the region while enjoying the ease of an all-inclusive stay. After a day of hiking and snorkelling in Nusa Penida, there’s nothing better than returning to the resort for a relaxing evening.