Nusa Penida is an island paradise on the southeast coast of Bali, known for its dramatic rock formations. Discover the island's rich history, its must-see landmarks, and fascinating facts about what makes Nusa Penida a unique and unforgettable destination!
What is Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is a stunning island in the Bali Sea, located off the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia. It is part of a trio of islands, including Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, which collectively form the Nusa Islands. The name "Nusa Penida" comes from the Balinese words “Nusa," meaning "island," and "penida," which is thought to be derived from the Balinese term for "holy" or "sacred."
With its towering cliffs, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Nusa Penida has quickly gained fame among tourists worldwide. Some of the island's most famous spots include Kelingking Beach, with its T-Rex-shaped cliffs, Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool surrounded by rocky formations, and Broken Beach, where a massive archway allows the ocean to flow through. Nusa Penida is also renowned for its marine life which includes vibrant coral reefs, manta rays, and the rare mola-mola (oceanic sunfish), making it a haven for divers.
Discover Nusa Penida
Angel’s Billabong
A natural infinity pool formed by limestone cliffs, offering stunning turquoise waters framed by rocky formations, perfect for a swim during low tide.
Quick facts about Nusa Penida
Official name: Nusa Penida
Landscape type: Island
Famous for: Snorkeling, diving, turquoise beaches, and quaint temples.
Official language: Balinese
Distance from Bali: Approximately 52 km southeast of Bali.
Area: 202.84 square kilometers
Activities: Boat tours, snorkeling, diving, and guided day trips.
Marine Life: Manta rays, coral reefs, mola mola (oceanic sunfish), and seasonal spotting of whales.
Function: Tourist destination
Number of visitors per year: Approximately 200,000 visitors
Plan your visit to Nusa Penida
Most Nusa Penida tours start between 7 and 7:30 AM and go on for approximately 7 to 11 hours.
Traveling by ferry takes around 1 hour from Bali while speedboat transfers take 30 to 45 minutes.
The ideal time to visit Nusa Penida is between April, May, or September, during Bali’s dry season. Although the summer weather can be quite hot, it is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Nusa Penida is busiest between July and August, the peak tourist season, and on holidays like Christmas and New Year. Prices can also be higher during this period.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends as more tourists from Bali might plan their day trips on a weekend.
Nusa Penida is located off the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia, nestled in the Bali Sea. It lies around 52 kilometers from Bali’s mainland, making it easily accessible by boat from the popular coastal areas of Sanur, Padangbai, and Kusamba.
The boat ride from Sanur typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, while trips from Padangbai or Kusamba can take 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on sea conditions. Regular ferries and fast boats are available throughout the day, providing convenient and quick access to Nusa Penida.
History of Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is believed to have been inhabited for more than a millennium and was the military center of Balinese kingdoms. After multiple failed attempts to invade the island, Nusa Penida was attacked by the Gelgel dynasty, which ruled east Bali in the 17th century. The last king of Bali, Dalem Bungkut, was captured and killed. Nusa Penida eventually fell into the control of the Klungklung Regency, one of the 9 kingdoms of Bali.
After Bali was annexed to Indonesia by the Dutch East Indies in 1908, Nusa Penida continued to be under the Klungklung Regency. Under the Klungklung Regency, the island is believed to have been used to imprison those practicing black magic. Towards the end of the 18th century, Nusa Penida was occupied by the Dutch East India Company and the island became a supplier of resources like coffee and coconuts. On August 17, 1945, Indonesia was declared independent from the Netherlands and Nusa Penida continues to be an integral part of Bali’s tourist hotspots.
Frequently asked questions about Nusa Penida
You can go snorkeling, visit beaches and coves, and explore quaint temples in Nusa Penida.
The best times to visit Nusa Penida are April May and October as they are shoulder months and have good weather and fewer crowds. Weekdays are also less crowded than weekends.
Traveling to Nusa Penida from Bali takes around 1 hour by ferry and 30 to 45 minutes by speedboat.
Yes, there are multiple accommodation options across budgets in Nusa Penida.
There are a few ATMs across Nusa Penida but it is better to carry cash as most shops might not take cards.
Balinese is the official language of Nusa Penida while English is also spoken in tourist hotspots.
The most popular snorkeling spots at Nusa Penida are Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, SD Point, and Mangrove Point.
Some lesser-known attractions in Nusa Penida are Suwehan Beach, Goa Giri Putri Temple, Peguyangan Waterfall, and Tembeling Beach and Forest.
Yes, Nusa Penida is suitable for children. While snorkeling might not be the best option for young children, there are a variety of activities like short hikes and treks, exploring beaches, and swimming that they can participate in.
Ideally, it takes 2-3 days to explore the island but day tours and snorkeling trips are also a great way to explore Nusa Penida.
Day tours start from Rp 865,938, and this includes hotel transfers, entry tickets, a guide, lunch, and transport between attractions. The starting price of tours with snorkeling is around Rp900,047. Book your Nusa Penida tours here.
The best way to get around Nusa Penida is to hire a car and driver or taxi. Walking between shorter distances is also recommended.
Fresh seafood is very popular in Nusa Penida. Must-try dishes include grilled octopus, yakitori, and, nasi goreng among others.
Book Nusa Penida tours and tickets
Snorkel with Manta Rays with Lembongan Island Tour & Hotel Transfers
