Sanur Harbour, Sanur - Image 1
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Nusa Penida

4.3
·2k reviews·, Indonesia

An island paradise southeast of Bali, Nusa Penida captivates with dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and iconic viewpoints.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
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Sanur Harbour, Sanur - Image 1

Nusa Penida

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An island paradise southeast of Bali, Nusa Penida captivates with dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and iconic viewpoints.

4.3
(2k reviews)

"This place is built well and thoughtfully. Unfortunately it may not be optimal to handle visitors for 10+ ferries."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Scooter Rental Essential

Rent a scooter for freedom, but be cautious on rough roads. Helmets are a must!

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot! Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking to beaches.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach

West Nusa Penida

Iconic T-Rex shaped cliff with a challenging hike to a breathtaking beach below.

Instagram
Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach

East Nusa Penida

A secluded paradise with white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliff views.

Instagram+1
Broken Beach

Broken Beach

West Nusa Penida

A natural archway carved by the ocean, offering stunning panoramic views.

Instagram
Angel's Billabong

Angel's Billabong

West Nusa Penida

A natural infinity pool with crystal-clear water, perfect for a refreshing dip.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Island Hopping Logistics

Nusa Penida is a stunning island, but getting there requires planning. Fast boats from Sanur, Bali are common, but expect potential delays and crowded conditions. Booking in advance is wise, and be prepared for a bumpy ride. TikTokInstagram

Embrace the Adventure

Nusa Penida is known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain. While social media showcases pristine views, the reality can be chaotic with many visitors. Renting a scooter or hiring a driver is essential for exploring. Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer weekend visitors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This view will never get old 🥹 One of my favourite spots I’ve visited since moving to Indonesia and is only 30 minutes on the boat from Sanur, Bali 🤍 #indonesia #travel #indonesiafyp #traveltiktok #balitiktok #fyp #travellife #foryou #balilife #balifyp #traveltips #cheaptraveltips #budgettravel #balirecommendation #canggubali #canggu #balifood #balilife #nusalembongan #nusapenida #nusalembonganis...
@caitriona_b
42.7K likes • 671.9K views

🚗 Scooter Rental Essential

Rent a scooter for freedom, but be cautious on rough roads. Helmets are a must! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot! Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking to beaches. TikTok

It’s always a good day in Bali🌤️ #bali #sanur #cyclinginbali #balicycling #sanurbeach #balibeach #balirecommendation #thingstodoinbali @yavica🍓
@kharma.y
27.6K likes • 296K views
Nusa Penida Island is an unforgettable Bali experience. With its laid back vibe, this small island on the southeast side of Bali will always hold a special place in the hearts of travelers. 🫀🫶🏻 Unfortunately, some people don’t fully experience its beauty because they rush through it on a 'one-day trip'. We recommend spending at least three days on on Nusa Penida to truly experience the island lif...
balifornia.idn
5.1K likes • 105.4K views

💰 Cash is King

Many places, especially smaller warungs, only accept cash. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush Nusa Penida. A day trip is possible but rushed; 2-3 days is ideal. Instagram

Bali’s Hidden Gem 😍 Save it for your Bali Trip ✨ A must visit from island during your Bali trip for chill vibes and less crowd! #wanderingminds_india #bali #indonesia #nusapenida #nusalembongan #nusaceningan #island #baliitinerary #travelitinerary #hiddengem #kelingkingbeach #diamondbeach #exotic
wanderingminds_india
16.7K likes • 819.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Scooter Rental Essential

Rent a scooter for freedom, but be cautious on rough roads. Helmets are a must! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot! Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking to beaches. TikTok

💰 Cash is King

Many places, especially smaller warungs, only accept cash. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush Nusa Penida. A day trip is possible but rushed; 2-3 days is ideal. Instagram

📱 Download Offline Maps

Connectivity can be spotty. Google Maps offline feature is a lifesaver. Reddit

🧳 Pack Light

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Pack only essentials. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nusa Penida is lauded for its breathtaking natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches like Kelingking and Diamond Beach being major draws. Visitors appreciate the adventurous spirit of the island and the opportunities for exploration. However, the infrastructure can be challenging, with rough roads and crowded conditions at popular sites, and the fast boat journey can be bumpy and chaotic.

"This place is built well and thoughtfully.
Unfortunately it may not be optimal to handle visitors for 10+ ferries.
It gets really chaotic.
The other challenge comes from using the wooden slabs for the walkway. Some of the slabs are loose or broken. They topple over upon stepping on them.
The toilet is small for the crowd. It gets long queues and gets dirty."

Asheesh Gupta

"Sanur Harbour in Bali is a new and much-improved facility for ferries to Nusa Penida and other islands. The place is well-organized, clean, and managed efficiently, making the ferry boarding process smooth and hassle-free.

One of the highlights is the kid's play area, which is a great feature for families. It keeps the little ones entertained while waiting for the fast boat, ensuring a more relaxed experience for parents.

Upon arrival, you are given a lanyard or a band that corresponds to your booked fast boat. This system helps in easy identification and smooth boarding. Your luggage is taken care of and transferred to the ferry in a cart, which adds to the convenience.

The harbour also offers toilet facilities, which are clean and well-maintained, enhancing the overall comfort of the waiting area.

The only improvement I would suggest is the addition of eatery options. Having some food and drink choices available would make the wait even more pleasant.

Overall, it was a good experience, and I would recommend Sanur Harbour for anyone planning to take a ferry to the nearby islands."

Preet Mahajan

"Staffs at Sanur Harbour were very helpful in terms of navigation of Nusa Penida island. They advised us to dock at nearest jetty to go to desirable beaches. And helped us to book for scooter ride via their contacts.

There, we booked Idola Express speed boat. There’re different timings for boat departure. Earliest at 9am, last check for departure 4pm, depending on the companies’ offering. So choose wise and plan the departure ahead😄

After the boats dock again at harbour, there ll be many boats resulting to hundreds of passenger congested there. Bathrooms will be so dirty with mud and sand.

Sanur harbour also provides charging ports which very convenient. (Eventho there not many of em)"

Nur Aqila Kamila Mohd Lani

What People Like

Stunning cliff views
Turquoise waters
Adventurous exploration

What People Dislike

Crowded popular spots
Rough roads
Bumpy boat rides

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is by fast boat from Sanur Port in Bali. Several companies operate this route, with departures throughout the day. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes. TikTokInstagram Be aware that online taxis might not be allowed directly at the port, so you may need to walk a short distance to catch one. Reddit

Renting a scooter is a popular and flexible option for exploring the island. However, roads can be rough and challenging. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver for a more comfortable experience, especially if you're not comfortable riding a scooter. Reddit

While ride-sharing apps like Grab and Gojek are available in Bali, their availability and legality within Nusa Penida can be inconsistent. It's often easier to arrange transport through your accommodation or hire a local driver. Reddit

The fast boat journey from Sanur, Bali to Nusa Penida typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the sea conditions and the specific boat operator. TikTok

Sanur Port has been significantly improved and is generally well-organized. You'll receive a lanyard or band for your booked fast boat, and luggage is handled efficiently. However, it can get very crowded, especially with multiple ferry arrivals. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Costs vary depending on your transport, accommodation, and activities. Fast boat tickets range from $15-30 USD round trip. Entrance fees for popular spots like Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach are minimal, usually around 10,000-20,000 IDR. TikTok

It's highly recommended to book your fast boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred departure time and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Yes, most major attractions on Nusa Penida have a small entrance fee, typically around 10,000 to 20,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person. This helps with the upkeep of the sites. Instagram

Most natural attractions like beaches and viewpoints are accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. TikTok

Yes, you can typically purchase entrance tickets for attractions upon arrival at each site. It's advisable to have small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah cash ready for these payments. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss Kelingking Beach for its iconic T-Rex view, Diamond Beach for its stunning beauty, Broken Beach for its natural arch, and Angel's Billabong for its unique rock pool. Instagram+1

While it offers a more laid-back vibe than mainland Bali, popular spots can get very crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends. Visiting early morning or on weekdays can help avoid the biggest crowds. InstagramReddit+1

Besides sightseeing, you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, cliff jumping, and exploring hidden beaches. For thrill-seekers, there are opportunities for bungee jumping. Instagram+1

Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential for exploring uneven terrain and hiking down to beaches. TikTok

While a day trip is possible, it's very rushed and you'll likely only see a few key spots. To truly experience the island's beauty and relaxed atmosphere, it's recommended to stay for at least two to three days. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a mix of local Indonesian cuisine (Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng) and Western dishes at restaurants and warungs (local eateries). Fresh seafood is also a popular option. TikTok

Yes, Nusa Penida has a growing number of restaurants and cafes, particularly in areas like Sanur (before you depart) and around popular tourist spots. Some offer stunning ocean views. TikTok+1

Many local eateries can accommodate vegetarian requests, especially with dishes like Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng without meat. It's always good to ask. TikTok

Currently, there's a lack of extensive eatery options at Sanur Harbour. It's advisable to eat before you depart or plan to eat upon arrival in Nusa Penida. Reddit

Eating at local warungs is generally very affordable. Restaurants catering to tourists will be more expensive, but still reasonable compared to many Western countries. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel's Billabong are incredibly photogenic. The dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters offer endless photo opportunities. Instagram+2

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of places like Diamond Beach. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides stunning light for dramatic cliff shots. TikTok

While drones can capture unique aerial perspectives, you can get incredible photos with just a good camera or smartphone. Focus on composition and capturing the dramatic landscapes. Instagram

Some tour operators offer packages that include visits to the most scenic viewpoints, which can be helpful for photographers looking to maximize their time and capture the best shots. Instagram

The biggest challenges are the crowds, the harsh midday sun, and the sometimes difficult access to viewpoints. Patience and strategic timing are key. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nusa Penida can be an adventurous destination for families, but requires careful planning. While the stunning natural beauty is captivating, the rugged terrain and steep hikes to beaches like Kelingking might be challenging for very young children. Instagram Consider hiring a private driver for easier transport and to manage the kids' comfort. Reddit The Sanur Harbour has a kid's play area, which can be a great distraction while waiting for the boat. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, as dining options can be limited at some remote spots. TikTok

For a more relaxed experience, focus on accessible viewpoints and consider activities like snorkeling in calmer bays. Angel's Billabong can be a fun spot for older children to paddle in, but always supervise them closely due to the ocean currents. Instagram Staying for at least two nights allows for a less rushed itinerary, giving you more flexibility to accommodate children's needs.

💰 Budget Travelers

Nusa Penida can be explored on a budget by prioritizing local warungs for meals and opting for scooter rental over private drivers. TikTokReddit Fast boat tickets are a significant cost, so compare prices between different operators. Reddit Many of the island's most breathtaking sights, like Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach, have minimal entrance fees, making them budget-friendly attractions. Instagram+1 Look for guesthouses or homestays for affordable accommodation options. TikTok

Be prepared to carry cash, as many smaller establishments do not accept cards. Reddit While some adventure activities like bungee jumping can be pricey, simply enjoying the natural beauty and scenic viewpoints offers incredible value for money. Instagram

💑 Couples

Nusa Penida offers a romantic escape with its dramatic landscapes and secluded spots. Imagine watching the sunset from a cliffside viewpoint or enjoying a quiet picnic on a less-visited beach. Instagram+1 Renting a scooter together allows for spontaneous exploration and discovering hidden gems. Reddit Consider booking a stay with ocean views for a truly memorable experience. Instagram

While popular spots like Kelingking Beach can be busy, seeking out lesser-known beaches or visiting during off-peak hours can provide more intimate moments. Instagram Enjoying fresh seafood dinners at local restaurants while listening to the waves can be a perfect end to a day of adventure. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Nusa Penida's Terrain

Nusa Penida's dramatic beauty comes with challenging terrain. Many of the most iconic spots, like Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach, require navigating steep, sometimes unpaved paths. Renting a scooter is popular for its flexibility, but riders should be experienced and cautious, as roads can be rough and winding. InstagramReddit For those less confident on two wheels, hiring a private driver is a safer and more comfortable option, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigation. Reddit

When descending to beaches like Kelingking, be prepared for a strenuous hike. The paths can be steep and slippery, so sturdy footwear is essential. Instagram The effort is rewarded with unparalleled views, but it's important to assess your physical fitness before attempting these descents. Always prioritize safety and be mindful of your surroundings. Instagram

Key Takeaway: Nusa Penida is an adventure destination. Embrace the ruggedness, but plan your transport and be prepared for physical exertion to reach its most stunning viewpoints.

The Fast Boat Experience: Sanur to Nusa Penida

The journey to Nusa Penida typically begins with a fast boat from Sanur Port in Bali. While the port itself has seen significant improvements, becoming more organized and air-conditioned, it can still get incredibly chaotic with numerous ferry arrivals and departures. Reddit Travelers often report a bumpy ride and cramped conditions on the boats, with limited space. Instagram Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and preferred departure time, especially during peak travel seasons. Reddit

Upon arrival at Sanur Port, be aware that online taxis might not be permitted directly at the ferry terminal. You may need to walk a short distance up the road to find available ride-sharing services or local taxis. Reddit Some travelers have noted that the wooden walkways at the port can be loose or broken, posing a minor hazard. Reddit

Pro Tip: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers potential trip disruptions or delays, as sea conditions can sometimes affect ferry schedules. Having cash on hand is also crucial, as many local services and smaller vendors operate on a cash-only basis. TikTok

Capturing Nusa Penida's Iconic Views

Nusa Penida is a photographer's dream, boasting dramatic cliffs, vibrant turquoise waters, and unique geological formations. Kelingking Beach, with its famous T-Rex shape, and the pristine Diamond Beach are absolute must-captures. Instagram+1 Broken Beach offers a stunning natural archway, while Angel's Billabong provides a picturesque natural pool. Instagram The best light for photography is often during the early morning, when the sun is softer and crowds are thinner, or during the golden hour in the late afternoon, which casts a magical glow over the landscapes. TikTok

However, capturing these shots can be challenging. Popular viewpoints can become very crowded, making it difficult to get unobstructed photos. Instagram The midday sun can be harsh, leading to overexposed images. Patience is key; try to visit popular spots during off-peak hours or be prepared to wait for your moment. TikTok

Photography Essentials: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas, a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky, and a sturdy tripod if you plan on shooting during sunrise or sunset. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll be taking a lot of photos!