There are several picturesque islands near Bali that are stunningly beautiful to say the least.
Out of all these islands, Nusa Penida is perhaps the most well-known and celebrated by tourists.
In fact, if you have seen pictures of Bali with spectacular coastal landscape, chances are they were of Nusa Penida.
Also referred to as Penida Island, it makes for one of the best day trips during your stay in Bali.
Therefore, today I am going to talk in detail about Nusa Penida.
Together, we are going to create the perfect day trip plan to visit Nusa Penida from Bali.
I do feel it could be the highlight of your Bali trip.
Page Contents
The Ideal Day Trip Itinerary for Nusa Penida from Bali
It takes about 45 minutes by standard ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida. If you are on your own private speedboat, it will take anything between 30 to 40 minutes.
The port of Sanur in Bali is where you get the ferry or speedboat to Nusa Penida.
Ideally, you should start from Sanur at around 7.30 am. Most day trips to Nusa Penida last for about 8 to 9 hours prior to taking the ferry back.
Now, before we get into the exact itinerary, I do want to say you can book all of this via Viator (A TripAdvisor Company).
It is actually recommended as everything is arranged for you including private speedboat transfers, local chauffeur driven car, lunch etc.
Overall, it saves a lot of time and we find it more cost effective.
1) Take the Ferry or Boat from Port of Sanur at 7.30 am
The ideal time to start your day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali is 7.30 am.
This is the time you need to take the ferry or private boat from Port of Sanur.
Therefore, your actual start time from your hotel will be earlier.
I personally would suggest a light breakfast, nothing too heavy. You will understand why as you keep reading below.
Do carry some snacks or energy bars in your travel bag or backpack.
2) Swim with Giant Oceanic Manta Rays
One of the main highlights of Nusa Penida is the ability to swim with Giant Oceanic Manta Rays.
This is a bucket list activity and something you must experience.
The best time to go swimming or snorkeling in the ocean for this is in the morning itself.
Therefore, it should be your first activity once you reach Nusa Penida.
Now, one thing to keep in mind is that you can visit the famous Manta Bay or Manta Point.
Both are the recommended spots where you will find huge numbers of Giant Manta Rays in the ocean.
Manta Bay is quite popular with tourists but can be crowded. Some tour operators take you to Manta Point for a more personal experience.
Both are pretty decent and you will find snorkeling equipment arranged by operators.
If you are booking a complete day tour for Nusa Penida, do ask which location is included.
Besides the majestic Manta Rays, you will see several exotic fishes and brilliant corals.
Snorkeling at various points is the main activity in Nusa Penida. Swimming with Manta Rays is the first and probably the best snorkeling activity at the island.
Plan on spending at least a couple of hours here before moving on to the next item on the itinerary.
3) Go Snorkeling Hopping with Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay
Typically, day tours to Nusa Penida are divided between snorkeling points and beaches.
Locals suggest to always complete the snorkeling experiences in the first half of the day.
After that, you can hit the beautiful beaches of Nusa Penida during the second half.
Apart from Manta Bay, Crystal Bay and Gamut Bay are the two most popular snorkeling points in Nusa Penida.
The corals reefs and exotic fishes at these points are simply brilliant. The water itself is quite clear to be able to see the wonderful marine life.
You can spend an hour or slightly less at each point.
4) Lunch time with great views
After the three main snorkeling Bays at Nusa Penida, you will be tired and hungry enough for a great lunch.
I suggest finding a spot where you can indulge in good food with great views of the ocean.
Luckily there are several options that come with superb views, excellent food and a swimming pool to relax.
Some of my suggestions would be:
- Mambo Beach Café
- The Chill Penida
- Amarta Penida
- Secret Penida
- Warung Forest – For Value Local Cuisine
5) Kelingking Cliff and Beach
After a nice lunch, it is now time to visit the most famous tourist attraction of Nusa Penida.
It is time to make your way to Kelingking Cliff and Beach.
Most of the images of Nusa Penida all across social media and travel sites are of Kelingking Cliff and Beach.
Spend a good two hours here and take lots of photos.
First, you should be on top of the cliff to see the outstanding panoramic views all around.
Next, take the famous steps down to the beach and enjoy the silky-smooth sand with crystal clear ocean water.
Don’t forget to visit the main Kelingking Cliff and Beach viewpoint. This is about 200 metres in height with the view of the famous rock formations and beach below.
From here, the rock formation looks like a dinosaur head and is the most photographed location in Nusa Penida.
6) Go Freediving at Nusa Lembongan
Your final activity of the day before returning back to Bali must be freediving at Nusa Lembongan.
Also known as Lembongan Island, here you can view the famous coral gardens, turtles and other marine life.
If you have booked a private day tour, your tour operators can take you here on your speedboat.
Typically, what they do is take you to Lembongan Island on the way back to Bali.
So, you can spend an hour or two exploring the waters of Lembongan Island and take the same boat back.
As the evening sun hovers over the ocean, the view from the boat is quite gorgeous. The perfect way to end your day tour to Nusa Penida.
Staying at Nusa Penida
While most tourists prefer a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali, you can stay at the island as well.
If that is your preference, these are the best hotels and resorts by far at Nusa Penida.
1) Māua Nusa Penida
For the most luxurious hotel in Nusa Penida – Adults only.
Location: Sakti
2) Pramana Natura Nusa Penida
For overall luxury plus value.
Location: Sakti
3) Hotel Arsa Santhi Nusa Penida
For best value for money budget hotel in Nusa Penida.
Location: Jalan Raya Toya Pakeh
4) Mahaloka Valley
For most peaceful location amidst nature in Nusa Penida.
Location: Crystal Bay
5) Adiwana Warnakali Resort
For the highest rated ocean view hotel in Nusa Penida
Location: Sakti
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Nusa Penida from Bali
Here are a few questions most tourists have about Nusa Penida.
If you have a specific question of your own, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.
Can you do Nusa Penida as a day trip?
Yes, you most definitely can do Nusa Penida as a day trip from Bali.
Plan for a day trip of about 8 to 9 hours. This includes the boat ride that takes about 40 to 45 minutes each way.
What are the top things to do in Nusa Penida?
The top things to do in Nusa Penida is to go snorkeling with Giant Oceanic Manta Rays, explore coral reefs and visit the famous Kelingking Cliff and Beach.
Is Nusa Penida Worth Staying?
While most people prefer a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali, you can definitely choose to stay as well.
If you stay overnight, you will have more time to explore each of the main points of Nusa Penida.
There are some good resorts as well with nature rich surroundings that will pamper your senses.
How many days should I spend in Nusa Penida?
If staying overnight, 2 to 3 days are enough to thoroughly explore Nusa Penida and the nearby Nusa Lembongan.
Is Nusa Penida more expensive than Bali?
Overall, Nusa Penida is a little more expensive than Bali.
Expect to pay 15% to 25% more in Nusa Penida for most tourist facilities than Bali.
Overall, the beauty and remote location of Nusa Penida does make it worth it.
How long does it take from Bali to Nusa Penida?
It takes 45 minutes via the standard ferry boats from Bali to Nusa Penida.
Do note, it takes 30 to 40 minutes maximum via private speedboat transfer from Bali to Nusa Penida.
Can we walk around Nusa Penida?
While you can walk around leisurely in Nusa Penida, you cannot walk from one tourist spot to the other.
The distances are long enough for the need of a car, taxi, bike or public transport.
Can I go to Nusa Penida by myself?
Yes, you can easily go to Nusa Penida by yourself.
Typically, for day trips a guided private tour is recommended as everything is seamlessly taken care of including transportation to and within the island.
You may also like to read:
Best Couples Guide for the most Romantic Getaways in Bali
The Most Popular Recreational Activities in Japan for You
Final thoughts
Nusa Penida along with Nusa Lembongan are two of Bali’s most beautiful offshore islands.
Exploring the picturesque Kelingking Cliff and swimming with Giant Oceanic Manta Rays create memories of a lifetime.
A day tour to Nusa Penida from Bali is strongly recommended if you have the time. It could end up becoming the most memorable part of your Bali trip.
