Guide to Nusa Penida for First Time Travelers

You won't find beach clubs or trendy cafes in Nusa Penida but this rathee undeveloped island to the southeast of Bali is extremely photogenic and well worth spending time in when on a trip to Bali.

If you are on your first visit to this ‘Island of the Priests, which literally translates to Nusa Penida,this guide will tell how to escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali for some rest and relaxation in a place still relatively untouched by tourism.

Getting to Nusa Penida

This tiny island in Indonesia can only be accessed by boat and there are several ways to get there depending on your location. You can book the Nusa Penida boat tickets either on 12Go or Klook.

You can get to Nusa Penida by speedboat on all days from Sanur Beach or from Tanjong Benoa on Monday Wednesday and Friday. There is also a public ferry to Nusa Penida from Padang Bai that carries vehicles and is mostly used by the locals.

How much time to send in Nusa Penida?

If you have limited time,a day trip to Nusa Penida from Bali is very much doable.You can catch the speedboat from Sanur in the morning and return by afternoon. However,if you have a few days to spare,you can enjoy the island at your own pace.

Staying options

If you are staying overnight in Nusa Penida there are a number of options in Penida Bay Village,Dbelish Village, Penida Bambu Green and Kompyang cottage.

Packing tips

Here are some things for your first time trip to Nusa Penida which you should carry:

4G local sim card
Cash in Rupiah
Sun protection
A cotton wrap
Bathing costume
Comfortable footwear

Getting around

There are three ways to get around Nusa Penida of which booking a private day tour is the best as you need not worry about transport and logistics.

Another option is to rent a bike at the harbor itself for about &5.25 per day and see the island on your own. Top up the tank at the harbor as there are few petrol pumps as you go deeper inside.

If you are not comfortable with a motor bike rent a private car which costss $37 depending on the number of persons in the group. The ride may be bumpy but at least you will be in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Nusa Penida itinerary

Considering you are spending two days in Nusa Penida here is a list of places to visit once you arrive at the Banjar Nyuh Harbor

Day One: West Nusa Penida

Go to Kelingking beach

Visit Broken Beach and Billabong

Snorkel ar Crystal Bay

Day Two: East Nusa Penida

Visit Atuh Beach

Stop at Rumah Phone

Teletubbies Hill

Trembling Beach & Forest

Guyangan Waterfall

By the time you are through with the Guyangan Waterfall it will be almost 0330 pm and time to rush back to make it in time for the 04030 on boat  back to Bali.