The Nusa Islands sit in a cluster off the southeastern coast of mainland Bali. Comprised of three islands – Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida – they’re an understandably popular tourist destination.
Accessible via a 30-minute ferry ride, the Nusa Islands attract active travelers, day trippers and those seeking a break from the crowds and chaos of Bali.
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While many just get a glimpse on a Nusa Lembongan day trip, we believe we’ll easily convince you to stay much longer!
Our Complete Guide to Nusa Islands, Bali
We navigated our way to all three Nusa Islands and are sharing our honest tips to help other travelers plan their Bali Itinerary!
Our Nusa Island guide is massive and includes advice for things to do, what to eat and where to stay. Additionally, we have pertinent details about how to get there at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Nusa Islands Travel Guide for your trip to Bali!
Best Things To Do on Nusa Lembongan
This is the most developed (and second largest) of the three Nusa Islands and the economy relies heavily on tourism.
Our list of what to do includes the absolute best activities – none of which are far from that famous clear blue sea! MAP.
#1 Relax at Nusa Lembongan Beaches
Spending time on the powdery shoreline needs to be on every Nusa Lembongan to-do list. You can lounge on one of the long stretches of sand or seek out secluded coves.
Beach walking, waterfront dining and sunbathing are just a few of the popular Nusa Lembongan things to do at the beach.
Nusa Lembongan Beach Guide
- Dream Beach – Nestled in a bay surrounded by cliffs and home to upscale resorts, Dream Beach is idyllic. Just be aware of strong currents if venturing into the sea.
- Sandy Bay Beach – Mostly occupied by a beach club of the same name, the shore here is small and rocky and not suitable for swimming.
- Mushroom Beach – This crescent-shaped beach is packed with cafes and boutique hotels. A steady stream of tour boats motor in and out, but there is an area for swimmers.
- Hidden Beach – Perhaps not so under-the-radar anymore, this place still feels secluded. It is just north of Mushroom Beach past the rocky outcrop.
- Tamarind Beach – Except at low tide, it’s not really much of a beach at all. It’s also a secondary drop-off point for day trippers.
- Song Lambung Beach – Tucked into an alcove, this feels like a private beach with only a few warungs and secluded places to stay.
- Jungut Batu Beach – The central location, powdery sand, waterfront eateries and west-facing orientation all contribute to making Jungut Batu the best beach on Nusa Lembongan.
- Mahagiri Beach – Located along the north coast, this spot provides a wide stretch of sand and views of the mainland. The Mahagiri Resort occupies most of the shoreline, but the beach is public.
- Mangrove/LOA Beach – Located near Mangrove Point, this beach offers a great viewpoint of Mount Agung, a handful of laid-back establishments and the opportunity to snorkel right off shore.
Top Tip: High tide on Nusa Lembongan can completely erase beaches – so check the current charts before heading for the sand!
#2 Go Nusa Lembongan Snorkeling
Concealed beneath the turquoise water is some of the best coral reefs in Bali. You can get a first-hand look at the colorful marine life on one of the many Nusa Lembongan boat trips.
Most snorkel excursions leave in the morning and make at least three stops, which will be decided by the captain based on the currents and swells.
We took a group snorkel trip, which far surpassed our expectations! Rough conditions required an adjustment, but our experienced captain was able to find calmer water where we could snorkel comfortably.
He kept a watchful eye on everyone in our group, patiently helped a couple who were snorkeling for the first time and was adamant about protecting the coral.
Looking for a deep water experience? There are also many companies offering scuba diving excursions and PADI certification.
Nusa Island Snorkel Spots
Most Nusa Island snorkel tours depart from Lembongan, but the best snorkeling spots are located around Penida.
- Manta Bay (Penida) – Popular spot to see rays in their natural habitat.
- Crystal Bay (Penida) – A cove protected by an island, it gets its name from the crystal-clear waters.
- Gamat Bay (Penida) – Small cove filled with colorful coral that is home to many clownfish (a.k.a. Nemo).
- The Wall (Penida) – A sheer rock cliff submerged under water, the currents carry you from one end to the other, where the boat awaits.
- Underwater Buddha (Ceningan Channel) – Also called the Nusa Lembongan Underwater Temple, these statues are a project to encourage new coral growth (not a sunken temple as some claim).
- Mangrove Point (Lembongan) – Due to its size and location off the northern tip of the island, this is a regular first stop on snorkel tours.
#3 More Nusa Lembongan Water Activities
The intense, deep blue water surrounding Nusa Lembongan is irresistible – and there are many ways to get out and enjoy it!
With three main breaks – Playgrounds, Lacerations and Shipwrecks – surfing is one of the top things to do on Nusa Lembongan.
Another popular water activity is Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding and you will find several shops renting equipment.
There are not many favorable swimming spots around Lembongan, as strong currents can make it more strenuous than pleasurable.
Most shorelines are good for frolicking knee-deep to cool off from the heat of the day, but don’t ever swim alone.
#4 Set Off on Lembongan Coastal Walks
Being a small island with an easily accessible shoreline, coastal walking ranks as one of the best Lembongan Island things to do. During our stay, we discovered three walks that highlight the stunning beauty of the area.
Walk 1 – Devil’s Tear: Sandy Bay to Dream Beach
The western end of Lembongan features rocky terrain and elevated cliffs that are punctuated by small inlets and caves. The waves smash against the rocks, sending spray and mist high into the sky.
The most popular place to watch the spectacle is at Devil’s Tear, where the water churns with every crashing swell.
However, we recommend walking the half-mile stretch to Dream Beach from Sandy Bay to truly witness the power of nature. Also keep an eye out for sea turtles that play in the rough waters!
Walk 2 – Jungut Batu Beach to Mushroom Bay
Many visitors are unaware that there is a 1.5 mile coastline trail that connects Jungut Batu to Mushroom Bay.
Start by walking south on Jungut Batu Beach and climb the stairs at the southern end. Turn right and follow the sidewalk past the resorts and restaurants.
Continue on the dirt trail to Song Lambung Beach. Cross the sand and climb the hidden stairs on the southern end then walk along a natural path to Tamarind Beach.
At the west end of Tamarind, head inland until you get to the first road heading west toward Lotus Garden Huts (passing cows along the way).
At the end of the road, follow the trail to Hidden Beach. From there, continue to the unmarked doorway through Mushroom Beach Bungalows to Mushroom Beach.
Walk 3 – Jungut Batu Beach to Mangroves
Walkers will be thrilled to know that there is a 2-mile stretch of sand from Jangut Batu Beach to the Mangroves.
The route is briefly interrupted by a small section of mangrove, where there’s a beachside temple you can visit.
Top Tip: Although we love walking bare foot, the beaches are often covered with sharp pieces of coral (and sometimes glass and plastic).
#5 Visit the Mangrove Forest
The mangroves on the northeastern tip of the island are one of the unique Nusa Lembongan attractions. The forest acts as a natural protector of the island’s delicate eco-system.
Local boatmen, who propel their canoes with poles, give tours into the forest of arching roots and narrow waterways.
#6 Chill at Sandy Bay Beach Club
While you can easily fill your days with fun activities, relaxing is essential – and Sandy Bay Beach Club is the place to do it!
The stylish spot sits prominently on the shore overlooking the waves. Guests who dine here are free to use the pool and loungers and we can confirm that it didn’t disappoint on the food front, either!
#7 Watch an Amazing Nusa Lembongan Sunset
Of all the Lembongan things to do, watching sunset is an absolute must! With ample west-facing shores, there are several supreme spots to watch the sun sink into the horizon.
We preferred Jungut Batu Beach, where we could plop into colorful bean bags in the sand. Agus Shipwreck was a place we returned to several times. For an elevated view, we went for the rooftop at Ware Ware.
#8 Eat at the Best Nusa Lembongan Restaurants
During our visit, we were on a mission to find the prime places for both Indonesian and Western fare. Here’s the spots we suggest for your cravings.
- Pondok Baruna Warung – This is a great choice for a traditional Indonesian meal. Recommended dish: Nasi Campur.
- Bali Eco Deli – Here they focus on healthy fare in a secret garden atmosphere. What to order: Watermelon Salad.
- Ware Ware – Sitting alongside upscale establishments, Ware Ware offers a mid-range option with panoramic views and a good happy hour, too! Recommended dish: Tuna steak with mashed potatoes and garlic sauce.
- D&B Warung – D&B surpassed our expectations with tasty authentic fare at fair prices. Recommended dish: Calamari and Pepes Ikan (fish in banana leaf).
- Tigerlilys – The boutique resort setting here is inviting and picturesque. What to order: Sama-Sama Samosas and any of their fresh juices and smoothies.
- Ginger & Jamu – With an emphasis on quality ingredients and community, this fun beachfront spot is good for a quick meal.
- Kawan’s Cafe – A no-frills roadside restaurant with a short menu and smiling staff. What to order: Any egg dish – and the coffee!
- Ohana’s – This beachfront property serves a wide range of dishes in a lovely setting. Recommended dish: We loved the pan fried Barramundi and Beef Rendang.
- Mola Mola – An unpretentious spot, this is a good option for a light lunch or sunset happy hour.
- Lemongrass – This place is consistently busy – so much so that we were never able to get a seat! If it tops your list of restaurants in Lembongan, stop by and make a reservation.
Nusa Lembongan Accommodation
For budget to mid-range travelers, we rank Chillhouse Homestay as the best accommodation Nusa Lembongan. Not only is it centrally located in Jungut Batu, the rooms are clean, spacious and air-conditioned.
What really made our stay notable was the remarkable owner, Gede. He arranged tours, helped us with rides and provided fantastic information; especially after an earthquake over on Lombok!
Top Things To Do on Nusa Ceningan
Ceningan is wedged between Lembongan and Penida and is the smallest of the Nusa Islands. It’s connected to Lembongan via the Yellow Bridge – which is only wide enough for pedestrians and scooters.
While we were often the sole visitors at some of the sights, tourism on Nusa Ceningan has developed quickly in recent years. MAP.
#1 Find Secret Beach on Nusa Ceningan
Unlike Lembongan, there are just a few beaches on Ceningan. Secret Beach is on the southwest side of the island in a rocky cove.
With a shallow swath of sand and shade provided from overhanging trees, the sheltered nook feels remote and secluded…especially with the abandoned hotel at one end.
Top Tip: Secret Point is a different beach, which is located below the Secret Point Hut’s Resort.
#2 Stare at the Ceningan Blue Lagoon
This turquoise bay is the island’s top attraction for one simple reason: the opalescent water is so surreal that it has to be seen to be believed!
The scenic lagoon sits below high cliffs that nearly encircle it. Although the best Blue Lagoon view is closest to the road, you can trek along the west coastline to other viewpoints.
#3 Jump (or don’t jump) off Mahana Point
Adventure enthusiasts looking for a thrill should definitely go to Mahana Point. Situated atop a rocky cliff, it has two diving platforms and the café charges a small fee to use them.
Those not interested in taking the plunge (like us) can be spectators at the café. The panoramic vista is stunning; we even spotted dolphins and turtles!
#4 Take a Walk from Mahana to Secret Beach
The rugged, natural coastline on Nusa Ceningan is one of the most beautiful features of the island.
During our wanders, we discovered a walking path along the western coast. The rudimentary trail is about a mile in length and covers almost the entire southwestern tip of the island.
Starting at Mahana Point, follow the road to Blue Lagoon and continue south past Driftwood Bar. Follow the dusty path where the buildings end on your left and continue to Fishing Bay.
Keep walking along the southernmost tip of Ceningan until Penida is clearly visible across the channel. Secret Beach Cove will come into sight, but we couldn’t find a safe way down, so backtracked to Mahana.
#5 See the View from Ceningan Cliffs
The south-facing side of Ceningan is characterized by high perches and stunning views. Intrigued, we set off on a trek to the Ceningan Cliffs Restaurant.
From the southwest, the road gradually inclines to the northeast, passing private residences, unkempt temples and small farms.
Locals, not accustomed to seeing tourists explore the area on foot, flashed us curious smiles and waved us on our way. About halfway there, you’ll past the posh The View Day Club.
By the time we made it, we were hungry and thirsty (and they do expect visitors to make a purchase). The casual restaurant offers a simple menu and magnificent views.
#6 Go Surfing or Swimming
Ceningan isn’t the most popular surf destination in Bali, that honor goes to Uluwatu! However, the lefthander that forms around Mahana Point is the exception.
There are not really good options for swimming in the sea from the shore. At high tide, it’s possible to wade into the channel between Lembongan and Ceningan. At low tide, the west-facing tidal pools are also fun for exploring.
#7 Catch Sunset at Sea Breeze Cafe
Between the Yellow Bridge and the west coast there are numerous cafes and shabby chic bars. Most of these waterfront venues exude island vibes with beach bean bags, hammocks, happy hour deals and overwater swings.
The close proximity of the bars makes for a fun outing. The most popular of the bunch is Sea Breeze. They literally elevate the experience with a negative edge pool that’s a stunning spot for sunset.
#8 Dine at the Best Restaurants on Ceningan
Even though Ceningan is a smaller island, there are ample dining options. Our suggestions on where to eat includes a recommended item to order, too.
- Blue Lagoon Resto – A typical Balinese restaurant with an easy-going atmosphere, this place is a true gem! When we arrived shortly after 7pm, the tables were full, but other patrons kindly let us share. What to order: Grilled Tuna Steak.
- Dungki Bendega Resto – This out-of-the-way spot gets rave reviews and it didn’t disappoint! As seating is limited, be sure to make a reservation. Recommended dish: White Snapper Fillet.
- Next Level – This small restaurant on the second story of a waterfront building offers an array of fare – from local eats to pizza to Mexican. What we ordered: Beef Tacos.
Nusa Ceningan Accommodation
We stayed at Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas and absolutely loved it! The stylish rooms have plush beds with quality linens, air-con and Balinese-style (open-air) ensuites.
Our villa opened to a patio just off the infinity pool that overlooks the sea. The staff was helpful and friendly – and always smiling.
Visiting Nusa Penida
Penida is the most southern and largest of the Nusa Islands trio – yet it is the least developed, especially in terms of tourism.
Many roads to the top attractions are unpaved and much of the land is still used for agriculture. Most visitors travel to Nusa Penida to see the famously carved coastline and pristine beaches.
Unlike Lembongan and Ceningan, a vehicle is required to get around. Therefore, we recommend taking a guided Penida Island Day Trip.
Things To See on Nusa Penida
Our list includes the island’s prime sights that should be featured on nearly all Penida Tours. Additionally, we’ve added a brief description of each place. MAP.
- Kelingking Beach – By far the most iconic stretch of coastline on Penida Island. Resembling the head of a dinosaur when seen from above, the peninsula is nicknamed T-Rex.
- Broken Beach – Named for the ‘broken’ limestone rock that allows waves to rush in, it almost looks fake!
- Angel’s Billabong – Often touted as one of the world’s only natural infinity pool, this long, narrow tidal pool fills with each crashing wave.
- Crystal Bay – A crescent-shaped beach between two rocky cliffs, this is a renowned snorkeling spot. Enormous Mola Mola fish are known to swim nearby.
- Peguyangan Waterfall – Not an easy place to get to, as it requires trekking down (and back up) a long, steep staircase. The reward is dipping in the natural pool overlooking the sea.
- Car Temple – With an origin that no one can recall, the unique Pura Paluang oddly incorporates two replica vehicles into its shrine.
- Banah Cliff Point – The dramatic drops here offer stunning views of the offshore monoliths.
- Atuh Beach – This secluded beach features arresting views of the striking (and eroding) limestone rocks.
- Thousand Islands Viewpoint – A favorite for photogs, this spot provides panoramic views of the karst-strewn sea.
- Goa Giri Putri – One of the island’s cultural attractions, this temple is located inside a deep cave that is accessed through a narrow opening.
- Pura Puncak Mundi – This place of worship is located at the highest point on the island.
- Tembeling Forest – The lush vegetation here is home to birds and other creatures, but you can trek through the jungle to see (and swim in) the two natural pools.
How To Get to the Nusa Islands
Both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are accessible directly from mainland Bali by boat. Most people traveling to either will depart from Sanur.
The most popular choice for tourists is the fast boat to Lembongan. The ride takes 30-45 minutes (depending on sea conditions) and costs about $24 one way or $36 for the roundtrip.
We used Scoot for our Nusa Lembongan trip and had no issues what-so-ever. However, it can be a rocky ride. Those prone to motion sickness might want to invest in Sea Bands.
Another thing to be aware of is you will likely be boarding and disembarking the boat in knee-deep water. So be sure to stash your electronics in a dry bag and dress accordingly!
Getting Around Nusa Islands
We found getting around Nusa Lembongan to be the easiest of the three islands. We walked almost everywhere!
Because of its small size, Nusa Ceningan is also easy to get around on foot. Scooters are available, but cost more than at mainland hotspots (like Canggu).
As mentioned before, getting around Nusa Penida is no easy feat. We highly recommend hiring a driver or booking a tour.
Nusa Island Essentials
- If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
- Don’t forget to pack your beach necessities, as they can cost a bundle on the islands. We recommend bringing plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed beach hat, mosquito repellent, water shoes and a swim suit, of course!
- Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-133mm lens.
- Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you will also want to carry and great day bag to secure all of you everyday travel items.
- For underwater pics and video, invest in a GoPro – or a less-expensive waterproof action camera.
- Get (and stay) organized for your Bali vacation with our Printable Travel Planner!
Start planning your trip to Indonesia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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