The center of Nusa Penida is full of giant towering cliffs and perfect blue water. A great spot to watch the sunset with few people around is Saren Cliff Viewpoint.
A popular attraction is Kelingking Beach, a ‘T-Rex’ shaped rock that sticks out of the ocean! This cliff beach also has a path down to a natural pool to swim in.
1. Kelingking Beach
One of the most iconic sights on Nusa Penida is Kelingking Beach, a picturesque beach with towering cliffs and white sand. It’s also a popular spot for hikers and photographers. It’s best to visit Kelingking Beach during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are usually favorable for hiking and beach activities.
The views from the Kelingking Beach viewpoint are awe-inspiring, and you’ll want to take plenty of photos. It’s best to arrive early in the day to get the perfect shot of the beach and cliffs. The climb down to the beach can be dangerous, so it’s a good idea to stay on top of the cliff and enjoy the view from there.
Aside from Kelingking Beach, there are other things to see and do in the area, including exploring nearby caves and witnessing a dramatic sunset at Atuh Beach. If you’re unsure of how to navigate the terrain, consider hiring a local guide to ensure an enriching experience and safe travels to these destinations. Also, make sure to bring a sturdy pair of shoes and extra water to avoid getting dehydrated while hiking.
2. Broken Beach
Broken Beach is a natural beauty that is located on the island of Nusa Penida. It looks like a giant’s first punch has punched a hole through the white cliffs and blue sea, forming a circular bay. This unique feature is one of the most picturesque natural attractions in Nusa Penida and is perfect for photography.
The best time to visit the Broken Beach is during the dry season, which typically lasts from April to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions for outdoor exploration and sightseeing, including mild temperatures, clear skies, and calm seas.
To reach the Broken Beach, travelers can rent a scooter and explore on their own or join a group tour from the Nusa Penida ferry terminal in Sanur. To avoid the crowds, it is best to arrive early in the morning before 10 a.m or late in the afternoon once all the tour groups have left. A short walk away from Broken Beach is Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool where you can swim during low tide. It is also a great spot to admire Manta Rays.
3. Tembeling Beach & Forest
The best part of Tembeling Beach & Forest is the natural pool. You can lounge in the crystal-clear water and soak up the scenery. The secluded spot is surrounded by forest, so you may also catch sightings of monkeys.
It’s also a good idea to bring plenty of water with you since it is often difficult to get access to fresh drinking water in Nusa Penida. Drinking tap water is a common way to end up with Bali Belly, so stick to bottled water for your trip.
The secluded Tembeling natural pool is a highlight of this island and it’s worth the arduous journey to get there. You’ll descend a rocky track through lush jungle vegetation, and you’ll eventually reach the pool.
Make sure to visit in the late afternoon hours for golden hour when the sun shines across the dramatic landscape. Don’t forget to bring your camera as the views will be Instagram-worthy. The area is also home to a few tiny tree houses that are popular photo points and can be booked for overnight stays.
4. Batu Siha Beach
Nusa Penida is a great place for off-the-radar hikes and while the trails are intense and exhausting they usually lead to secluded beaches or temples. One of the best hikes is Pura Segara Watu, or the Ocean Temple. It’s a peaceful temple with a stunning view of the ocean and is definitely worth a visit.
Alternatively, try the recently discovered Batu Siha Beach which is still pretty unpopular so you’ll have the beach to yourself. It has all the ingredients of a perfect island beach: crystalline waters, long palm trees, soft sands, and a carefree atmosphere. The only downside is the current can be a bit rough for swimming so it’s more suitable for walking and taking photos.
It’s best to visit the island from March to May for the weather as it’s drier and less crowded. However, it’s also a beautiful place to visit year round!
5. Manta Point
The most famous attraction on Nusa Penida is the pristine coral reefs that encircle the island, and one of the best ways to see them is by snorkeling with manta rays. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the sea creatures are sure to impress you with their size and elegance as they glide through the water.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that these animals are wild and should be left alone. Don’t try to touch them or swim too close, as this can disturb them and cause them to swim away. Just enjoy their presence, and capture the moment with a waterproof camera.
Another highlight of this area is the chance to spot mola mola, also known as ocean sunfish. These fish love to show themselves on the surface after their dives, and this is a wonderful sight to behold.
For those looking for a more active way to enjoy this natural wonder, consider hiking up the steep stairs that lead to the Peguyangan Waterfall. The views are stunning, and the waterfall itself is both a sacred temple and a pilgrimage site. nusa penida trip