Climb aboard a fast boat at Sanur Beach and cruise across the brilliant blue sea to Toyapakeh on Nusa Penida. Snap magical pictures at Kelingking Beach, marvel at the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, and swim at Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong (natural pool picturesquely framed by a rock cliff).
Rather than taking a day trip from Bali, stay for a minimum of one night to experience the magic of the island. Here are some potential 1, 2, and 3 day itineraries.
Kelingking Beach
If you’re not a fan of hiking, but want to experience some of the best views on Nusa Penida, then you can visit Kelingking Beach via the road. It’s on the western side of the island and shares a carpark with Angel’s Billabong, which is a natural infinity pool framed by rocky cliffs.
It’s one of the most popular attractions on the island and attracts a lot of tourists, so expect it to be pretty busy when you arrive. There are some guys sitting by a little hut that will ask for a small parking fee and then point you in the direction of the beach.
As you descend the stairs, you’ll walk past several gorgeous rock pools and then reach a stunning and secluded beach. This is a really special spot and is the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet while watching the sunset.
The best time to visit Kelingking Beach is in the evening when it won’t be as crowded. Mornings are also okay but the sun will be in the wrong position and it will cast shadows over parts of the cliff, which isn’t ideal for photos. Make sure to take some water shoes and sunscreen! You can book a tour to visit Kelingking Beach online or in person for around $40 USD per person. This includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a roundtrip transfer from Bali, lunch, and a driver/guide.
Tembeling Beach
There are plenty of things to do in Nusa Penida, but one of the best is to explore the forests, beaches and natural pools of Tembeling. This is a lesser known attraction on the island and definitely worth including in your day trip to Nusa Penida. This is a magical oasis that combines lucious greenery and the smell of fresh water with a beautiful white beach and a series of natural pools. It takes some effort to get here but you will be rewarded with some truly breathtaking views and an experience that is so peaceful and serene.
After exploring the forest and the Tembeling Natural Pools, head down a steep staircase towards the beautiful Tembeling Beach. The water here is a beautiful crystal clear blue and there are several traditional statue fountains that are used for water rituals. The beach isn’t for swimming but it’s a great spot to relax and just enjoy the amazing view.
It’s also well worth taking a few photos of the famous Instagram tree houses on this nusa penida tour These tiny houses built into the trees are quite a sight to see and have become a very popular spot for tourists to take a selfie with the stunning views below. You can even spend a night in these tree houses if you plan far enough in advance but they book up months in advance!
Rumah Pohon Tree Houses
The Instagram-famous Rumah Pohon Tree Houses are perched high up in the trees with incredible views of the ocean and cliffs. There are three tree houses in total although only one is bookable. You can stay in the Insta-famous tree house for the night, but be aware that it’s a pretty basic accommodation – think grey mattress on the floor, crumpled sheets, and a water bottle (instead of a shower).
The best time to visit the Rumah Pohon tree houses is early morning to avoid the large crowds. From there, it’s a short walk to the Thousand Island Viewpoint, another one of Nusa Penida’s most famous attractions.
Next stop is Diamond Beach, which is the most amazing beach in Nusa Penida for its crystal clear waters and stunning rock formations. This is another place where it’s possible to snorkel and see the beautiful marine life.
After lunch, head to the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida to Kelingking Beach – another of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It’s a white sandy isolated beach with a dinosaur shaped headland and turquoise waters.
Finally, finish the day at Amok Sunset Bar for a drink and a view. It’s located up on the cliffs and offers spectacular westward views over the ocean. There’s also a plunge pool and several photogenic treehouses to lounge around in.
Angel’s Billabong
The rock pools at Angel’s Billabong are stunning and a must-see. They are a popular stop on day trips from Bali and can be visited without a guide. Located near Broken Beach, this natural pool offers beautiful views of the ocean. It is also a great spot for photos, but you should only swim here on days when there are no waves or when it’s at low tide.
Swimmers have been warned not to enter the water at this spot due to freak waves that have pulled swimmers in, causing injuries and even deaths. However, many locals and tourists still swim in the tidal pool.
The bottom of the pool is rocky and sharp, so it’s important to wear proper footwear. If you’re not sure whether or not the water is safe to swim in, ask your guide.
You can visit Angel’s Billabong as part of a Nusa Penida tour from Bali that includes Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Crystal Bay Beach. This highly rated tour has nearly 700 excellent reviews and is perfect for small groups or solo travelers.
To get to Angel’s Billabong, head out of the port and continue on Jalan Ped-Buyuk until you reach a roundabout. Take the second exit and follow signs to Angel’s Billabong. It’s easy to find and is only about a 30-minute drive from the port.