Visit Nusa Penida, Bali, Bali & Indonesia

Nusa Penida is the biggest of the three islands off Bali’s south-east coast, and the most dramatic: tall limestone cliffs, turquoise coves and some of the best manta ray snorkeling in Indonesia. It’s still rough around the edges, with slow, steep roads, which is part of its appeal. It makes a long day trip from Bali or, better, a night or two.

What to see

Kelingking Beach. The cliff shaped like a dinosaur’s head, above a curve of white sand, is the island’s famous view. The path down to the beach is steep and only for the fit and sure-footed; most visitors enjoy it from the top.

Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong. On the west coast, a natural arch frames a sea pool at Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong next door is a clear rock pool by the sea. Waves can wash over the rocks there, so don’t swim when the sea is up.

Manta rays. Snorkeling and diving trips go to Manta Point and Manta Bay, where reef mantas gather much of the year. Crystal Bay is good for snorkeling on calm days.

Getting there

Fast boats run from Sanur, on Bali’s east coast, to Banjar Nyuh and other harbors on Nusa Penida in roughly 30 to 45 minutes, with many operators and departures through the day. There’s a small local fee on arrival. Boats can be suspended on Balinese holy days such as Nyepi, and seas can be rough, so keep plans flexible.

Day trip or overnight?

A day trip covers the west coast. Staying a night or two lets you see the east coast too, snorkel with mantas in the morning calm, and enjoy the island once the day-trippers have gone. Roads are narrow and steep in places, so travel with a local driver rather than renting a scooter.

For the rest of your trip, see things to do in Bali and our page on Ubud.

Planning it with My Way Travel

We plan private Bali trips with boats, drivers and island stays arranged for you. Have a look at our Bali tours or tell us your dates.

Sources: Nusa Penida boat operator and harbor information (2026). Last checked October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

How do you get to Nusa Penida from Bali?

By fast boat from Sanur, which takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes.

Is a day trip to Nusa Penida worth it?

It’s worth it for the west coast views, but a night or two is better, with time for the manta rays and the east coast.

Can you swim at Kelingking Beach?

The path down is very steep, and currents can be strong, so most visitors see Kelingking from the clifftop.

Photo: Georgi Kovachev, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.