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Nusa Penida Island is a top travel destination just off the coast of Bali, Indonesia and is a must-visit! Make sure to include a day trip to Nusa Penida in your Bali itinerary. This island offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences, from snorkeling with Manta Rays in the Indian Ocean to exploring its iconic attractions on land. Discover the breathtaking Kelingking Beach, often called T-Rex beach due to its distinctive cliff shape, the natural infinity pool at Angel's Billabong, and the unique coastal formation of Broken Beach. With its stunning landscapes, amazing beaches, and vibrant marine life, Nusa Penida promises an unforgettable day trip!
ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST FOR YOUR DAY TRIP TO NUSA PENIDA
Before we dive into exploring Nusa Penida, let's ensure we're prepared! Here are a few essentials to pack for your day trip:
Bring a day bag with a change of clothes.
A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Compact towel for beach visits.
Some snacks for energy throughout the day.
Don't forget sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
Camera or smartphone to capture those breathtaking moments.
Carry cash in Indonesian Rupiah for any purchases.
Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking.
DAY TRIP TO NUSA PENIDA ISLAND
We booked a tour in advance through Smile Nusa Penida and chose the Nusa Penida (West) + Snorkeling Tour. The package included hotel pick-up/drop-off, a scenic speedboat ride to and from the island, a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and a comprehensive island tour.
What stood out was Smile Nusa Penida's responsiveness and flexibility; no prepayment was required, just cash payment (in Indonesian Currency) upon receiving our boat tickets on the tour day. At just $65 per person, it was one of our more expensive days in Bali, packed with adventure and stunning landscapes.
If I had the chance to revisit, with improved finances, I would likely choose a more luxurious and exclusive option, like a private boat and land tour!
SNORKELING WITH MANTA RAYS ON NUSA PENIDA ISLAND
Upon arrival at Nusa Penida Island, a team member greeted us promptly and distributed snorkeling gear to our group. Boarding a smaller vessel with approximately 15 passengers, we set off for Manta Bay.
Manta Bay's waters are naturally cooler due to the Indian Ocean currents, yet the thrill of encountering these magnificent creatures overshadows any discomfort. The Manta Rays, with their grandeur and serenity, create an unforgettable experience!
Our tour also included visits to two other snorkeling sites. These locations featured warmer, shallower waters with amazing clarity, allowing us to admire the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
LAND TOUR OF NUSA PENIDA ISLAND
Once back on shore, we returned our snorkel gear and embarked on the next leg of our adventure with a new guide in a van. This time, it was just Luke and I, and our guide took us to a local restaurant for lunch. We enjoyed a traditional Bali-style meal of chicken and rice, accompanied by a beverage of our choice. After a satisfying meal, we were off to explore Kelingking Beach, Angels Billabong, and Broken Beach!
KELINGKING BEACH
Kelingking Beach is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen! It is the landmark of the island and a must-see while visiting Bali. The only downside to this location is the number of people. Unlike the idyllic images on social media, it truly embodies the Instagram vs. reality phenomenon. Despite the crowds, we happily waited in line to take pictures at the famous photo spots—how could you not? With a place as stunning as this, it's no surprise it attracts a crowd!
There is also an option to hike down to the beach, which we skipped. If you choose to hike it, be prepared with proper walking shoes for the steep and challenging trek down and back up.
ANGELS BILLABONG
Another highlight on the island is Angel's Billabong, a natural infinity pool nestled between rocks with stunning shades of blue. The ocean crashes into the pool, then settles into a serene, clear basin. While it was crowded, it wasn't as packed as Kelingking Beach. Our guide was fantastic, acting as our personal photographer and taking us to the best viewpoints for the perfect pictures!
BROKEN BEACH
Broken Beach, just a short walk from Angel's Billabong, is another must-see attraction on Nusa Penida. Known locally as Pasih Uug, this unique coastal formation features a natural archway that frames a stunning view of the turquoise waters below. The arch was created by the collapse of a sea cave, forming a beautiful circular cove that allows the ocean to flow in and out. The sight of waves crashing through the arch and the serene, lagoon-like waters inside the cove is mesmerizing. Although it can get busy, the expansive area around Broken Beach provides plenty of vantage points for capturing its beauty. Visiting Broken Beach offers a tranquil and picturesque experience, showcasing the raw and unspoiled nature of Nusa Penida.
After a long, rewarding day exploring the island, the ferry ride back to Sanur Harbor provides a chance to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. Don't forget to bring your camera and a sense of adventure, as this island is filled with picture-perfect moments waiting to be captured. Make sure to add Nusa Penida to your Bali itinerary for an extraordinary day trip!
IS NUSA PENIDA WORTH VISITING?
On our trip to Bali in 2019, we ventured to Nusa Penida, which at the time was very remote and under a lot of construction, with mostly dirt roads. The roads are steep and mountainous, and we saw many tourists who had fallen on scooters. (Read more: Essential Guide to Renting a Scooter in Bali: Tips and Safety Advice) We initially considered spending a night on the island, but we were glad we didn't, as there weren't many accommodations or restaurants available back then. However, is Nusa Penida worth visiting? In short, yes! It's perfect for a day trip, allowing you to explore its stunning attractions without the need to stay overnight. Despite its rustic charm, Nusa Penida is a must-see for its beautiful remote beaches, spectacular mountainous coastline, and unforgettable Manta Ray experience!
Check out our Bali Day 3: Best of Bali Waterfalls!!
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