Why Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan Should Be on Your Island-Hopping List

When people think of Bali, their minds often go straight to its temples, rice terraces, and beaches. But just a short boat ride away lies an entirely different experience waiting to be explored: the islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. Together with the smaller Nusa Ceningan, these islands form a trio that is quickly becoming a must-see addition to any Bali itinerary.

If you’re planning an island-hopping adventure, Penida and Lembongan should be at the very top of your list. Why? Because they combine everything travelers dream of—dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and authentic local charm. Here’s your complete guide to why these two islands deserve a spot on your island-hopping route.

The Allure of Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is the largest of the Nusa islands, spanning over 200 square kilometers. It feels wild, rugged, and raw—an island where nature still dominates. Unlike Bali’s crowded hotspots, Penida offers a sense of adventure and authenticity.

Kelingking Beach: The Icon of Penida

It’s impossible to talk about Nusa Penida without mentioning Kelingking Beach, famously known as “T-Rex Bay” for its dinosaur-shaped cliff. From the viewpoint, turquoise waters meet white sand in one of the most photographed spots in Indonesia. Adventurous travelers can hike down the steep trail to the beach, though the descent is not for the faint-hearted.

Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach

These two attractions are located close to one another on the island’s western side. Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool carved into the rocks, where crystal-clear tidal waters shimmer in the sun. A short walk away, Broken Beach features a natural archway formed by erosion, framing the ocean beyond—a perfect photo opportunity.

Crystal Bay

For those who want to relax after a day of exploring cliffs and trails, Crystal Bay offers calm waters and beautiful sunsets. It’s also one of the best places on the island for snorkeling and diving, with coral gardens and plenty of marine life to discover.

Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach

On the east coast, Diamond Beach dazzles visitors with white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs. Nearby Atuh Beach offers a quieter yet equally stunning alternative, making both must-visits for sunrise lovers.

Underwater Adventures in Nusa Penida

Beyond its cliffs and beaches, Nusa Penida is a haven for divers and snorkelers. The waters around the island are home to manta rays, colorful reefs, and even the elusive mola-mola (sunfish).

• Manta Point: A world-famous site where divers can encounter majestic manta rays year-round.
• Crystal Bay: Popular for snorkeling and known for its seasonal mola-mola sightings.
• Toyapakeh and Gamat Bay: Renowned for coral gardens and diverse marine ecosystems.

For ocean lovers, Penida is more than just a scenic island—it’s a playground beneath the waves.

The Charm of Nusa Lembongan

If Penida is raw and adventurous, Nusa Lembongan is its more relaxed sibling. Much smaller and more developed, Lembongan is famous for its laid-back charm, coastal beauty, and local culture.

Beaches of Lembongan

Jungut Batu Beach: The island’s main hub, with panoramic views of Bali’s Mount Agung in the distance. This is where most fast boats arrive and depart.

• Dream Beach: True to its name, this stunning stretch of sand is perfect for sunbathing and photography.
• Mushroom Bay: A sheltered bay with calm waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.

Mangrove Forests

On the northern side of the island lies a lush mangrove forest, which visitors can explore by kayak or boat. The waterways are peaceful, shaded, and teeming with wildlife—a completely different side of the island compared to its beaches.

Seaweed Farming

Nusa Lembongan has long been known for its traditional seaweed farming industry. Farmers harvest seaweed at low tide, and visitors can watch or even participate in this centuries-old practice, gaining insights into the island’s culture and economy.

Gala-Gala Underground House

A quirky attraction, the Gala-Gala Underground House was built by hand using simple tools. This labyrinth of tunnels and chambers offers a glimpse of local ingenuity and is unlike anything else you’ll find on the island.

Adventure Between Islands: The Yellow Bridge

Nusa Lembongan is connected to the tiny Nusa Ceningan by a bright yellow suspension bridge, often simply called the Yellow Bridge. Crossing it by foot or scooter feels like stepping into another world. Ceningan offers cliff-jumping spots, hidden beaches, and viewpoints with incredible ocean vistas. It’s the perfect side trip during your stay on Lembongan.

Why Island-Hop Between Penida and Lembongan?

Island-hopping between Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan offers the best of both worlds:

• Penida for adventure: towering cliffs, remote beaches, and challenging hikes.
• Lembongan for relaxation: charming villages, mangroves, and accessible beaches.
• Ceningan for thrills: cliff diving and coastal exploration.

Together, they create a complete island-hopping experience—thrilling, relaxing, and unforgettable.

How to Get There

• Reaching both islands is straightforward with reliable fast boat services.
• From Bali, boats depart from Sanur, Padang Bai, and Benoa to both Nusa Penida and Lembongan.
• From Lombok or the Gili Islands, connections are also available.
• Once on the islands, scooters, bicycles, or private drivers are the main ways to get around.

Booking with Gili Fastboat makes the journey seamless, with options to combine multiple destinations under one trusted operator.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Best Time to Visit: April to October for sunny weather and calm seas.
• Accommodation: Lembongan offers more mid-range resorts, while Penida has rustic homestays and boutique villas.
• Cash: ATMs are limited—bring enough cash for your stay.
• Transport: Roads in Penida can be rough; consider hiring a driver if you’re not confident on a scooter.
• Eco-Tips: Use reef-safe sunscreen, respect local customs, and support eco-friendly businesses.

Why These Islands Belong on Your List

Both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan offer something that Bali itself sometimes struggles to provide: authenticity and tranquility. They give travelers a chance to escape the crowds, discover untouched landscapes, and experience Indonesia at its most beautiful.

By including them in your island-hopping plans, you’ll uncover destinations that balance adventure with relaxation, excitement with peace, and culture with nature.

If Bali is the gateway to paradise, then Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are the treasures that lie just beyond it. From the cliffs of Kelingking Beach to the mangroves of Lembongan, these islands showcase Indonesia’s natural beauty and cultural heart in ways that few other places can.

So, when planning your next trip, don’t just stop at Bali—take the boat ride, embrace the adventure, and let Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan show you why they belong at the top of your island-hopping list.