Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is an Indonesian island located southeast of Bali, and it is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich marine life, and cultural heritage. The island is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all around the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at Nusa Penida and explore what makes this island so special.

Nusa Penida is the largest of three islands in the Nusa Penida district, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. The island is approximately 20 kilometers from Bali and can be reached by speedboat from Sanur or Padang Bai. The island has a total area of 202.8 square kilometers and a population of approximately 45,000 people.

 

The island is a rugged and hilly landmass with stunning cliff faces and white sandy beaches. The highest point on the island is Mount Mundi, which stands at 524 meters above sea level. The climate is tropical, and the island experiences two seasons, a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.

Nusa Penida is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Indonesia. The island boasts a unique blend of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. One of the most iconic landmarks on the island is Kelingking Beach, which is known for its T-rex-shaped cliff face. Other must-visit destinations on the island include Angel's Billabong, Crystal Bay, and Atuh Beach.

 

The island is also home to a diverse range of wildlife. The waters surrounding Nusa Penida are home to manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island is also home to a variety of bird species, including the critically endangered Bali Starling.

Nusa Penida has a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. The island is home to several Hindu temples, including Pura Dalem Ped, which is dedicated to the goddess of death. Another popular temple on the island is Pura Goa Giri Putri, which is located in a cave and is only accessible through a narrow entrance.

 

The island is also home to several traditional villages, including Ped and Tanglad. These villages offer visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life on the island.

Nusa Penida's tourism industry has grown rapidly in recent years, with the island attracting visitors from all around the world. The island has a range of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses and luxury resorts. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes on the island serving traditional Indonesian cuisine, as well as international dishes.
Tourists can explore the island by renting a scooter or hiring a local guide. Many popular destinations on the island are accessible by road, but some require a short hike or boat ride.

 

 

 

Visit Kelingking Beach: This is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island, known for its T-rex-shaped cliff face. Visitors can hike down to the beach for a swim or simply take in the breathtaking views from above.

 

Snorkel with Manta Rays: The waters surrounding Nusa Penida are home to manta rays, and snorkeling with these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience.

 

Explore Crystal Bay: This secluded beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can also take a hike to the nearby Batu Bolong Temple for stunning views of the ocean.

 

Visit Atuh Beach: This remote beach is accessible only by a steep hike or by boat, but it's well worth the effort. The beach is framed by towering cliffs and offers visitors a peaceful escape from the crowds.

 

Hike to Peguyangan Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located at the bottom of a steep cliff and is reached by climbing down a series of stairs. The hike is challenging but offers some of the most spectacular views on the island.

 

Visit Pura Goa Giri Putri: This Hindu temple is located in a cave and is only accessible through a narrow entrance. Visitors can explore the temple and take in the unique atmosphere of this sacred site.

 

Take a Boat Tour: Visitors can take a boat tour around the island to explore hidden coves and remote beaches. Some boat tours also include snorkeling and diving opportunities.

 

Explore Traditional Villages: Nusa Penida is home to several traditional villages, including Ped and Tanglad. Visitors can explore these villages and learn about the traditional way of life on the island.

 

Go Diving: The waters surrounding Nusa Penida are home to a rich variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and schools of tropical fish. Diving is a popular activity on the island, and there are several dive centers offering courses and guided dives.

 

Relax on the Beach: With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Nusa Penida is the perfect place to relax and soak up the tropical sun. Visitors can choose from a range of beaches, from secluded coves to popular tourist spots.

 

In conclusion, Nusa Penida is a destination that offers visitors a range of activities and experiences, from exploring rugged cliffs and stunning beaches to snorkeling with manta rays and hiking through lush forests. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Nusa Penida has something to offer everyone.

How to reach 

 

Nusa Penida is an island located southeast of Bali in Indonesia, and getting there requires a combination of transportation modes. Here's how to reach Nusa Penida:

 

Fly to Bali: The nearest airport to Nusa Penida is Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. Many international airlines offer direct flights to Bali from major cities worldwide.

 

Transfer to Sanur: From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or shuttle bus to Sanur, a coastal town in the southeast of Bali. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

 

Take a Ferry: There are several ferry companies that operate daily services from Sanur to Nusa Penida. The journey takes around 45-90 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions. Visitors can buy tickets at the ferry terminal or book in advance online.

 

Arrive at Nusa Penida: The ferry will arrive at the main port of Nusa Penida, Toyapakeh. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rent a scooter to explore the island. There are also several tour operators offering guided tours of the island.

 

Another option for reaching Nusa Penida is to take a speedboat from Bali. Speedboat services operate from various locations along the east and south coast of Bali, including Sanur, Padangbai, and Serangan. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on the departure point.

 

In conclusion, reaching Nusa Penida requires a combination of transportation modes, including flying to Bali, transferring to Sanur, and taking a ferry to the island. Alternatively, visitors can take a speedboat from various locations along the east and south coast of Bali. With its stunning natural beauty and range of activities, Nusa Penida is a destination well worth the effort to reach.