The largest of southeast Bali’s three Nusa islands, Nusa Penida is a very special place to the Balinese—it even has its own dialect that few mainlanders can understand. For travelers, it’s best known for beaches, giant mantas, and Insta-perfect views. Beach-hopping is one of the main things to do in Nusa Penida, with manta snorkeling a close second, while scuba divers seek out ocean sunfish (mola) too. Beyond the iconic Kelingking Beach and snorkel-friendly Crystal Bay, attractions include photogenic tree houses, chilled beach clubs, and the vast Giri Putri Cave temple.
Nusa Penida has a drier climate than mainland Bali, but can still see a lot of rain during the wet season (December–February). Trash in the water can be an issue at this time too. Mantas are common year-round, but ocean sunfish (mola) appear between July and October; sightings are most frequent in August and September. To scuba dive in search of ocean sunfish, you’ll need advanced scuba certification and documented experience diving in strong currents.
Nusa Penida has no public transit and no rideshares. It’s many times the size of Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan so walking or cycling is not as practical. Local drivers charge set fares for day hire or short hops so many day-trippers find it easiest to book a tour that includes transport. Even if you have your motorbike license, navigating cliff-top bends into oncoming traffic can be terrifying, so think before renting a scooter.
If you’re staying the night in Nusa Penida—and you really should—it’s worth enjoying a sunset with something long and cool in hand. Hilltop Amok Sunset offers spectacular views across the strait to Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan—plus bird’s nest seats and infinity pools for social media mavens. Sunsets are a little more muted at Ped’s laid-back Penida Colada Beach Bar, but when conditions are right there are stellar views of Mt. Agung volcano on mainland Bali.
