Welcome to the Nusa Islands, a trio of islands off the southeast coast of Bali that offer an escape into worlds less travelled. Each island: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida presents its own unique blend of beauty and adventure which makes them perfect for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist paths. Whether you crave serene beaches, thrilling jumps from cliffs, or vast natural landscapes, the Nusa Islands beckon with open arms.
How to Get to the Nusa Islands
Book a Fast Boat with Hotel Pick Up: If you want an easy trip, consider booking a package that includes a fast boat ride from Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida and a pick up from your hotel. This option might cost a bit more, but it makes things really simple. Companies like GetYourGuide offer these services, taking care of your travel from your hotel right to the island. This is a great choice if you prefer not to worry about how to get to the boat pier on your own.
Nusa Penida: The Untamed Beauty
Nusa Penida is the biggest and least developed of the three Nusa Islands, famous for its wild and natural landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventurers who enjoy exploring outdoor wonders.
One of the top places to visit on Nusa Penida is Kelingking Beach. This beach is famous for its cliff shaped like a T-Rex. Standing on top gives you stunning views of the ocean and cliffs around. It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the view.
Another amazing place is Angel’s Billabong, a natural pool that looks like an infinity pool you would find at a fancy resort but it’s all natural. You can swim in its clear waters during low tide but be careful as the rocks can be slippery.
The roads on Nusa Penida are rough and more like dirt paths, making travelling around the island a bit tough. If you’re not used to driving a scooter on such roads, it might be a good idea to join a guided tour. Local guides can drive you around safely and tell you interesting stories about the places you visit.
Recommended Stay:
You should stay at least 3-4 days in Nusa Penida to fully enjoy its beauty. This gives you enough time to visit famous spots like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong, as well as quieter places like Atuh Beach and Peguyangan Waterfall.
How to Get to Nusa Lembongan from Nusa Penida
Going from Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan is easy and quick. You can take a boat that only takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The boats leave regularly from places like Toyapakeh or Sampalan on Nusa Penida and go to popular spots in Nusa Lembongan such as Mushroom Bay or Jungut Batu.
You can find boats running back and forth throughout the day. To book a boat, you can talk to local tour operators or ask at your hotel on either island. This makes it simple to travel between these two beautiful islands.
Nusa Lembongan: The Charming Gateway
Nusa Lembongan is a favourite starting point for visitors to the Nusa Islands. It’s close to Bali which makes it easy to get to and is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach getaway, this small island is perfect.
Dream Beach and Mushroom Bay are must-visit spots on the island. Dream Beach lives up to its name with soft white sand and bright blue water surrounded by green plants. It’s a quiet place to relax or swim in the gentle waves. Mushroom Bay is great for families because the water is calm and there are lots of cafes and bars right on the beach. Both beaches are excellent for snorkelling where you can see colourful fish and coral right from the surface. Surfing is also popular here, with waves that are good for all levels of surfers.
The best way to see Nusa Lembongan is by renting a scooter. The roads are in good shape and there isn’t much traffic so you can safely explore every part of the island. All around the island, you’ll find lovely places to stay right by the sea from small bungalows to larger beachfront resorts.
Recommended Stay:
Spending 2-3 days on Nusa Lembongan is just right. This gives you plenty of time to unwind at Dream Beach and Mushroom Bay, try some water sports and maybe take a quick trip over to the nearby Nusa Ceningan. During your stay, you can also enjoy local food, shop for unique crafts and meet friendly local people, making your visit even more special.
How to Get from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Ceningan
Getting from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Ceningan is simple. You can walk or ride a motorbike across the famous Yellow Bridge that connects the two islands. It’s a quick and easy trip that many locals and tourists make.
Once you cross the bridge, you’ll be on Nusa Ceningan. This small island is peaceful and beautiful, with great spots to see the ocean and relax by the coast. Enjoy exploring everything Nusa Ceningan has to offer right after you cross the bridge!
Nusa Ceningan: The Adventurous Middle Child
Nusa Ceningan is a small island but it’s full of fun and surprises. It’s connected to Nusa Lembongan by a colourful Yellow Bridge, which is not only useful but also very pretty to look at. Ceningan is known for being a place where you can find both exciting adventures and relaxing spots.
The main attraction here is the Blue Lagoon. This spot is famous for its bright blue water surrounded by high cliffs. If you like a bit of thrill, you can try cliff jumping. The heights range from 4 metres, which is quite low, to 13 metres, which is pretty high. Even if you don’t want to jump, it’s a great place to take pictures and enjoy the view.
Apart from the adventurous side, Nusa Ceningan is also perfect for relaxing. There are several small beach bars along the shore. These bars are cosy places where you can sit back, enjoy a drink and watch the sunset over the ocean. They play soft music and you can really feel at ease.
Recommended Stay:
It’s a good idea to visit Nusa Ceningan while you are at Nusa Lembongan since they are so close. You can easily spend a day or even two on Ceningan to catch all the highlights like the Blue Lagoon and the cosy beach bars. This gives you enough time to enjoy the exciting parts of the island and also relax a bit.
Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during the dry season from April to September. The weather is better which is important for boat rides and exploring the island.
- Travel Smart: Pack light and wear comfortable and use sturdy shoes for walking on uneven paths. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and sunglasses for the bright days.
- Stay Hydrated: Always carry a water bottle with you. It’s easy to get dehydrated when you’re out exploring in the heat.
- Respect the Environment: Take care of the island’s nature. Watch your step to avoid hurting plants or animals. If you go snorkelling, don’t touch marine life, and always take your trash with you to keep the island clean.
Visiting the Nusa Islands is a great way to see a quieter side of Bali. Whether you’re looking for adventure, a place to relax or just beautiful scenery these islands are perfect. Spending a few days here allows you to escape the busy world and soak in the natural beauty. So, pack your bags and get ready for a journey that will refresh and amaze you.
For an even easier start to your trip, you can book your ride before you leave home. Check out Ayo Pergi Tours. We make it super simple to find a good ride that fits what you need, so you can relax knowing everything is sorted out before you arrive.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Paradise
The Nusa Islands offer a refreshing break from the usual bustle of Bali with their unique landscapes and relaxed atmosphere. By spending a few days exploring these islands you immerse yourself in a world of natural beauty and adventure. Whether it’s lounging on sandy beaches, jumping from towering cliffs or trekking through unspoiled terrains the Nusa Islands provide a diverse range of experiences. So pack light, stay hydrated and respect the beautiful environments you explore. Ready your spirit for an unforgettable journey that promises to rejuvenate and inspire. Set sail for the Nusa Islands and let their magic envelop you.
