14 Things to Do in Nusa Penida for First-Time Visitors
What are the best things to do in Nusa Penida? a captivating island situated off the southeast coast of Bali in Indonesia, is renowned for its rugged terrain, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
This island is truly a gem in Indonesia’s vast array of destinations. The striking landscapes, including iconic spots like Kelingking Beach with its unique T-Rex shaped cliffs and Angel’s Billabong’s natural infinity pool, make it a paradise for both sightseeing and photography.
Additionally, the island boasts stunning, unspoiled beaches such as Crystal Bay and Atuh Beach, perfect for those looking to relax on pristine sands and swim in serene waters. For adventure lovers, Nusa Penida offers amazing opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
Best Things To Do in Nusa Penida Bali
When planning your visit, make sure to dedicate at least five days to fully experience the island’s wonders. Well, here are 27 of the BEST things to do in Nusa Penida:
1. Kelingking ‘T-Rex’ Beach
The iconic Kelingking ‘T-Rex’ Beach, famous on Instagram for its coastal cliffscape that resembles a T-Rex, is an awe-inspiring sight that truly lives up to its reputation. First glimpse of Kelingking Beach is etched in memory; the crystal-clear waters forming waves that seemed to crash in slow motion was a breathtaking sight.
This destination is undoubtedly my favorite thing to do in Nusa Penida, offering a unique landscape that makes you feel humbled by nature’s grandeur.
Exploring Kelingking Beach involves a short but adventurous trek down the spine of the cliff. The steep and narrow path adds an element of excitement to the journey, culminating in the stunning view of the beach below.
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2. Hike To Kelingking Beach
One of the must-see attractions on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida Island in Bali is Kelingking Beach. This hidden gem is renowned for its stunning white sand, surrounded by dramatic cliffs that resemble the shape of a T-rex.
The breathtaking view from the top of the cliffs offers a panoramic glimpse of the turquoise waters below, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. To fully experience the beauty of Kelingking Beach, visitors must undertake a challenging hike down the steep 400-meter descent.
Due to the strenuous nature of the hike and the strong ocean currents, it is essential to be in good physical condition and take necessary precautions. For those planning their itinerary, exploring Kelingking Beach is one of the top things to do in Nusa Penida.
3. Enjoy The View From Diamond Beach
One of the top things to do in Nusa Penida is to visit Diamond Beach, renowned for its striking white sand and stunning turquoise waters. This picturesque beach gets its name from the unique, diamond-shaped rocks that adorn its shoreline, creating a captivating natural landscape.
Reaching Diamond Beach involves a small trek down the cliff, adding a touch of adventure to your visit. The path, though steep, is manageable and offers scenic views along the way. As you descend, the anticipation builds, and upon reaching the beach, you are rewarded with a pristine and serene environment.
4. See Rock formations at broken beach
Broken Beach, known locally as Pasih Uug, is a hidden gem on the southwestern edge of Nusa Penida. This secluded beach is famous for its spectacular coastal rock formation that creates a natural archway, allowing the sea to flow into a tranquil cove.
The rocky wall, positioned a few meters from the shore, separates this serene beach from the main ocean, giving it a unique and picturesque appearance.
As you stand atop the cliffs, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and marvel at the natural artistry that has shaped this extraordinary landscape. When planning your trip to Nusa Penida, be sure to include a visit to Broken Beach on your list of things to do in Nusa Penida.
5. Discover Tembeling Beach & Natural Pool
Located on the western coast of Nusa Penida, Tembeling Beach is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The journey to this secluded bay is an adventure in itself, as travelers must trek through a lush forest, encountering a series of natural pools along the way.
While Tembeling Beach itself is a picturesque sight, swimming in the ocean here is not recommended due to the rocky terrain and strong waves.
However, the real charm of this location lies in the natural pools that dot the path to the beach. For anyone planning a visit, exploring Tembeling Beach and its natural pools is one of the must-do things to do in Nusa Penida.
6. Exploring Angel’s Billabong
One of the things to do in Nusa Penida is Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool located on the island’s rugged coastline. Renowned for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters, this spot is especially mesmerizing during low tide when the underwater formations and patterns become visible.
These natural designs, shaped by years of wave and water movement, create a stunning spectacle that is truly worth capturing with your camera.
To fully appreciate the intricate patterns and formations, it is essential to visit during low tide. This is when the water recedes enough to reveal the enchanting designs below the surface, offering a glimpse into the artistic beauty of nature.
7. Scuba Diving
Situated just 20 kilometers east of Bali, Nusa Penida is home to some of the most stunning scuba diving sites in the world. The clear waters and vibrant marine life make it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced divers.
One of the things to do in Nusa Penida, a renowned diving spot on the island, is Manta Point, where divers have the unique chance to swim alongside the majestic manta rays.
These gentle giants glide gracefully through the water, creating an awe-inspiring experience that draws divers from all around the globe. Besides Manta Point, Nusa Penida boasts other exceptional dive sites such as Crystal Bay and Toyapakeh, each offering a diverse array of marine species and stunning coral formations.
8. Go Snorkeling
One of things to do in Nusa Penida is Snorkeling, offers a mesmerizing underwater adventure due to the island’s strong currents and nutrient-rich, warm waters that support abundant marine life.
One of the most popular snorkeling spots is Manta Bay, renowned for its frequent sightings of majestic manta rays gliding gracefully through the water. For those seeking vibrant coral reefs, Gamat Bay and Toyapakeh Wall Point are perfect choices.
These locations are teeming with colorful coral formations and a diverse array of fish, providing snorkelers with a breathtaking underwater landscape. Another excellent spot is Crystal Beach, where the crystal-clear waters offer exceptional visibility, making it easier to spot the fascinating marine creatures below.
9. Explore Crystal Bay Beach by Speedboat
For unforgettable things to do in Nusa Penida , taking a speedboat to Crystal Bay Beach is a must. This stunning cove, renowned for its serene beauty and breathtaking sunset views, offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Bali.
The beach, with its 200-meter stretch of golden sand, is easily accessible by speedboat. The journey itself is an adventure, with the vast expanse of the ocean and the anticipation of reaching this tropical paradise.
10. Visiting Pura Paluang Temple
Pura Paluang Temple is an extraordinary site that stands out among the many spiritual landmarks of Nusa Penida. This temple is renowned for its distinctive shrines, which are uniquely shaped like automobiles.
Unlike any other temple, Pura Paluang captivates visitors with its intriguing and unconventional design, making it a must-visit destination for things to do in Nusa Penida.
This peculiar aspect has earned it the nickname “Car Temple,” attracting both worshippers and curious travelers alike. The temple holds significant cultural and spiritual value for the local community. People come here to pray, seek blessings, and connect with their spiritual heritage.
11. Swimming At Atuh Beach
Nestled amidst towering cliffs, This hidden gem in Nusa Penida is renowned for its rock formations and breathtaking scenery. The white sandy beach, framed by dramatic cliffs, provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and exploration.
The clear, turquoise waters invite visitors to take a refreshing swim, making it an ideal spot for water activities.
Reaching Atuh Beach involves a bit of an adventure, as the journey includes a challenging drive followed by a short hike down a set of stairs. For those interested in discovering more of the island’s natural beauty, there are plenty of other things to do in Nusa Penida that offer equally enchanting experiences.
12. Explore the Teletubbies Hill
One of the things to do in Nusa Penida is a trip to the Teletubbies Hill, or Bukit Teletubbies. Nestled in the heart of the island, this picturesque location offers panoramic views of Nusa Penida’s lush landscape.
The rolling hills are named for their striking resemblance to the iconic hills from the beloved Teletubbies television show.
Hiking across the Teletubbies Hill provides a variety of stunning perspectives. As you traverse the grassy slopes, you’ll be greeted with expansive views of the surrounding valleys. The area is dotted with vibrant food crops and towering palm trees, adding to the scenic charm.
13. Peguyangan Waterfall
One of the things to do in Nusa Penida is a visit to Peguyangan Waterfall, a destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty with spiritual significance. The journey begins with a challenging descent down the iconic blue stairs, which are not only visually striking but also provide a rigorous workout.
As you make your way down, the panoramic views of the rugged coastal cliffs offer a breathtaking backdrop that embodies the unique charm of Nusa Penida.
After descending the steep stairs, you will reach the sacred site of Peguyangan Waterfall. This location is renowned not just for its natural features but also for its cultural and spiritual importance.
14. Mountain Biking Adventure
Experience the ultimate thrill with mountain biking in Nusa Penida, where the lush landscapes and dramatic vistas create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.
As you navigate through the island’s verdant mountains, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the ocean and sprawling fields, making every pedal a feast for the senses.
These mountain biking tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty, blending physical challenges with breathtaking scenery.
