Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa Islands just off from mainland Bali. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan make up the trio of islands, each with uniquely stunning landscapes. There are a lot of awesome things to do on Nusa Penida BUT you are probably looking for 3-day itinerary that packs the best stuff into just a few days.
You can check out the 27 Best Things To Do In Nusa Penida and shape your itinerary around that. We’ve also written a lot about Nusa Penida – how to get there, where to stay, getting around and other important stuff – in this article.
We made a plan for you of what to do each day. We chose locations close to each other but also in a specific order so that you don’t just visit viewpoints all day in the hot sun. You want to break up the day with hikes and views, followed by swims at the beach. So this is a mixture of activities followed by refreshing dips in the water. That’s how we usually try and plan otherwise you run out of energy by midday because Nusa Penida gets HOT!
If you only have 1 day to spare: One of the popular ways to visit lots of highlights in a day is on this Ultimate Nusa Penida Day Trip Tour from Bali or you can rent a car on Nusa Penida with private driver.
We visited all of these spots with a scooter but, warning, drive carefully. Nusa Penida’s roads have large holes, are often narrow and van drivers usually drive like you’re not even there. Some roads are still gravel and they get dangerous. However, if you’re a confident scooter driver, by all means rent the scooter and enjoy the islands the way we did.
It takes quite some driving to get to and from each spot (from Toya Pakeh Harbor to Kelingking Beach it’s a 40-minute drive, but from Harbor to Diamond Beach is over an hour). We’ve added quite a bit to each day below but if it is overwhelming just remove one location. This isn’t a competition to collect bucket list spots, go ahead and remove a few spots to have a more relaxing day.
Get a local SIM card. While getting around we relied heavily on Google Maps for directions. We recommend Airalo eSIM, so you’ll have data transfer as soon as you land.
Note! Your mobile phone has to be eSIM compatible to use this option.
To visualize this Nusa Penida itinerary better, we’ve created a Google Maps link that marks all the routes and landmarks mentioned in this blog.
NUSA PENIDA ITINERARY DAY 1:
- Enjoy Sunrise at Viewpoint over Atuh Beach
- Diamond Beach
- Thousand Island Viewpoint and the famous Nusa Penida Treehouse (for sunset if you want to drive back in dark)
- Tembeling Forest, Pool & Beach (if you want to pack a lot in)
NUSA PENIDA ITINERARY DAY 2:
- Kelingking Cliff Viewpoint
- Kelingking Beach (check tide times – more information later)
- Angel’s Billabong (check tide times)
- Broken Beach
- Crystal Bay for sunset
NUSA PENIDA ITINERARY DAY 3:
- Snorkeling with the Manta Rays morning tour
- Snorkel at Gamat Bay (included in the tour)
- Guyangan Waterfall & Blue Stairs Hike
- Banah Cliffs for sunset
This would be the basic itinerary we suggest for 3 full days on Nusa Penida. Take into account the time you need to travel from and back to Bali – this takes additional half a day each.
Below is a detailed list of what to do and see in Nusa Penida – there are separate blog posts for each section. If you click on the name it takes you to a new page where you’ll find literally all the information about it and extra tips.
Nusa Penida Itinerary – Day 1
Atuh Beach
Atuh Beach is the crown jewel of Nusa Penida Island (along with Diamond and Kelingking Beach). Thanks to the brand-new road it’s easily accessible. It takes only an hour to get to Atuh Beach from Toya Pakeh Harbour. It offers a stunning white sand beach surrounded by the huge cliffs and remarkable rock formations. An arch sits directly out from the shore while several islets string off in the distance.
Come here to enjoy an epic sunrise from an astonishing viewpoint.
General information about Atuh Beach:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10,000 for car
- Rp 35,000 entrance fee per person (same ticket as for Diamond Beach)
- It takes around 15 minutes to get down to the beach.
Read the full blog post with more information: Atuh Beach on Nusa Penida.
Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach has become even more popular than Atuh Beach nowadays, thanks to its iconic staircase carved into the cliff. The crystal-clear turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and stunning rock formations make Atuh and Diamond beaches a photographer’s paradise. Both are undoubtedly among the top sites in Nusa Penida.
The Diamond Beach got its name from the diamond-like rock structures scattered around, but there’s one rock that stands out. Diamond Beach is also one of the spots on the Ultimate Nusa Penida Day Trip Tour from Bali.
General information about Diamond Beach:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10,000 for car
- Rp 35,000 entrance fee per person (same ticket as for Atuh Beach)
- The first part is flat concrete path, well maintained. Second part are rocky stairs, narrow and steep, but stunning to take a photo from.
Read the full blog post with more information: Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida.
Tembeling Forest, Pool & Beach
Tembeling Forest, Pools and Beach are secret gems worth exploring. They’re tucked away at the end of a thrilling scooter journey through the woods. The whole site is adventurous, not crowded, a scene straight from a jungle film.
On the way through the Forest, you’ll go inside a canyon and then move down the winding stairs leading to the Tembeling Natural Pools.
Following the trail further you reach Tembeling Beach. Although it’s not the best beach on Nusa Penida, it’s worth a visit. The beach is flanked by towering cliffs and has a small stretch of sand. While the sea here can be a bit rough, the natural pools offer a safer option for swimming. Be sure to keep an eye on the currents and stay safe.
General information about Tembeling:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10,000 for car
- Rp 10,000 entrance fee per person
- You don’t need to drive down the sketchy, rocky 2-kilometre-long path yourself. You can hitch a ride on-site. More about this in the full blog post.
- You can also walk the 2-kilometer distance, it takes 45 minutes.
View full blog post: Tembeling Forest, Natural Pools & Beach on Nusa Penida.
Rumah Pohon Treehouse & Thousand Islands Viewpoint
Rumah Pohon Treehouse is one of the most iconic locations on Nusa Penida Island. After being discovered it quickly became Insta-famous.
The Treehouse was actually a simple rustic accommodation on Airbnb, but it became famous as a photo spot. You used to be able to book the Treehouse and stay there. Nowadays visitors are allowed and the sole photography business brings more money to the locals running it than Airbnb-ing ever did.
Just a little stroll further is the Thousand Islands Viewpoint that leaves you awestruck. The view is incredible, you can even see a small empty beach sitting at the bottom of the cliff. It’s paradise.
General information about Treehouse & Viewpoint:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10,000 for car.
- Rp 25,000 entrance fee (same ticket for Treehouse and Thousand Islands Viewpoint).
- Rp 75,000 per 2 minutes to take pictures on Treehouse’s Stairs.
Read the full blog post with more information: Rumah Pohon Treehouse & Thousand Islands Viewpoint.
Nusa Penida Itinerary – Day 2
Kelingking Beach
The reason we designed this itinerary the way we did is because we visited Kelingking Beach in the morning and it was the best experience of our entire Nusa Penida trip. We were alone on the famous viewpoint stairs; we were almost alone hiking downstairs to the beach and there were perhaps 4 other people on the beach. So we’d definitely recommend to visit Kelingking Beach early.
General information about Kelingking Beach:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10 000 for car
- No entrance fee
- The first part are stairs, well maintained. Second part is a rocky path, narrow and steep.
The secluded azure beach at the bottom – you can descend to it if you ignore the warning sign at the start of the path. Most visitors stay on the viewpoint part, some descend the stairs and stop at the halfway point – where the stairs turn into rocky path, and only few make it all the way down to the beach.
The descend takes around 30 minutes (less if you’re sure-footed and there aren’t many other people stopping you, more if you prefer to be more careful), and the same amount of time is needed to get back up. Most people find the descend hard, yet alone the ascend after. However, if you’re in a fairly good condition and have hiked before, you’ll definitely make it!
Read the full blog post: Kelingking Beach.
NOTE: We mentioned there is currently no entrance fee (August 2024). At the time of our latest visit the construction was undergoing – check this Instagram reel and see what they’re building =(
So the best time to visit Nusa Penida’s famous T-Rex Kelingking Beach is NOW!
Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is one of the magical spots you can’t help but marvel at. A crystal-clear tide pool cascades into the ocean on the east coast of Nusa Penida. Out in that ocean, Manta Rays cruise the coast at leisure. Angel’s Billabong is also one of the spots on the Ultimate Nusa Penida Day Trip Tour from Bali.
The Billabong is a remarkable formation. The crystal-clear water allows you to see the patterns and textures beneath the surface. In some areas, the water is deep enough for a little dip! It is a highly photographed spot on Nusa Penida because of how unique the landscape is.
General information about Angel’s Billabong:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10,000 for car – parking is shared with Broken Beach and Manta Ray Viewpoint
- No entrance fee
The Angel’s Billabong, Manta Ray Viewpoint and Broken Beach are within 5-minute walking distance from each other.
Read the full blog post: Angel’s Billabong on Nusa Penida.
Broken Beach
Broken Beach is a beautiful little cove on Nusa Penida Island. The highlight and the reason it’s called “Broken Beach” is the archway that wraps above the bay, allowing water to flow in and out from the ocean. It’s a very easy spot to visit and right next to another famous attraction, Angel’s Billabong.
To this day there is no way down into the cove, but certain boat tours cruise into the cove when the tide and swell are appropriate.
General information about Broken Beach:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10 000 for car – parking is shared with Angel’s Billabong and Manta Ray Viewpoint
- No entrance fee
Read the full blog post: Broken Beach on Nusa Penida.
Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay and its beach are probably the most popular beach on Nusa Penida. There are many reasons for that:
- It faces directly west, so it’s the best beach to enjoy sunset from.
- It’s the jump-off spot for snorkel tours. The ocean wildlife here is incredible (go for a casual swim and you might run into a turtle, no kidding).
- You can actually snorkel and swim in relaxing conditions, unlike on other Nusa Penida’s beaches.
- It’s only 30-minute drive from the main port, Toya Pakeh.
General information about Crystal Bay:
- Rp 5,000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10,000 for car
- No entrance fee
- Snorkeling equipment rental is Rp 50,000 per person (US$3,5)
- Fantastic sunsets
- Many little restaurants with refreshing drinks and delicious food
Read the full blog post: Crystal Bay on Nusa Penida.
Nusa Penida Itinerary – Day 3
Snorkeling with Manta Rays – morning tour
Snorkeling with Manta Rays is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best wildlife encounters we’ve had in our lives. The Manta Rays are majestic and friendly animals with a wingspan of 5m. The gentle giants cruise around you while you snorkel amongst them.
There are many tour operators around Nusa Penida who offer this trip and you can haggle for the price as well (we got the trip for Rp 220,000/US$13,5 per person, but weren’t entirely satisfied with the whole trip). The only downside of this is you’re not sure what you’ll get.
If you wish to avoid dissatisfaction and join the trip hassle-free, we’d recommend booking:
* Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour if you are already on Nusa Penida (it’s also cheaper) or the
* Nusa Penida Manta Ray Snorkel Tour if you’re based in Bali (this tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Bali and all transport and tickets).
Read the full blog post: Snorkeling with Manta Rays on Nusa Penida.
Snorkel at Gamat Bay (included in the tour)
Jumping off the boat you’ll realise the water is much colder at Gamat Bay than in other snorkeling points. There are numerous fresh-water springs on the sea bottom here where the icy-cold water comes from and mixes with the (otherwise) warm sea water. Because the water is fresh the clarity is much better as well.
The coral structures and rock formations beneath the surface are astonishing. The depth ranges from a few meters (closer to shore) all the way down to a perfect free-diving depth of 5-20 meters.
Guyangan Waterfall & Blue Stairs Hike
Guyangan Waterfall is a mix of everything. It’s famous for the characteristic blue stairs leading to it – and those stairs are a real workout. The coastal cliff views are spectacular and a trademark of the island. Add some tradition and culture of the sacred temple, which is a pilgrimage site, and you have this epic blend in one spot.
General information about Peguyangan Waterfall & Blue Stairs:
- Rp 5000 parking fee for scooter, Rp 10 000 for car
- No entrance fee
- Bring your own sarong or borrow it onsite for Rp 15 000 (the site is actually a temple)
- The hike down the stairs takes about 20 minutes and leads to the pilgrimage site
- The sacred temple is based on the water blessing
- You might see the name of the waterfall “Peguyangan” – it’s the same waterfall
Read the full blog post: Guyangan Waterfall & Blue Stairs Hike.
Banah Cliffs – for sunset
The view down the coast and cliffs at Banah is striking, so this is another epic viewpoint on Nusa Penida. The drop is insane and the magnificence it creates…
Banah Cliff Point in Nusa Penida is a hidden gem that showcases the unspoiled beauty of nature. It’s nestled along the rugged south-western coastline of the island.
The cliff offers awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Banah Cliff Viewpoint should be at the top of your list.
The highlight at Banah Cliffs is the arch out in the ocean. A small rock arch sits out in the turquoise crystal-clear water.
The cliffs are known as a great sunset spot (just like Kelingking), which is just down the road! There are two defined ‘spots’ at Banah Cliffs, one is a short walk away and one is just next to the parking lot.
We talk about it in our post: 27 Epic Things To Do In Nusa Penida.
This is our 3-day itinerary on Nusa Penida Island.
Adjust it to your own liking and enjoy the beautiful island to the fullest.
If you don’t have as much time, we’d suggest to join some of the tours – they cover large parts of the island in a single day.
Nusa Penida Highlights Tour (from Bali): This tour is the most highly reviewed Nusa Penida tour there is. You’ll visit all the best spots, like Angel’s Billabong, Kelingking (T-Rex) Beach, Broken Beach, Rumah Pohon Treehouse & Thousand Island Viewpoint. Also included is snorkeling at Crystal Bay! It’s a total win and we highly recommend it.
MORE NUSA ISLANDS BLOG POSTS
There are loads of adventurous things to do on Nusa Penida, but we also wrote detailed guides for all of the epic things you can do on Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. You can explore more of our guides by clicking one of the links below.
