The perfect Nusa Penida day trip: A complete guide

Ever dreamt of escaping Bali's bustling streets for a day of untamed beauty and jaw-dropping views? Well, you’re in luck, since Nusa Penida is right around the corner, with its towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and turquoise waters.

From relaxing under the sun and snorkelling with tropical fish, to hiking dramatic coastal trails and discovering otherworld rock formations, you will find adventure and wonder at every turn.

So buckle up, pack your sunscreen and hiking boots, we’re about to show you how to make the most of a Nusa Penida day trip you’ll be bragging about for years!

• How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali
• Stop 1: Crystal Bay
• Stop 2: Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
• Stop 3: Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff)
• Bonus stop: Atuh Beach
• Essential travel tips

How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali

The only way to travel from Bali to Nusa Penida is by ferry, with over 20 daily crossings. There are 4 ports in Bali to choose from (Sanur, Kusamba, Serangan, and Padang Bai), so you can be on the northern shores of Nusa Penida in as little as 20 minutes, while longer journeys can take up to 1.5 hours.

As for Nusa Penida, there are 3 ports on the island giving you many options. Banjar Nyuh (also known as Toyah Pakeh) is the most popular port on the island and is convenient for exploring western and central parts of the island. You can also travel to Buyuk and Sampalan, located in the north and northeast of the island respectively, however, there are fewer ferry connections with Bali.

The most convenient port of departure is Sanur, as it is near the tourist areas and resorts in Bali. The earliest high-speed ferry usually leaves around 08:00 and reaches Banjar Nyuh by 08:50. The last return ferry from Banjar Nyuh back to Sanur is typically around 17:00. This means you have up to 8 hours to explore the island, so let's get cracking!

Stop 1: Crystal Bay

After crossing the Badung Strait and reaching Banjar Nyuh, your first stop should be Crystal Bay, about 30 minutes southwest from the port. This is the closest beach to the port, but don’t let that fool you.

As its name suggests, you will find crystal clear waters and white sand set against a lush green landscape of palm trees providing shade. The chill vibes and sun-kissed sands are worth every second, but for a real treat, you’ll need to dust off your snorkeling gear (or rent it there).

As one of the best places for snorkeling in Nusa Penida, you’ll get to discover the wonders beneath the waves. If you’re lucky, you might even get to swim along with parrotfish and manta rays. Bear in mind though that you are visiting their habitat, so keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing them.

The coral reef at Crystal Bay is teeming with life

Stop 2: Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong

After you have had your fun in the sea and soaked in the tropical atmosphere, it’s time to head on to two of the most impressive beaches on the island. After a 40-minute ride, you’ll reach Broken Beach (or Pasih Uug), a natural archway. Here you can marvel at the mesmerizing strength of the waves as they crash against the cliffs.

A couple walking minutes away, you will find Angel’s Billabong, a natural tidal pool. This spot is quite surreal, with otherworldly colors straight out of a fantasy movie. If the tide is low, you can even go for a quick swim, just watch your step since the rocks can get slippery.

Broken Beach is about a 5 minute walk from Angel's Billabong

Stop 3: Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff) 

Kelingking Beach is arguably the most popular spot on Nusa Penida, thanks to a cliff resembling a Tyrannosaurus Rex, mid-roar. Although you can head down to the beach for a swim, the hike is rather steep in certain sections and takes about 45 minutes each way.

If you’re not up for the trek, the view from the top is more than enough to blow your mind. Make sure to grab a few snapshots because this is one Instagram moment you won’t want to miss.

Kelingking Beach or T-Rex Cliff, is one of the most photographed areas in Nusa Penida

Bonus stop: Atuh Beach

If you have extra time or wish to extend your Nusa Penida day trip, we recommend visiting Atuh Beach on the eastern shores of the island. After leaving Kelingking Beach behind and crossing the island, you'll reach Atuh Beach in about an hour. This white sandy cove is surrounded by jagged cliffs and is the ideal place to soak in the beach vibes.

The crystal-clear waters here are perfect for a quick dip or simply for admiring from the shore. Unlike the busier spots on Nusa Penida, Atuh Beach is a bit quieter so it’s great for a more relaxed day on the beach.

As the golden hour approaches, kick back and enjoy the striking views as the tide begins to come in. As a parting treat, the hour-long drive back to the port in Banjar Nyuh will take you along Nusa Penida’s eastern coast.

The rock formations at Atuh Beach are nothing short of spectacular

Essential travel tips

• The best time to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months you can generally expect sunny skies and warm weather.
• Although the ferry ride between Bali and Nusa Penida is relatively short, the sea can get choppy. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking sea sickness tablets before the trip. As always, discuss your options with your pharmacist or doctor.
• The ports in Bali can get busy, so make sure you get there at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before your scheduled departure.
• One of the most convenient ways of getting around Nusa Penida at your own pace is by scooter. Keep in mind though that the roads in some of the more remote areas can be challenging.
• For greater peace of mind and a more relaxed experience, it is also possible to hire a local driver when you rent a car or scooter.

Is it worth going on a day trip to Nusa Penida?

Absolutely! While a longer stay will allow you to explore even more secluded coves and other hard-to-reach areas at a more relaxed pace, a day trip to Nusa Penida is one of the best ways to shift gears by trading in the hustle and bustle of Bali for the raw beauty of Nusa Penida.

Check all the available crossings on our Map of Ferries and book your ferry tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks!