Guide to the Nusa Islands (Bali) – Best things to do, where to stay and eat in Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida!

Versi Bahasa Indonesia: https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/bali/lembongan-ceningan-penida-panduan-wisata/

Written by Beverley Lennon
Co-written by Jiayi Ng and Kristyna Schonova

Of course, there is no denying that Bali is a wonderful island with numerous natural wonders, a tried-and-true beach destination in Indonesia that’s beloved by honeymooners, backpackers, and families alike but that means there’s a crowd too!

Whether you’ve been to Bali a million times or want to break from the chaos of the island, why not explore its beyonds? With equally impressive natural wonders, beautiful lagoons and powdery beaches, the triplet Nusa Islands located a short 40-minute boat ride from Bali let you beat the crowd in peace and serenity (with a little party too!).

With much less of Bali’s overly-touristy scene, Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida remain partially untouched, giving the trio a very nature-friendly, authentic laid-back ambience.

Ready for your much-needed refuge from the hustle and bustle of mainstream Bali?

Read More:

Adventures in Bali: 15 cool things to do in Nusa Lembongan, Penida and Ceningan

6 Untouched islands around Bali that will take your breath away

Getting There

Step 1: Take a flight to Bali

Step 2: Take a boat to the Nusa Islands

Things to do

Nusa Lembongan

1. A beach-clubber must-do: Ohana’s Beach Lounge

Once you drop by Ohana Beach Lounge, you’ve officially left your worries behind for a laidback and carefree life. The best seats are smack-bang on the beach and are perfect for listening to crashing waves, taking in stunning sunsets, and sipping on sherbet-coloured cocktails.

The venue overlooks the crystal clear lagoons but you can also opt for a dip in their swimming pool. We could seriously get used to kicking back in a bean bag on the edge of the sea while groovy music drifts out from the beach lounge. Sign me up!

Note: Bookings are strongly recommended for day beds or dining.

2. Come for the day, stay for the night: Lembongan Beach Club & Resort

Right on the scenic Jungut Batu Beach, you’ll find Lembongan Beach Club & Resort. It is perfectly sitting on the beach (the view is splendid) and visitors love to stop for a cocktail after a long day of beach activities.

The beach club gets high marks for its infinity pool, stunning sunset views and not to forget their collection of signature cocktails, Sun beds are right on the beach, where guests sunbathe the day away before hopping on one of their stand up paddle. If you’re not ready to leave, rejoice as the beach club is set within a resort!

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3. Swoon away with an ocean view massage: Glo Day Spa at Sandy Bay

Someone please tell us what could be a better combination than a rustic-chic spa overlooking the golden sandy beach of an unexploited island – a haven of relaxation, surrounded by ocean views? Simply put, nothing could be better than such a pampering session while on Nusa Lembongan.

So choose your favourite treatment (we recommend their Balinese Massage), grab your darling and get ready for a few soothing hours of sea air and indulgent moment.

With the ocean as its muse, Glo at Sandy Bay was created to reflect the refreshing and rejuvenating qualities of nature’s precious liquid energy. This inspiration is manifested in shades of blue and white and in the menu of soothing, uplifting and restorative therapies.

4. VIP pampering session in your hotel room: Kemilau Spa and Wellness

Kemilau Spa and Wellness turns your hotel room into your own personal spa as they bring over pampering treatments right to your bed. But if you’re keen on a real spa experience, a simple call will get them to come over and pick you up from your stay to head to their bungalow-style spa (yes, the pickup is free).

The spa offers affordable treatments for you to relax and revive from head to toe with the perfect mix of packages: massages, body treatments, facial and hair packages are available. If we were you, we’d opt for their 3-hour indulging treatment – you’re bound to leave feeling blissful and content.

5. Slide down a waterslide on water: Bounty Day Cruise

Ever tried zooming down a giant water slide while you’re on a boat?

Slide your way to more good memories at the Bounty Day Cruise, which features a mega 44-metre slide and other thrilling activities such as banana boat rides, canoeing, snorkeling and more!

6. Get a heavenly view: Devil’s Tears

Often pegged as the one place you definitely must visit in Nusa Lembongan, the Devil’s Tears is a gorgeous lookout position atop a cliff.

Grab an advantageous spot at sunset to catch a great view, or simply enjoy the cooling wind as you watch the ferocious waves crash against the cliff side. Watch your step, and stay clear of the edge!

7. Soak, dip, relax: Dream Beach infinity pool

Okay, so salt water and sand might not exactly be everybody’s thing, but who wouldn’t love to kill the heat via a long dip in an infinity pool overlooking a gorgeous coastline?

You can do that at Dream Beach Huts, a beachfront resort located at Dream Beach. The best thing? You don’t even have to be a guest at the hotel – all you need is IDR$50,000 (approximately $3.40), and you’re all set.

Nusa Ceningan

8. Your personal piece of paradise: Secret Beach

It’s almost everyone’s dream to discover a beach that no one knows about. A place where worrying is forbidden and all troubles are washed away with the turquoise waves. At Secret Point Beach, you’ll fall in love with the white sand and crystal clear water. Explore the little cave, collect seashells on the sand, drink from a cold coconut and soak up some Bali sun.

9.  Glide Across the Sea Between Cliffs: Abyss Zipline at Ceningan Island Resort

So you want to get a taste of the best thrills on the island? You can experience ‘gliding’, ‘sea’, ‘zipline’, and ‘cliffs’ all through one activity – The Abyss Zipline. Nusa Ceningan and its sister, Nusa Lembongan, are famous for their cliffs and crashing waves. Imagine enjoying that spectacular scenery while gliding along a zipline. How cool is that!

The staff will be on hand to ensure safety, and you will be attached to the line by two cables. But there’s always a little possibility of danger, of course. That’s why it’s a thrill ride! This place definitely takes zipline to a new level. Interested to try out this extreme flying fox?

10. Ride an underwater scooter: Bali Underwater Scooter

Have you ever seen or heard of an underwater scooter?! Before we stumbled on this, we definitely hadn’t heard of this ourselves. It looks super fun and looks almost like your personal one-man submarine.

Imagine you and your friends all on your underwater scooters floating over the seabeds… Now wouldn’t that make an interesting photo? The underwater scooter is perfect for those who want a good scuba diving experience that’s not as demanding (read: no certification, experience, or troublesome gear attached required) as when you actually scuba dive.

All you need to do is sit, and you’ll be able to breathe comfortably in your personal ‘head bubble’ that thankfully provides very clear visibility and distortion-free views! The underwater scooter travels at up to 2km/hour, and it can go down to 20 metre deep so you’re able to access the shallow reefs!

11. Challenge yourself: Mahana Point Cliff Jump

Daredevils, here’s your calling. Fancy jumping from a high cliff top into clear blue waters below, as the world around you spins and shifts?

Mahana Point, a little bar located on a cliff top in Nusa Ceningan, gives its customers a chance to do exactly that.

If the sight of other brave jumpers have already got your blood racing, kudos to you! And if you’re not sure whether this is a good idea yet, you could always have a drink or two at the bar to boost your courage.

You can do it (or you could just sit back and watch the surfers ride the waves)!

12. The Blue Lagoon at Nusa Ceningan

The crystal blue waters of Nusa Ceningan’s Blue Lagoon are the picture perfect ideal of an island paradise.

Most people come to simply admire the million dollar view, but a few adventure seekers and daredevil locals have claimed an overhanging ledge as a legendary cliff-jumping spot. (Cliff jumping is now prohibited due to safety reasons)

Unfortunately, do note that a few unsuspecting travelers have been washed off the ledge in rough weather, and local authorities actively discourage jumping.

13. Get in touch with local culture: Seaweed Farming

Seaweed farming is a major activity on the island, where so many of its locals depend on this business for survival.

And as for us tourists, we get to take in the unique sight of farmers harvesting seaweed from the coast!

It definitely is a sight you won’t get anywhere else – you haven’t been to the Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida islands if you haven’t seen seaweed farming.

14. Be a hipster: Bridge from Nusa Ceningan to Nusa Lembongan – Yellow Bridge (The Bridge of love)

Whenever we go on holiday, we’re always looking for that perfect spot to snap our next Facebook profile picture (don’t pretend you don’t).

For Nusa Ceningan, one of the most popular photo spots would probably be the incredibly scenic bridge connecting it to Lembongan.

The bright yellow bridge creates a striking contrast against the deep blue of the water, creating a great vibrant background for pictures. Go ahead and snap away!

15. Dive, pray, love: Temple Point

It’s time to discover the beauties of the underwater world! And you don’t even need to be a scuba diver. Goggles with simple snorkelling equipment would be enough.

Book a snorkelling boat trip from Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida and meet the underwater Buddha, sitting there in peace and surrounded by statues. Regardless of how real it may appear to be, the underwater temple is just an installation. The statues were put here as an art exhibition, an attraction for tourists and for the conservation of coral reefs. But you must admit – this is still an exciting attraction to visit!

Nusa Penida

16. Visit the iconic T-Rex cliff beach: Kelingking Beach

If you are on the lookout for spectacular views, Kelingking Beach is an absolute must while in Nusa Penida. Blame it on its Tyrannosaurus Rex looks! In fact, it is an iconic natural sight that can’t be missed! You haven’t been to Nusa Penida if you did not snap a picture of you overlooking this dinosaur-like cliff!

Standing atop the sea cliff here will feel a bit like positioning yourself on the top of the world. The vast expanse of turquoise water that stretches out before you makes everything else seem small and distant. Steep footpaths lead to the beach and we would only recommend it to those who are fit and adventurous as it is a little risky.

Note: Though the waters are swimmable, please note that the undercurrents can be strong and that there are no lifeguards in the surroundings.

17. A natural Infinity pool with unrivaled ocean views: Peguyangan Waterfall

Peguyangan Waterfall on Nusa Penida isn’t a towering vertical torrent of water like the jungle falls in central Bali. Instead, it’s a series of short, cascading spring fountains that eventually make their way over a steep ravine and into the sea.

Away from the ravine, the cascades make a great place for all to enjoy a ‘natural spa’ and a massage from the fast-flowing waters as they burble over the shallow ledges and pools. Reaching the springs involves a descent down narrow stairs against the wall of the ravine. After some 460 steps, the gorgeous sight of the cascades is both exhilarating and relieving.

Note: Bring your own sarong!

18. The latest treehouse (not meant for those with a fear of heights!): Rumah Pohon Batu Molenteng

Located right smack on Nusa Penida and looking out at Atuh Beach – this beautiful treehouse is the latest unique addition to the island, providing stunning sights of the dramatic Balinese landscape.

Once you’re up in the treehouse and looking out, you’ll be able to see glorious, glorious sights. From the pretty Atuh Beach and small surrounding islands that resemble like Raja Ampat in Papua, to the many cliffs, ravines and hills that paint Bali’s landscape – it’s a sight not to miss.

19. Flowing from the cliff into the sea: Seganing waterfall

While many waterfalls hide in the jungles, Seganing flows down from the cliff right into the sea. The water has found its way between the rocks and created a beautiful natural scenery. The waterfall is not easily accessible, you will have to climb a long flight of stairs and the path is slippery and might be a little dangerous.

But as it’s said, difficult paths often lead to the most beautiful destinations, so if you manage to make your way to the waterfall, you will be rewarded with one of the best views in Nusa Penida.

20. Nusa Penida’s sacred spot: Tembeling Beach and Forest

For the Balinese, Tembeling is a sacred place, used for rituals during the Keagamaan ceremony. In the forest, there are two hidden natural pools with water so clear that you can’t resist jumping into them.

Legend has it that they were discovered by a pregnant woman who was chasing a cow. Later, locals used it as a source of drinking water. Nowadays, it has become a place sought by travellers craving for a swim in this unique secret spot. But keep in mind that the big pool is for men and the small one for women only. Continue walking to the very end and you will come to a beautiful rocky beach. You may very likely find yourself completely alone there.

21. Be mainstream: Diving/snorkelling

Most people who visit Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida are there for one major reason: the unique and diverse underwater wildlife that is waiting for them.

Naturally, diving and snorkelling is an extremely popular activity; especially at the Manta Point and Crystal Bay.

Divers at Manta Point will get the unique opportunity to swim with giant manta rays, and at Crystal Bay, you might even lay your eyes on the monstrous size sunfish (Mola Mola) if you’re lucky!

Just note that the currents here tend to be strong, and you’ll have to be a certified experienced diver to dive here.

22. Explore Penida’s natural wonders: Angel’s Billabong, Pasih Uwug, Bukit Teletubbies, Atuh Beach

Nusa Penida might just be a small island compared to other places in the world, but it sure has its share of wondrous natural wonders.

Float atop a natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong, visit the broken sea Pasih Uwug

Or heal your eyes with vibrant greenery at Bukit Teletubbies and look across magnificent views at Atuh Beach. – take your pick.

23. A once-in-a-lifetime view: Banah Cliffs

If you’re a fan of heights and don’t mind a bit of a workout, hiking up the Banah Cliff in Nusa Penida could prove to be a very rewarding experience.

Once you’ve reached the top of the imposing structure, you’ll be faced with a panoramic view of the unbelievably blue sea – and if you’re brave enough to look down, the waves crashing against rock formations is a beautiful sight that you’ll never forget.

24. Fuzzy rolling green hills: Bukit Teletubbies

On most hidden islands, you may think that you can only find nature’s wonders along the shores. But did you know that the inland lush green landscape can be so photogenic too?

A cluster of unusually shaped conical hills has been curiously bestowed (we’re not sure by who exactly) with the name Bukit Teletubbies. The name is a reference to the rounded green hills that were home to the fuzzy aliens from the children’s television program with the same name.

The best time to visit Bukit Teletubbies is during or just after the rainy season when the hills are a vivid green and most resemble the cutesy world of our gobbledegook-speaking space critters.

Where to stay

Nusa Lembongan

1. Stay with ocean and volcano views: The Tamarind Resort

If you really want to savour your island experience longer, stay in a hotel that offers spectacular views. The Tamarind Resort is a scenic property in Nusa Lembongan where you get to enjoy exclusive luxury treatment in all privacy; the ideal place to find respite after a whole day exploring the Nusa island as you come back to magnificent views of the ocean with Mount Agung resting in the background.

The resort is conveniently located within walking distance to restaurants and not too far from Jungut Batu (this is where the boat will drop you off in Nusa Lembongan). Rooms are beautifully designed and spacious, and service is top-notch. You will also benefit from special thoughts such as weather forecast, cake slices and activity suggestions delivered to your room every night.

2. Experience a beachfront Balinese-style bungalow: Hai Tide Beach Resort

Luxurious location for an affordable price, this is what you get when you opt for Hai Tide Beach Resort. This little gem is located smack-bang on the beach of Mushroom Bay, right close to calm turquoise waters and powdery sand.

Check into their beachfront lumbung villa and enjoy quality time by the ocean as you wake up to soothing sea breeze and splendid views. The resort is a destination in itself; as a guest here, you have access to Bali Hai Beach Club’s facilities next door and their Bali Hai Cruises’ Pontoon in Lembongan Bay where an array of watersport activities are on offer.

Their Hai Bar & Grill is also a stealer as it overlooks the ocean while you indulge in their delectable dishes. The resort has successfully obtained the title of a PADI 5 star Dive Resort so you can expect big on their qualified staff and scuba diving team.

3. Enjoy an expansive beach-sand pool: Mahagiri Resort Nusa Lembongan

Bookings to this paradise start as low as USD $80 – if not less, and trust us when we say that this is a complete deal! Experience the fabulous resort life at Mahagiri Resort while being set on a beautiful stretch of untouched beach. Guests are entitled to unobstructed views of the ocean of course but besides that, you get out-of-this-world caldera views too while being surrounded by a palm-fringed property.

This almost-oasis takes an even greater turn when you book one of their beachfront rooms, set mere steps away from the grand horizon. Needless to say, opening your curtains in the morning guarantees a moment of pure delight! Spend the day soaking up the sun from the main swimming pool which is set right on the beach, with sand all around. After all, the resort is set on the largest white sand beach on the island so they surely ain’t messing!

4. This hotel isn’t kidding about pool views: The Acala Shri Sedana

Relax for a few days on a scenic hillside location at Nusa Lembongan. The Acala Shri Sedana is a hideaway from the beach, and its perfect setting offers expansive views of the ocean from an elevated part of the island. You can now be a high roller on a budget as the hotel prices itself as from USD $82.

And as if that wasn’t amazing enough, their main swimming pool is set on another level (literally). It is an almost-too-good-to-be-true spot with amazing views that extend beyond lush greenery and soothing coasts.

Don’t miss on grabbing a meal at the on-site Jala Restaurant that spans views of the nearby Nusa Ceningan. The scenic eatery is set right next to the swimming pool and is open for all-day dining with Asian and Western dishes on the menu. You’ll barely have to step out of your stay!

5. Sunset beauty: Poh Manis

Why go somewhere else to hunt for the picture-perfect sunset when you can view it from the comfort of the hotel pool?

Poh Manis, with a gorgeous pool located at a cliff edge, gives you the edge you need (hur hur) to catch the sun setting between the hills – casting the area around the villa in a warm golden glow.

It’s the place to capture your hipster pool shot.

6. All natural: Twin Island Villas

Go for a vacation that will make you feel like you’re on the top of the world – literally – at the Twin Island Villas!

This private pool villa, with its full glass walls and elevated position, provides 180-degree views of the surrounding greenery. Here, you and your significant other are guaranteed a cozy, private and romantic time to yourselves.

Nusa Ceningan

7. Your affordable sea view villa dream come true!: Svaha Private Villas

Svaha Private Villas has got all ingredients right when it comes to perfect ocean views. All rooms here have their own private pool but if you’re looking to splurge (in terms of treatment, not cost), give their Villa with Sea View a try (it’s priced affordably too!).

The property screams privacy and intimacy in every corner so we would highly recommend this stay for couples in search of a quiet abode away from noisy resorts filled with kids. The stay is located 5 minutes from the famed Yellow Bridge and is set right next to Le Pirate Beach Club so you know you can step out for some action whenever you want!

8. Where sea meets pool to infinity and beyond: Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas

You’ll have to fight for this one, as they only have four of these little villas, all with pool and sea views extending to the famed Devil’s Tear of Nusa Lembongan. The stay is a family-owned business so expect very hospitable treatment from Wayan and Ketut who make equally great breakfast for every guest. They even go the extra mile to cater to your special meal requirements like gluten-free options (but please request in advance).

Many guests have rated this place  as a “perfect stay” that they wouldn’t hesitate to return to again and again, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find delight in the infinity pool that seems to blend into the natural landscape while the ocean rests in the background. Rooms are clean and spacious, and sure take advantage of the setting.

Also, did we hear sunset views from the bed?!

9. Opt for a cute wooden bungalow in the hills: The Dafish Accommodation, Bar & Cafe

Ironically, the Dafish Accommodation, Bar & Cafe doesn’t exist under the sea. In fact, the establishment sits among the trees – a beautiful treehouse with views that go on for miles. Calm and harmony are some words that perfectly describe this wooden accommodation in its fullness. The place strikes the perfect balance with an architectural style that is modern, yet traditional.

Services at the villas are considered basic and not luxurious; after all, you’re not here for 5-star treatment but the location makes up for it – this little piece of paradise makes a supremely relaxing getaway.

The bar and cafe, which is part of a compound consisting of three bungalows and a pool, serves a wide variety of western cuisine that has been highly raved about by guests. But the best part of the restaurant has to be its amazing vantage point. Watching the sun set over your head and the rest of the world? That’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

10. Budget fun: Le Pirate Beach Club

If your main goal is to have fun in the sun all day, ride the waves and slouch on the beach, Le Pirate Beach Club will be the best – and most convenient – choice for you.

Particularly suitable for large groups of friends, the beach club also has a gorgeous infinity pool right beside the sea, where you can catch some of the best views in the area.

11. Like no other: The Palms Ceningan

At The Palms Ceningan, you’ll get to enjoy your holiday in a villa unlike any other – the rooms here are completely made out of coconut wood, and furnished with recycled boat wood furniture.

Even better, you can lounge on the spacious deck before your room, and enjoy a panoramic view of the ocean. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two!

Nusa Penida

12. A stay fit for your Instagram feed: La Roja Bungalows

You’re lucky if you manage to book one of the seven pool view rooms at La Roja Bungalows! The stay is creative and convivial – in fact, the property itself is a photogenic space that is begging to be on your social media feed.

The cute little bungalows are uniquely shaped and spacious, making it perfect for a holiday with your best friends but bear in mind that Wi-Fi and hot water can be almost non-existent at times. That being said, you get to enjoy a cosy pool right by your bungalow, with multiple sun-loungers and funky vibes to jazz up your feed!

13. A quirky all-bamboo villa: Penida Bambu Green Villas

Tucked away in the hills of Nusa Penida, you will find this unique stay entirely made out of bamboo, blending into nature perfectly. The remarkable settlement offers picturesque views of the ocean, along with Mount Agung resting from afar. In here, it is almost as though you’re in the lush forest of Ubud all while being on an island, not far from the powdery beaches!

The property’s philosophy of sustainability doesn’t mean that it lacks modern comforts. On-site, you also get to enjoy spa facilities, indulge in a relaxing Balinese massage and a beautiful infinity pool. Comfortable bedding and airy interiors are the standard in all villas.

14. Tradition with a twist: Agung View Villa

This charming establishment overlooks the ocean, and also provides a modern twist to the traditional lumbung-style villa.

The spacious and open concept gives you a great view of the ocean from different parts of the villa; no matter where you are, Penida’s beauty will surround you. Just beware of the flying bugs!

15. Countryside retreat: Namaste Bungalows

Located in a spacious compound surrounded by nothing but nature, the Namaste Bungalows is truly where you get to kick back and relax.

The traditional villas are not overtly luxurious, but provide you with a comfortable setting to rest your body after a long day out exploring the islands. Air-conditioning, modern toilets, and a comfy daybed are just a few out of the many facilities that the villa has for you to enjoy your stay.

Where to eat

Nusa Lembongan

1. For good food by the sea with volcano views: EXIT Lembongan

Update: EXIT Lembongan is closed for renovation until 1st April 2019.

This cosy beach shack in Nusa Lembongan has changed the way people chill at lunchtime. You’ll be hypnotised by its quirky decor featuring the Instagrammable bean bags and Balinese umbrellas but the place is much more than just its good looks. T

he location will make you forget the world outside and you wouldn’t want to leave anytime soon as you relish beautiful views of Mt. Agung resting in front of your eyes while you bite into burgers and ribs.

Once seated, we are sure that you’d never want to get up because, why limit happy hour to an hour?

2. Check out an all-natural bamboo beachfront restaurant: Hai Ri Zen

Nusa Lembongan’s beachside dining scene just climbed a notch higher with Hai Ri Zen – smart of them for building an all-natural bamboo restaurant with sweeping sea views! If in the past it’s been a tradeoff between ocean views or good food, Hai Ri Zen aims at offering a fabulous quality dining option right by the island’s equally fabulous coastline.

Overlooking the beautiful Mushroom Bay, settling down for a meal at Hai Ri Zen is a complete feast for both eyes and stomach. Their award-winning chef creates a mouthwatering fusion of classic Western and Asian cuisine with something new every week, making Hai Ri Zen a strong contender in the beachside dining game.

And blame it on its million-dollar view as the venue is popular for special occasions and has several packages for events, including beachfront weddings!

Note: They also provide free pick-up and drop-off services.

3. The experts in Whisky and Gin: The Howff

This “secret meeting place” is where the old school British West meets in the South East. In fact, The Howff has all the looks of a speakeasy bar deep down the alleys of UK but they’re not messing when it comes to spectacular views.

Set right below famed “The Deck Cafe & Bar” and overlooking the ocean, this is the ideal hideout where you can whet your tastebuds with a plethora of single malts, as well as a unique Gin menu of underground speakeasy finds. Cheers!

4. Chill by the sea: Hai Bar and Grill

The Hai Bar and Grill at Mushroom Bay is perfect for a chill meal by the seaside.

What could be better than feeling the breeze against your face as you dig into some perfectly marinated prawns and savoury crème brûlée – under the shade of the gorgeous bamboo structure?

You can even choose to lay back in a beanbag on the beach with a cool drink. A great way to spend the day when all you want to do is relax.

5. It’s a starry romance: Sandy Bay Beach Club

Sandy Bay Beach Club, the place where many tourists think has the best seafood on the island, doesn’t just provide good food.

At night, little lanterns are lit above tables, and you get to eat surrounded by both starlight and never ending views of the ocean and cliffs before you.

The views are everything; in fact, we would say it makes the food taste even better, but popular dishes such as the burgers, ribs and delectable cocktails would probably taste really good too at any other place.

6. Candle-lit date night: The Deck Cafe & Bar

Romantic dinners by the ocean can hardly get better than this – The Deck Cafe & Bar looks just like something out of a fairytale at sunset.

The lights are lit, and the setting sun casts a magical purple glow on the surface of the ocean. Sound good?

You’ll witness all these from the comfort of your sofa seat that faces the sea, as you sip at an amazing snickers milkshake, and tear away at the pizzas. Don’t you wish you could be there right now?

7. Go green: Bali Eco Deli

Health junkies will fall in love with the Bali Eco Deli, where everything is good for the environment and your health.

Some of the health-friendly choices include yummy fruit salads with yoghurt and muesli, smoothies, and even pastries–all made from organic ingredients.

Nusa Ceningan

8. For everything Instagrammable (Ocean swing, smoothie bowls and more!): The Sand Ceningan

The Sand really is everything beachside chilling in Nusa Ceningan should be and hits the mark where others have struggled (or failed) before.  Grab one of their famous Dragon Collada, a Club Sandwich and soak up the quintessential lagoon views.

The beautiful settings, epic ocean swing, delicious smoothie bowls and stunning view mean it’s always packed to the brim (at any time of the day).

9. This restaurant is a viewpoint in itself!: Park Cave Ceningan

Hidden gem alert!!

A simple yet delicious menu is one thing, but when it is combined with wild views of the island’s rugged coastline, well, it does not get any much better than that! Here, you don’t get to enjoy your meal with toes in the sand but that means you’re in for even greater views as you are set on an elevated area of Nusa Ceningan.

Don’t miss visiting the nearby caves and snapping some cool shots on the boat-shaped viewpoint! At this secret restaurant, you’re bound to disconnect from the rest of the world.

Nusa Penida

10. A plastic-free cafe with delicious meals: Organica Fresh and Tasty Food

If you’re looking for an amazing place on the island that respects our health, our food and our planet, dishing up nothing less than deliciously nourishing meals, you must head to Organica Fresh and Tasty Food.

With a name that speaks for itself, this little cafe is here to satisfy your every smoothie bowl craving, along with delicious pasta and a not-to-miss drink – their delicious iced coconut coffee and dragon fruit juice (for a splash of colour!).

11. Get your avocado toast fix by the beach: Maruti Beach Club

As of 2018, Nusa Penida has stepped into the beach club game with the grand Maruti Beach Club. More than just a place to chill, the venue is equally great for a meal by the ocean!

Since it’s located close to the boat pick-up point, the beach club markets itself as an ultimate chill spot while you wait for your transfer back to the main island of Bali. You get to enjoy an expansive pool and find respite under one of their poolside bales.

You won’t regret dropping by for some delicious meals, followed by a quick snooze away from the sun. What’s more, they have the best seats where you can catch Mother Nature’s award-winning show as the sun drops below the horizon.

Best time to travel

• Just like the main island of Bali, the three Nusa islands have a reliable, warm and tropical climate all year round.

• In general, the Nusa Islands are noticeably drier and have less rain than in mountainous main island of Bali.

• The dry season is generally from May to September, and the wet season from October to April.

• January and February see some of the heaviest rainfalls, so avoid these months at all cost!

• If you like a quiet beach, less crowded restaurants and don’t care about some rain, November to March are definitely the best months for you!

• If you are heading there to see the famous Mola Mola, the best chances to see the sunfish is normally from June to October.

Getting Around

1. Within Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan:

• There are no car rental services available on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan

• Scooters are the most popular form of transportation with prices starting as low as Rp. 80,000 per day (Approximately USD $5.67)

• Several restaurants, hotels, beach clubs and cafes offer free pickup and drop off services, you might want to check with them.

• For larger groups, truck hires are also available (on Nusa Lembongan) as from Rp. 800,000 for 10 pax , 6 hours  (Approximately USD $56.75)

• A fun way to visit the island is on-board a golf buggy that is rented for as low as Rp. 600,000 for a 4-seater buggy, 4 hours (Approximately USD $42.56)

• Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Bali (inclusive of boat transfers, inland transportation, food and more) for USD $88 (Approximately Rp. 1,250,000)

2. Within Nusa Penida:

• On Nusa Penida, you will be able to find Ojek (motorcycle taxis) for as low Rp. 50,000 (Approximately USD $3.55)

• Scooters are the most popular form of transportation with prices starting as low as Rp. 80,000 per day (Approximately USD $5.67)

• Car hire with driver is available for as low as Rp. 350,000 per day (Approximately USD $24.83)

• Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Bali (inclusive of boat transfers, inland transportation, food and more) for USD $86 (Approximately Rp. 1,220,000)

3. From Nusa Lembongan/ Ceningan to Nusa Penida and back:

• There are direct boats from the Yellow Bridge at Nusa Lembongan for a fixed price of Rp. 60,000 per way (Approximately USD $4.26)

• From Ceningan, simply cross over the Yellow Bridge to the boat ticket office at Nusa Lembongan

• Boat leaves Nusa Lembongan all morning with around 8 people on board

• Boat will drop you off at Toya Pakeh Harbour, Nusa Penida

• Duration is about 10-15 minutes per way

• Return journeys are from 2pm-5pm (every hour)

We hope this guide has inspired you to see beyond just Bali and explore its surroundings! What are you most excited about the Nusa Islands? Let us know in the comments below!

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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