14 Best Hotels in Nusa Penida (Bali): Luxury Beachfront Hotels and Private Pool Villas for all budgets!

Written by Shannon Osztonits
Co-written by Beverley Lennon

If you’re just like us (ahem, true travellers), you’re probably also a fan of taking the road less travelled. With its wild terrains and rugged roads, Nusa Penida island is destined for adventurous souls and those in love with Mother Nature.

Forming part of the three sister Nusa islands, the island draws in crowds with its unique natural attractions, like Tembeling Beach and Forest and the iconic T-Rex viewpoint, and with some of the best snorkelling and diving around Bali right here at your fingertips, or rather, flippers!

If you are planning to not take just a day trip but stay overnight, here’s a breakdown of the best Nusa Penida accommodation by area for ease of navigation, including the North, West and East sides.

P.S. Nusa Penida may not be the “hidden gem” it once was, say, five years ago, but it’s still quieter than Lembognan.

Read more:
Guide to the Nusa Islands (Bali) – Best things to do, where to stay and eat in Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida!
12 Stunning Romantic Ocean View Villas in Bali’s Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan
20 Luxury Bali beach resorts in Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Legian, Sanur and more!

North Penida: Luxury Hotels and Private Pool Villas

1. Transport yourselves around the world: Pramana Natura Nusa Penida

Perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff overseeing volcanoes, islets and the Indian Ocean, it’s Indonesia-meets-the-Mediterranean at Pramana Natura.

Destined for couples (but of course, not only reserved for the romantics), it’s one of the most stunning Nusa Penida luxury hotels, and if there’s one option to book, it’s gotta be that one-bedroom pool villa!

Just wait until you get a load of the vistas … drinking them in from your private pool, terrace or free-standing scallop-shaped tub! It’s a whole moment! The interiors are a combination of quintessential Bali mixed with the nautical inspirations from destinations such as Greece.

The infinity guest pool has you feeling like you’re on the edge of the world, or swap relaxation modes and hit up the on-site Pramana Spa.

P.S. Planning a Bali destination wedding? The outdoor Pramana Chapel is also built on the cliffside. If you’re after a mesmerising backdrop to say your “I do’s”, this one is beautiful!

2. Just a couple metres from the shore …: The Sankara Beach Resort – Nusa Penida

Imagine waking to the sounds of the waves crashing softly on the shoreline, followed by a tropical brekkie under the palm trees and around the pool, then a round of snorkelling a stone’s throw from your stay? 😍

And when we say snorkelling, we mean an oasis of an underwater world awaits, and the beachfront location of Sankara’s Beach Resort’s north-side positioning works in your favour – with some of the best snorkelling in town right on your doorstep!

The beach in front is Sun Sun Beach, but it’s also about a kilometre from Kutampi Beach and Mentigi Beach.

Stepping inside any of the rooms or suites, the first thing you might notice is the allure of the extra soft and pillowy four-poster beds (hey, I’m a sucker for comfort), and interiors fuse raw materials and accents, adding natural warmth.

North Penida: Mid-range and Budget Stays

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3. 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!

4. Is it a mermaid’s tale, no it’s a ROOF: Mambo Dive Resort

Calling all avid divers! Get your fix of island paradise coupled with days spent diving the depths of the Deep Blue at Mambo Dive Resort – a beachside stay and diving resort specialist in one!

The resort’s location is no random choice. It’s set up along Prapat Beach, a gateway to Nusa Penida’s famous Coral Triangle. Its private diving centre is situated here, too, so you can play, dive and move in between the comfort of your private bungalow and guest pool throughout the day.

(Mambo Dive offers four different experiences: a Fun Dive, Discover Scuba, Dive Courses and Snorkelling.)

Speaking of, how cute are the pastel pink roof tiles, reminding one of a mermaid’s tail? And rooms open up directly to the guest pool. You’ll typically spot these types of bungalow shapes with high ceilings across Indonesia, especially in Bali and Lombok.

The ones at Mambo Beach Resort are double-story, and the private terrace on the second level is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee ritual.

Grab breakfast, lunch, and dinner with your toes in the sand at the hotel’s beachfront restaurant, where live music adds to the vibe.

FYI. Sun Sun Beach is approximately 700 metres from this stay.

5. You’d think you’re in Greece: Secret Penida Villa

Step in at Secret Penida Villa and get transported to the Mediterranean coast! This 2-bedroom villa sits right next to Nusa Penida’s iconic Secret Penida cafe – one of the island’s must-visit restaurants. It offers some of the most delicious food, with seating options right by the ocean.

Secret Penida Villa is a hidden gem, with incredible sea views and aesthetically-pleasing interiors. It features an infinity pool that sets you right by the ocean. From here, you can jump in and enjoy a snorkelling session – the water conditions are almost always perfect.

It’s at sunset though, that things take an even more magical turn. On a clear day, once the sun goes down, Bali’s magnificent Mount Agung can be seen sitting over the horizon.

Take in the views right from your pool or settle down on one of the sun loungers, and maybe get yourself a drink from their sister cafe. There is ample space to have some family and friends over for a small barbeque in the evening too.

6. 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 perfectly into nature. The remarkable settlement offers picturesque views of the ocean, along with Mount Agung resting from afar.

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!

With its jungle setting, don’t be surprised to hear native wildlife cooing in the background—some light sleepers may have a problem, while other guests love falling asleep to the sounds of Mother Nature.

The property’s philosophy of sustainability doesn’t mean that it lacks modern comforts. Attached to each bungalow is a private outdoor bathroom. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for the wanderlusters, you’ll find it dreamy as it’s made from raw materials.

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.

West Penida (Crystal Bay): Luxury Hotels and Private Pool Villas

7. So this is where Disney princesses live in the 21st century: Camanta Penida (Adult Only)

What’s NOT to love about Camanta Penida – an adults-only stay and the epitome of honeymoon heaven (nudge, nudge, wink, wink).

With all the makings of a fairytale book, the design of this otherworldly bamboo house reminds one of where Snow White would stay if she lived on the beach …

You’ve got 360-degree oceana vistas, a private pool (decorated in floral petals upon arrival) with hanging nets AND then a second pool built on the tippy top of the shell house’s roof – a prime spot for indulging in your morning floating breakfast, as Mount Agung and the ocean stares back at you.

When the stars come out to play, lay back in your darling’s arms while watching a movie at your very own outdoor cinema (!!!), and other cute features include a mini putt-putt green.

The interiors? Well, let’s just say they belong on a Pinterest board! It’s one of our absolute favourite stays!

8. A whole new meaning to exclusivity (25 luxury villas only!): MĀUA Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is now brighter than ever with the fabulous MĀUA hotel sitting on its shores. Enveloped in glistening vistas, lush greens and splendid views of Mount Agung, the stay guarantees your absolute privacy and exclusivity with a limited number of 25 luxury villas.

MĀUA Nusa Penida operates with a focus on sustainability, aiming at reducing its carbon footprint from its exterior to interiors.

As for the one bedroom luxury villa, it comes with a private infinity pool, scenic view across the Gamat Bay or Mount Agung, and some have a small private garden. Even more beautiful is their one bedroom suite villa, with more space and an air-conditioned lounge area.

Discover its KŌWHAI Restaurant – an all-day dining venue featuring a ‘Fresh from the Farm’ menu concept. Where possible, they harvest ingredients from the resort’s very own organic garden.

Make a less strenuous wander to the spa and enjoy a relaxing body treatment for two.

9. Couples, stop everything you’re doing: Adiwana Warnakali Resort

If a wedding invitation landed in our inbox set at the stunning Adiwana Warnakali, we’d be booking our flights, like yesterday! Not only is this “clifftop dive resort” rated as one of the top clifftop dive resorts in Nusa Penida, but it’s a popular resort for weddings.

But if you’re not here to witness the exchange of vows, it’s an amazing option for a couple’s vacation. They offer a special two-night Couple’s Package, including a private romantic candlelight dinner and a couple’s massage at its Tejas Spa Warnakali!

All rooms and suites boast views of the ocean and a private terrace, and it’s another stay that flows downhill through a whippet of wispy trees. On that note, you will have to do quite a bit of walking and climbing steps between the property’s facilities. But it’s a small price to pay for such a location.

Order a seafood lunch around the guest pool from the Warnakali restaurant (or floating brekkie), and its Dune Dive Center offers a unique Manta Bay snorkel adventure.

West Penida (Crystal Bay): Mid-range and Budget Stays

10. I mean, just take one look at that ocean in front!: Sea La Vie

It’s no secret that Nusa Penida is a hilly landscape, and Sea La Vie is another sensational cliffside locale, this time on the West side of this wild island.

Descending down a hill, the rooms and suites are nestled into a jungle of lush trees, with the guest pool on the lower section of the resort, and from here, there are steps leading directly to the crystal blue ocean. (There’s no actual beach here, just direct access to the sea, but you can totally go snorkelling straight from here.)

The rooms are comfy and spacious, and this stay has more of a hotel vibe than the typical Nusa bungalows.

I love all the white accents and warm, light wooded tones, and there are quite a few sleeping options, including rooms, suites, bungalows and a one-bedroom villa with a private pool (do yourself a favour) – floating breakfast, anyone?

However because of Sea La Vie’s hilly positioning, to access certain rooms and areas, you’ll have to walk some steep stairs. If you suffer from knee problems, for example, we might suggest considering an alternative stay.

11. Feel worlds away at: Mahaloka Valley Nusa Penida

Zig zag palm trees towering toward the heavens, dinosaur-like ferns poking out around corners and a flourishing garden scape of tropical florals; feel transported to a scene out of Jurassic Park at Mahaloka Valley Nusa Penida.

With the beach around the corner, a massive guest pool to hang out around and a luscious garden to journal in or catch up on your reading, this stay is an awesome affordable option that offers all the best of Nusa Penida.

Made famous right here in Bali, pose for a pic on the tropical swing (a perfect shot for the ‘gram), or show off your floating breakfast.

Authentic as ever, the room options are your classic wooden Balinese-style bungalows, with a choice of a double bed or two singles – deeming this stay great for couples, a group of friends or even solo travellers.

Another major plus is this boutique resort’s focus on eco-friendly and sustainable practices – talking to you, eco-warriors!

East Penida: Luxury Hotels and Private Pool Villas

12. An Instagrammer’s dream: Tropical Glamping

Tropical Glamping is a stay that captures the exoticism of Nusa Penida perfectly. The assorted collection of glamping suites can be found perched hundreds of metres above crystal blue waters, known to be rich in sea life – turtles and manta rays are only a few of the species that can be seen swimming below.

It also happens to be one of Nusa Penida’s most talked-about accommodations — each of the suites is incredibly characterful in design. There are two different types of bungalow options here. One is perched on the cliff’s edge and equipped with a hanging net. The other, equally as magical, is designed with an open-air concept, offering unobstructed views of the ocean from the very moment you wake up.

With its remote location, and limited number of bungalows, the stay brings a whole new meaning to exclusivity and privacy. Do note though that the roads leading to the accommodation can be a little rugged and during the wet season, it could get very muddy.

Also bear in mind that you might not come across many visitors during your stay. Because the area remains relatively undeveloped, monkeys and other small insects still roam around. That being said, the level of service and the views you get to enjoy from here will definitely make up for it!

13. Everything you need in a home-away-from-home: Diamond Beach Villas

Are you visiting the Nusa Islands as a large travelling clan? Diamond Beach Villas is an ideal option for making home base, especially if you’re planning an extended stay on the island.

Boasting four villas in total, there are two 2-bedroom options and two 3-bedroom options.

Feel right at home; the villas are equipped with everything you need, from a kitchenette to a dining area to a private access entry to ensuites, and all villas are two-storeyed. And of course, you’ve got your own large private pool and sun loungers.

Think about this – if you book out the entire stay (all four villas), you’ll have four pools to play among!

But it’s not just the amenities that win hearts; the decor is on-point. Cue all the gorgeous raw materials and natural feels that make us fall in love with Bali’s accommodations time and time again!

Diamond Beach is 500 metres around the corner, and you’ll really appreciate the tranquillity of eastern Penida at this stay.

14. You won’t have to travel anywhere else for sunrise: The Angkal Resort

Good luck trying to tear your bodies away from this swimming pool!

With an infinity pool that looks like it’s one with the ocean, a beachfront position and such affordable rates for a location like this, The Angkal Resort is a no-brainer!

You’ve got everything you need in a top-tier stay right at your fingertips … The on-site Angkal Spa, floating breakfasts, free wifi, romantic dinner experiences and free pick-up services and transfers to/from Nusa Penida Harbour.

Travelling with little ones? They’ll absolutely love the mini putt-putt, built next to the pool, so mom can work on her tan while the kids are preoccupied.

Aptly classified as rustically stylish, room options are cute garden bungalows with a small private veranda.

P.S. Thanks to the resort’s location, the sunrises and sunsets from this vantage point are unparalleled!

Should I plan a day trip or stay overnight in Nusa Penida?

It all depends on you as a traveller. Nusa Penida is a relatively less developed place, and there isn’t an overload of restaurants, cafes and nightlife. If you’re looking for a peaceful overnight stay that’s unlike the mainstream options around Bali, Nusa Penida is perfect!

If your time is limited or you’d prefer to stay somewhere a bit more happening on mainland Bali, Nusa Penida is easy and convenient to reach for day trips.

Should you stay in Penida or Lembongan?

The big question … Penida is an oasis for couples and adventurous trekkers, and it’s a big hit with honeymooners as it’s a lot quieter than Lembongan. It’s also a mecca for divers and avid snorkellers, spending your entire day in the water, or staying at a diving resort. If you prefer an island that is abuzz with activities, tour operators, restaurants and accommodation, Lembongan would be better (usually favoured by families and groups of friends).

How to get around Nusa Penida?

There are a few options, but it’s important to know that the attractions and things to do around Nusa Penida are spread out quite far from one to the next. This means it can take time travelling from one place to the other. We recommend renting a scooter. It’s the easiest and most cost-effective way to zip around the island.

(But please take extra caution, the roads can be tough to drive on!)

Book your scooter for the day on Nusa Penida through tour operators, such as Klook.

Renting a moped isn’t the only option. You can taxi around the island; hail one down from the harbour, or ask your accommodation to help you organise.

Another option is to join a full or half-day tour, where the tour operator provides all of your transport and travel!

Okay, but seriously, how stunning are these Nusa Penida accommodations? I’m the type who will pick a destination just for the amazing stays, and this island doesn’t disappoint!

Are you a beachfront resort person or a private pool villa lover? Here, you can even get the best of both worlds!

Have you ever visited the Nusa Islands before? What was it that won your hearts? Let us know in the comments below!

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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