Nusa Penida Travel Guide: What to Expect, Where to Go, and Why It's Worth the Waves

After a two-hour boat ride from Gili Trawangan, we finally arrived at Nusa Penida, an island known for its cliffs, beaches, and dramatic coastal views. If you're taking the fast boat, here's a tip: order a drink and sit on the top deck. It’s windier, but the air is fresh and you’ll be far better off than downstairs, where the waves can make things seriously uncomfortable. The waves were wild even up top, and I honestly don’t want to imagine what it felt like below. But once you arrive, it’s all worth it.

Unlike Bali’s main tourist towns, Nusa Penida feels raw and natural. The infrastructure is basic, the roads are rough, and you’ll meet more locals than expats. We hired a local driver who took us on a 9-hour tour of the island, stopping at all the major sights. He even climbed trees to take the perfect photo for us. Talk about service!

What to See in One Day: Nusa Penida's Top Spots

• Broken Beach: This iconic natural arch over the ocean is a popular stop for day tours. It's beautiful, but very crowded. Go early or after 5 PM to enjoy it with fewer people.

• Kelingking Beach (a.k.a. Dinosaur Beach): Famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff, this viewpoint is breathtaking. You can hike down to the beach, but it’s very steep—great for the adventurous.

• Manta (View) Point: You can sometimes spot manta rays from the cliff tops, but we were lucky enough to see sea turtles instead! Even without mantas, the cliff side view here was our favorite of the whole island.

• Diamond Beach: We actually climbed all the way down to the beach, using steep stairs and a rope to get there. It was intense, but so worth it. The view from the bottom? Absolutely stunning.

Snorkeling with Mantas - Instagram vs. Reality

The next morning, we went on a snorkeling tour, and the boat ride was... intense. Picture a tiny boat bouncing through massive waves, more roller coaster than relaxing ride. We laughed, screamed, and held on for dear life. But the wild ride led us to Manta Point, where we swam among giant manta rays. The water was packed with people, but the second you see a manta glide past you, everything else disappears. Pure magic. Afterward, we snorkeled in a peaceful coral bay—clear water, colorful reef, and a total contrast to the busy Manta Point scene. Just note, the guides take pictures for their group to not stress the animals too much. Also, when we were there, only two Mantas showed up. Now, imagine 500 people all trying to snorkel with two mantas. Needless to say, prepare to bump into people and do not expect Instagram ready water. For me, it was more about the experience of swimming right above these gigantic creatures, than it was about taking the perfect picture. Let the guides do their work and life the moment. It is so worth it!

Final Thoughts: Is Nusa Penida Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re ready for a little chaos, a lot of natural beauty, and a real adventure. Nusa Penida is not polished, but it’s full of unforgettable moments. From cliff side views to manta rays, and local hospitality to bumpy roads, this island is raw, real, and so worth the trip.

Want to know how Nusa Penida compares to other parts of Bali? Check out my Bali Area Guide for a breakdown of where to stay based on your vibe.

With love & wanderlust,

Patty 🧭