Visits to Nusa Penida, I have updated the list of the 10 most beautiful tourist spots on the island: beaches, temples hidden in caves, cliffs, diving spots, and much more!
Until 2020, I had been there more than 10 times, always trying to discover new places. Therefore, I have a strong opinion about the 10 most beautiful tourist spots in Nusa Penida. Here, you can find everything you desire, from beautiful beaches, temples hidden in caves, high cliffs, to spectacular diving locations. You definitely should spend a few nights in Nusa Penida to fully enjoy all the beauty it has to offer.
Batu Bolong in front of Banah Cliff Some parts of Nusa Penida have undergone changes due to the increase in the number of tourists. Concrete stairs have replaced small paths that used to be a bit risky. The locals have also built car parking lots and small stalls. However, the natural beauty and stunning landscapes can still captivate you. Since tourism is gradually resuming after the COVID-19 crisis, you won’t encounter many tourists for the next few months. If you visit Nusa Penida, you’ll see the island as I found it in 2015!
I’ll start with the most iconic place in Nusa Penida and conclude with a serene and authentic place that I love the most.
Suwehan Beach is one of those very beautiful beaches of Nusa Penida Island which is still quite wild because apart from the classic tours. However, it is now rather easy to access with the brand new staircase which allows you to descend in less than twenty minutes. It is quite close to Atuh Beach and it might be a good idea to combine the visit of the two beaches in the same itinerary. Please note that you have to choose a time for your visit: rather in the morning because the beach faces east. Additionally, choosing to visit during low tide is advisable to fully appreciate the extent of the beach. During this time, expansive stretches of golden sand are revealed, allowing visitors to walk along the shoreline and marvel at the untouched beauty of Suwehan Beach. This careful consideration ensures a more immersive experience, as high tide may limit the beach area
The Seganing Waterfall, situated on Nusa Penida Island in Klungkung, seems to be relatively unfamiliar to many people. This natural recreation spot is not as widely known as some of the waterfalls on the main island of Bali.
Seganing Waterfall is still rarely visited, hidden away, and reaching the location requires extra time and fit stamina. While natural waterfall attractions in Bali are mostly concentrated in the northern tourist areas or in the Buleleng regency, showcasing popular waterfalls like Gitgit, Sekumpul, Yeh Mampeh, Aling-aling, Banyumala, and many others, Nusa Penida in Klungkung has its own popular waterfall, Seganing.
Surrounded by dry hills and lacking forests, Seganing Waterfall stands out as a unique and special attraction. It defies expectations by being situated in a seemingly arid area, making it quite distinctive, especially when compared to the more well-known areas of Bali.
This hidden gem of Nusa Penida is located beneath steep cliffs, enhancing the island’s renowned hilly terrain, and the juxtaposition of the stunning coral cliffs distinguishes it from Bali’s landscape.
The island, with its many hidden treasures like Seganing Waterfall, adds to the extensive list of recreation spots and tourist attractions in Nusa Penida Klungkung. It has become a popular destination for tourists during their Bali vacations.
Seganing Waterfall directly borders the sea, and the natural spring emerging from the crevices of the coral cliffs flows directly into the ocean, creating a beautiful view. While Seganing Waterfall may not be very high, the surrounding natural charm provides a spectacular atmosphere. It may resemble a regular spring, but the surrounding scenery offers a spectacular view, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Thus, Seganing Waterfall is ideal for a tranquil retreat.
If you are seeking beautiful, unique, and hidden places during your vacation in Nusa Penida Klungkung, Seganing Waterfall is a must-visit. Nusa Penida Klungkung offers many unexplored beauties for travelers, attracting those who previously focused solely on the more popular Bali.
However, visiting Seganing Waterfall requires mental and physical preparation. The journey involves trekking through a steep and challenging terrain with an incline of up to 80°. The emergency stairs, locally known as “Ancong,” are made of sturdy Kembang Kuning wood, providing support during the ascent.
For those who fear heights or are traveling with family, especially children, it is not advisable to visit Seganing Waterfall due to the extreme access. There are other easily accessible natural recreation spots, such as Crystal Bay Beach, Broken Beach, or Angel’s Billabong, that may be more suitable.
The journey to Seganing Waterfall requires a fast boat or speed boat from Bali to Nusa Penida Klungkung, taking approximately 40 minutes from Sanur Beach. From the harbor, visitors can rent a car or, for a more affordable option, a scooter to continue the journey to Seganing Waterfall, which takes about 1 hour through challenging terrain.
Embarking on this adventure requires mental and physical preparation, as the trek involves a 30-minute journey along a narrow trail and finally brings you to the edge of the cliff where Seganing Waterfall is located. While the experience is thrilling, it is not recommended for those who fear heights.
The locals maintain the stairs with community efforts, and during the rainy season, they may become slippery, posing potential dangers. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right day and weather to visit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The community’s dedication to preserving and maintaining access to Seganing Waterfall reflects the unique spirit of this hidden gem in Nusa Penida Klungkung.
Upon reaching the base of the cliff, where the Seganing Waterfall natural spring with a significant water flow is located, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing view of the clear water flowing into the sea. The tranquil atmosphere, the breathtaking cliffs, and the small coral islands in the vicinity all contribute to a spectacular natural landscape.
Seganing Waterfall provides a serene and peaceful environment, making it an ideal place to find tranquility and connect with nature. Whether you enjoy fishing or simply want to relax, this hidden natural recreation spot offers an authentic experience away from the crowds. While it may be less visited due to the challenging access, the unique and extraordinary journey to Seganing Waterfall makes it a rewarding adventure for those seeking something extraordinary during their Nusa Penida Klungkung vacation.
Nusa Penida is an island in the province of Bali that offers a plethora of enchanting tourist destinations. Renowned for its white sandy beaches, beautiful high cliffs, and captivating blue waters, it attracts the eyes and hearts of those who wish to visit. For those seeking a break from the bustling southern areas of Bali, such as Kuta, Legian, or Seminyak, the southeastern part known as Nusa Penida is a great alternative.
One of the famous destinations on Nusa Penida is Angel’s Billabong. This destination is a unique feature that captivates tourists and is located in the Nusa Penida district, Klungkung regency. Angel’s Billabong is the end point of a river before it meets the open sea.
Known as Angel’s Billabong, derived from the word “Angel,” meaning angel, while “Billabong” refers to a dead-end river. This place can be interpreted as the end of a river that holds hidden beauty like an angel. The place is well-known internationally and is a must-have on your next travel bucket list.
Dubbed as the angel of Nusa Penida, this place has its own uniqueness. It features a naturally formed pool that is mesmerizing and cannot be found anywhere else. The attraction lies in the valley pool slightly higher than the open sea, creating the illusion that it seamlessly merges with the ocean.
The remaining seawater brought in by the waves leaves behind clear water in the pool, revealing coral formations adorned with green and yellow marine moss. Here, you will be tempted to enjoy the crystal-clear seawater, feeling like you are swimming in a natural infinity pool.
The extremely clear water with its greenish-blue gradient adds an exotic impression, especially when captured in photographs. The surrounding stone walls with their unique contours enhance the dramatic effect inside.
It is advisable not to visit during the rainy season, as the river that meets this place may muddy the water. The pool becomes visible when the tide begins to recede. Therefore, for those visiting Angel’s Billabong, it is essential to assess the wave and tide conditions and always be cautious when the water starts rising or during large waves.
High tides can enter the pool unexpectedly, so if you are in the pool when the first wave enters, you must quickly exit unless you want to be carried out by the waves. However, just taking a photo with the magnificent cliff backdrop can already create unforgettable memories.
The Five Kings of Nusa Penida is dubbed the Thousand Islands because its natural beauty is crafted from a string of tiny islands amidst the sea. Here lies a sprawling array of hills in the eastern region of Nusa Penida Island. When viewed from afar, the cluster of hills forming these small islands resembles those found in the Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua. Travelers can revel in the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands from atop the hills. This tourist spot is located in Pejukutan Village, Nusa Penida District.
Nusa Penida is a Bali tourist destination that attracts many visitors, both local and international. However, this island nestled in East Bali still harbors many lesser-known tourist spots. One of them is the Five Kings viewpoint in Atuh, situated in the eastern part of Nusa Penida. This place, often compared to Raja Ampat, could be your go-to destination when vacationing in Bali. There are plenty of Nusa Penida tour packages offered, including one from Thenusapenida.com.
Things to Know About the Five Kings of Nusa Penida Though not yet widely renowned, the Five Kings offers breathtaking scenery. Located near the Thousand Islands, this tourist spot could be your vacation destination of choice in Bali. With its close proximity to the harbor and easy road access, it’s a perfect getaway spot. In about 1.5 hours from the harbor, you’ll arrive at this destination.
Nusa Penida Island has become one of the popular tourist destinations in Bali, appealing to both foreign and domestic travelers alike. The main attraction of Nusa Penida lies in its stunning natural landscapes, especially its beautiful beaches. Nusa Penida Island offers many attractions with white sandy beaches, and one of them is the Pasih Uug tourist spot in Nusa Penida, Bali. Broken Beach Nusa Penida is, for me, one of the most unique natural attractions. Therefore, I highly recommend Broken Beach as a must-visit destination on Nusa Penida Island. The name Pasih Uug translates to “broken beach” in Indonesian. Hence, foreign tourists know it as Broken Beach Nusa Penida.
Why is it called Pasih Uug (broken beach)?
The reason behind this name is the presence of a bay within the beach area. In the bay’s cliff area, there is a large hole that allows the seawater to flow in and out of the cliff. This hole in the cliff has been formed due to years of abrasion. Because of the hollow cliff caused by abrasion, the local community named it Pasih Uug.
The Gamal Tree Hill in Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali offers a visually delightful panorama. The hills blanketed with lush greenery akin to a carpet make it an attractive spot for tourists to enjoy.
Dubbed as the Teletubbies Hill, the Gamal Tree Hill is likened to the iconic landscape depicted in the children’s TV show ‘Teletubbies’ due to its verdant hillsides.
Featuring the allure of green hills dotted with beautiful mounds and valleys reminiscent of the Teletubbies series, this hill has become a popular tourist destination in Nusa Penida.
It’s not just a vacation spot; the Teletubbies Hill in Nusa Penida is also often chosen as a pre-wedding photoshoot location. Especially for couples who appreciate natural settings, this hill becomes even more appealing and Instagram-worthy.
As you ascend these small hills, another beautiful sight awaits: a direct view of the sea in the Nusa Penida area.
Pura Goa Giri Putri is the most visited temple in Nusa Penida. Be careful not to miss the secret entrance as it’s quite narrow. Once you enter the large cave, it’s truly impressive.
Goa Giri Putri, the Sacred Cave for Balinese Worship
Located in the largest cave on Nusa Penida Island, Pura Goa Giri Putri serves as a place of worship for the Balinese community, who make special journeys from Bali for purification rituals. There are six temples within Pura Goa Giri Putri, with one located outside and five others inside the cave. Additionally, the holy water at Pura Goa Giri Putri is believed to possess natural healing powers.
Many people in traditional attire come to Pura Goa Giri Putri, bringing their offerings via speed boat. However, some only make day visits because they’re fearful of Nusa Penida Island.
What does Goa Giri Putri mean? “Goa” means cave, “giri” means hill, and “putri” means symbol of power. So, Pura Goa Giri Putri is a very descriptive name for a temple built inside a cave on a hill dedicated to Shiva. Shiva’s role is to destroy the universe to recreate it. He is part of Brahma and Vishnu, the triad responsible for the creation, preservation, and destruction of the world.
Crystal Bay is one of the most stunning beaches in Nusa Penida. With its white sand and blue sea, Crystal Bay is surrounded by high cliffs and beautiful palm trees. Crystal Bay is the beach with the easiest access compared to other beaches in Nusa Penida.
Location and Distance Crystal Bay is located in Banjar Pedina and is part of the Sakti village area. It’s approximately 15 kilometers from the Nusa Penida Harbor.
To get to the beach, it takes about 15 minutes by motorbike from Toyapakeh, the harbor where you might land in Nusa Penida.
Attractions
Crystal Bay boasts amazing underwater beauty, making snorkeling a major attraction here. Its clear, blue waters allow you to see coral reefs and various fish clearly. However, always follow instructions as Crystal Bay also has quite strong waves.
In addition to snorkeling, you can also go diving at this beach. Diving here is one of the most popular activities because you can see the Mola-Mola fish.
Mola-Mola is a large fish with a diameter of over 3 meters and weighs more than a ton. But to see Mola-Mola, there are specific times and seasons, like in the summer when they return to the depths of the ocean.
In addition to Mola-Mola, you can also see dolphins from the beach.
With fairly high waves at Crystal Bay, you can also go surfing. Even the locals often practice surfing on the left side of the beach.
