Nusa Penida, Bali: 2-Day Itinerary

Nusa Penida is the largest of three islands off the southeast coast of Bali, Indonesia. With its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters, Nusa Penida has become a popular destination for adventurous travelers looking to escape the crowds on mainland Bali.

While it’s possible to see some of the highlights of Nusa Penida in just one day, I recommend a minimum of two days to allow for a more relaxed pace to explore the island’s natural wonders. Having stayed on Nusa Penida for 5 days myself, I was able to explore the whole island and still not see everything this hidden gem has to offer.

Here is an ideal 2-day Nusa Penida itinerary to maximize your time on this picturesque island paradise.

Packing Tips for Nusa Penida, Bali

When preparing for your Nusa Penida getaway, keep in mind packing essentials for Bali’s tropical climate. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing that dries quickly. Bring swimwear to enjoy the island’s scenic beaches and natural tidal pools.

Hiking sandals or athletic shoes are useful for the short cliffside walks and jungle treks. Pack sun protection including wide-brimmed hats, UV blocking coverups, sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen with high SPF. These are all important things to include when considering what to pack for Bali.

Other recommended items when packing for 2 days on Nusa Penida:

• Biodegradable toiletries due to limited waste facilities
• Mosquito repellent to prevent bug bites
• Power adaptors/converters for electronics
• Portable phone charger or extra batteries
• Small backpack for carrying essentials during the day
• Motion sickness remedies for the boat ride

Day 1: West Nusa Penida

Kelingking Beach

Start your first day by heading to Kelingking Beach, one of Nusa Penida’s most famous spots. Along the way you’ll notice several new resorts and housing developments being built, many funded by Chinese investment. This influx of foreign money is rapidly changing the landscape of Nusa Penida.

After parking near the trailhead, it takes about 15 minutes to hike down the steep cliffs on an uneven path to the beach overlook.

From here, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the golden sand beach nestled between dramatic limestone cliffs. The panorama is incredible, making Kelingking Beach likely the most photographed natural landmark in Nusa Penida.

While technically possible, it’s not recommended to actually walk down to Kelingking beach itself due to the precarious cliffs. However, don’t miss taking photos from the lookout above, where you can capture the iconic T-Rex-shaped rock formation in its full glory.

Angel’s Billabong

Continue along the coastal road west to Angel’s Billabong, about a 15-minute drive from Kelingking Beach. You’ll pass more construction zones for Chinese-backed hotels and resorts along the coast. Angel’s Billabong is a natural rock pool with crystal clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Walk down the stepped pathway to access this scenic spot surrounded by rock formations. Relax on the edges dipping your feet in the cool water. Or bring your own snorkel gear and discover small tropical fish and sea turtles swimming around the tidal pools.

Broken Beach

Further down the road is Broken Beach, named after the naturally formed stone archway opening to the sea. The cliffs around Broken Beach Island were once joined together, but over time the tunnel was carved by the pounding ocean waves. Now this unique formation creates an iconic framed seascape.

Be careful walking near the edges along the cliffs. There are also options to view Broken Beach from above via the stairs along the natural stone bridge for beautiful panoramic views over the ocean below.

Lunch at Nemu Kitchen

After taking in some of Nusa Penida’s most famous viewpoints in the morning, stop for a delicious lunch at Nemu Kitchen.

This open-air restaurant set within a relaxing garden serves up fresh, organic food with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Enjoy house-made sodas, healthy sandwiches, vibrant salads, and Balinese-inspired entrees like jackfruit curry, tempeh stir-fries, and coconut ginger tofu.

It’s a tranquil spot to refuel on nourishing plant-based foods before continuing your afternoon adventures. The friendly owners grow much of their own produce right on site.

Atuh Beach

Work off your lunch with a short hike down to Atuh Beach. Like Kelingking, Atuh Beach is nestled between imposing rock cliffs plunging dramatically into the sea.

Take your time navigating the steep steps down the karst cliffs. Then reward yourself by spending some time soaking up the dreamy vibes on the soft white sand beach and swimming in the turquoise waters.

Peguyangan Waterfall

On the drive back towards your Nusa Penida hotel, stop to visit Peguyangan Waterfall. After parking, it’s a short walk down through a jungle-like setting to reach this impressive two-tiered cascading waterfall.

Take a refreshing dip in the large pool below the flowing falls, but use caution as the rocks can be slippery. This is a great way to wrap up an action-packed first day discovering Nusa Penida’s incredible natural scenery.

Day 1 Lodging

To experience the remote island vibes, stay in beachfront bungalow accommodations along the west or south coasts of Nusa Penida.

The area around Atuh Beach, Crystal Bay and Seganing Beach offer cozy bungalows immersed in nature. Expect to pay around $30-60 USD per night for a comfortable beachfront bungalow.

Diamond Beach Villas is a nice option with colorful bungalows overlooking the ocean and Atuh Beach. Crystal Bay Beach Bungaow offers spacious hillside garden bungalows near Crystal Bay. Santen Beach Bungalows is a sustainable guest house offering oceanview bungalows over Manet’s Beach in the north.

Alternatively, consider staying at a glamping spot like Tropical Glamping Bali near Diamond Beach, one of the best glamping sites in all of Bali, for a more unique and romantic experience.

Day 2: East Nusa Penida

Breakfast

Fuel up for your second day on Nusa Penida with an early breakfast at your hotel. Most will provide a complimentary breakfast of toast, tropical fruit, and coffee or tea.

Thousand Islands Viewpoint

After breakfast, head east across the island to the Penida Viewpoint (aka Thousand Islands Viewpoint). The scenic lookout can be reached by motorbike or car via a bumpy dirt road leading uphill from Sakti village.

At the top, take in panoramic coastal vistas overlooking the small islands of Lembongan and Ceningan to the north. On clear days, even Mount Agung volcano is visible in the distance on mainland Bali, one of the top places to visit in Bali.

Spend some time soaking up the incredible 360 degree views, and walk along the ridgeline paths between lush greenery in all directions. But use caution near the cliff edges as there are no railings at the Penida Viewpoint.

Temeling Viewpoint

For another breathtaking clifftop vista facing south, continue to Temeling Viewpoint. Gaze out upon the beautiful limestone rock formations along Nusa Penida’s southern coastline leading down to Crystal Bay beach.

You can also start to spot the tiny island of Nusa Lembongan in the distance across the Badung Strait. Take lots of photos from these elevated lookouts to showcase both sides of Nusa Penida’s spectacular topography.

Atuh Beach Lookout

After experiencing Nusa Penida’s wild coastlines from above, make your way down to seaside Atuh Beach. But instead of hiking all the way down the cliffs like yesterday, this time view Atuh Beach from the lookout point atop the limestone precipice.

Gaze down upon the picturesque white sand beach and translucent waters that appeared so hidden and secluded from ground level just yesterday. Enjoy the change in perspective from these overlooks showcasing Nusa Penida’s natural beauty.

Lunch at Slaza Penida

 After exploring Nusa Penida’s cultural heritage, head over to Slaza Penida for a relaxing lunch. This laidback open-air restaurant and bar overlooks the ocean and serves up a creative plant-based menu.

Highlights include their almond “chikn” sandwich, jackfruit tacos, veggie poke bowl, and refreshing chilled coconut with young coconut meat. They also serve kombucha on tap and tropical fruit smoothies.

The eco-conscious owners avoid single-use plastics and aim to educate visitors about sustainability. It’s a great spot to refuel on conscious cuisine after a morning of adventures.

Suana Point

In the mid-afternoon, make your way towards the eastern tip of Nusa Penida to Suana Point. Park near the Yellow Bridge landmark and follow the paved path out to a massive stone plateau overlooking the sea.

Along the way, you’ll catch views looking inland to jungle-covered hills. At the end of the trail is an expansive limestone landing with uninterrupted coastal vistas. Watch powerful waves crash against the rocky cliffs under your feet for a fun photo opportunity.

Crystal Bay

End your day soaking up Nusa Penida’s tropical magic at Crystal Bay. The area’s claim to fame is the strip of perfect white sand beach with calm, clear azure waters. Relax while swimming or snorkeling around tropical fish and coral reefs in the protected cove.

For the best access to the main Crystal Bay beach area, park at the car park and walk down the steps. Warungs and bars like the Santi Warung provide chilled coconuts and snacks. Or walk across the small headland to nearby Padang Padang beach for great sunset views.

Day 2 Lodging

On your second night on Nusa Penida, stay close to Crystal Bay Beach to enjoy one of the island’s most beautiful spots.

Simple losmens (guesthouses) like D’Lebah Homestay or Puri Yalus Bungalow put you steps from the sand at reasonable prices under $50 per night. Or choose slightly more upscale cliffside resorts like Bagia Bungalows or Arta Loka Hotel and Villa offering amazing sea views and pools but costing closer to $100 per night.

Dine at the hotel or nearby restaurants like Warung Little Chicken alongside Crystal Bay at sunset to end your 2 days in Nusa Penida.

Getting to Nusa Penida

The only way to access Nusa Penida island is by boat, as there are no airports on the island. You can take fast boats from Sanur, Padang Bai or Nusa Lembongan.

The trip takes 30-60 minutes depending on departure point. Most hotels can arrange boat transfers, or you can book directly through companies like Maruti Express, Rocky Fast Cruise or Manta Cruise.

Ferry ports are located at Toyapakeh Harbor in the north and Sanur Harbor in the south. Hotels near these harbors offer the most convenience, minimizing the need for taxis around the island.

Renting a motorbike is recommended to reach farther flung sights, but beware of bumpy and winding roads.

When to Visit Nusa Penida

 The best time to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season from April to October. These months offer sunny weather and clear blue skies, along with smaller crowds than the busy summertime high season.

The rainy season falls between November and March, with January through February being the wettest. Expect passing tropical showers if visiting during the low season.

Aim to avoid major Indonesian holidays like Chinese New Year and Ramadan, when both mainland Bali and Nusa Penida see an influx of tourists.

The good news is Nusa Penida offers less overwhelming crowds than hotspots like Seminyak or Canggu across the strait at almost any time of year.

2 Days in Nusa Penida: Conclusion

 While Nusa Penida’s rising popularity means more day trippers coming from Bali, two full days allows a deeper exploration of this stunning limestone island. Follow this comprehensive 2 day Nusa Penida itinerary to experience the very best of the island’s unique coastal landscapes, nature, beaches and cultural attractions.

With limited time, maximize your experience by focusing on west Nusa Penida highlights on the first day and east Nusa Penida on the second day. Spending two nights on the island allows a more relaxed pace plus the chance to enjoy epic sunsets without having to rush back.

Beyond the major sights, spend time wandering smaller jungle lanes, strolling quiet beaches or just watching coastal vistas unfold. Two days on Nusa Penida transports you to a tropical paradise that avoids Bali’s crowds, allowing you to better appreciate the island’s natural gifts and local way of life.