Is Nusa Penida part of Bali?

Nusa Penida is an island that is still part of Bali. Nusa Penida is a district that belongs to Klungkung Regency in the province of Bali. The district of Nusa Penida is separated by the sea and consists of three islands,  Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. Essentially, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan are part of Nusa Penida itself, but they are also separated by the sea.

How do I get from Bali to Nusa Penida?

Sanur Harbor

To reach Nusa Penida, tourists must cross the sea using a fast boat or a large ferry. There are three main harbors that can be used. The first one is Sanur Harbor, which is the most popular choice among tourists traveling to Nusa Penida. With a ticket price of IDR 85,000 and a travel time of about 1 hour, many visitors choose this harbor as the main gateway to cross the sea to Nusa Penida.

Apart from Sanur, there is also a harbor in Kusamba, Klungkung Regency. Quite a number of tourists use this harbor to get to Nusa Penida. From here, the crossing only takes around 30 minutes to reach the island, which is famous for its stunning cliffs. However, compared to Sanur, Kusamba is relatively farther if the journey starts from Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, or Nusa Dua.

The third crossing point is Padang Bai Harbor. Unlike Sanur and Kusamba, which use fast boats, Padang Bai uses large ferries designed for those who want to bring motorbikes or cars. The downside of this route is the long travel time, which can take about 5–6 hours to reach Nusa Penida. Not only that, the distance is also farther if the trip starts from the Denpasar area. This harbor is mostly used by locals transporting goods or vehicles. However, some tourists also choose this route because they want to bring their motorbikes to the island.

West Nusa Penida Trip (private tours)

Discover the pristine beauty and hidden wonder of West Nusa Penida on a full-day trip, luxury adventure that transports you far from Bali’s busy shores. This exclusive journey offers an immersive escape to some of the island’s most breathtaking coastal vistas, turquoise lagoons, and dramatic cliffside landscapes making West Nusa Penida the ultimate island getaway. […]

Duration

1 day

Group Size

Unlimited

East Trip Nusa Penida (private Tours)

The East Trip Nusa Penida is a full-day private tour perfect for travelers who want to explore the quieter, more dramatic side of the island. Organized by Bali Private Tours, this experience offers stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, and ideal photo spots. You’ll visit some of the most iconic eastern sites including Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, […]

Duration

1 day

Group Size

Unlimited

What's so special about Nusa Penida?

What makes Nusa Penida truly special is the stunning beauty and distinctive character of its beaches. Unlike your ordinary seashore, many of Nusa Penida’s beaches are defined by striking cliff formations that give them an otherworldly allure.

For instance, Kelingking Beach is not just known for its powdery white sand and vibrant blue seasit’s celebrated for the cliff that resembles a T-rex head, delivering jaw-dropping panoramas that have made it one of the most iconic imagery associated with Bali.

Then there’s Diamond Beach, which lives up to its fantasy-like reputation: bright white sands, clear turquoise waves, and towering limestone cliffs decorated with a diamond-shaped rock jutting into the shoreline creating a scene that many describe as a picture-perfect paradise.

In fact, Nusa Penida as a whole is prized for its thrilling cliffs, pristine beaches, and exceptional diving opportunities, offering an unforgettable escape from the ordinary.

How much does it cost to get from Bali to Nusa Penida?

 The cost of traveling to Nusa Penida is quite varied. If you use a bali travel agency, it will be slightly more expensive compared to arranging it independently, but it is more practical. If you prefer to go on your own, it starts with the boat ticket, which ranges from IDR 85,000 to IDR 150,000.

Once you arrive in Nusa Penida, travelers usually have two options: renting a motorbike or hiring a conventional taxi (car with driver). Renting a motorbike costs around IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000, depending on the type of motorbike. If you prefer to rent a taxi, the price ranges from IDR 500,000 to IDR 700,000 per day.

Is it possible to go to Nusa Penida without a tour?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to visit Nusa Penida without joining a tour package. In fact, many independent travelers prefer this option because it gives them more freedom to explore the island at their own pace. However, going without a tour means you will need to organize everything by yourself.

The first step is booking your fast boat ticket from Bali to Nusa Penida, which you can easily purchase online or directly at the harbor. Once you arrive on the island, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. Most travelers choose to rent a motorbike, which is affordable and allows you to reach even the more hidden spots. For those who are not comfortable riding, you can hire a private driver or taxi for the day, though this will be more expensive.

You’ll also need to take care of your own accommodation if you plan to stay overnight. Nusa Penida offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to beachfront resorts. Going independently might take a little more planning, but it gives you the flexibility to decide where to go, how long to stay, and which hidden gems you want to discover.

Is it safe to travel to Nusa Penida?

Yes, with awareness. Nusa Penida is widely considered safer than many major urban areas in Indonesia. Violent crime is rare, and serious incidents against tourists are uncommon. The World Travel Guy

However, the island’s charm comes with natural risks: sheer cliffs, rugged paths, and unpredictable waves make some of its most iconic viewpoints potentially dangerous. Local guides do not always enforce safety; overexposed photo spots are common, and hospitals can be distant.The Bali Sun

To its credit, tourism authorities have begun posting patrol officers and lifeguards at key sites like Kelingking, Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Diamond Beach and have installed warning signs where needed.The Bali Sun+1

The maritime route to Nusa Penida is also improving, but safety should never be assumed. There have been recent fatalities due to rough seas and substandard safety procedures. Visitors are advised to choose reputable vessels, wear life jackets, and monitor weather updates before departure.The GuardianNew York PostSmartravellerTravel.gov

In short, Nusa Penida can be a safe and rewarding destination, so long as you respect its natural hazards, choose trustworthy operators, and stay alert throughout your visit.