Under its own power nusa penida. Nusa Penida Island is an incredibly picturesque neighbor of Bali

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Nusa Penida Island is located 12 kilometers from the southeastern side of Bali Island (Indonesia).

I visited the island of Nusa Penida on my own.

Separately purchased tickets for a high-speed boat from Sanur. In the evening I got to the hotel on a bike with a suitcase, where friends were waiting for us.

And having rented a bike we rode together, exploring the most interesting sights of the island.

Weather on the island

The average minimum and maximum temperatures are approximately the same throughout the year. The minimum is 22 and the maximum is 31 degrees Celsius.

Water temperature and rainfall graph for each month in Nusa Penida

The average monthly sunshine in Nusa Penida is also approximately the same in each month - 200 hours per month, with the exception of the months of December - February, there are slightly less - 150-180.

Attractions in Nusa Penida

Even before arriving in Bali, I turned on Fr. Nusa Penida in my visit plan, because I watched the beautiful landscapes of this island a few years ago through travelers' photos on Instagram and pinterest.

And when our friends asked me “What to see at Nusa Penida?” I answered shortly: beautiful, inspiring nature and underwater world.

So, I present to your attention the most beautiful natural places of the island.

Kelingking Beach and rock

The rock is the most popular sight on the island in terms of pictures.

In reality, it is a really very beautiful, exciting place that I recommend to visit.

We visited all the places of the island on our own by bike, but there is an opportunity to visit the Kelinking rock with a guide by car or by bike.

Kelinkin rock at sunrise (07:30)

If only beautiful photos are important to you, admire the view from above, then you don't have to go down to the beach itself. The most beautiful views open up from above.

Although it will not take much time and effort to go down to the beach if you arrive here in the early morning, because the sun has not yet moved to the inner side of the beach.

in the photo 9 a.m.

The only thing is to come in comfortable shoes for sharp ascents and descents.

very convenient road to the beach

During the sun, of course, going down and up will be much more difficult and it is advisable to pre-smear with sun cream and put on a hat.

almost rose

This area is very humid and sweat will come in even if you walk slowly.

We all got wet as we climbed back, although there was really no sun in the early morning. I can't imagine how I would feel if the sun was still burning.

Indonesians big company stayed here for 2 nights during the Nyepi (New Years) holiday

The beach itself is not suitable for snorkeling and swimming - there were strong pulling waves and we did not see any fish under water.

After 8:30 in the morning, a point with drinks (water, beer, soda) and snacks opened on the beach.

We took fruit and water with us.

In fact, I wouldn't say we liked the beach. To my surprise, it was abandoned - there was rubbish everywhere, it smelled of urine in places, and you can't really swim on it (strong waves).

WITH back side an equally breathtaking view of the cliffs and a small beach with an amazingly blue sea opens up.

In general, the place is very beautiful and accessible in terms of convenient roads to visit.

Angel's Billabong (Angel)

This beautiful place is located in the same place as Broken beach (abandoned beach). If you visit one of these attractions, then don't miss the second one.

closer to 16 pm Angel's Billabong (Angel) was empty

very unusual place

This location is ideal for photography and quadcopter.

We traveled with friends and our friend Yuri said that these places did not charm him at all, because reminded him very much of the Crimea, namely Cape Fiolent. He said that everything in Crimea is even much nicer.

I was very surprised, because the colors of the water at Broken beach (pictured) are really very charming, beautiful.

Broken Beach

Is it possible to see such beauty in Crimea too? I would be glad to comment under the article if you visited Cape Fiolent in Crimea.

behind Broken beach, during the day, there was such a tent with chips, cold drinks and coconuts

the views at Atuh Beach are amazing

Unfortunately, you can't swim on this beach either because of the low water level, rocks and dry corals, strong blowing waves.

But you can drink and eat coconut (20,000 rupees), fruits (brought their own), wet your feet and admire the scenery.

My friends tried to swim to this blue lagoon (below in the photo), but it was hard to walk on the water because of the rocky bottom and the waves were very blown away.

Probably, only in comfortable underwater shoes you can comfortably walk and swim here.

But at a depth, a little to the left in the photo, we noticed a turtle, but did not have time to photograph.

Suwehan beach

Adjacent to Atuh Beach is the beautiful Suwehan beach.

It can be reached on foot from Atuh Beach in 10 minutes. You just need to climb the long stairs from the beach upstairs and walk 50 meters. You will have a view of the Suvehan beach.

This beach is perhaps the most beautiful for me. I could not restrain myself from his beauty and shouted out there enthusiastically at the top of my voice.

Suwehan beach

Coordinate of place: 346651.9027525

If you have enough time in Nusa Penida, then you should devote more time to this beach, going down to it.

How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali?

How to get there, or rather swim? There are two main ways:

1. Ferry to Nusa Penida

The ferry departs from Padang Bai Port, tickets cost Rs 31,000 per person and Rs 48,000 for a motorcycle.

It is worth sailing with a motorcycle to Nusa Penida only if it is your own or it leases you much less than 80,000 rupees per day, because this is the average price for renting a motorbike on Nusa Penida per day.

ferry to Padang Bay to Nusa Penida

The ferry leaves Padang Bay at 11:00, and from Nusa Penida at 08:00, but we were told at the ticket office that the time is not always exactly that, that it can change.

2. Speedboat (speed boat) to Nusa Penida from Sanur

High-speed boats from Sanur leave at different times, almost every hour from 06:30 am to 17:30 pm. The journey will take no more than 40 minutes.

You can book tickets in advance with Mola Mola (which is the cheapest) by phone: 0813-3744-2555 and arrive half an hour before the boat leaves.

information about Mola Mola express

Ticket price from Mola Mola: from 125,000 rupees.

Perhaps now the price has become higher. We ourselves purchased a ticket from another company at a higher price, for 160.00 rupees due to the fact that Mola Mola did not have boats after 17 pm.

Near the pier there is a cafe with various cooked food, a durian cafe.

I want to note that if you are going to buy tickets in advance, on the spot, then you should do it at the official companies near the pier. The point of the most inexpensive company Mola Mola is also located there.

You will have to smear your feet in dark water with black sand (near the coast) if you go on a speed boat

Markets in Nusa Penida

Also on the island there are at least 2 markets where you can buy:

Fruits and vegetables;
Local sweets and snacks;
Fish and meat;
Eggs, etc.

Markets are open from 6:30 am to 8 pm, but a large number of outlets are open ~ until 8:30 am.

Location. One of the markets is located in the Toyapakeh area, where almost all high-speed speed boats sail, and the second is in Sampalan, near the port “Sampalan Ferry Terminal” (50 meters east of it).

On the second, every morning we bought fresh fruit (red dragon fruit, mangosteen, durians, apples, durians, bananas, tomatoes, cherimoya, snake fruit, etc.).

Do not forget to bargain if the price seemed to you quite high or as an option - you can compare prices at several points for the desired products.

fruits we love in Indonesia

The art of skillfully lying and selling for almost three times the usual price is an acquired skill of Balinese and other Indonesians in tourist places.

Some sellers in the markets make such outrageous, sad faces when you offer them to lower the price, which becomes ridiculous knowing that you already bought this fruit for a lot less nearby yesterday.

Reviews about Nusa Penida

The island of Nusa Penida itself to us - lovers independent travel really liked because of the extraordinary natural places, a small number of tourists and affordable prices for everything.

Roads in Nusa Penida

The main roads in Nusa Penida are renovated, new but narrow. The ascents are not dangerous, the transfers around the island were quite comfortable.

But the second half of the roads on the island are four out of 10. Perhaps this is the only minus of the island.

good but narrow road to Nusa Penida

When we got to Pasih Uwug or Broken Beach (an abandoned beach), to be honest, we literally bounced all the way there on a motorbike, because the asphalt roads are bad.

Pleasant island

The island will suit both lovers of silence, nature, healthy food and order, as well as lovers of live music, pizza, drinks, communication.

The island liked me and my friends precisely because there are fewer people on it than on about. Bali, excellent affordable snorkeling, affordable prices for accommodation and food, beautiful natural places.

Life hacks for life on Nusa Penida

If you want to visit beautiful places without tourists, then it is worth leaving for them after 6 in the morning. Most of the places on the island are teeming with tourists after 9am.

We ourselves are used to getting up early in Asia, with the dawn of the sun, and it was not difficult for us to go somewhere early: to the market or to attractions.

Nusa Penida Accommodation

If you want to low prices for accommodation in Nusa Penida, then I recommend booking hotels in advance on the Asian website Agoda.com, or sometimes it is cheaper on Booking.com.

Hotel Pondok Kana - located next to nice beach for snorkeling Kutampi

If you want low prices for boat or ferry transfers, then good price for a transfer for two up to Rs 100,000. You just need to ask the car drivers whether they are ready to take you to the boat or ferry for this price. I think that the first driver that comes across will agree to 100,000 rupees, because this amount does not just lie on the road in 15 minutes by car.

At the hotel we were offered 200,000 rupees for the same transfer, which is 2 more expensive.

Here is the contact of the driver who charged us 100,000 rupees at the beginning of 2018 for a speedboat transfer from Kutampi Beach: + 62-857-3805-5093.

When we sailed to the island of Nusa Penida in Toyapakeh in the evening, we drove for 80,000 rupees (320 rubles) on two bikes with drivers, with a suitcase and backpacks to the hotel in Sampalan. Although initially we were told the price is twice as high.

Perhaps it's all about our desire to bargain and not agreeing to high prices... In Indonesia, to bring the price down to medium or low, you have to bargain, friends.

Swimming beaches on Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida has many wonderful beaches, but not on the northeast side, where the locals grow seaweed and the beaches are not suitable for swimming.

One of the best swimming beaches on the island is Crystal Bay Beach.

Сrystal Bay Nusa Penida

Crystal Bay (Nusa Penida)

This beach reminded me of Thailand (Phuket island).

Here, as well as in Tae:

not alone, people lie under umbrellas (about 35 people were definitely on the beach);
the beach is located in a small bay surrounded by rocks;
the sea is comfortable - no waves, for swimming.

One of the advantages of this beach is the opportunity to observe the beautiful underwater world.(beautiful coral bottom) and climb to a small island nearby. You can also jump from this island into the sea, this is for the brave.

Also, on the beach you can buy drinks, coconuts and local food - there are small outdoor cafes.

rubbish near the beach of Crystal Bay

The disadvantage of this beach is garbage, of which there is a lot near the beach.

Kutampi beach

Another beach that I liked is Kutampi Beach.

it is worth coming to the beach if you are interested in snorkeling

There are very few people on this beach and a very beautiful underwater world is right near the coast. Watch the video below.

But if you are interested in just swimming and sunbathing, this beach is not entirely suitable, although possible.

Nusa Penida snorkeling

We filmed this underwater video on Kutampi beach.

A map with all the attractions of Nusa Penida is available on Google, click on the image below.

Gili or Nusa Penida?

In 2013 and 2016, I stayed to live on the Gili Islands (Meno and Air). This year I also visited Nusa Penida and I got special impressions about each island, with which I will share in a convenient table.

Grades were given from 1 to 10, where 1 is the lowest, and 10 is the highest.

Detailed description of the categories and the points assigned to them:

Housing price- the higher the score, the more expensive it is to stay on the island;
The quality of housing. Appreciated cleanliness, comfort, views;
A cafe. The higher the score, the more options for a cafe with delicious and varied food (pizza, inexpensive, vegan, sweets, etc.)
Privacy. The higher the score, the quieter, more natural and calmer on the island;
Local. The higher the score, the higher the friendliness and openness of the locals;
Prices. The higher the score, the higher the prices for food, housing, transportation and excursions;
The beauty. The higher the score, the more beautiful the places on the island, the stronger the fascination with the places;
Sights. The number of attractions (the higher the score, the more there are).

By selecting the most desirable parameters, you can already choose a suitable island or islands for yourself.

Gili air

Gili Air island from the sea

Briefly about the islands, then Gili Air is an island with fresh air, where there are only horses, bicycles and e-bikes from transport (there are very few of them). It is very pleasant to wake up in a place where there is a lot of fresh air.

The island has a well-developed tourist infrastructure: there is a cafe with healthy food, live music in the evenings.

I know that “magic mushrooms” are common in the northern part of the island, there are a lot of people on the island, many inexpensive guesthouses, you can organize a not very expensive snorkeling excursion near the Gili Islands.

Gili Meno Island is the most secluded of the three. If you would like a natural, quiet, wild rest, wherever you are (in your room or walking around the island), then you are here.

Gili Meno island

The prices are true for housing, food here is much higher than the other two. And there are no shops as such.

There were no ATM machines on the island when I visited it 5 years ago.

This island is closer to me than the other two.

I would like to remind you that Nusa Penida is 10 times larger than Gili Island.

The island is located closest to Bali and is not very touristy as about. Gili Air, but in general there are quite a lot of locals living here.

On it you can visit more picturesque, green sights by the sea, but they are located 20-30 kilometers from the top of the island (where all boats and ferries sail).

Whereas on the Gili Islands, the only attraction is the turquoise sea and the underwater world.

view of Mount Agung from Nusa Penida

Also, you can take a diving or snorkeling excursion to Mant.

On the island you can find vegan food, pizza, European food, grilled fish, you can buy food at the market inexpensively.

Happy travel to Indonesia!

If you still have questions, write them under the article and I will answer them within a day.

Nusa Penida is our home and island in Indonesia, where our Freedive Nusa school is located. It is a small tropical island located 12 kilometers east of Bali. Administratively, together with the neighboring islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Cheningan, it belongs to the Klungkung district of the Bali province. The population is about 50 thousand people.

Separated from Bali by the Badung Strait. The dimensions of the island are approximately 19x13 km. The relief is represented by 3 plateaus: the first - on the northern coast, located at sea level; the second is in the center, with an average height of 400-450 m and the third is in the south, with an altitude of about 200 m.

The north coast is a coral plateau where algae are grown by the locals. The southern coast is cliffs rising almost vertically by 100-200 m.

The most inhabited is the northern coast of the island, the area between the two large villages Sampalan (the capital) and Toayapakeh (the only Muslim settlement on the island, all other villages are Hindu).

The climate is hotter and drier than Bali. The economy is based on Agriculture and fishing... Most of the population is engaged in the cultivation of algae on the coastal shallows in the sea.

Unlike Bali and neighboring Lembongan, tourism has not developed in Nusa Penida for a long time. The active exploration and development of Penida began quite recently and this, of course, affects its tourist infrastructure, primarily the quantity and quality of housing and catering establishments. Nusa Penida is Bali 20 years ago, with all the pros and cons that come with it.

How to get there

You need to get to Nusa Penida from Bali.

1) The easiest and most convenient way is speed boats from Sanur. The journey takes 30-40 minutes.

There is a pier in Sanur. From there speed boats leave for Lembongan, there are much more of them and go more often. It is important not to be confused.

Right at the entrance to the beach there is a booth selling tickets for flights of all companies. These are resellers who add their commission to the cost. To buy a ticket directly from the company, you need to go further to the left along the beach.

There are several companies coming to different piers on Penida along the Sampalan-Toyapakeh stretch of coast. We advise you to book a ticket by phone on the eve and arrive at the pier half an hour before departure (on weekends and holidays there is a large flow of tourists and then all tickets may be sold out).

Below is a list of transport companies, schedule and cost. Most of the boats come to Toyapakeh hamlet, with the exception of the Mola-Mola Express and Idola, both of which come to Sampalan.

Angel "s Billabong Fast Cruise
Cost - 150,000 IDR.
Contacts. Sanur: 0896-0250-9714, 0812-8050-0000. Nusa Penida: 0821-4404-8323.
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 07:00, 07:30, 09:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:30, 17:30
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 06:45, 08:00, 09:00, 13:00, 15:30, 16:30, 17:00

Semabu Hills Fast Cruises
Cost: 150,000 IDR one way.
Phone in Sanur: 082-144-975-411. Phone in Nusa Penida: 081-237-367-666.
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 07:15, 13:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 09:00, 17:00

Maruti express
Cost - 175,000 IDR one way.
Contacts. Sanur: 0812-3831-639, 0813-3875-4848. Nusa Penida: 0823-4022-8883.
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 07:30, 08:30, 10:00, 16:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 07:30, 09:00, 15:00, 16:30

Dwi manunggal
Cost - 175,000 IDR.
Contacts. Sanur: 0823-3971-5433. Nusa Penida: 081337618249.
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 08:00, 11:00, 15:30, 18:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 07:00, 09:00, 14:30, 17:00

El rey junior
Cost - 175,000 IDR.
Contacts. Sanur: 0823-3971-5433, 0361-4491372. Nusa Penida: 0813-3761-8249
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 08:00, 10:45, 15:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 09:15, 02:15, 17:00

Sri Rejeki Express
Cost - 150,000 IDR.
Contacts. Sanur: 0821-4698-5330, 0813-3950-3630. Nusa Penida: 0823-5915-1949
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 08:30, 13:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 10:00, 16:30

Crown Fast Cruises
Cost - IDR 400,000 one way, IDR 600,000 round trip. The price includes transfers in Bali and Nusa Penida.
Contacts. Sanur: 0812-4631-3507. Nusa Penida: 0813-3757-4445, 0858-5705-0533.
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 08:00, 11:00 15:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 09:30, 13:30, 16:30

Idola
Cost - 125,000 IDR.
Contacts. Sanur: 0878-6225-1814. Nusa Penida: 0878-6225-1815.

Sanur - Nusa Penida: 08:15, 10:30, 17:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 07:00, 13:00, 17:00

Mola-Mola Express

Cost - 125,000 IDR.
Contacts. Sanur: 0813-3744-2555. Nusa Penida: 0813-3744-3000.
Sanur - Nusa Penida: 08:30, 17:00
Nusa Penida - Sanur: 07:30, 16:00

2) The second option - on a large ferry from Padang Bai, is suitable for those who want to come to Penida with their own transport.

Cost: Rp 31,000 per person, Rp 48,000 per motorcycle, Rp 300,000 per car. First, you need to buy tickets for people separately at the box office, and then pay for transport when passing through the turnstiles.

Depart from Padang Bay at 11:00. Departure from Nusa Penida at 08:00. The journey takes just over an hour.

The schedule may vary, so it is best to arrive at least an hour before departure.

3) For those heading to Nusa Penida from the north or east of Bali, it is more convenient and closer to go through Kusamba or Tribuana. Sekar Jaya speed boats leave from Kusamba village (Kusamba - 0852-0555-2276, Nusa Penida - 0857-3829-7015). Pier on Nusa Penida in Sampalan. Cost - 100,000 IDR. The journey takes 20-30 minutes.

Kusamba - Nusa Penida: 07:30, 12:30, 15:30.
Nusa Penida - Kusamba: 07:00, 11:45, 15:00.

The Gangga Express departs from the neighboring village of Tribuana, located between Padang Bai and Sanur. (Tribuana - 0819-3626-1294, Sampalan on Nusa Penida - 0818-0546-4622.0812-3666-2476, Buyuk on Nusa Penida - 0853-3854-4577). Cost - 75,000 IDR.
Tribuana - Sampalan (Nusa Penida): 06:30, 07:00, 07:30, 08:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:30, 15:45
Sampalan (Nusa Penida) - Tribuana: 06:30, 07:00, 07:30, 12:30, 13:00, 14:15, 16:00
Tribuana - Buyuk (Nusa Penida): 08:30, 15:45
Buyuk (Nusa Penida) - Tribuana: 07:00, 12:30

4) You can also get to Nusa Penida from Lembongan. There is a public boat that departs early in the morning from Jungut Batu village and costs Rp 50,000 per person. Or you can arrange with a private boat, which will transport you at any time convenient for you, the distance between the islands is small. The cost of a private boat depends on your bargaining skills and the place of departure and can be in the range of 250-450 thousand per boat.

Accommodation

Our school is located in Desa Ped village between Sampalan and Toyapakeh. In our opinion, this is the most comfortable spot for life on an island where most of the foreigners are concentrated. There are several cafes and hotels of different levels. There are several small shops near the Pura Ped temple where you can buy fruits and vegetables. A kind of downtown island;) There is a clear sea, beautiful view on Bali and Agung volcano, no fuss, quiet and calm. At the same time, 15 minutes by motorbike to Sampalan or 10 minutes to Toyapakeh.

There is a hotel next to the school Ring Sameton Hotel... With large rooms with hot water and air conditioning, a swimming pool, a large territory and a morning buffet on breakfast. The cost is 600,000 and 1,000,000 Rp.

Around it is very quiet and calm. This is what might be called "editorial choice". The only problem is that they have only 6 houses and they are often busy.

Behind the fence are Tombool bungalows... Cost 350,000 Rp. Cozy and cute.

In the same neighborhood Cost - 250,000 and 350,000 Rp.

This location has the same benefits of a quiet, rural atmosphere.

Located 5 minutes walk from our school en route to Kul Kul, Timbool and Green Villa.

New houses. The cost is 350,000 IDR.

Nearby is Saren Villa... Cost from 350,000 IDR.

It can get noisy due to the bar next door. But nearby there is a delicious and inexpensive cafe The Gallery, which will especially appeal to vegans and vegetarians.

Most a budget option accommodation, but also the farthest in location (about 10 minutes walk from our school) -.

The rooms are very basic and clean. Rooms with a fan cost 150,000 IDR, air-conditioned rooms - 250,000 IDR. Breakfast is not included.

Next to us, right across the fence is located. Clean and well maintained guesthouse with very good-natured owners. The rooms are quite small with one and a half bed or two singles. There is one large family room with two beds. The cost of the rooms is 175,000, 250,000, 350,000 Rp.

All this is within walking distance from the school.

In other areas:

There are several guesthouses in Toyapakeh village from where it is 7-10 minutes by motorbike.

The capital of the island is the town of Sampalan. There are most of all inexpensive guesthouses, shops, morning market, main pier, etc. It is a small, but a city, with noise, rubbish, hustle and bustle. You don't really feel like you're here paradise island;) But if you plan to travel by bike, actively travel around the island and only spend the night in a hotel, then the option is quite acceptable.
Here, next to the Mola-Mola Express pier, there is a guesthouse owned by guys from Ukraine Artem and Oksana. The cost of the rooms is 200,000 Rp.

For lovers of luxury, there are several expensive and beautiful places in the western part of the island near Crystal Bay: Namaste Bungalow, Bintang Bungalow, Coco Resort, etc. For all their beauty, these hotels are located in the middle of the jungle and you have to go to any place. But if you want solitude in the middle of nowhere, this is the place for you.

In general, Nusa Penida is now very actively developing and new housing is being built throughout the island, including even its least inhabited southern part. All options can be viewed on booking or airbnb.

If you come to dive with us, we can help with booking on site. As is often the case, when booking on site, the cost can be lower than online.

Household moments

Residents who speak well English language, on the island a little. Therefore, in order to explain with the usual local residents unrelated to tourists, difficulties may arise. Many smart and good English speaking young people leave to live and work in Bali. But if you speak at least a little Bahasa Indonesia, it will make your life easier and make the prices on the market much lower;)

The island does not have the big shops and supermarkets that many of us are used to. Two local "big supermarkets" are in Sampalan and Toyapakeh called Nusa Permai. But the choice of products in them is very limited. So if you need some familiar or specific food, it is better to take it with you from Bali.

For that, there are morning markets in Sampalan and Toypakeh where you can buy everything you need from vegetables and fruits: bananas, papaya, mango (in season), dragon fruits, guiava, pineapples, herring, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, etc. ... The Toyapakeh market is also open in the evenings from 4 to 6.

Internet on the island is not very good good quality... Most guesthouses use mobile Internet, and its speed is highly dependent on the weather, well, and the will of the Balinese Gods. Telkomsel is the best mobile operator and provides stable 3G. Smaller coverage for Indosat and XL. Other operators on the island are closed.

There are several ATM machines. You can get a maximum of 2.5 million IDR for one ATM withdrawal. You can also change cash, but the rate will not be profitable. Better to do it in advance in Bali.

Where to eat

As described above, we are located in the "downtown" of the island and there are a lot of cafes around us. Next to us, right on the shore, is Penida Colada - one of the island's most popular cafes among Europeans. There are also 3 more cafes on the coast: Penida Minang, De Ku Bistro, Warung Pondok. Of these, De Ku is the most recommended.

Next to the Full Moon Bungalow is The Gallery, with good prices and delicious food, including a variety of vegan and vegetarian options such as tempé burgers.

One of our favorite cafes on the island is located in Sampalan and is called Art Rolling Ulam Segara. Nice prices, interesting interior and very tasty food, both Indonesian and European.

Another favorite place is called Boga Segara and is located beyond Sampalan on the way to the Goa Giri Putri cave. Bamboo gazebos on the edge of the cliff, offering beautiful views of Bali, low prices and delicious grilled fish.

Things to do

Most of the attractions of Nusa Penida are marked on Bali folk map from baliforum.ru (select Nusa Penida in the left column).

The most important thing, why it is worth coming here and why we are here is, of course, diving;) The diving sites of Nusa Penida are the best in Bali. Directly opposite the school is our SD home site with rich coral gardens and lots of underwater inhabitants. Video of our village above and below the water.

Here is a map of the island's dive sites.

A few kilometers south of Bali there are two small islands - Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, where we were going for quite a long time. We went literally a week before departure.

South bali islands

These islands are located next to each other, but most tourists travel to Nusa Lembongan from Sanur, from where all kinds of boats with a frightening price tag constantly go. WITH Nusa Penida things are a little more complicated, since a public Padang Bai ferry.

Location of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan

On own experience made sure that with enough time and curiosity, you can get to know the country better and still travel on a budget. Still, package tourism with excursions and "olinclusive" does not give any idea about the host country, life and inhabitants of this country. On this score, we have developed a whole philosophy, but about it sometime later. In general, we decided to first get to Penida with our bike, from there cross without a bike to Lembongan, then return to Penida and sail back to Bali.

To start with the unpopular Penida (there is little information on the Internet on this island, they looked mainly at Wikitrave l) we wanted for several simple reasons. The first, and most important, is the ancient Indonesian tradition of boobs: there are rumors on the Internet that Penidian women are still walking topless in public. In Bali, topless can only be seen women in a very respectable age and with a characteristic appearance for witches, perhaps they are.

The high quality roads were the following reason: Balinese Yamanayama destinations were a bit depressing after Thailand, and in the travel reports to Nusa Penida people write that the roads there are simply chic, super new and well built.

The third reason is shrouded in mystical secrets, however, like the island itself, which among the Balinese is considered cursed, a place of black magic and the legendary abode of the evil demon Jero Gede Macaling - with such and such a name it is not surprising. Yes, I wanted to see black magicians and steal dark Power from them. And may she be with me! =)

Padang Bay

Padang Bay is a port located in the eastern part of the island of Bali. From here there are daily public ferries to Lombok island (Lembar port - Lembar, which is a transit point to the famous tourist place- the islands of Gili) and Nusa Penida. Without your own transport you can get to Padang Bay by taxi, bemo (minibuses for locals), shuttle buses, for example, the Perama Tour company (from Ubud a ticket costs 50,000 rupees, other companies have about the same prices), which will be the most convenient and budgetary.

During the first reconnaissance sortie in Padang Bay, it was found out that the entrance to the port territory is guarded by police officers who slow down everyone and study documents. They scolded us for the lack of an international driver's license, but they immediately released us and threatened us with a finger, saying that next time all the documents would be in order. The next time, of course, they were again out of order (although we were honestly going to get local tourist rights, but the pumped-up corrupt officials scared us off) and they let us go with the same finger-like parting words.

After the police post, you can immediately go to the ticket booths, there is usually always a line of cars and bikes. In front of the ticket offices there are billboards with ticket prices, which indicate the cost per person / child and various types of transport.

Ferry prices from Padang Bay to Lombok and Nusa Penida.

Ferry prices

If you want to get on the ferry on your something with wheels, then you have to pay for transport and people with you. For example, we rode a bike together to Nusa Penida, we paid about 52,000 rupees, or about $ 6 (15,000 rp. For each plus 20,400 per bike). It is unclear why about 52 came out. Maybe the prices have changed a little, maybe the Balinese are jammed with change, they love it. We received paper tickets and electronic tickets with a magnetic stripe in our hands, which are then simply given to the control. Apparently, some kind of Balinese nanotechnology.

The search for a timetable led nowhere. With every step we just got overgrown with a crowd of captains and helped, offering tickets for speedboats or pointing to the box office. According to our observations, ferries run to Lombok every two hours from the very morning, but to Nusa Penida it was only at 14.30. We learned this on the day of our departure to Penida, when we arrived in Padang Bay at 8 am and bought tickets. As a result, I had to walk around the neighborhood for half a day, but they wandered alongside on. We also noticed a lot of homestays and some abundance of tourists.

The same beach from the ferry

Nusa Penida

Returning to the port an hour before sailing, they could not get in the right line for a long time, since no one really knew where the ferry would land. In the course there were only people in uniform with whistles, but then they turned the Nusapenid line to another entrance.

Then the ferry was loaded onto the ferry for a long time, despite the fact that inside the ship a team of ferrymen quickly guided the machines and rather quickly arranged the bikes. I did not have time to get off the bike when they gave me the keys and showed me where to go. We didn't stay on the passenger deck because of the noise, we went straight to the roof, where, following the example of the locals, we settled down on the floor. Then many of us secretly filmed on mobile phones, because we seem to be the only white people on board.

The back of the ferry. Transport deck

White people on the ferry

We are sailing away. Speedboats in Bali differ from Thai ones in that they are closed here.

Indonesian flag similar to Polish

We sailed somewhere closer to three o'clock and at more than four arrived at Nusa Penida in the port of Buyuk.

Port on Penida

At the exit from the port, the first disappointment awaited: the absence of the famous good roads... There were just pits lined with asphalt. I had to somehow maneuver between them. By the way, there were no topless women either, which disappointed Lena very much, since it was her fix idea. Lena even harbored a grudge against the Penid women. =)

Super steep Penid roads. It's still good!

We were heading to Toyapakeh village to inquire about the departure times for boats to Nusa Lembongan. The terrain along the way was full of abandoned and dilapidated houses and homestays. The environment was somewhat reminiscent of the landscapes from the game "Stalker", there were not enough people in chemical protection and mutant dogs. Although there weren't enough people in principle, there were occasional pick-ups and bikers who invariably shouted "Halo".

Nusa Penida Map

In Toyapaka, a captain was told that he had to arrive the next day at 6 in the morning, because the boat leaves at seven. Around the same time, the ticket office opens. In an attempt to find accommodation, they followed the captain, who first showed a room for 80,000 rupees, the window of which looked out into another room where the locals watched TV, then he took to the homestay, where there were quite decent bungalows for 150,000 rp with a fan and 250 000 with air conditioning. But we were busy with the fan, and did not want to overpay for the night.

Street to the pier in Toyapak

Pier in Toyapaka

In general, this was the end of housing in Toyapaka. I had to lull back to Bayuk and on the way to look for something suitable. Among the casts, there was a hotel proudly standing in the field, where there was a lot of staff and prices from 300,000. After the price list was announced and our crooked faces, the staff began to show us where to go for the "chip room", or rather, they began to catch up with us and shout that, they say, you have to go "there". While driving somewhere there, a guy followed us and offered us a room for 50,000, but with cold water ... but with a TV (in Bali, by the way, a rarity for ordinary homestays). His words were indescribably surprised, I long sought an answer from him whether he had confused something, showed the amount on the phone and even waved a 50,000 rp bill to make sure he hadn't gotten anything wrong.

Following him somewhere inland, after 15 minutes drive through the mountains, we ended up at a very decent homestay, where, judging by the reaction of those who met and slapped this guy, he obviously got something wrong, but he told us that everything is okay, pay later and gave a can of coffee mirinda.

Penida Mountains

Then I rode it on my bike, because it showed me where you can refuel with gas (here it is called "bensin", not petrol, as in Bali). According to his "Eeeee ... oops ... aaaaa!" and occasionally grabbing my clothes, I realized that I was driving too briskly for this area, although in Bali I always lag behind. But all the same, along the way, I'm now his best friend, as well as the Frenchman who checked out of the hotel in the morning. Only here it dawned on us that the phrase: “I have a friend from there,” the Indonesians really mean: “a couple of words have spilled over, and I know where he is from, although I have no idea who he is at all”. Sometimes the words are confirmed by a joint photo on a mobile phone.

An Indonesian family examined the rooms with us, the head of the family was filming everything on camera. When they were getting ready, a girl came up to me and asked her father to teach English, to which I replied that I myself was not particularly master Yoda and, apparently, this offended them.

Apartments in a wonderful hotel. Guest room with TV, bedrooms off-screen to the left

After checking into a miracle hotel, we went to have dinner, which also turned out to be not an easy task. We traveled around the port and the village of Sampalan, which is nearby, and found only a couple of Varungs. We took one of them by storm and ordered the classic nasi goreng ("fried rice" in Indonesian), paying 12,000 rp for two servings and two bottles of tea. Well, everything, I thought, the fairy tale began, with such and such a freebie in the prices for food and hotels. Although hotels in the port area started at 150,000 rubles, we found a superchip in the mountains.

One of the bedrooms. We had something like this, only more

This is a real Indonesian shower. It is called “mandi”. Water is collected in this micro-pool and then you pour water over yourself with a scoop. A toilet in the same perverted Indonesian style: standing, in Russia this is called an army one.

Nevertheless, in the evening in the "superchip" the show "mine yours do not understand" began. We thought that since it was so cheap, we could spend a night or two here, but there were completely different people in the reception house who were not there when we checked in: a young guy and an uncle. Realizing that a language barrier arose between us, I drew a comic strip about the fact that “I, sleep, room, two, night, and pay, the price, 100,000 rp.”. The guy leafed through the comic and said that this was never about Batman and the room costs 150,000 per night. Attempts to explain that I had been promised a different price did not lead to anything. Uncle's diplomatic actions - pouring two glasses of milk and giving a plate of cookies so that I could go to bed - were greeted with a cold wall of refusal from my side, and then they summoned a black demon, an English-speaking person who came and explained that the devil is that we are here brought, wildly tupanul and said the price for the Indonesians (for visitors it is three times more expensive, he confused us with the locals, well, it happens) and in general he is no one to call here (but his name sounds something like Mukak). After a short bickering, during which everyone froze, as a cold mountain wind was blowing, which witnessed our difficult conversation, an English-speaking Nusapenid dropped the price to 70,000 rp. and wrote a check for payment at my request, so that there would be no more misunderstandings. But first he threw off up to 100,000 rp, they say, the room has an air conditioner, but after my remark that he himself does not get a tooth on a tooth and in general we are somehow not hot, the Angloman said “well, if you don’t use the air conditioner, then 70 thousand ".

Reception house

With a slight seduction, but not without a share of joy for the winning bidding in the negotiations, we went to bed. In the morning, in the dark, we went to buy tickets for Nusa Lembongan and go there.

And for 34travel he talks about a ready-made travel recipe for the island of dreams - Nusa Penidu.

What does your dream island look like? Deserted beaches, soft waves, green hills, high cliffs; it seems that you are left alone or alone in the whole universe. Nusa Penida - an island 40 minutes from Bali - fits this description perfectly. Many believe that this is how Bali looked half a century ago: unknown for tourists, but keeping a unique beauty. After an hour of unsuccessful searches for a supermarket, the Internet, or at least gasoline, with difficulty making your way along unsuitable roads, you begin to feel like Robinson Crusoe and come up with alternative plans for survival. But when hunger no longer bothers you and you look around, you get the feeling that you are in an adventure film - where else you can dive into the depths and see the rarest mola-mola fish (moonfish), swim with manta rays (a kind of stingrays), talk to smiling local and freeze with delight, watching the waves gently roll up to the shore. The most amazing thing is that all this can be done in one weekend. All prices are in local currency, approximate ratio of Indonesian rupee to euro: 1 euro equals 16.000 rupees.

When to go?

By climatic conditions Nusa Penida is no different from Bali, which means that the high season starts in May and ends in September-October. Theoretically, you can go to Nusa Penida in our winter - in Bali, the rainy season reigns from October to March, but the temperature drops only a few degrees.

How to get to Nusa Penida?

There are several options, but the most convenient way to get there is the Mola-Mola Express boat, which departs from Sanur (Bali). By the way, you can take your scooter on board, which is very convenient. You can get there in 40 minutes, and it will cost you 250,000 IDR (€ 15) in both directions.

Where to stay?

Nusa Penida is considered a rather unexplored island: the choice of hotels is limited, not to mention hostels and restaurants. Most of civilization is located in the northwestern part of the island: the further south, the more deserted it becomes. Our favorite is the hostel Full Moon Bungalows (Jalan Raya Ped, Desa Ped, 80771 Nusa Penida, Indonesia) ... By the way, breakfast is included in the price, which makes it very easy to find food.

3 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Offering an outdoor pool and free WiFi, Saka Boutique Hotel is located in Nusa Penida, 15 km from Seganing Waterfall and 27 km from observation deck Pulau-Djerbu. I liked absolutely everything! lived from 12 to 14 March, rented two numbers, together with friends. Without hesitation, take and live with Sam Saki! confirmation comes as quickly as possible, after that you can contact him via WhatsApp, and this wonderful person helped us with everything: he organized a round-trip speedboat for us with a discount, organized a transfer from the hotel to the speedboat and the same thing upon returning to Bali, twice organized drivers for east tour and west tour, arranged a private boat for snorkeling, provided, if possible, a room where you could take a shower before departure. It was a pleasant surprise that we were met and taken to the pier with suitcases without asking for it. A wonderful hotel, fresh rooms, air conditioning, a safe, an excellent mattress, everything is in order, good plumbing (but be prepared for the fact that the bathroom needs to be locked with a key, since there is natural air conditioning of the room - a window without glass))) but this is not at all for us interfered with. Pool, sun loungers, balcony!) From the whole trip to Bali and nearby islands (two fives on Nusa Dua, four in Ubud, good hotel on Gili Trawangan) - it was Nusa Penida who conquered us and left the most vivid impressions, and Sam Saka undoubtedly contributed to this. Breakfast à la carte, normal, no frills, in general, like on the whole island. All in all, this is a wonderful person and a wonderful hotel! we recommended Sam Saku to all our friends and we will definitely come back to him again! Everything was great !!! We booked 2 rooms. Mr Sam Saka is a great host who helped us with everything: he made us a discount for the speadboat, organized transfer fro the hotel on Bali to speed boat two times (on the way to Nusa Penida and back), organized two cars for east and west tour trips, made a reservation for a private boat for snorkeling, kept us from and to speedboat harbor himself on his car. The hotel is great and new one. It was really great weekend. Thanks, Sam Saka, we will come back for sure and will recommend your hotel to everyone who is going to Bali!)

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Hotel Arsa Santhi Nusa Penida 3 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Offering an outdoor pool and terrace, Arsa Santhi Nusa Penida is located in Nusa Penida, 10 km from Seganing Falls, 18 km from Pulau Bay Viewpoint and 2.9 km from Dahlem Temple ... I liked the very prompt service, did not have time to book a room, but they were already going to meet me at the port. We settled in quickly. The room is clean and comfortable. The bed is very large and comfortable, I could not get up in the morning, as I wanted to soak up. Bed linen is white, clean. Basik, sun loungers, a towel - everything is in order! Toothbrushes, soap, shower gel are available.

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Kampuak Cottages 2 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

The 2-star Kampuak Cottages is located in Toyapakehe. It features a garden and terrace. The front desk of this 2-star hotel is open 24 hours a day. Great location, really pleasant and clean rooms, but the thing that makes this such a good place to stay are the staff. All of the people are incredibly helpful and generous with their time and advice. Thanks for making our visit to Kampuak Cottages that much better.

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Kamasan Cottage 3 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Kamasan Cottage Adults Only with garden and terrace is for adults only. This 3-star hotel provides concierge and ticketing services. Nice, new place, where we stayed for one night, when visiting Nusa Penida. Very friendly and, what’s important, very helpfull staff. Not far away from the harbor for walking but we were offered free pick up. The breakfast (included) very tasty. If you want to see the island, don’t hesitate, stay in Kamasan Cottage.

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Ogix cliff paradise 3 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Ogix Cliff Paradise is located in Nusa Penida, 11 km from Pulau Serbu Viewpoint. It offers a ticket office, non-smoking rooms, a garden, free Wi-Fi and a bar. Very friendly staff.

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Pradana Beach Inn Luxury 4 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Pradana Beach Inn Luxury is located in Nusa Penida, 17 km from Pulau Seribu Viewpoint. It offers non-smoking rooms, open pool, free Wi-Fi and a garden. Wonderful pool, lovely staff, comfortable rooms, beautiful ocean views, good breakfast.

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Pandawa Beach Resort and Spa Luxury 5 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Offering an outdoor pool, garden and terrace, Pandawa Beach Luxury Resort & Spa is located in Nusa Penida, 17 km from Pulau Djerbu Viewpoint. Responsive and nice staff, very tasty dishes in the restaurant, tomato soup is generally cool. The mini villas are nice and clean. So I liked everything when we drove, prepared for the worst, and arrived and went nuts! Well done guys !!!

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Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida 4 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Situated in the quiet hills of Nusa Penida, this hotel offers stunning views of the island and the sea. It features an infinity pool and a restaurant serving delicious Asian cuisine. Very large room. The hotel is very nice, nice view, good breakfast.

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Bintang Penida Resort 3 stars

Hotel in Nusa Penida

Offering a garden and bar, Bintang Penida Resort is located in Nusa Penida. The place is extraordinary. (Read details.) I dont think you will find a place like this for nusa penida. It is very clean. Bathroom is classy. With blue led light the furniture are all expensive and all class. Even the room furniture are all new and expensive. Everything is clean and every morning the staff clean your room. The pool is big great and clean. The towels quality is really good, soft and fluffy. You have towels at your bathroom your bed and at the pool. This you cant find at most of places. (Only 1 towel at your room normally). You have slippers at your room and dental kit .The staff is super friendly. They help with whatever you need. Another great thing is FOOD. Their plates are really delicious and cheap for penida. (1 avocado chicken salad + 1 pica margarita + 2 main dishes + a big bottle of water) not exceding 20 euros or 300k IDR for 2 ppl. Another thing to be mention is that they have pick up and drop off service from the harbor to hotel for free. (other hotels around 20 euros additional). Even if you are staying somewhere else l recomend eating here. Exeptional. You get more than you are paying for. Comparing to other places (l stayed at 2 places in penida). So everything is really good. No cons for this place. The owner and staff will make feel really good. What can l say more. 👌👌👌❤❤❤

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