Holiday in Nusa Penida

What makes Nusa Penida special as a destination?

Nusa Penida, the largest of the three Nusa Islands southeast of Bali, is a wild, unspoiled island with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and an underwater world that is among the best diving spots in Bali. The boat ride from Sanur takes about 45 minutes and leads to a landscape that is fundamentally different from the green, gentle Bali — here, rugged limestone coasts and dry hills dominate. Kelingking Beach, also known as T-Rex Bay, is the most photographed spot on the island: A jagged rock formation that resembles a dinosaur head from above drops steeply to a pristine white sand beach, washed by turquoise water. The steep descent to the beach is challenging, but the view from the cliff alone is worth the visit. Broken Beach impresses with a natural rock arch over the sea, while the nearby Angel's Billabong is a natural infinity pool in the cliffs. The waters off Nusa Penida are famous for encounters with manta rays at Manta Bay, where the majestic creatures circle year-round at cleaning stations. Between July and October, there is a chance to spot the rare and giant sunfish (Mola Mola) at Crystal Bay. The island is also home to the endangered Bali Starling, for which a breeding program is operated at the Pura Dalem Ped temple. The roads on the island are partly unpaved, so renting a scooter or hiring a private driver is recommended.