These Stunning Islands Near Bali Have Crystal-Clear Waters, Rugged Cliffs, and Epic Diving

Having lived in Indonesia for 3.5 years, I spent a lot of time on the Nusa Islands (Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida) and they quickly became some of my favourite places in the world. I first fell in love with the incredible scuba diving, the laid-back pace of life, and how different the Nusa Islands are from the hustle of mainland Bali.

Just a short 30-minute boat ride from Bali’s Sanur, the Nusa Islands offer an escape that feels like a completely different world. From crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines to quieter beaches and more relaxed vibes, these islands are perfect for anyone looking for a more peaceful, adventurous getaway. Whether you’re diving into the vibrant underwater world or simply soaking up the serene atmosphere, you’ll quickly see why the Nusa Islands are so special.

The Nusa Islands offer something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or simply soaking up the island vibe. Here’s how I like to spend my time on these incredible islands:

Lembongan offers the perfect blend of activity and tranquility. For a more active day, I love JungutBatu Beach, where you can catch some waves or just enjoy the bustling beach scene. After a few hours of exploring or surfing, I head to The Deck Café & Bar for fresh seafood and one of the best sunset views on the island. Whether you’re enjoying a meal or just sipping on a drink, the view is absolutely unforgettable.

For a more scenic experience, I always cross the Yellow Bridge that connects Ceningan to Lembongan. One of the highlights is the Blue Lagoon, known for its striking cliffside views and clear water. If you’re in the mood for something more secluded, you can find a hidden beach just a short walk away. 

Walking or biking across it lets you explore the local life and discover hidden cafés and quirky shops along the way. Sea Breeze, just across the bridge, is my go-to beach bar for a frozen cocktail (try the strawberry daiquiri!) and a laid-back vibe.

Penida is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island’s rugged terrain and untouched beauty are truly one-of-a-kind. I never miss a trip to KelingKing Beach, with its jaw-dropping view from the cliffs. The hike down is challenging, but the reward is totally worth it. 

After that, Angel’s Billabong offers a chance to swim in a natural infinity pool with dramatic cliffs surrounding you. Broken Beach, with its archway and stunning views, is perfect for those iconic photos.

For diving enthusiasts, Penida is home to Manta Point, one of the best dive sites in the world. Swimming with manta rays here is a surreal experience I’ll never forget.

The Nusa Islands are home to some of the most stunning beaches in Bali, each offering its own unique vibe and beauty. These are some of my favorite spots. 

One of the most beautiful spots on Lembongan, Dream Beach is tucked away in a peaceful corner of the island. With its soft golden sand and turquoise waters, it’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, or snapping a few photos. The beach is quieter than the more-popular JungutBatu Beach, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds. You can also grab a drink at one of the small cafes nearby while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Ceningan is a quieter island with plenty of hidden gems, and Secret Beach is one of them. This little-known cove is a true hidden paradise. The water here is calm and clear, ideal for a swim or just lounging on the sand. The vibe is super relaxed, and because it’s off the beaten path, you won’t find as many tourists. 

Penida is known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline, and KelingKing Beach (also called T-Rex Bay) is one of its most famous sights. The view from the top is breathtaking, with a unique rock formation that resembles a T-Rex’s head. The water here is a stunning shade of blue, and although the beach itself is small, it’s worth the trek for the jaw-dropping scenery.

The Nusa Islands have some seriously great places to eat, whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a laid-back beachside vibe, or something local and delicious. Here are some of my top picks:

Hai Bar & Grill: This beachfront spot is perfect for a relaxed meal with some of the freshest seafood around. It’s got a chilled vibe, and the sunset views make it even better.

The Deck Café & Bar: A great place to kick back with an ocean view and enjoy everything from fresh salads to hearty mains. It’s one of those places where you just don’t want to leave.

Tigerlillys: If you’re in the mood for brunch, this is the spot. They’ve got a perfect mix of Indonesian and Western dishes, and the atmosphere is so welcoming.

Sea Breeze Ceningan: If you want to sip cocktails by the pool with a view of the ocean, this is your place. The food’s delicious too – try the Indonesian dishes for something local and tasty.

Suku Beach Club: Grab a pizza here and unwind by the beach. The place has a lovely, laid-back vibe, especially if you want to enjoy a sunset with a good meal.

Dungki Bendega Resto: A bit off the beaten path, but totally worth it. It’s perfect for a cozy, authentic meal in a peaceful setting.

The Chill Penida: True to its name, this place has a relaxed vibe, great international and local dishes, plus live music on weekends. Definitely a great spot for a long lunch.

Mambo Beach Restaurant: Ideal for a happy hour with a view and good food to match. The variety here means everyone’s happy.

Warung Lonto: If you’re after something local and affordable, this is the place. You can’t go wrong with the nasi goreng here.

The Nusa Islands are great to visit year-round, but the best time really depends on what you’re after.

This is the best time for sunny days, clear waters, and great diving conditions. It’s peak season, so it can get busy, but it’s perfect for beach lovers and underwater explorers.

For fewer crowds but still excellent weather, these months are ideal. You’ll enjoy sunny days, with the occasional light rain, and the seas remain calm for diving.

The quietest time on the islands, with fewer tourists. While you’ll get some rain, it’s still warm, and you’ll have the islands mostly to yourself.

Here are a few tips to help make your trip to the Nusa Islands as smooth as possible:

The Nusa Islands are just a short 30-minute boat ride from Sanur in Bali. You can easily catch a fast boat from several operators, but be sure to book in advance during peak season. The boat ride is an adventure in itself with stunning views of the coastline. It can get a little rocky, so bring travel sickness pills! 

The Nusa Islands are small and easy to explore. You can rent a scooter or bike to get around, or take a local boat to hop between the islands. Just make sure to drive carefully, as the roads can be a bit bumpy. On Penida in particular, the roads aren’t well maintained, so I recommend hiring a driver unless you’re a confident motorbike driver. 

The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and while most places on the islands accept card, so be sure to carry enough cash for smaller purchases. ATMs are available on Lembongan, but you may not find one on Ceningan or Penida, so bring extra cash just in case.

If you’re visiting Indonesia as a tourist, you’ll need a visa. Most countries can get a 30-day visa on arrival, but check the latest visa requirements before you travel. You can easily extend your visa if you decide to stay longer.

A day trip from Bali is doable but not recommended. You can take a morning boat from Sanur, explore the islands for the day, and return in the evening. However, if you want to really take in the islands’ beauty, I recommend staying at least one night to fully experience the laid-back vibe.

The easiest way to hop between the islands is by local boat. There are small, traditional boats that operate between Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida. You can hire one for the day or find a boat at the docking areas.

I’d recommend at least 2-3 days to fully explore and relax. While you can see the highlights in one day, the islands are best enjoyed at a slower pace.