Nusa Penida Island In Bali : Travel Guide & How To Visit
Nusa Penida Island in Bali is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and spiritual significance. The name “Nusa Penida” translates to “island of priests” in Balinese, reflecting its historical connection to local religious beliefs. Once considered the “black magic island,” Nusa Penida was believed to be inhabited by dark spirits, which were cast out by Balinese priests. Despite these negative connotations, the island remains an important religious destination, embodying the Balinese belief in the balance between good and evil in the universe.
Today, Nusa Penida is known for its stunning landscapes, including iconic attractions like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach. These sites attract visitors from around the world, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration. However, beyond its natural beauty, Nusa Penida also boasts a rich spiritual heritage, with temples dedicated to the dark spirits once believed to inhabit the island. These temples serve as a reminder of the island’s complex cultural history and its enduring spiritual significance.
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A Brief Introduction to Nusa Penida
The name “Nusa Penida ” translates to “island of priests” in Balinese, a nod to the island’s historical significance as a spiritual center. However, Nusa Penida is also a place of great natural beauty, with lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and stunning beaches that rival any in Bali.
Getting to Nusa Penida
The most common way to reach Nusa Penida is by boat from Bali. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes by fast boat from Sanur Beach, or around 90 minutes by public ferry from Padang Bai. However, once you reach the island, know that getting around can be a bit challenging, as the roads are often rough and undeveloped. However, this only adds to the sense of adventure and thrill that truly defines Nusa Penida.
Where to Stay?
While Nusa Penida is still relatively undeveloped in terms of tourism infrastructure, there are accommodation options available for those looking to spend their vacation here. Here, you’ll find everything from simple guesthouses to more upscale resorts, something for every budget and taste on the island. Some popular options that you can consider are D’Lebah Homestay, Penida Bambu Green, and Kompyang Cottage, all of which offer comfortable accommodations and a taste of authentic Balinese hospitality.
Exploring Nusa Penida
One of the highlights of any trip to Nusa Penida is exploring its stunning natural beauty. The island is home to a number of breathtaking attractions, including :
- Kelingking Beach: Arguably one of the most iconic beaches in Bali, Kelingking Beach is famous for its stunning cliff formations and crystal-clear waters. To reach the beach, you’ll need to cross a steep and challenging hike down the cliffside, but the best part is the views from the top that are all worth the effort.
- Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach: These two natural rock formations are located on the western coast of Nusa Penida and are two of the most popular spots for swimming and snorkeling. Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool, while Broken Beach is a natural rock arch that offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
- Crystal Bay: Located on the northwest coast of Nusa Penida, Crystal Bay is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The bay is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
Travel Tips
Here are some travel tips that will help you make the best out of your trip to Nusa Penida:
- Bring Cash: There are few ATMs in Nusa Penida, so it’s best to bring enough cash to cover your expenses for the duration of your stay on the island. As per my experience Rp150 – 200K would be enough for per person/day.
- Stay Sun Protected: The sun in Bali remains all strong and shiny, so make sure to keep yourself protected with a hat, and sunscreen (at least SPF 50, PA+++). And in case you’re participating in activities like biking, wear a thin layer of clothing with full sleeves.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Nusa Penida can get extremely hot and humid, so make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- A good pair of footwear will make everything easy: When in Nusa Penida, know that you’d need both – a comfortable pair of walking shoes to get on those treks and flip-flops to go easy-breezy on the island. So try to bring a pair od each, if possible.
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Conclusion
Nusa Penida is a destination like no other, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Nusa Penida has something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Nusa Penida today and discover the magic of this enchanting island for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
Q. How can I get to Nusa Penida from Bali?
A. Before commencing your journey, know that Nusa Penida is an offshore island. Hence, you will need to take a boat from the main Bali island to reach Nusa Penida.
Q. Can you explore Nusa Penida on your own?
A. Although for most people, visiting Nusa Penida means taking a guided tour from Bali, you can explore the island quite on your own. Just make sure to stay vigilant and follow all the safety measures.
Q. How many days do you need in Nusa Penida island?
A. If you want to get the best of Nusa Penida island, make sure to spend at least 3-4 days on the island.
Q. Is Nusa Penida worth a visit?
A. Absolutely yes! Nusa Penida features a whole lot of stunning landscapes with breathtaking views. Plus, you can also find various fun activities to engage yourself in.
Q. Can Nusa Penida be done in 1 day?
A. If you thoroughly want to explore Nusa Penida, you’ll need at least 2 days. But if you are running short on time and have only one day to spare, Nusa Penida can be done in 1 day.
Q. Is Nusa Penida safe at night?
A. The island is moderately safe at night. The locals here are quite friendly and most areas are generally safe. But note that it gets quite dark at night as there are no street lights here. Hence, avoid getting out late at night.
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