Where to Stay on Nusa Penida Island

Skip the day trip– you’ll want to spend a few nights, here’s where to stay on Nusa Penida Island.

Just 45 minutes by ferry off the coast of Bali, Nusa Penida has quickly become a must-visit destination. Known for its dramatic cliffside views and high chances of spotting manta rays from Crystal Bay it has seen more and more travelers arriving each year.

You’ll want to spend a few days here to witness the sunsets over the famous T-Rex Beach and explore more hidden gems like the Tembeling Natural Pool. The four main areas to stay in are Toyapakeh, Crystal Bay, and Batununggul which offer accommodations for all budgets.

In this guide, I’ll break down where to stay on Nusa Penida and highlight the best things to do for each location.

The Different Areas to Stay in Nusa Penida

• Toyapakeh: Perfect for those who have just arrived on the island or are looking for an area for nightlife, shops, cafes, and restaurants. A great starting point to explore the island from as it is the location of the main ferry terminal. The area offers a range of accommodations for all budgets and easy access to other areas on the island.
• Crystal Bay: With its turquoise waters with tropical fish, turtles, and manta rays, this area is perfect for more off-the-beaten-track adventures. An ideal area for exploring nearby attractions like Kelingking Beach, it offers a laid-back vibe and is great if you want to escape from the crowds and relax in nature.
• Batununggul: Offering a tropical escape on the northeastern coast. With beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe, it’s an excellent choice for couples and solo travelers wanting to witness picturesque sunsets whilst sipping cocktails from beachside bars.
• Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach: Located on the southeastern coast, this area features dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and some of the island’s most stunning beaches. While it’s a bit farther from shops and nightlife, it’s an ideal spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature in a less developed area.

Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Nusa Penida

With its dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, and abundant marine life, I recommend spending at least a few days on Nusa Penida to check out all the spots and activities.

Before you arrive here's what you need to know!

• How to get here: You can get to Nusa Penida from Bali on a day trip or take a regular ferry from Bali. Speed boats run from Sanur, typically taking around 45 minutes depending on the weather.
• Entrance/parking fees: At almost every beach and attraction, you have to pay a 10,000 IDR entrance fee. This is normal and prices may vary depending on the season.
• Transport: Renting a scooter is the best way to get around. But be prepared for challenging roads.
• Cash is King: ATMs are limited and can be unreliable. The best ATMs are in Toyapakeh. I recommend bringing enough cash for your stay.
• Food and Water: Stick to bottled water and try local warungs (small restaurants) for affordable and delicious meals.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (April to October) offers the best weather for snorkeling, diving, and outdoor activities.
• Safety: Roads can be rough, and medical facilities are basic. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Crowds: Visit popular spots like Kelingking Beach early in the morning to avoid the swarms of crowds.

Toyapakeh: Best for first-time visitors

Toyapakeh is well-known as being one of the most developed areas to stay in Nusa Penida. It's the perfect location to stay for first-time visitors, couples, and backpackers looking for an area with an abundance of shops, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

It offers many accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to 5-star villas with exceptional views. Due to the location being the main drop-off for the ferries from Bali, it is a convenient location as the first stop for staying on Nusa Penida.

Best Things to Do Near Toyapakeh

• Snorkeling Point - Check out this incredible snorkeling spot with colorful tropical fish and even the chance to spot turtles and manta rays. The best time to visit is early morning before the tour boats arrive.
• Tembeling Natural Pool - One of our favorite places to visit on Nusa Penida due to its solitude and calmness. This natural rock pool offers breathtaking views over the ocean and a small secluded beach accessible by motorbike or a steep walk.
• Gamat Bay - The perfect place to spend the morning snorkeling alongside turtles and tropical fish. Get here early as it is a popular stop for most tour boats throughout the day.
• Sunset at Amarta Penida - Everyone has heard of Amok Sunset Bar but we found AMARTA to be just as spectacular for sunset and cocktails. You can capture beautiful photographs whilst standing near the large candi bentar without the queues and enjoy delicious meals from the open balcony overlooking the ocean.
• Deep Roots Yoga - Decompress with an early or late afternoon yoga class at Deep Roots Yoga. Classes are catered to all levels and the grounds where classes are held are spectacular. An on-site pool is the perfect place to cool off after your session before heading back to reality.
• Freediving- Book a freediving trip with Freedive Nusa at their freediving school. This is an awesome way to learn how to free dive properly and you might just be lucky enough to spot a manta ray on your trip.

Where to Stay in Nusa Penida Harbour (Toyapakeh Harbor)

Below are my top picks for the best places to stay in Toyapakeh for all budgets.

1. Pramana Natura

An unreal choice located in a quiet area perfect for couples looking to relax with a romantic stay. Guests can enjoy the ultimate relaxation with an on-site spa and order delicious meals at the restaurant. It also has an incredible infinity pool which is perfect for watching the sunset.

2. Sawit Garden Cottages

A short drive from Toyapakeh Harbor this cozy, budget-friendly accommodation offers free WiFi, a small pool, comfortable beds, and a delicious breakfast each morning. An ideal choice for travelers looking for a peaceful stay in the heart of Toyapakeh.

3. Nuansa Penida Hostel

Ideal for those on a tight budget! Located just a short drive from the harbor with many nearby cafes and restaurants it is great for those looking to meet other like-minded travelers. A great base to explore the island from as it offers superb prices.

Crystal Bay - Best for Adventurers

Crystal Bay is a top choice for those who enjoy nature, snorkeling, diving, and incredible sunsets. This epic bay is located on the west coast of Nusa Penida and is famous for its unreal turquoise waters, beautiful white sand beaches, and abundance of marine life including manta rays and turtles.

The area is quiet and calm and hidden away from the more popular tourist areas. We found this to be a great base during our stay on the island as it was only a short drive to nearby attractions like Angel's Billabong, Broken Beach, and Kelingking Beach. The accommodations in the area cater to all budgets and it's conveniently only a 20-minute drive from Toyapakeh Harbour.

Best Things to Do Near Crystal Bay

• Crystal Bay Snorkeling: With some of the best visibility and corals on the island of Nusa Penida Crystal Bay is the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling.
• Pandan Beach: Just a short 15-minute walk from Crystal Bay Beach you'll find this hidden gem which offers pristine white sand and turquoise waters with fewer crowds.
• Peguyangan Waterfall: Visit this unique seaside waterfall (sacred spring) that is recognized as a sacred water temple located at the bottom of a steep set of blue stairs. A great place to visit but be mindful of clothing as covering is needed.
• Kelingking Beach: Just a 15 km drive away from Crystal Bay you'll find the iconic T-Rex-shaped beach. Be sure to visit early as this gets very crowded, I must also add that there are many monkeys here so keep your belongings close!
• Angel’s Billabong: Explore the natural infinity pool near Broken Beach. A great spot for sunset and a photographer's dream!

Where to Stay Near Nusa Penida's Crystal Bay

Below are my top picks for the best places to stay near Crystal Bay to enjoy incredible beaches and jungle adventures!

1. Atalaya Villas

An ideal adults-only pick for couples looking for a romantic stay. Offers unbeatable views over the ocean and jungle with private infinity pools, large bedrooms with breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.

2. Crystal Bay Bungalows

Private air-conditioned bungalows for a low cost with an outdoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant in a great location just 600 m from the beach.

3. Penida Bay Village

A great budget choice surrounded by lush jungle with an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful private cottages, located just a 700 m walk from Crystal Bay Beach.

Batununggul: Great Option for a Tranquil Getaway

Batununggul is located on the northeastern coast of Nusa Penida and is the ideal area to stay for a luxurious and tranquil getaway. This region of the island is known for its upscale accommodations, stunning beaches, and more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier areas like Toyapakeh.

Batununggul offers a range of hotels, beach clubs, and restaurant options. It is the perfect area for couples and solo travelers looking for a luxurious experience. However, in saying this there are still many hostels for those who don't want to break the bank.

Things to Do When Staying in Batununggul

• Goa Giri Putri Temple: Visit this extraordinary 300 m cave temple between 7 am to 5 pm. A sarong is needed and can be hired on arrival.
• Cactus Beach Club: Enjoy delicious cocktails and a laid-back beach vibe. There is a pool which is perfect for cooling off as the tide can become low along the coastline in front of the club making it hard to access the beach.
• Visit Local Markets: Explore the traditional Balinese markets with fresh produce. Sample some fruits and local food that may be new to you. We found the best market to be the Night Market which is open from 4 pm to 11 pm.

Where to Stay in Batununggul

Here are my top recommendations for travelers looking for a tranquil escape along the coastline of Batununggul!

Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach: Best for Beach & Nature Lovers

Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach are located on the southeastern coast of Nusa Penida and a paradise for beach lovers. It has some of the most breathtaking scenery on all of the island with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and stunning white sand beaches.

I must note that during recent years the popularity of the beaches and new roads being built has allowed more tourists to flood the area which has impacted the laid-back atmosphere significantly. However, this is still an unbelieve place to base yourself if you don't mind crowds.

Best Things to Do Near Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach:

• Jogglo Viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views over Diamond Beach from this viewpoint. It is well worth the short walk and there are some swings along the way which make for an epic photo opportunity.
• Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach: Trek down the steep steps to these hidden gems. Many people stop at the top for the views but they're even more beautiful from the bottom
• Suwehan Beach: Explore the more hidden and lesser-known Suwehan Beach just 25 minutes drive from Diamond Beach. You'll most likely have the beach to yourself since the walk down is not for the faint-hearted with over 350+ steps.
• Thousand Island Viewpoint: Take in the beautiful coastline after a steep but short walk to the viewing area.

Where to Stay near Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach

Here are my top recommendations for staying around Diamond Beach or Atuh Beach area which is perfect for travellers looking for incredible cliffside views and picturesque accommodations.

1. Diamond Beach Villas

The perfect choice for those traveling in large groups/families with multiple-room villas. With a large outdoor swimming pool, comfortable bedrooms with kitchenettes, and just a 500 m walk from Diamond Beach.

2. Kaje Cottage

Hidden amongst the lush jungle these beautifully decorated & spacious bungalows are the ideal place for couples or friends. With air-conditioning and an on-site restaurant and just 1.5 km to Diamond and Atuh Beach, it's a great value-for-money pick.

3. Tropical Glamping Nusa Penida

It doesn't get much better than a cliffside glamping pet-friendly escape! The bungalow provides a netted seating area, private bathroom, spacious sleeping area, and a free shuttle service. The views here are magnificent especially those at sunrise.

I hope you have enjoyed this accommodation guide to where to stay on Nusa Penida.

For more travel guides, adventure inspiration, and activity ideas in Indonesia, check out some of my other articles below!