Southeast of Bali, Indonesia, is a little island called Nusa Penida. It is recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes clear waters, spotless beaches, and steep terrain. It is a part of the Klungkung Regency district. In recent years, the island has seen a rise in tourism, especially from travelers looking for less traveled areas.

The most well-known sites in Nusa Penida include Crystal Bay, a fantastic location for snorkeling and diving, Angel’s Billabong, a natural pool created by a rocky reef, and Kelingking Beach, which is well-known for its unusual rock structure that resembles a T-Rex.

In addition, the island is home to a number of temples, including as the sacred Pura Dalem Ped and the Pura Goa Giri Putri, both of which are housed in caves.

Regular ferries sailing from Sanur and Padang Bai can take you from Bali to Nusa Penida via water. Although the island’s tourism infrastructure is still in its infancy, there are an increasing number of guesthouses and eateries that welcome tourists. Visitors should be informed that the island’s roads can be difficult to maneuver, thus it is advised that they hire a local guide or driver to show them around.

Here is a brief history timeline of Nusa Penida:

• Prehistoric times: Nusa Penida is believed to have been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of human activity dating back to at least 20,000 years ago.
• Ancient times: Nusa Penida was part of the ancient Balinese kingdom of Gelgel, which ruled over much of Bali and surrounding islands from the 14th to the 18th century.
• Dutch colonial era: In the 19th century, Nusa Penida and Bali were colonized by the Dutch, who established a number of plantations on the islands.
• Indonesian independence: Indonesia gained independence from the Dutch in 1949, and Nusa Penida became part of the newly-formed Republic of Indonesia.
• Modern era: In recent years, Nusa Penida has become an increasingly popular tourist destination, with a growing number of hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses opening on the island.

On Nusa Penida, travelers have a range of lodging choices, including inexpensive guesthouses, moderate hotels, and opulent villas.

The northern and western beaches of Nusa Penida are the most well-liked places for tourists to stay because they provide simple access to some of the island’s most well-liked attractions, including Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay.

On Nusa Penida, the following are among of the tourism hotspots:

• Jungut Batu: This is the main tourist area on the island, located on the north coast. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury villas, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.
• Crystal Bay: This area is located on the west coast of the island, and is popular with tourists seeking a quieter, more secluded experience. There are a few small guesthouses and resorts in the area, as well as some restaurants and shops.
• Atuh Beach: This area is located on the eastern coast of the island and is known for its stunning scenery and secluded location. There are a few guesthouses and resorts in the area, as well as some restaurants and cafes.

In general, Nusa Penida’s tourism infrastructure is still being built, so visitors shouldn’t anticipate the same level of amenities and services as they would find in more established tourist areas. Yet, the island is a well-liked location for tourists looking for an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience because of its natural beauty and distinctive cultural legacy.

Nusa Penida offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do on the island:

1. Visit the beaches: Nusa Penida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Indonesia, including Kelingking Beach, Atuh Beach, and Crystal Bay. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
2. Snorkeling and diving: Nusa Penida’s clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, coral reefs, and even manta rays. There are a number of snorkeling and diving operators on the island that offer guided tours.
3. Explore the natural attractions: In addition to the beaches, Nusa Penida is home to a number of other natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and cliffs. Some of the most popular attractions include Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Peguyangan Waterfall.
4. Visit the temples: Nusa Penida is also home to a number of temples, including Pura Goa Giri Putri, which is located inside a cave, and Pura Dalem Ped, which is a sacred temple known for its unique architecture.
5. Take a boat tour: Visitors can take a boat tour around the island to see some of its most scenic spots, such as the towering cliffs and hidden coves.
6. Go on a trek: Nusa Penida has some great trekking opportunities, with several trails leading through the island’s rugged terrain and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Experience the local culture: Visitors can learn more about the island’s unique culture by attending a traditional dance performance or visiting a local village.

Nusa Penida has a variety of accommodations for travelers, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some of the most famous hotels in Nusa Penida:

1. Semabu Hills Hotel: This luxury hotel is located on a hilltop overlooking the ocean and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It has a pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, as well as spacious and comfortable rooms.
2. Kompyang Cottage: This mid-range hotel is located in the village of Ped and offers comfortable rooms and bungalows with private bathrooms and air conditioning. It also has a pool and a restaurant.
3. La Roja Bungalows: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the village of Toyapakeh and offers clean and simple rooms with private bathrooms. It has a garden and a terrace, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge area.
4. Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Day Spa: This luxury resort is located on the neighboring island of Nusa Lembongan, which is just a short boat ride away from Nusa Penida. It offers spacious villas with private pools, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
5. Sawit Garden Cottages: This budget guesthouse is located in the village of Ped and offers clean and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. It has a garden, a terrace, and a shared kitchen.
6. The Dafish Accommodation Bar & Cafe: This mid-range hotel is located in the village of Jungut Batu and offers stylish and modern rooms with private bathrooms. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a pool.
7. Maua Nusa Penida – This is a 5* category hotel which is innaugrated in 2021. The hotel is managed by renowned Swiss Bel chain.

Also, read – Nusa Penida vs Gili Island