There are plenty of things to do on the Nusa islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan, a cluster of small holiday islands around 20 km off the southeast coast of mainland Bali. You’ll find pristine beaches with coarse white sand, soaring cliff viewpoints, and sea views that can get very idyllic at sunset. The island also has a mysterious underground house, lush mangrove forests, and seafood farming villages.
On Nusa Lembongan, surfers can enjoy along its northwest coast, while divers can explore vivid reefs off its southwestern coasts and around the neighbouring island of Nusa Penida. You can join a single-day cruise or opt for an overnightstay.
Angel’s Billabong
It’s a good idea to explore Beach first, where you can enjoy a view of natural limestone arches over the blue waters. A trail (with signposts) will lead you to Angel’s Billabong from the beach. You can enjoy a dip in the rock pools or swim around the entire lagoon if you’re feeling adventurous.
You’ll most likely have this natural infinity pool all to yourself on your visit, but swim only. It’s also a good idea to wear reef shoes as the seaweed-covered rocks can get rather slippery. If it’s high tide, the spectacular scene of waves against the jagged rocks is still viewable from the top.
Crystal Bay is the name of a secluded cove with a 200-metre stretch of sand on the west coast of Nusa Penida. Despite its isolation, the bay is quite accessible thanks to well-developed roads. Besides its beautiful, palm-fringed beach, the bay is best known as one of Nusa Penida’s famous snorkelling and dive sites.
The sea is safe to swim in close to the shore and during calmer tides, with crystal-clear waters (hence its name). Divers praise the superb visibility, sometimes down to 30 metres.
Crystal Bay is a short drive west from the Coco Resort Penida. This is one of the very few resorts on the island’s western region. Down at the sand beach.
