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Is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting? This is one of the most common questions asked by travelers exploring Bali. The Nusa Islands are only a 20-minute fast boat ride away from Sanur on Bali’s east coast. But is it worth leaving Kuta behind to set sail to Nusa Lembongan?
If you are keen to party and experience the wilder side of Indonesia, then perhaps you should stick to Kuta Bali, or maybe try Gili Trawangan. But if you want to discover somewhere magical and get those iconic IG shots of Indonesia, then Lembongan is the best place to go.
The Nusa Islands are a chain of three: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida. They are set to a much quieter pace and take “island time” to a whole new level. Prepare to be blown away as your boat arrives in Nusa Lembongan; you’ll kick off your shoes to jump off the boat directly into the crystal clear waters, setting foot directly on to Jungut Batu Beach.
From white and golden sands to cliff side accommodations, vibrant corals and epic waves – Nusa Lembongan has a lot to offer! So is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting? It’s a definite “hell yeah” from us! In fact, it’s quite possibly the most stunning location to make a trip to Indonesia worth it. Here are 7 unique reasons why you should be adding Nusa Lembongan to your travel wish-list!
Nusa’s Beaches Are Dreamy
Golden sandy beaches with turquoise waters gently lapping at the shoreline. Picture a perfect tropical island are you’ve got Nusa Lembongan. The beaches are significantly better than what mainland Bali has to offer – there’s no black sand insight. And just because the island is small, it doesn’t mean you haven’t got choices.
All of the beaches on the Nusa Islands are dreamy and mesmerizing. They are perfect for sunbathing, relaxing with a cocktail in hand, and escaping from reality for a moment. Trust us, you’ll leave a piece of your heart behind on Lembongan and these Indonesian islands.
Be sure to check out Dream Beach and Mushroom Bay. Warungs and beach bars line the waterfronts so you can always be sure of grabbing a refreshing juice or Bintang.
If you want to catch the best sunset, head to the main beach, Jungut Batu, and watch the sun turn the ocean on fire. From here you also get an amazing view of Bali and Mount Agung volcano. This is most visible in the early morning hours before the heat haze rolls in.
Follow The Yellow Bridge To Nusa Ceningan
Follow the yellow brick road. Or in Nusa’s case, the Yellow Bridge! Nusa Ceningan is the smallest of the Nusa Islands and you can walk to it via the famous Yellow Bridge. The bridge alone is a sight to be seen; almost an Indonesian equivalent of San Fran’s Golden Gate Bridge.
This suspension bridge connects the two Nusa islands and is, non surprisingly, painted bright yellow. It’s only wide enough for bikes and foot traffic which makes the roads over on Nusa Ceningan extremely quiet. This bridge is important for the local culture and is often part of ceremonies between Lembongan and Ceningan.
Most people rent a scooter and ride across the bridge – just don’t look down! Once over on the other side, you’ll find quiet roads and relaxing bars. Head to Mahana Point to prove your bravery with some cliff jumping, or simply sit back and enjoy the show.
Nusa Ceningan is great for a day trip to experience more of what Nusa Lembongan has to offer, or perhaps a romantic getaway for couples. It’s quieter than Nusa Lembongan but offers just as much beauty across the small island.
Devil’s Tear and Blue Lagoon
Besides beaches, no guide to Nusa Lembongan is complete without mentioning the truly unusual natural beauty spots. Devil’s Tears and Blue Lagoon are two significant landmarks that are unique to Lembongan. Just remember, safety comes third in Indonesia; you are responsible for maintaining your own over slippy rocks and rough terrain.
The Devil’s Tear is a unique rock formation that creates a water blow. To see in its full glory visit at high tide. The power of the ocean is captivating as its blasted sky high with force. Access is via a dirt track from Dream Beach and it’s a great spot to watch the sun go down if the tide times match up.
Blue Lagoon is on the neighboring island, Nusa Ceningan. You can walk around the clifftop taking all the photo opportunities with this stunning backdrop. Some snorkeling trips stop off here in smaller swells so you can explore the lagoon from below.
Nusa Penida Day Trips
A day trip to Nusa Penida is a must when staying on Nusa Lembongan! If you follow Bali on Instagram, then you will have seen all the famous spots from here: Kling King Beach (also known as the Jurassic Park beach), Crystal Bay, and Diamond Beach. The views will take your breath away and give you memories to last a lifetime.
There are daily boats from Nusa Lembongan’s Yellow Bridge that run almost every 30 minutes between 9 am and 5 pm; just remember schedules run to island time. On the other side, it’s best to get a driver and guide to take you around in their car. The roads are extremely basic and are dangerous for inexperienced scooter riders.
Nusa Penida has many traditional temples and is the most spiritual Nusa Island. If you do visit any of the temples, always be respectful towards the locals and wear appropriate clothing. It’s good to always have a sarong with you just in case.
Swim With Giant Manta Rays
The reefs that surround this island are rich with life. Make sure you get into the water during your stay on Nusa Lembongan and meet the locals. This is one of the best places in Indonesia to swim with giant manta rays; Manta Bay and Manta Point are world-famous dive sites.
And, you don’t have to dive. At feeding time, snorkeling with giant manta rays is an experience like no other. Early mornings are generally the best time to see the mantas. You just need to know where to go – hiring a local guide is worthwhile.
When you’re in the water with the giant manta rays you’ll probably feel a tingling sensation over your skin. This is the plankton in the water which the manta’s feed on, so it’s a good sign that you’re going to see them! Along with giant manta rays, you’re also likely to see other tropical marine life including:
Small reef sharks – if you’re lucky!
Nusa Lembongan is an incredible place to also become PADI dive certified. There are several dive schools on the island that operate to a high standard. Check out Blue Corner located at the far end of Jungut Batu Beach for a truly great experience.
Surf World Class Waves From Jungut Batu
Every keen surfer will have Nusa Lembongan on their radar when visiting Indonesia. There are several waves along the Jungut Batu Beach that are best accessed via boat – otherwise, you’re in for a long paddle! But trust us, nothing beats surfing in Nusa Lembongan’s warm waters. The island provides a perfect backdrop and truly sells the tropical dream destination idea.
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Surf Break |
Details |
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Playgrounds |
An inviting wave within paddle distance from Tamarind Bay steps; A-frame and can get quite punchy on the low tide. |
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Lacerations |
Powerful right hander that gets super hollow with 4+ feet swell; suitable for beginner surfers on a small swell and towards high tide. |
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Razors |
A left hand wave option and good for smaller days; the wave can get fast as the waves get bigger. |
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Shipwrecks |
A super powerful right hand wave best left to the most experienced surfers. |
As the wave names suggest, the reef is notoriously sharp and unforgiving. A Lembongan Kiss is a common souvenir surfers take home from the reef. Respecting the power behind these waves is crucial. However, just because the waves are world-class doesn’t mean you can’t give surfing a try for the first time here. There are so many local surf schools that offer fantastic coaching; check out Newbro Surf School or Mojo Surf to give surfing a go with perfect waves.
Surfing is deep within the Nusa Lembongan culture and way of life. The island lives and breathes in time with the ocean. These waves are royalty in the surf world and make Nusa Lembongan worth visiting alone.
Explore Mangrove Forests
Last but not least, the mangrove forest definitely makes Nusa Lembongan worth visiting. You won’t find this terrain on mainland Bali. Make sure you head here on a high tide so you can explore deeper into the mangroves. Either rent a paddle board or enjoy a boat trip with a local guide and see the diverse ecosystem on Nusa Lembongan.
But don’t worry! There aren’t any crocodiles or other dangerous Indonesian animals lurking in the shadows! This is a great way to see another side of the island, away from the popular beaches offering something truly different.
All along the track to the mangroves are fantastic local warungs serving fresh fish. If you want to experience the warmest welcome and best hospitality, head to the family ran Warung Bambu and order a red snapper or the local jacket fish.
ByAbigail-May 20, 2021
