MY FAVORITE BEACH & VEGAN FOOD SPOTS IN NUSA PENIDA
If you’re planning your itinerary around Bali you will soon come across Nusa Penida and it’s popular beaches and nature sights (especially Kelingking Beach). In my travel guide I will share all of my favorite spots for both enjoying the beautiful sights, beaches & most instagrammable spots as well as my personal highlights for vegan brunch, sunset, dinner and other tips such as yoga spots.
It took me quite a long time to write this travel guide as I have to honestly tell you that Nusa Penida is one of the only places I only visited once in Bali during my time here. It’s not because the island is not beautiful, don’t get me wrong. It’s just because it’s a “been there done that” place for me. I prefer Nusa Lembongan waaaay more (have been there already four times now at the point of writing this guide) as it is just way less touristy and super beautiful beach vibes to me, personally. Still, of course the beaches in Nusa Penida are worth visiting but please keep in mind that you will not be the only one standing on the cliff of Kelingking Beach and maybe consider staying in Nusa Lembongan instead of Nusa Penida and visit the island only for a day or two.
Make sure to check out my other Bali guides such as the following:
Lots of love,
Magda
what spots to visit in Nusa Penida
Diamond Beach & Tree House
My favorite place in Nusa Penida was actually the breathtaking walk around the iconic diamond beach. The view is just incredible (we didn’t walk down as there wasn’t any sun anymore) and you might catch sight of manta rays from above. Also there is the famous tree house which you can visit. However, you have to pay entrance and a fee for a short photography time (I’m walking down from another tree house on the picture below) and we also didn’t line up for that.
Kelingking Beach
The most popular spot of Nusa Penida is widely known and probably the most “instagrammable” place. The distinctive rock formations mimic the contours of a dinosaur's spine, earning it the moniker "T-Rex Bay" on Google Maps. From the cliff's zenith, fortunate visitors may even catch a glimpse of Manta rays. Although there will be many other tourists with whom you will share this natural wonder, I still recommend visiting this spectacular beach, especially if you make it early in the morning. By the way “Kelingking" means "pinky finger" in Indonesian.
Crystal Bay Beach
This beach is offering a sandy shoreline and popular for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are some warungs where you can grab a fresh coco or some snacks and of course you can pay to get a beach chair. For me the beach was not extraordinary beautiful especially compared to Nusa Lembongan (probably also because it was so packed), but it’s still worth seeing I’d say!
Angel's Billabong & Broken Beach
Another must-see site you will probably want to visit at the southwestern side of Nusa Penida are Angel's Billabong & Broken Beach. These natural wonders are offering crystal clear water and a natural pool during high tide. You can simply walk around and enjoy the views.
my favorite food spots in Nusa Penida
Secret Penida Restaurant & Bar
We loved enjoying our morning at this beautiful place overlooking the ocean. You can enjoy their tasty smoothie bowls and then jump directly into the water. It’s also a great place to get some work done or read while soaking up the sun.
Amok sunset bar
This pool spot is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset after a day of exploring Nusa Penida. You’re best advised to reserve a spot and then just chill, watch the sun set over the ocean and order some drinks & bites. The food was average in my opinion, but the vibe and view made up for that!
Vegan Soul Kitchen
This hidden gem was high on my list as it is one of the only fully plant-based restaurants on the island. My expectations were not too high as there is not only amazing vegan food but also a beautiful view over the jungle. We loved their healthy bowls and fresh juices & there is free natural lipstick included in the dragon fruit juice ;)
Night market
We wanted to grab authentic Balinese food and so checked out this night market for dinner. The majority of visitors are locals so you can be sure to have an authentic experience. There weren’t that many vegan options but I went for the Gado Gado (which is usually always vegan) and it was super tasty!
Further tips for Nusa Penida
Check out Amarta Penida for a nice sunset view and their iconic temple
Go for a yoga class at Tishe Yoga & Body Movement Studio & Cafe
Grab speciality coffee at the cute Joglo Penida
Check out Organica fresh and tasty food for delicious vegetarian dinner
Enjoy a tasty smoothie bowl at sunny cafe penida
