An island-paradise, Nusa Lembongan is a 30-minute boat ride off the south-eastern coast of Bali. Boasting (yet) unspoiled nature, blinding white sand beaches and fabulous cliffside and beachfront villas, the majestic islet becomes extremely popular among travellers looking to escape from the bustling mainland. Here are our tips on how to organise the day trip to Nusa Lembongan.
1. Choose the boat service
Numerous boat services are launching from several resort towns, so check out which is closest to your location. If you are planning to stay in Seminyak, most probably, consider the fast boat service is launching from Sanur beach. Several companies that sell tickets both online and on-site in offices appear on the way to Sanur beach. Though the ticket price is usually higher than what you would pay for a public ferry, the level of comfort and the schedule is more advantageous for tourists.
Image Credit: Arthamas Express | Nusa Lembongan, Bali
2. Plan What You Are Going to Visit During Your Trip
Despite the compact size of the island, Nusa Lembongan is packed full of tourist and natural attractions as well as sports activities. Furthermore, the islet houses several trendy restaurants and spectacular bars too, so we highly recommend to stay at least two-three days on the island.
3. Getting around Nusa Lembongan
You could walk around the island within a few hours, however, we recommend hiring a scooter or take a “taxi” if you are planning to visit more places during the stay. There are numerous motorbike rental shops and the traffic on the islet is less chaotic than on the neighbouring Bali.
4. Where to Stay on Nusa Lembongan?
Depending on the group size and budget, you could opt between a private villa, local guest house or hotel. For middle and large groups, it will be convenient to stay in the private villa, while couples and small families can choose a cosy and affordable guest house with the breakfast included.
5. Where to Eat?
For the spectacular views and sumptuous breakfasts head to The Deck, Lemongrass or Planet Nomadas. The Hai Bar and Grill serve delicious BBQs, and they also have an open-air cinema for the movie-under-the-stars experience. The Sande Beach Club offers great lunches in a chic and relaxed atmosphere. For travellers on a budget, there are numerous local warungs with excellent local cuisine.
Image Credit: Sandy Bay Beach Club | Nusa Lembongan, Bali
6. Where to Swim?
The Dream Beach is, probably, the most scenic shoreline in Nusa Lembongan, while the neighbouring Nusa Ceningan houses even more breath-taking beaches with no or just a few travellers there. The best way to find your own “Blue Lagoon” is to rent a motorbike and head East exploring the island.
Surfers can enjoy a perfect right-hand wave on the Playground spot or take a boat, which will transport you to the thrilling Shipwrecks (for experienced surfers only!). Snorkellers will enjoy the underwater scenery in Tanjung Beach and near the Mangrove Beach Club (on high tide only).
7. What Else Can You Do on Nusa Lembongan?
Almost anything! Despite the size, the island boasts endless tourist attractions. You could visit majestic Mangrove Forest, witness the unforgettable sunsets or witness a colossal splash at Devils Tear. Or head to the even smaller Nusa Ceningan to indulge in the unspoiled nature and beautiful uncrowded beaches.
The several spas on the island offer the full range of treatments, so you will appear relaxed and rejuvenated on the way back to Bali. Finally, you could simply cruise around the island soaking in the surrounding beauty and hospitality of local people and enjoying the tranquil pace of living in this tiny paradise!
Image Credit: Ulian Spa | Nusa Lembongan, Bali
One of the leaders in my bucket-list, Nusa Lembongan, without a doubt, is one of the most magnificent places in the Indonesian archipelago. However, like any other tiny islet near fast-growing and ever-changing Bali, Nusa Lembongan develops so fast (too fast) that it can appear completely different in a couple of years or less, so be sure to add the day trip to the island in your bucket list next time you are visiting Bali.
