Things to Do in Nusa Penida: From Popular Places to Hidden Gems
Things to Do in Nusa Penida: From Popular Places to Hidden Gems
When you think of Bali, chances are that iconic cliffside view resembling a T-Rex comes to mind - that’s Kelingking Beach, one of the most photographed and iconic spots in the region. Perched on the island of Nusa Penida, this dramatic coastal gem has become synonymous with Bali's natural beauty and Instagram fame.
To experience it for yourself, you’ll need to take a short boat ride to Nusa Penida, the largest and most striking of Bali’s offshore islands. Known for its rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden stretches of white sand, Nusa Penida offers far more than just that famous viewpoint.
In this article, I’ll spill the beans about the most fun things to do in Nusa Penida, so bookmark it and apply for your Indonesia evisa on Atlys, to avoid any last-minute hassle!
1. Kelingking Beach
2. Angel’s Billabong
3. Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
4. Diamond Beach
5. Atuh Beach
6. Crystal Bay
7. Peguyangan Waterfall
8. Snorkel with Manta Rays
9. Giri Putri Cave Temple
10. Banah Cliff Point
11. Thousand Islands Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu)
12. Rumah Pohon Treehouse
13. Tembeling Natural Pools
14. Gamat Bay Snorkeling
15. Visit the Underground House (Goa Rumah Bawah Tanah)
16. Watch the Sunset at Amok Sunset Bar
17. Pura Paluang Temple
Kelingking Beach
Often referred to as the ‘T-Rex Beach' due to the cliff's uncanny resemblance to a dinosaur head, Kelingking Beach is one of Bali’s most iconic and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Perched high above the ocean, the viewpoint offers a jaw-dropping panorama of turquoise waters crashing against rugged cliffs.
While the beach below is breathtakingly beautiful, the steep and challenging trail down is not for the faint of heart, yet those who make it are rewarded with seclusion and surreal scenery.
Location
Southwest coast of Nusa Penida
A 45-minute drive from the Toya Pakeh harbour, the road is paved most of the way, though narrow and winding towards the end.
Best Time to Go
Early morning or late afternoon
Morning (8–10 AM): Fewer tourists, softer lighting, and cooler temperatures.
The golden hour (4–6 PM) is ideal for photography, though the beach path may be closed before sunset.
Ideal For
Nature lovers and photographers
Adventurous seekers
Couples and solo explorers
Not recommended for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues (due to the steep descent)
Why Visit
To witness one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic and photographed viewpoints, where the cliffs resemble a T-Rex head jutting into the sea.
For the thrill of hiking down a steep, rugged trail to reach a secluded beach that feels untouched and otherworldly.
To soak in sweeping cliffside panoramas and brilliant turquoise waters that define the wild spirit of Nusa Penida.
To capture once-in-a-lifetime photos that perfectly frame the raw, untamed beauty of Bali’s most famous offshore island.
Angel’s Billabong
Tucked along Nusa Penida’s rugged western coastline, Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool carved into the rocky shore. During low tide, its emerald-green waters become still and clear, reflecting the sky above and offering a surreal swimming experience. With cliffs on either side and waves crashing just beyond the edge, it’s a striking spot where the ocean meets stone in a dramatic embrace.
Location
Near Broken Beach, the southwest coast of Nusa Penida
Just a short walk from Broken Beach, about a 45–60 minute drive from the main harbour (Toya Pakeh or Banjar Nyuh).
Best Time to Go
Low tide, morning or early afternoon
Check the tide charts, because low tide is essential for safe access and clear, swimmable conditions.
Mornings often mean fewer crowds and better light for photography.
Ideal For
Nature and landscape photographer
Adventurous swimmers (during low tide only)
Day-trippers combine it with Broken Beach
Those seeking dramatic coastal scenery
Why Visit
To take in the beauty of a natural infinity pool perched above the Indian Ocean, where you can watch waves crash just beyond the rock ledge.
For the vibrant colours that make the spot feel surreal, shimmering greens, deep blues, and golden tones dance in the sunlight.
As part of a scenic trio with Broken Beach and Kelingking, making it an unmissable stop on your Nusa Penida adventure.
Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
Broken Beach, known locally as Pasih Uug, is a surreal coastal formation where a massive cave roof collapsed, creating a circular cove surrounded by towering cliffs. The centrepiece is a natural stone arch connecting the enclosed bay to the open sea, allowing waves to flow in and out with rhythmic grace.
Though you can’t access the water directly, the panoramic views and raw geological beauty make it one of Nusa Penida’s most remarkable spots.
Location
Southwest coast of Nusa Penida
Located next to Angel’s Billabong, about 45–60 minutes by scooter or car from the island’s main ferry terminals.
Best Time to Go
Morning to early afternoon
Best combined with a visit to Angel’s Billabong (just a few minutes away).
Mid-morning offers good light for photos and manageable crowds.
Ideal For
Photography enthusiasts
Nature lovers and sightseers
Families and casual travellers (no hiking required)
Anyone on a West Nusa Penida day tour
Why Visit
To witness a rare natural phenomenon, a crystal-clear, tide-fed lagoon framed by rugged cliffs and carved into the coastal rock by centuries of ocean force.
For serene ocean views and the gentle sea breeze, all accessible without a strenuous hike, making it one of Nusa Penida’s more relaxed yet stunning attractions.
Because during low tide, the still waters turn into a natural infinity pool, where the edge seems to merge with the sea beyond.
Diamond Beach
With its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and jagged limestone cliffs, Diamond Beach is the very definition of tropical perfection!
Once inaccessible, this postcard-worthy beach is now reachable via a staircase carved into the cliffside. As you descend, the view opens up to dramatic rock formations, one of which resembles a sparkling diamond set against a pristine shoreline. It's wild, remote, and impossibly beautiful.
Location
Southeastern coast of Nusa Penida
Adjacent to Atuh Beach, around 1.5 hours from the main ferry ports of Toya Pakeh or Banjar Nyuh by scooter or car.
Best Time to Go
Early morning or late afternoon
Morning light brings out the clarity of the water and casts fewer shadows.
Afternoon visits are quieter but hotter, so make sure to carry water and apply sunscreen. An umbrella would also be good.
Ideal For
Adventure seekers and photographers
Couples looking for romantic landscapes
Beach lovers willing to hike for paradise
Instagrammers chasing dramatic backdrops
Why Visit
To descend one of Bali’s most photogenic staircases, carved into a towering cliffside, offering breathtaking views with every step.
For the serene, untouched vibe of a hidden paradise, where soft white sand meets crashing waves and you might just have the beach to yourself.
To witness the dramatic contrast between pale sand, turquoise water, and rugged volcanic cliffs, creating a scene so surreal it feels like a dream brought to life.
Atuh Beach
Framed by dramatic rock arches and flanked by sheer cliffs, Atuh Beach offers a slice of paradise on Nusa Penida’s tranquil eastern coast. Less crowded than its neighbour, Diamond Beach, Atuh is a hidden gem where the waves lap gently onto soft sand, and towering formations rise majestically from the sea.
A short walk down a well-paved path brings you to a serene shoreline perfect for swimming, lounging, and soaking in the scenery.
Location
East coast of Nusa Penida
Just around the corner from Diamond Beach—accessible via a different staircase or parking area. About 1.5 hours from the main ferry points.
Best Time to Go
Morning to midday
Sunlight during the early hours illuminates the cliffs and sea stacks beautifully.
Midday tides are typically better for swimming.
Ideal For
Beachgoers in search of calm, swimmable waters
Landscape photographers who are keen to capture the ocean rock formations
Couples and solo travellers wanting to escape the crowds
Families with kids, as the beach is relatively safe during calm tides
Why Visit
To discover a peaceful, lesser-known beach framed by towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations, perfect for those craving quiet beauty away from the crowds.
For the jaw-dropping coastal view, where a natural rock arch and jagged sea stacks rise majestically from the turquoise water.
To unwind in calm, shallow waters ideal for a refreshing dip or simply lounging at the edge of the tide, surrounded by nature’s raw elegance.
Crystal Bay
Renowned for its calm, crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Crystal Bay is one of Nusa Penida’s most popular spots for snorkelling, diving, and sunset watching. The beach is nestled between lush headlands and offers easy access to colourful coral reefs just offshore.
With gently swaying palm trees and golden sands, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of island exploration or to spend an entire lazy afternoon by the sea.
Location
Northwest coast of Nusa Penida
It is about 20–30 minutes from Toya Pakeh or Banjar Nyuh harbour by scooter or car, making it one of the most accessible beaches on the island.
Best Time to Go
Late afternoon to sunset
Calm sea conditions make midday to afternoon great for snorkelling.
Arrive by 4:30 PM to grab a spot and enjoy one of Nusa Penida’s best sunset views.
Ideal For
Diving and snorkelling
Beach lovers seeking easy access and amenities
Families and casual travellers
Sunset chasers
Why Visit
For easy, off-the-beach snorkelling in clear waters teeming with tropical fish and colourful coral, perfect for beginners and seasoned swimmers alike.
To enjoy a relaxed island beach day without the effort of cliff hikes or boat rides—just sun, sand, and sea.
Because it’s one of the few beaches on Nusa Penida safe for swimming, thanks to its calmer currents and sheltered cove.
To witness a breathtaking sunset behind the offshore islet, as the sky turns gold and the bay becomes a picture-perfect scene.
Peguyangan Waterfall
More of a sacred spring than a traditional waterfall, Peguyangan Waterfall is a hidden gem that rewards those willing to descend its famous blue stairway, clinging to a sheer cliffside. Located on the island’s rugged southern coast, this spot combines spiritual significance with breathtaking ocean views.
At the bottom, you’ll find a small temple, natural rock pools, and a cascading spring that locals consider holy. It’s a place of reflection, purification, and adventure.
Location
South coast of Nusa Penida
Roughly 1.5 hours from the main harbours by car or scooter. The last stretch involves a steep, winding road to the cliff's edge.
Best Time to Go
Morning or late afternoon
Mornings offer cooler temperatures for the hike down (and back up).
Avoid midday heat as the stairs are fully exposed and the descent is intense.
Ideal For
Culture seekers and spiritual visitors, as well as adventure lovers
Photographers looking for dramatic cliffside views
Those with good fitness (the descent and climb are steep and long)
Why Visit
To descend the iconic blue stairway, clinging to the cliffside with panoramic views of the vast Indian Ocean stretching endlessly before you.
To experience a sacred Balinese pilgrimage site, where locals come to pray and purify themselves at freshwater springs flowing through temple shrines.
For a glimpse of raw, spiritual Nusa Penida, untamed, uncommercial, and far removed from the island’s more polished beach destinations.
Snorkel with Manta Rays
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Nusa Penida is snorkelling with majestic manta rays. With wingspans of up to 5 meters, these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the water and often gracefully circle snorkelers.
The most popular spot to encounter them is Manta Point, a rocky outcrop off the island’s southwestern coast where nutrient-rich currents attract these magnificent creatures year-round.
Location
Manta Point, off the southwest coast of Nusa Penida
Accessible only by boat—tours typically depart from Toya Pakeh or Banjar Nyuh harbour, or from Bali (Sanur or Padangbai) for day trips.
Best Time to Go
Morning (7 AM – 10 AM)
Early hours offer calmer seas and better visibility.
Manta sightings are possible year-round, but April to October tends to be most reliable.
Ideal For
Marine life enthusiasts and adventure seekers
First-time snorkelers (with guided tours)
Also, for those who are keen to volunteer and protect the marine environment
Why Visit
To swim alongside majestic manta rays in their natural environment is an unforgettable encounter that leaves even seasoned travellers in awe.
For the adrenaline rush and serenity that come with being just feet away from these graceful giants as they glide effortlessly through the sea.
Because snorkelling with manta rays is one of Bali’s most iconic marine experiences, it often tops the bucket list for ocean lovers.
To explore thriving coral gardens and spot other vibrant marine life along the way, making the journey as spectacular as the destination itself.
Giri Putri Cave Temple
Hidden behind a small, almost unnoticeable rock crevice on the eastern side of Nusa Penida lies Giri Putri Cave Temple, a sprawling underground sanctuary steeped in Balinese Hindu tradition. To enter, visitors must squeeze through a narrow crack in the rock that opens into a vast limestone cavern, one of the largest cave temples in Bali. Inside, the air is thick with incense and prayer, as worshippers and priests carry out age-old purification rituals in a mystical, echoing space.
Location
Suana village, East Nusa Penida
Around 1 hour’s drive from the main harbour. Look out for the staircase that leads up to the small cliffside entrance.
Best Time to Go
Morning to early afternoon
Mornings are cooler and less crowded, ideal for spiritual reflection.
Combine with visits to nearby attractions like Atuh Beach or Diamond Beach.
Ideal For
Culture and history enthusiasts
Spiritual travellers and temple explorers
Curious adventurers
Those seeking lesser-known, meaningful experiences
Why Visit
Giri Putri is unlike any temple you’ve ever seen. Its entrance is a humble slit in the rock, but it opens into a massive, sacred cavern that feels otherworldly. The contrast between the modest exterior and the grand spiritual interior leaves a lasting impression.
To witness authentic Balinese Hindu rituals performed deep underground, creating a truly immersive cultural experience. You'll hear chanting, see offerings being made, and perhaps even participate in a blessing ceremony.
For the mystical atmosphere, where cool, damp air, flickering candles, and stone altars add to the feeling of stepping into a secret spiritual realm far removed from the busy tourist trails.
To explore one of Bali’s most unique sacred sites, where natural geology meets centuries-old worship, offering both cultural insight and quiet introspection.
Banah Cliff Point
Banah Cliff Point offers one of the most jaw-dropping views on Nusa Penida, a dramatic lookout where limestone cliffs plunge hundreds of meters into the pounding ocean below. What makes it truly special is the iconic offshore rock arch, rising from the deep blue sea like a solitary monument sculpted by time.
Unlike the busier photo spots on the island, Banah is relatively quiet, allowing for uninterrupted moments of awe and introspection.
Location
Southwest coast of Nusa Penida
It is about 45 minutes from the main ferry terminals. The last part of the road can be rough and is best tackled by scooter or a private driver.
Best Time to Go
Late morning to sunset
The light in the late morning and afternoon enhances the contrast of cliffs and sea.
Sunset casts a golden glow over the landscape, perfect for golden hour photography.
Ideal For
Nature lovers and photographers
Couples seeking romantic viewpoints
Travellers looking for offbeat, quiet spots
Drone enthusiasts
Why Visit
Banah Cliff offers a panoramic view that feels completely wild and untamed, untouched by mass tourism. It’s the kind of place where you can sit on the edge (safely!) and just listen to the ocean roar beneath you, reminding you how vast and powerful nature truly is.
For the unforgettable sight of the natural rock arch, a lone limestone formation stands defiantly in the ocean. With the right camera angle, it’s one of the most stunning visuals on the island.
To escape the crowds and experience solitude with a view, especially if you arrive early or stay past the day tours. It’s perfect for mindful moments, journaling, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of the landscape.
As a stop on a scenic southwest loop that includes Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach, making it a worthwhile detour that adds dramatic contrast to your Nusa Penida adventure.
Thousand Islands Viewpoint (Pulau Seribu)
Perched high on the cliffs of Nusa Penida’s eastern coastline, the Thousand Islands Viewpoint, or Pulau Seribu, delivers a breathtaking panorama of scattered rock islets rising from the Indian Ocean like emerald giants.
Location
Near Atuh Beach, East Nusa Penida
Located a short walk from the Rumah Pohon Treehouse, about 1.5 hours from the island’s main ports. Accessible via a narrow staircase carved into the cliffs.
Best Time to Go
Sunrise
Early morning light casts a magical glow over the sea and islets.
Fewer crowds make for a more peaceful and meditative experience.
Ideal For
Sunrise chasers and early risers
Travel photographers
Solo travellers seeking stillness
Couples craving a moment of quiet awe
Why Visit
Standing here, looking out at the endless expanse of ocean dotted with rugged little islands, there’s a feeling of being both small and boundless at once. It’s a reminder of why we travel, not just to see, but to feel.
For the chance to capture some of Nusa Penida’s most iconic images, including the stunning curve of the coastline, the turquoise sea crashing against the cliffs, and the famous treehouse perched on the edge of the world.
To enjoy a rewarding walk that leads to perspective, literally and metaphorically. The short hike down may test your legs, but the payoff is a panoramic view that redefines what "worth it" means.
As part of a deeper journey through East Nusa Penida, where natural beauty meets quiet contemplation, offering a different kind of richness than Bali’s more commercial corners.
Rumah Pohon Treehouse
Well, this is one of the most Insta-worthy places in Bali!
Rumah Pohon Treehouse is one of the most iconic stays on Nusa Penida, dramatically perched on a cliffside overlooking the Thousand Islands Viewpoint. Built into the hillside with sweeping ocean views and scattered islets below, the treehouse offers more than just a place to sleep; rather, it’s a chance to wake up with the world at your feet.
Whether you're staying the night or visiting just for the view, Rumah Pohon captures that raw, adventurous spirit that defines the Nusa Penida experience.
Location
Near Pulau Seribu (Thousand Islands Viewpoint), East Nusa Penida
Roughly 1.5 hours from the main harbours. Access involves a short but steep walk down carved stone steps from the parking area.
Best Time to Go
Sunrise or early morning
The soft morning light makes the cliffs and treehouse glow, which is ideal for photography.
If staying overnight, the view from your balcony at dawn is unforgettable.
Ideal For
Romantic getaways
Content creators and photographers
Adventure seekers looking for a unique stay
Solo travellers in search of serenity
Why Visit
Because Rumah Pohon is more than a photo-op, it's an invitation to disconnect and dream. Sitting on the wooden balcony, high above the crashing waves, it feels like time slows down and the rest of the world fades away.
To experience one of Bali’s most unique accommodations, where rustic charm meets panoramic views. The treehouse isn’t luxurious, but that’s its magic. It strips things down to what matters most: a place, a view, a moment.
For the chance to sleep in nature, with only the sound of wind and waves, and wake up to a sunrise that paints the sky and ocean in shades of gold and coral.
As a must-see stop on your East Nusa Penida itinerary, whether or not you stay overnight, visiting the treehouse is worth it for the scenery alone, and a short hike from the Thousand Islands Viewpoint makes it easily accessible.
Tembeling Natural Pools
Tucked deep within a lush jungle and accessible only on foot or by motorbike, Tembeling Natural Pools are among Nusa Penida’s best-kept secrets. These crystal-clear freshwater pools, set amidst towering cliffs and shaded by thick tropical foliage, offer a tranquil escape from the island’s more popular tourist spots. The site also leads to a secluded beach and sacred spring, making it a hidden oasis of calm and spirituality where nature, culture, and serenity blend seamlessly.
Location
Southwest Nusa Penida, near Batu Madeg Village
Approximately 1 hour from the main harbour. The last stretch of road is rough and narrow; either hike down or hire a local motorbike guide.
Best Time to Go
Morning or early afternoon
Early visits offer cooler temperatures for the forest hike and fewer visitors.
Late afternoon is also peaceful, but daylight is limited in the dense jungle.
Ideal For
Nature lovers and offbeat explorers
Travellers seeking quiet, uncrowded places
Couples looking for a peaceful retreat
Those interested in sacred local spots
Why Visit
Because Tembeling is an untouched corner of Nusa Penida, where you can swim in cool, clear pools surrounded by dense jungle without a tourist in sight, it’s the kind of experience that feels deeply personal, like discovering a secret meant just for you.
To embrace the island's slower, quieter side, far removed from crowds and camera traps. The walk down through the forest, the stillness of the pools, and the sound of nature are restorative in ways that no beach club can match.
For a multi-layered experience, you’ll find freshwater pools, ancient shrines, a sacred spring where locals bathe, and a peaceful beach where dramatic cliffs meet the sea.
To connect with the raw, spiritual heart of Nusa Penida, where nature and tradition remain untouched by time. It’s more than a place to visit; it’s a place to feel.
Gamat Bay Snorkelling
Gamat Bay is a snorkeler’s paradise tucked between Toya Pakeh and Crystal Bay, known for its vibrant coral gardens, excellent visibility, and abundant marine life. While relatively less crowded than other snorkelling sites, Gamat Bay offers an underwater world teeming with parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, and sometimes even turtles.
The sloping coral reef and nutrient-rich currents make it a favourite among diving and snorkelling enthusiasts seeking something a little wilder and more authentic.
Location
Northwest Nusa Penida, near Toya Pakeh
It is best accessed by boat from Toya Pakeh or Crystal Bay. Some experienced snorkelers choose to hike in via a rough inland trail.
Best Time to Go
Morning to mid-morning (7 AM – 11 AM)
Clear visibility and calm waters are most reliable early in the day.
Avoid afternoons when currents can get stronger and visibility may drop.
Ideal For
Snorkelling enthusiasts
Nature lovers looking for offbeat marine spots
Those comfortable in moderate currents
Why Visit
Because Gamat Bay is one of Nusa Penida’s hidden underwater gems, offering a snorkelling experience that’s both peaceful and wildly biodiverse. The reef is healthy, colourful, and often less disturbed by boat traffic, allowing for a more natural encounter with marine life.
Enjoy some of the island's clearest waters, with visibility often exceeding 20 meters. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, the underwater scenery here feels cinematic.
For the thrill of swimming in a place that feels raw and untamed, where every glance beneath the surface reveals something new, from reef fish dancing among corals to shy sea turtles gliding in and out of view.
Because it's part of the “snorkel triangle” of Nusa Penida (along with Manta Point and Crystal Bay), and no marine itinerary here is complete without a stop at Gamat Bay’s colourful, lesser-known reef.
Goa Rumah Bawah Tanah (Underground House)
The Underground House, locally known as Goa Rumah Bawah Tanah, is one of the most unusual and fascinating attractions in Nusa Penida. In the 1970s, a Balinese man named Made Byasa hand-carved limestone into this underground labyrinth of tunnels, rooms, and altars, which took over a decade to complete.
Part spiritual retreat, part artistic expression, and part living space, this site offers a glimpse into the dedication, faith, and vision of one individual who literally carved his sanctuary into the earth.
Location
Near Tanglad Village, Southeast Nusa Penida
Around 1.5–2 hours by scooter or car from the Toya Pakeh harbour. Accessible via a narrow road off the main route.
Best Time to Go
Mid-morning or late afternoon
These times offer better lighting for exploring the interiors.
Less heat means a more comfortable descent into the underground rooms.
Ideal For
Cultural and spiritual explorers
History buffs and architecture lovers
Travellers looking for unique, offbeat attractions
Those curious about local legends and craftsmanship
Why Visit
Because Goa Rumah Bawah Tanah is not just a house, it’s a spiritual monument, carved with devotion, where each corridor and chamber reflects the patience and determination of its creator. Walking through its tunnels feels like stepping into a living, breathing piece of Balinese mythology.
To witness a rare example of individual craftsmanship turned cultural legacy, where faith, solitude, and artistic expression meet in stone. It’s not something you’ll find in any typical tourist itinerary.
This is for the chance to explore one of the most unusual structures on the island, which is far removed from the ocean viewpoints and beach clubs. It’s the kind of site that quietly stuns and stays with you long after your visit.
The experience challenges your perception of architecture, reminding you that profound creations can come not from wealth or fame but from vision and perseverance, carved slowly, patiently into the earth.
Amok Sunset Bar
Perched above a tranquil bay on the island’s west coast, Amok Sunset Bar is the ultimate spot to end your day in Nusa Penida. With panoramic views over the sea, rustic-chic seating, an infinity pool, and a fire pit, it’s a place where sunset turns into an experience.
As the sky ignites in hues of tangerine and violet, sip on a crafted cocktail or fresh coconut while the horizon blurs into magic. Whether you're unwinding after a day of adventure or looking for a romantic setting, Amok offers golden hour at its finest.
Location
Near Crystal Bay, West Nusa Penida
About 20 minutes by scooter or car from Toya Pakeh harbour. Easily accessible and well-signposted.
Best Time to Go
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Arrive early to get the best seats overlooking the ocean.
Sunset generally peaks between 5:45 PM and 6:15 PM, depending on the season.
Ideal For
Couples and honeymooners
Solo travellers seeking serenity
Small groups or friends celebrating a special moment
Sunset lovers and casual diners
Why Visit
Because Amok offers more than just a view, it creates a mood. With its open-air layout, ambient lighting, and soulful playlist, it’s the kind of place where you can truly exhale and be present in the moment.
To enjoy one of the best sunset panoramas on the island, where the setting sun casts a golden glow over the ocean, the pool, and your perfectly mixed drink.
For the laid-back yet elevated vibe, wooden decks, daybeds, local stone architecture, and a menu that blends island flavours with international comfort. It’s stylish without trying too hard.
Sometimes, the perfect way to experience Nusa Penida’s raw natural beauty is with a front-row seat to the sky’s most dramatic performance, cocktail in hand, and no rush to be anywhere else.
Pura Paluang Temple (Car Temple)
Pura Paluang, often referred to as the Car Temple, is one of Nusa Penida’s most intriguing and spiritually significant sites. What sets it apart is the presence of two shrines shaped like vintage cars - a design unlike any other temple in Bali.
Nestled in a quiet corner of the island, this small yet powerful temple is both a place of worship and a source of mystery. Locals believe the car-shaped shrines appeared by divine inspiration, and to this day, no one knows exactly how they were built or why. This site offers a deep cultural encounter for those looking to experience Nusa Penida beyond the coastline.
Location
Karang Dawa, Southwest Nusa Penida
Roughly 10 minutes from Kelingking Beach. Easily reached via scooter or car with decent road access.
Best Time to Go
Morning or early afternoon
Ideal light for photographing the car shrines.
Mornings are quieter, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Ideal For
Culture and heritage travellers
Temple enthusiasts and history lovers
Curious visitors seeking something unusual
Photographers interested in sacred architecture
Why Visit
It’s a traditional Balinese Hindu temple that unexpectedly features automotive-shaped shrines. You won’t find this anywhere else in the world, making it a true hidden gem on the island.
To experience the spiritual depth and local legends of Nusa Penida. Locals believe the ‘car’ shrines are not merely decorative but divinely inspired manifestations, blurring the line between faith and folklore.
For a peaceful, reflective moment away from the crowds, where ornate carvings, incense, and ancient banyan trees create a deeply spiritual setting steeped in Balinese tradition.
Because temples like Pura Paluang offer insight into the unique character of Penida’s sacred spaces, where cultural symbolism blends with unexpected creativity, and every visit invites questions and wonder.
Embrace the Wild Magic of Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is more than just a day trip from Bali; it’s an island of contrasts and awe. Towering cliffs drop into sapphire seas, hidden temples whisper centuries of devotion, and every curve of the coastline offers a new surprise. Whether you’re chasing the sunset at Amok, snorkelling beside manta rays, or standing at the edge of Kelingking’s iconic bluff, Penida invites you to slow down, look deeper, and feel the raw pulse of nature. It’s rugged, it’s real, and it’s unforgettable.
So go beyond the usual Bali itinerary, and let Nusa Penida challenge you, charm you, and change how you see paradise.