Nusa Penida: Day Trip to Kelingking, Diamond & Atuh Beaches

Summary

Raw cliffs, wild sea colors and honest island moments in Nusa Penida

You’ll feel Nusa Penida’s wild side up close: stand above Kelingking’s cliffs with salty wind in your hair, climb down to Diamond Beach’s white sand, taste spicy warung lunches overlooking turquoise water, and ride bumpy roads with a local guide who knows every turn. It’s not perfect — but maybe that’s what makes it real.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I’d seen photos of Kelingking Beach before, but nothing really prepares you for how it looks when you’re standing there, wind in your face, staring down at that wild dinosaur-shaped cliff. We left Bali early (I was barely awake), caught the fast boat from Sanur, and as soon as we hit Nusa Penida the air felt different — saltier, maybe? Our driver, Wayan, was waiting with my name scribbled on a paper. He grinned and said “Welcome to my island!” like he actually meant it. The roads are a bit rough here — we bounced around in his van, laughing every time we hit a pothole. It’s not polished, but that’s part of it.

First stop was Atuh Beach. There’s this hush on the cliff edge — just wind and waves below. I remember clutching the railing because my legs went wobbly looking down at that blue water. Then Diamond Beach: white sand so clean it squeaked underfoot (and yeah, those stairs are steeper than they look online). I tried to pronounce “Atuh” right; Wayan chuckled and shook his head. Lunch was at some little warung overlooking the sea — fried fish and sambal that nearly made me cry (spicy!). No fancy restaurants here, just real food and views that make you forget your phone for a while.

Kelingking came after lunch. There were more people than I expected but everyone kind of falls silent when they reach the viewpoint. The light changes so quickly — one minute blinding sun off the rocks, next minute clouds rolling in from nowhere. We didn’t hike all the way down (that trail is no joke), but even from up top it felt like standing on the edge of something ancient. Later we stopped at Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong — water swirling in impossible colors between stone arches. Kids were selling coconuts by the parking lot; I bought one mostly for an excuse to linger longer.

The drive back was quieter — tired legs, sunburnt noses, sand stuck everywhere. Wayan told us about growing up here before tourists came; he sounded proud and a little worried about all the changes. The last thing I remember is watching spray come up over the bow as our fast boat left Nusa Penida behind. Sometimes places stick with you for reasons you can’t explain — this was one of those days.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Nusa Penida West and East

• Take fast boat from Sanur to Banjar Nyuh
• Meet driver at Banjar Nyuh port
• Visit Atuh Beach viewpoint
• Visit Diamond Beach
• Visit Kelingking Beach viewpoint
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Visit Broken Beach
• Swim at Angel’s Billabong
• Return fast boat to Sanur

Top questions

How do you get to Nusa Penida from Bali?

You take a public fast boat from Sanur Harbour in Bali to Banjar Nyuh port on Nusa Penida.

What beaches are included on this day trip?

The tour visits Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach, Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach and Angel's Billabong.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Hotel or villa transfer services are included if you choose that option during booking; otherwise meet at Sanur Harbour.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included but there is a stop at a local restaurant where you can buy your own meal.

How long does the day trip last?

The fast boat departs Bali at 07:30 AM and returns from Nusa Penida at 04:30 PM.

Are there any physical requirements for this tour?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

How many people can book together?

This tour can be booked for up to 5 travelers per group currently.

Is swimming possible at Angel's Billabong?

You can try swimming in Angel's Billabong if conditions allow; always check with your guide first due to changing tides and waves.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip fast boat tickets between Bali and Nusa Penida (or just start on the island if you prefer), private air-conditioned car with local driver-guide who meets you right off the boat holding your name sign, entry fees (retribution fee), bottled mineral water to keep cool between stops, plus hotel or villa transfers if selected during booking—just confirm your details ahead of time via WhatsApp or email before setting out for these wild beaches.