Nusa Lembongan, Penida, or Ceningan: Which Nusa Island is Right for You?
Just a short 30-minute boat ride from Bali’s bustling shores, you’ll find the three Nusa Islands – Lembongan, Penida, and Ceningan. These islands are home to some of the most stunning beaches, jaw-dropping sea cliffs, and endless adventures that Bali has to offer. Despite their close proximity, each island boasts a unique charm and vibe, making them distinct from one another.
Big, Medium, or Small
Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa Islands and was a well-kept secret until just a year or two ago. Today, it's buzzing with activity as development surges and more travelers discover its beauty. Fast boats arrive daily, often packed with eager visitors ready to explore the island’s wonders.
Nusa Lembongan is significantly smaller than Nusa Penida, and you can easily drive from one side of the island to the other in about 10 minutes.
Nusa Ceningan is a tiny island, connected to Nusa Lembongan by the iconic Yellow Bridge. This narrow bridge is only wide enough for motorbikes and pedestrians, which means you'll find very few cars on the island, preserving its tranquil and laid-back atmosphere.
Getting to the Nusa Islands
Getting to the Nusa Islands from Bali is straightforward and part of the adventure. You’ll start by making your way to either Sanur or Padang Bai harbor, where fast boats depart regularly for Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida. The boat ride takes around 30 minutes, offering a quick and scenic journey across the sparkling waters.
If your destination is Nusa Ceningan, note that there are no direct boats. Instead, you’ll first head to Nusa Lembongan. From there, it’s a short trip to the famous Yellow Bridge, which connects Lembongan to Ceningan. Once you arrive, you can either walk across with your luggage or hop on a motortaxi for a quick ride.
Booking your ticket online is highly recommended, as it saves you the hassle of haggling at the harbor. I personally use Klook to secure my tickets, which costs between 100k-150k IDR ($6-10) – a small price for convenience and peace of mind.
Vacation - or - Travel
Nusa Lembongan is my go-to spot for unwinding with a cocktail at a beach club or strolling along the shoreline with freshly made gelato in hand. It feels like a scene straight out of Mamma Mia, with its crystal-clear waters and nearly every restaurant perched right on the beach or over the water. It's the ultimate honeymoon destination, offering luxury hotels and villas, complete with serene spas and plenty of space to relax. If you're looking for a peaceful getaway that still lets you soak up the charm of island life, Nusa Lembongan is the perfect vibe.
In contrast, Nusa Penida is a haven for adventurous souls drawn to extreme hiking, diving, and breathtaking landscapes. However, it has become quite commercialized lately, which unfortunately detracts from some of its natural beauty. The island has also grown much busier than Nusa Lembongan, with crowds flocking to its must-see attractions. When I'm there, I make a point of rising at 6 a.m. to beat the crowds and enjoy the island’s charm in peace. Nusa Penida is still ideal for true "Travelers" eager to explore, seek thrills, and immerse themselves in rugged adventures.
Nusa Ceningan is the quietest of the three islands, offering just a handful of places to stay and eat. However, its close proximity to Lembongan makes it an attractive option for budget travelers who want to enjoy the best of Lembongan while staying in a more peaceful setting. If you’re comfortable riding a scooter daily, Ceningan can be an ideal base, allowing you to experience the charm of Lembongan without breaking the bank.
Activities on the Nusa Islands
Nusa Lembongan is the epitome of island life. If you’re a surfer, Lembongan is hands down the better choice over Penida, with its multiple surf breaks and consistently great waves. Beyond surfing, you can rent paddle boards to explore the crystal-clear waters, sip cocktails at one of the many beach clubs, or take leisurely strolls along the pristine shoreline. Lembongan embodies the essence of slow living—everyone here is on island time, so you can truly unwind and soak in the laid-back vibe. It’s also the ultimate destination for a honeymoon, with its romantic ambiance, luxurious accommodations, and picture-perfect sunsets that set the stage for an unforgettable getaway.
Read: Nusa Lembongan Travel Guide- Where to Eat, Stay & Play
Nusa Penida is all about adventure and exploration, rather than lounging around. This island offers some of the most thrilling activities, like hiking down the iconic Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach, diving with majestic manta rays, and discovering jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. However, navigating from one side of the island to the other takes time and effort, so if you’re hoping to see everything Penida has to offer, it’s not the best spot for a quick day trip. Instead, plan to stay a few days to fully immerse yourself in the island's rugged beauty and make the most of your adventure.
Read: Nusa Penida, Bali- a 3 Day Itinerary
Nusa Ceningan has a few hidden gems, like Secret Beach and the stunning Blue Lagoon, but when it comes to activities, it doesn’t offer as much as Lembongan or Penida. While it's perfect for those seeking tranquility and a slower pace, adventure seekers might find the options a bit limited.
Accomodation on Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan offers the best range of accommodations, catering to every budget, from cozy $10/night homestays to luxurious hotels and villas. The Jungut Batu area is the ideal place to stay, offering easy access to the island’s top attractions and stunning views. For a memorable stay, I recommend Lembongan Cliff Villas for an affordable option, Ohana's and Indiana Kenanga for mid-range comfort, and Morin Resort or Batu Karang Resort for a splurge-worthy luxury experience.
Accomodation on Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, once known for its humble homestays, has quickly evolved into a bustling destination packed with boutique hotels and luxury accommodations. The area near the harbor is the busiest, teeming with new places to stay, but for a more serene experience, I’ve found the East side of the island to be a hidden gem. It offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds while still providing easy access to the island’s stunning attractions.
If you're planning a visit, here are my top picks: Sari Garden and Resto for budget-friendly comfort, Atalaya Nusa Penida and The Raja Lima for a stylish mid-range stay, Maua for a touch of luxury, and Tropical Glamping for a unique, high-end experience that blends nature with indulgence.
Accommodation on Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan may have limited accommodation options, but what it lacks in quantity, it more than makes up for in quality. Blue Lagoon Aviv Villas is a stunning boutique hotel perched on the edge of the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, offering an unforgettable experience. For budget travelers, Le Pirate, located just across the Yellow Bridge, is the ideal spot, providing easy access to Nusa Lembongan while offering a charming and affordable stay.
Food on Nusa Lembongan, Penida, and Ceningan
Nusa Lembongan boasts the most dining options of the three islands, with a variety of beach clubs and oceanfront restaurants offering stunning views. Whether you're in the mood for casual bites or gourmet meals, Lembongan has you covered. In fact, I’ve dedicated an entire blog post to where to eat, as the island is brimming with incredible options.
Read: The Ultimate Foodie's Guide: 15 Places to Eat on Nusa Lembongan
On the other hand, Nusa Penida is more limited when it comes to dining. While there are a few gems scattered across the island, your options can be sparse, especially if you're staying far from the harbor. That said, there are still some great spots worth checking out, like Cactus Penida, The Secret Penida Cafe, and Penida Colada Beach Bar, which are among my personal favorites.
Nusa Ceningan has the fewest dining options, but the few it offers are right by the water, just as you cross the Yellow Bridge. Klyf Club and The Sand are two standout favorites, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. However, if you're craving more variety, you'll need to hop back across the bridge to Nusa Lembongan, where a wider array of restaurants and beach clubs await.
Transportation on the Nusa Islands
Gojek and Grab haven’t made their way to the Nusa Islands yet, so you won’t find any ride-hailing apps available here. Instead, you'll need to rely on local transport options or book your rides in advance through services like Klook.
Nusa Lembongan is a charmingly small island, and if you stay in the Jungut Batu area, nearly everything is within easy walking distance. The roads are still a work in progress, so if you decide to rent a scooter, be prepared for some bumps, twists, and turns along the way. If you're not comfortable navigating on a scooter, no worries—you'll find plenty of friendly locals ready to offer you a ride in their buggies. Additionally, most spas, restaurants, and beach clubs provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off services, making it easy to get around without any hassle.
Nusa Penida is a sprawling island, but recent development has brought with it well-paved roads, making it relatively easy to drive a scooter around once you’ve left the bustling harbor area. While the distances between attractions can be significant, the smooth roads make the journey more enjoyable. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, you can also book a driver through Klook, allowing you to sit back and take in the stunning scenery without the stress of navigating.
Book a driver on Nusa Penida
Rent a scooter on Nusa Penida
Nusa Ceningan is connected to Lembongan by the iconic Yellow Bridge, so renting a scooter is your best bet for getting between the two islands. While walking is technically an option, it’s not the most practical choice due to the distance involved. A scooter will save you time and make exploring much more convenient.
Overall
Overall, Nusa Lembongan is ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy a few days of relaxation. With its excellent restaurants and diverse accommodation options, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back vacation. I’ll admit I’m biased—it’s one of my favorite places in Bali—but I’d highly recommend making it a priority on your itinerary.
Nusa Penida, on the other hand, is perfect for thrill-seekers and early risers. The island’s stunning landscapes and adventurous activities are worth the trip, but be prepared to wake up early to beat the crowds. Otherwise, you might find yourself caught in the all-too-common Instagram vs. reality situation, with long queues at the most popular spots. Plan your visit carefully, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Read: Nusa Penida, Bali- a 3 Day Itinerary
Nusa Ceningan is a great budget-friendly option for those looking to stay near Lembongan or for travelers seeking total peace and quiet. It offers a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle.
Which are you choosing?
