Is it worth hopping on a boat for 40 minutes to visit Nusa Penida? Absolutely! Here are a few reasons why you should not miss visiting Nusa Penida during your stay in Bali.
A little of Nusa Penida history
Nusa Penida has been off the beaten track for ages despite its closeness to Bali; it’s only in the last 5 years ( if that) that it has started opening up to the public.
This is because Nusa Penida was known as the Island of the demon(s). Indeed it is believed that the most evil of all demons, Jero Gede Mecaling‘s spirit still resides in Ped Temple. The Balinese are expected to do a pilgrimage to Nusa Penida once in their life to recognise the dark side of their soul (the black half of the Hindu Ying and Yang) This is so they can rise above it and become more spiritual, and perhaps one day achieve nirvana, a transcendental state is above all sense of self, suffering and carnal desires. Some pilgrims also ask for a little help with black magic or protection from disease for good measure.
So due to all this fascinating history, Nusa Penida stayed off the tourism track for many many years. But recently, the island has started to attract more travellers and tourist infrastructure- in the form of hotels, beach clubs and restaurants- has followed.
Unsurprisingly, the island has become popular as it is one of the most breath-taking places in Bali on land and underwater…
Best Diving in Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida has the best reefs in all of Bali and is on par with the best diving spots in Indonesia. Nusa Penida reefs are world-class. The North and East will blow you away with the amount of Turtles Nusa Penida has (13 on one dive!). The main attraction though is the Nusa Penida Manta rays, a resident population that can be seen year around. Nusa Penida’s cold upwelling in The months of June through November also attracts the infamous Mola mola (ocean sunfish), as strange as it is big.
Breath-taking views Nusa Penida
The land-based exploring will not disappoint either, with the limestone cliffs creating incredible views and natural attractions.
· The natural pools and forest of Tembeling will delight you with their serene beauty.
· Saren cliff point nearby will allow you to gaze in wonder at the white cliffs all along the south coast and spot manta rays from above.
· Kelingking will fascinate with its strange dinosaur-shaped (T-rex) hill leading treacherously down to a magical white sand beach
· The Teletubbies’ hills round rolling hills will take you to another realm, the journey up to the area offering incredible sightseeing spots from the island's crest.
· Angel Bilabong’s natural seawater pool balanced on the edge of the cliff and Broken Beach’s arena open to the open sea by its perfect arch continue to amaze each and every visitor.
The friendliness of the locals in Nusa Penida
Indonesia is a friendly country, where you make friends just by sitting next to someone on a bus. Bali takes it a step further with foreigners amazed by the kindness and openness of the local people. And Nusa Penida… it’s just next level. People go out of their way to make your stay pleasant and are genuinely interested in your life and travels. Many people decide to stay longer because the family owning their homestay has become like a surrogate family away from home
By this point, your mind must be made up, book your boat ticket and come discover this fascinating island and its surrounding waters.
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