We would have liked to title this article: ‘How could you not go to Nusa Penida if you’re in Bali!’—complete with exclamation marks. Whether you’re on holiday in Bali or it’s just a stop on your journey, visiting Nusa Penida is a must for anyone who wants to experience Indonesia at its most authentic.
We’ve talked before about how Penida is an island of stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity (yes, it’s a perfect place for diving). These are just a few of the many reasons to discover a destination that may not be a secret, but is still safe from the hordes of tourists. In this article, we’ll explain all the options for getting from Bali to Nusa Penida in a simple and practical way.
Contents
Where is Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is part of a group of three islands located southeast of Bali, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. By the way, it’s the largest of them. Although it’s only 30 minutes away from Bali by fast boat, this island is significantly less developed (though it’s in the process of being more so), making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity and pure nature, and of course, some world-class diving.
How to get from Bali to Nusa Penida?
There are several ways to travel from Bali to Nusa Penida, depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The two main options are by fast boat and by ferry. Here, we’ll discuss them all. You decide!
By fast boat
The fast boat is the most common and quickest way to get to Nusa Penida. You won’t waste too much time either at sea or in the port. It’s generally reliable and efficient, although you can always expect a surprise from the ocean itself. This option is ideal for those wanting to make the most of their time on the island.
Ports
Fast boats depart from several ports in Bali, the most popular being:
- Sanur: The most widely used port, with multiple companies offering services to Nusa Penida. Boats also frequently depart from here to the Gili Islands, another destination we highly recommend.
- Padang Bai: Located on the east coast of Bali, this port is another option, though the boats here are less frequent.
- Serangan: This port is further south and is generally a more luxurious option, with faster and more comfortable boats.
Timetables and travel time
Fast boats operate from early morning until the afternoon, with departures every 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the port and company. The journey takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the port of departure. It’s a short trip, just long enough to take some stunning photos of the coastline.
Prices
The price of fast boat tickets varies depending on the season, the company, and the port of departure. On average, you can expect to pay between 300,000 and 450,000 IDR (20-30 USD) for a round-trip ticket. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season, like December.
By ferry
The ferry is a slower and more economical option compared to the fast boat, ideal for those travelling on a tight budget or in no rush—after all, you’re on holiday. It’s the most commonly used method of transport by locals, making it a more authentic experience.
Ports
The main port for catching the ferry to Nusa Penida is Padang Bai, the same port that connects Bali with other Indonesian islands, like Lombok.
Timetables and travel time
Ferries are not as frequent as fast boats and usually only have a few departures each day. The ferry journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions. As you can see, it’s still quite a reasonable travel time.
Prices
The ferry ticket is significantly cheaper than the fast boat, with prices ranging between 50,000 and 150,000 IDR (3-10 USD). This is an excellent option for those who want to save money and don’t mind spending more time at sea.
Book your tickets in advance
No one likes to arrive at an Indonesian port only to find out there are no tickets available. For one thing, ports aren’t exactly places where you’d want to spend much time. Booking in advance is essential in Bali if you have everything planned out or don’t have time to waste, as it’s likely that during high season, you’ll see a ‘Sold out’ sign. If, on the other hand, you’re not in a hurry and enjoy the adventure, you can always leave it until the last minute.
How to book online?
There are several platforms where you can quickly and securely book your tickets. Sites like 12Go Asia, Direct Ferries, or even Klook offer online bookings with instant confirmation. You just need to choose the date, time, and port of departure that best suits you.
Sales points in bali
If you prefer to buy tickets in person, you can do so at the departure ports or at travel agencies located in Bali’s main tourist areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud. It’s also common for hotels and hostels to offer this service, often with transport included to the port.
Tips for your trip to Nusa Penida
- Arrive early at the port: Fast boats can leave on time, so make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Travel light: While you can bring luggage, fast boats and ferries don’t have much space, so it’s best to travel with just the essentials.
- Carry cash: ATMs are not as common on Nusa Penida as they are in Bali, so it’s better to bring enough cash for your expenses.
- Bring sun protection: The sun can be very strong, especially during the boat trip, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get to Nusa Penida from Bali?
The travel time varies depending on the method you choose. By fast boat, the journey takes between 30 and 45 minutes, while by ferry, it can take between 1.5 and 2 hours.
What’s the best way to get to Nusa Penida?
Fast boat is generally the best option for most travellers due to its speed and convenience. However, if you’re looking to save money, the ferry can be a good alternative.
Is the ferry trip to Nusa Penida safe?
Yes, it’s safe, though sea conditions can vary. The ferry and fast boat companies in Bali are well-regulated, and most adhere to high safety standards. It’s a good idea to check sea conditions before travelling.
Manager & Videographer in DPM Nusa Penida.
WILDLIFE-OCEAN-DIVING
🎥 Recording the underwater world and nature my contribution in the fight for its defence and protection💙💪
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