The island of Nusa Ceningan, like its larger sister island Nusa Lembongan, is a tropical paradise with an extremely relaxed atmosphere. Cars are almost unheard of here, and even traffic with scooters is very limited. Overall, the island seems a bit sleepy in many places, but by no means boring. The tourist infrastructure is quite well developed, which means that you have a wide range of very nice accommodation and restaurants here.
Where is Nusa Ceningan located?
The small island of Nusa Ceningan is located about 15 kilometres southeast of Bali. It is located in the middle of the other two Nusa islands, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. The famous yellow bridge to Nusa Ceningan leads from the latter. The bridge is about 80 metres long and so narrow that it can only be crossed by two-wheelers or on foot. Between Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida lies a strait about 700 metres wide.
It is difficult to get directly to Ceningan. The speedboats that depart from Sanur and Padang Bai on Bali usually head for Nusa Lembongan. From there, you can continue your journey by scooter or bicycle.
Places of interest and things to do on Nusa Ceningan
Ceningan offers a few vantage points, beautiful beaches and bays, as well as small warungs and bars. The best way to explore the small island is on a day trip by scooter, driving along the coast. Some of the restaurants and beach clubs here also have an infinity pool, where you can relax and enjoy the decadent view of the sea.
Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan
The Blue Lagoon is an impressive vantage point on a cliff. Here you can jump from the cliffs into the sea, although this can be extremely dangerous. But the view and the play of colours in nature are impressive and beautiful enough on their own. If you still want to go into the water, you can swim in the natural rock pools when the waves are low.
Secret Beach
In the south-west of the island lies the beautiful bay of the so-called Secret Beach.
Here, a white sandy beach lined with palm trees and crystal-clear, turquoise water invites you to relax.
Surfing at Mahana Point
Not to be confused with the Secret Beach is the Secret Point Beach. In the immediate vicinity is the island’s surf spot, Mahana Point. Due to the current, this is more suitable for advanced surfers.
Cliff diving into the sea
The restaurant of the same name, located next to the surf spot, offers cliff diving into the sea. A 5- and a 10-metre diving board have been built into the cliffs for this purpose. Those who are in the mood for a thrill can plunge into the sea here.
Conclusion: Who should visit Nusa Ceningan?
Nusa Ceningan is a great destination for anyone who wants to visit a tropical paradise that is not overrun by tourists. There is very little motorised traffic, which is rarely the case at many holiday destinations.
Nusa Ceningan has some exciting spots and some beautifully situated restaurants. If you don’t need action and adventure every day, but just want to relax, the island is the perfect place for you. And if you do want to experience a little more, you can simply hop on a scooter and drive over to Nusa Lembongan, where there is a little more to do.
