Nusa Islands – a wide variety of island landscapes

Nusa Islands near Bali

The Nusa Islands are a beautiful group of islands near Bali. The three islands captivate with great landscapes, some white sandy beaches and their original atmosphere. The Nusa Islands are easily accessible from Bali, so the journey does not take much time. In the following article, we will explain exactly where the Nusa Islands are located and what you can do there.

Where are the Nusa Islands located?

The Nusa Islands are located southeast of Bali in the Strait of Lombok, as the strait between Bali and Lombok is called. The closest of the islands, Nusa Lembongan, is located about eleven kilometres off Bali’s nearest coast.

Getting to the Nusa Islands

To get to the Nusa Islands, you can use a variety of boat and ferry connections. Several providers offer daily connections by speedboat to the archipelago. For example, speedboats depart from Sanur and Padang Bai to Nusa Lembongan. Nusa Penida is also headed for from Sanur. Here, you can also take a ferry instead of the speedboat crossing. The ferry crossing takes about two hours.

The three islands

The Nusa Islands include the three islands Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida. The islands are easily accessible from Bali and invite you to a few nice, relaxing days stay. The islands invite you to unwind. In the following, the individual islands are briefly presented. Further information can be found in the respective articles for each of the islands.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida

The largest of the Nusa Islands is Nusa Penida. For its size, it is still relatively undeveloped and therefore not overrun by tourists. Nusa Penida captivates with its diverse landscape and seclusion. There are numerous secluded beaches and plenty of untouched nature. However, the island is now also seeing the advent of excessive photo tourism. Probably the most famous spot is Kelingking Beach, which attracts crowds of travellers. The photo motif is truly impressive and the spot is certainly the most photographed on Nusa Penida. However, the idyll is greatly marred by the many tourists. Those who avoid such places will be able to experience Nusa Penida in a unique way.

More about Nusa Penida

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan
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The second largest island of the Nusa Islands is Nusa Lembongan. Despite its significantly smaller size compared to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan also boasts a beautiful and varied landscape. In addition to rocky cliffs, you will also find bright white sandy beaches and impressive mangrove forests. The latter can be explored on a boat tour. Nusa Lembongan has a very relaxed atmosphere. There are many great places to visit and a wide range of exciting activities, such as snorkelling, surfing and diving.

More about Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Ceningan
© Richard Whitcombe / shutterstock

The smallest of the three islands lies between Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. There is no direct route from Bali to Nusa Ceningan, as there are no boats that dock there. To get to Ceningan, you have to go to Nusa Lembongan. The two islands are connected by a narrow yellow bridge that is only suitable Visitors to Nusa Ceningan will discover a cosy little island where life seems to pass at a slower pace. The island has a very unspoilt feel and invites you to take a relaxing tour of discovery.

More about Nusa Ceningan

Conclusion: is the Nusa Islands worth a visit?

The Nusa Islands are a wonderful destination for those who enjoy relaxation and a wide variety of landscapes. The islands feature spectacular rocky cliffs, white sandy beaches, impressive limestone formations and a mystical mangrove forest. The archipelago also offers exciting activities in addition to its landscape. You can explore the underwater world while diving or snorkelling, some spots are great for surfing, and you can even do yoga on the islands. Perfect conditions for a stay where you will never be bored.