Paradise Found on Nusa Lembongan
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Bali's Sanur lies a stunning trio of islands, the Nusa Penida district. Comprising Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, these tropical idylls feature aquamarine waters teeming with reef life, surf breaks, palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze, and pristine white sand beaches.
Nusa Lembongan, the most popular of the islands, spans eight square kilometres and offers a much quieter experience compared to mainland hotspots like Seminyak and Canggu. You won't find hawkers, nightclubs, or traffic jams here-just powdery white beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, mature mangrove forests, and low limestone cliffs. Indeed, paradise is found here. Despite its tranquillity, there is plenty to do in Nusa Lembongan. Activities range from snorkelling, surfing, diving, and exploring the myriad of paths crisscrossing the land. Visitors can indulge in various spas, beach clubs, and restaurants. Cross the suspension bridge to the neighbouring island, Nusa Ceningan, for a change of scenery. Here's our pick of the the 'must-sees' and 'must-dos' on this magical isle.
Here's our pick of the top things to see and do on Nusa Lembongan.
For the… Adrenaline Junkies
Swim with magnificent Manta Rays
A 20-minute boat ride takes you to Manta Point, a world-renowned
spot to see Manta Rays. Dive or snorkel with these gentle giants,
which can grow up to 4 meters wide. Alongside Manta Rays, you may
encounter Mola-Mola sunfish, dolphins, turtles, sharks, eagle rays,
giant trevallies, huge clams, and cuttlefish. The underwater world
here is a treasure trove of marine life waiting to be explored.
For the… Foodies
Pontoon
Pontoon is far from
your average bar-it is a luxurious oasis on the open sea. Designed
for ocean lovers, adventure seekers, and those who cherish
connection, Pontoon stands out with its eco-friendly design. Fully
powered by solar panels and equipped with its bespoke water
filtration system, it offers a unique and sustainable dining
experience. The floating bar also provides a free shuttle boat
service from its sister establishment, the Beach Cafe. The menu at
Pontoon features an array of bites, breads, burgers, and beers,
ensuring there is something for every palate. Whether you're
looking for a light snack or a hearty meal, Pontoon delivers with
style and sustainability.
For the… Night owls
Sundowners at Ohana's
Nestled on the pristine sands of Jungutbatu Beach, Ohana's is not just a beach
club-it's a sunset paradise. As darkness falls, their iconic
"Sunsets on Fire" event takes centre stage, with a bonfire igniting
the beach, making the sunset even more enchanting. Dive into their
eclectic range of cocktails, perfectly paired with a menu that is
nothing short of amazing. Ohanas offers a vibrant atmosphere where
you can unwind with friends, enjoy live music, and savour delicious
food while watching the sunset over the horizon. Ohana's is the
perfect destination for those who love to experience the magic of
the night.
For the… Culturistas
Gala-Gala underground house
One of the most unique attractions on the island is the fascinating
underground house, Gala-Gala. This incredible structure is owned by
Made Byasa, who built it single-handedly using only a hammer,
chisel, and his intuition. Spanning 15 years of dedicated effort
(1961 - 1975), Byasa created an astonishing labyrinth featuring a
sacred meditation room. Exploring Gala-Gala is a journey through
human perseverance and creativity, making it a must-see for any
culture enthusiast.
And for the... Once-in-a-lifetime-ers
Devil's Tears
On the southwestern coast, Devil's Tears is an awe-inspiring beauty
spot renowned for its rugged coastline and massive waves that crash
against the rocky cliffs. These dramatic plumes of water appear to
burst from the ocean, giving the site its evocative name, Devil's
Tears. This location is a testament to the raw power of nature and
a place of spectacular beauty, especially at sunset when the light
dances with the ocean spray. It's free to visit and offers a
magical, unforgettable experience.
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