Where to Stay? Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida?
Are you planning to travel to our islands but aren’t sure which one to stay on? You are not alone, we get asked about this… a LOT! In this Blog we take a look at the highlights of each of the islands and hopefully help you to decide which island is the best one for you!
Commonalities between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
Before we look at the differences between the islands, let’s take a look at what they both have in common.
Dive Sites: Whether you chose to stay and dive with us at Blue Corner on Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida, you can rest assured that you’ll be diving some of the most iconic dive sites, including Crystal Bay and Manta Point!
PADI Courses and Professional Training: We offer the full range of PADI recreational courses and professional dive training at Both Blue Corner Nusa Lembongan and Blue Corner Nusa Penida. PADI Instructor Exams are also offered on both Islands for those who are interested in going pro.
Stunning Sunsets: Both of our islands offer Instagram worthy sunsets throughout the year! There’s no better way to end a day of diving than by enjoying a cold one while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Accessibility: With a multitude of speedboat services to choose from, both islands are extremely accessible and are just a 30-40 minute boat ride from Sanur on mainland Bali.
Choosing Between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
Surfers: If you want to combine your time underwater with time catching waves, then Nusa Lembongan is the best choice. Not only will you have direct access to Nusa Lembongan’s wave breaks, you also have easy access to Nusa Ceningan’s breaks via the famous Yellow Bridge.
Instagrammers: If posting fabulous images and recording reels is part of your plan then both islands offer incredible opportunities. However, if you are keen to capture some of the most instagrammed spots in Bali (think Broken Beach and Kelingking Beach), then these places are located on Nusa Penida.
Foodies: While both islands have a good range of options, you’ll find that the dining scene on Nusa Lembongan is more developed with a broad range of cuisines on offer. From local Balinese options through to modern international there’s plenty to choose from. Vegan options abound and there’s Indian, French, Italian and Mexican, as well as a host of charming, boutique places to enjoy good coffee and great smoothies!
Accommodation: Because Nusa Lembongan has a longer history of tourism, it offers a wider range and more options than Nusa Penida. However, Nusa Penida has plenty of comfortable places for all budgets – and more are opening or are under construction. If you are looking for a private villa however, Nusa Lembongan is your best bet at this time.
Other Activities and Things to Do on Nusa Lembongan
When you are not out diving there’s plenty of other activities to take part in for those staying on Nusa Lembongan. Here are a few of the options available:
Mangrove Tours: Take a small traditional boat through the mangroves. This is an extremely peaceful experience as the mangroves act as a sound barrier to external noises. Look out for birds and reptiles as you glide through the mangrove forest – powered by your local boat captain who ‘punts’ the boat along with a bamboo pole.
Catch some Waves: There are a number of surf schools and surf board rental companies on Nusa Lembongan, so whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned pro you’ll be able to try riding our famous breaks.
Chill Out at a Beach Club: Nusa Lembongan has numerous beach clubs that offer all day dining, pools, sun loungers, and some phenomenal views.
Treat Yourself to a Massage: Nusa Lembongan has a wide range of spas that cater to all budgets. What better way to relax and indulge yourself after a morning of diving than with a rejuvenating spa treatment?
Visit Nusa Ceningan: The islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are connected via the famous yellow bridge (an experience in itself). Rent a scooter and explore Nusa Ceningan, or simply chill out in one of the beach front cafes.
Other Activities and Things to Do on Nusa Penida
Scooter Explorations: Nusa Penida is a much larger island than people often realise. And it’s all about exploring! Rent a scooter and take yourself on a tour of this phenomenal island!
Beach Vibes: Some of the most Instagrammed beaches of Bali are to be found on Nusa Penida – Crystal Bay, Kelingking, Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, and Broken Beach are all located here.
Get Cultural: Did you know that the second most important temple in Bali is located on Nusa Penida? Pura Ped is on the North Coast and every year all Balinese Hindu’s make a pilgrimage from the mainland to this important temple.
Go Underground: Pura Goa Giri Putri is a unique temple that is accessed through a small opening in the rocks, once you have squeezed through the opening you find yourself standing inside a vast cavern with cathedral like qualities. You can walk through the different chambers before reaching a much more reasonably sized exit.
Feel the Fear: This one is not for those with a fear of heights! The south coast of Nusa Penida features immense cliffs and Peguyan Waterfall is a fresh water waterfall accessed by a 150 meter tall metal staircase down the cliff face. The waterfall is beautiful but the views from the steps is probably more impressive.
Angel’s Billabong: Another Instagram favourite, Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool in a rock basin overlooking the ocean. Take a dip in the cool water but stay away from the edge where waves wash over and can roll back out with surprising strength.
Take a Dip Inland: Tembeling Pool is a fresh water rock pool hidden away in the depths of Nusa Penida’s jungle. This is a truly stunning oasis.
Have we inspired you to come and explore our islands with us? If you’ve already decided which location is best for you, or if you want to know more, get in touch with us and one of our friendly team will get right back to you!
Photos by British Underwater Photographer of the year Ollie Clarke