Nusa Lembongan, along with its neighboring islands Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida, has gained popularity as a tropical escape just off the coast of Bali. Visitors to Nusa Lembongan are drawn to its relaxed atmosphere, scenic beaches, and laid-back island life. Whether planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended stay, this guide covers everything needed to make the most of a visit.
Dive, Chill and Seaweed Farm: What to do Around Nusa Lembongan
How to Get to Nusa Lembongan
As the most developed of the three Nusas, Nusa Lembongan is easily accessible from Bali. Travel typically involves a boat ride from Sanur, where several operators provide regular services. It's possible to take a taxi or scooter to the Sanur port, where vehicles can be parked. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, with return or open ticket options available depending on the length of stay. D’Camel Fast Ferry is one of the boat companies known for reliable service. Boats typically dock at Mushroom Bay or Jungutbatu, where local transport options like scooter rentals are available upon arrival.
Getting Around
Nusa Lembongan is a compact island, making it easy to explore. While walking is a great option, many prefer renting scooters or bikes to get around quickly. The roads are narrow but well-maintained, so scooters are more practical than cars. Find a trusted local who can assist with scooter rentals and guide visitors to lesser-known spots on the island.
Where to Stay
Accommodations on Nusa Lembongan cater to various budgets, with three main areas standing out:
Jungutbatu: This area has a small-town vibe and is the island’s most lively spot, with a wide range of beachfront restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
By the Deck (Hill Overlooking Jungutbatu): This hill offers stunning views of Mount Agung and the ocean. Although many establishments here were closed during the pandemic, it is expected to be a desirable place to stay once the island fully reopens.
Sandy Bay/Sunset Beach: Located on the island’s more rugged side, this area is quieter and offers dramatic cliff views and luxury accommodations. While the beaches here aren't ideal for swimming due to strong currents, the scenery is breathtaking, especially during sunset.
Cost of Visiting
Despite its location (on its own island), prices on Nusa Lembongan are generally comparable to those on the Bali mainland. Accommodations and scooter rentals are reasonably priced, though dining and grocery costs may be slightly higher due to the transportation of goods by boat. However, most visitors find the island to be affordable overall.
What to Do
Though only 8 square kilometers, Nusa Lembongan offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. The island's beaches, surfing opportunities, and marine life are among its top attractions.
Beaches
Nusa Lembongan boasts several beaches, each offering something unique:
Jungut Batu Beach: A long stretch of sand with calm waters perfect for swimming. It’s a lively spot with beachfront restaurants and stunning views of Mount Agung.
Mushroom Bay Beach: Known for its beautiful colors, this beach is better for sightseeing than swimming due to the number of boats. A small hidden beach can be accessed through a cliff path at low tide.
Dream Beach: Surrounded by cliffs, this secluded beach on the western side is stunning, though its strong currents make it unsuitable for swimming. Its raw beauty makes it a favorite for sunset watching.
Sandy Bay Beach: Next to Dream Beach, this spot is quieter and perfect for watching sunsets and the powerful waves crashing into the cliffs.
Song Lambung Beach: A smaller, hidden gem with soft sand and calm waters, ideal for a relaxed beach day.
Tamarind Beach: This beach is more rocky and quieter, offering fewer activities compared to others on the island.
Surfing
Nusa Lembongan is a year-round surf destination, with waves suited to all skill levels. Surf spots like Playgrounds, Lacerations, and Shipwrecks are popular among surfers, and for those wanting to learn, local instructors like Wayan and Agus offer excellent guidance. Surfers can also enjoy taking boats out to the breaks, making the experience even more memorable.
Marine Life and Snorkeling
The island is home to several snorkeling spots, particularly in the mangrove areas. For a truly unforgettable experience, snorkeling with manta rays is a must. These majestic creatures can be seen near Manta Bay, which is accessible by boat from the Yellow Bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. No prior snorkeling experience is required, and while sightings aren’t guaranteed, the chances of encountering manta rays are high.
Seaweed Farm
The islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan also showcase the industrious life of local seaweed farmers. Each morning, these farmers wade through shallow waters to harvest Eucheuma sea moss, which thrives in the region's clear waters and abundant sunlight. Cultivated since the early 1980s, the seaweed is collected and dried after about 35 days, with much of it sold to the skincare industry for its valuable carrageenan content. Interestingly, this versatile seaweed is also edible and features in traditional Balinese dishes like rujak bulung. When visiting these islands, take a moment to appreciate the dedication of these farmers as they gather their ocean crop under the sun.
Other Attractions
Devil’s Tear: A dramatic coastal spot where waves crash into the cliffs, creating mesmerizing water displays.
Yellow Bridge: Connecting Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, this vibrant yellow bridge is a must-see and offers a great photo opportunity.
With its serene beaches, natural beauty, and variety of activities, Nusa Lembongan offers an ideal escape from Bali’s busier tourist areas. Whether visiting for a weekend or longer, it promises a laid-back island experience with plenty to explore.
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