Just a 30-minute boat ride from mainland Bali lies Nusa Lembongan – a small island with a big personality. With its turquoise waters, laid-back beach clubs, and unspoiled coastal charm, Nusa Lembongan Bali is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
We’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times over the years – solo, family, and most recently for our honeymoon (with our toddler in tow!). It’s one of those places that feels effortlessly special, where every day is shaped by the rhythm of the tides, the warmth of the locals, and that gentle sea breeze that makes you instantly slow down.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or an island-hopping adventure, this guide shares everything you need to know about Nusa Lembongan, including where to stay, eat, and explore.
Where Is Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is part of the trio of Nusa Islands in Indonesia, located just off the southeast coast of Bali, alongside Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida. Despite being so close, it feels a world away from the bustle of Seminyak or Canggu, a place where life slows down, scooters outnumber cars, and sunsets are an event in themselves.
The island is small, roughly 8 square kilometres, but it’s packed with beauty. Picture limestone cliffs, coral reefs, hidden coves, and friendly locals who still greet you with a smile as you pass on your scooter.
If you’re already exploring mainland Bali, Nusa Lembongan makes for the perfect addition to your Bali itinerary. It’s easy to access, relaxed, and still feels authentic, especially compared to busier islands nearby.
How to Get to Nusa Lembongan
Getting from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is easy and surprisingly quick. Boats depart daily from Sanur Beach, and the trip takes around 30–40 minutes depending on the tide and weather.
We used Rocky Fast Cruise on our honeymoon and had such a positive experience, they were professional, well-organised, and made the transfer easy even with our toddler. Their staff handled luggage, offered refreshments, and made the whole journey feel seamless.
We also recommend Setia Fast Ferry, another safe and reliable operator, especially for families or first-time visitors. Both companies offer hotel pick-up and drop-off from areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Sanur, and Ubud.
Once you arrive at the beach on Lembongan, expect to get your feet wet, you’ll disembark directly into the shallow water, so wear sandals rather than sneakers.
🛥 Tip: Book your return Nusa Lembongan to Bali ferry in advance through your hotel or a local tour office, as boats can fill up quickly during peak season.
Getting Around on Nusa Lembongan
One of the best parts about Nusa Lembongan is how compact and easy it is to get around. The whole island can be explored in a day, but you’ll want to take your time, there’s a lot to see in between the beaches, viewpoints, and local warungs.
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Scooter: The most common way to explore. Roads are narrow but scenic, winding past beaches and temples. Helmets are a must, and it’s best to drive slowly, especially with kids.
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Golf buggy: A fun, family-friendly option that’s ideal if you’re travelling with little ones and want more comfort than a scooter.
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Private driver: For day trips or island tours, hiring a local driver is the easiest way to see everything without stress. We did this and loved it, our driver took us to all the top Nusa Lembongan attractions, from the mangrove forest to Devil’s Tears.
Because of its size, you’re never more than 10 minutes away from the next beach or café. For the most part, we walked when we needed to get to dinner or lunch. We also hired a driver on two occasions for day tours to explore the different beaches of Nusa Lembongan.
Best Time to Visit Nusa Lembongan
The weather on Nusa Lembongan is warm year-round, but the dry season (April to October) is ideal for sunshine, clear water, and calm seas. This is also the best time for Nusa Lembongan surf, diving, and beach days.
We visited in May, and it was perfect – warm, dry, and not too crowded. The wet season (November to March) brings occasional rain showers but also lush landscapes and quieter beaches.
🌤 Tip: If you plan to snorkel or dive, visit during the dry season when underwater visibility is best.
How Many Days on Nusa Lembongan
While it’s possible to do a day trip to Nusa Lembongan from Bali, we recommend staying at least 3–5 nights to really unwind.
During our honeymoon, we stayed for 4 nights and 5 days, which gave us time to explore every beach, enjoy spa days, and spend lazy afternoons watching the tide roll in. If you’re also visiting Nusa Penida, plan for at least five nights to give yourself a full day to explore both islands.
For families, that’s the sweet spot — enough time to relax without over-scheduling.
Where to Stay on Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan accommodation ranges from boutique resorts to beach bungalows and ocean-view villas. Two of the most popular areas to stay are Jungut Batu Beach and Mushroom Bay, both with their own vibe and highlights.
Jungut Batu Beach
This is the island’s main hub, with the largest stretch of beach, plenty of restaurants, and some of the best Nusa Lembongan resorts.
We stayed at Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa and absolutely loved it. The location is stunning, perched on a hill overlooking Mount Agung and the turquoise bay. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, with private plunge pools and sweeping views.
The service was incredible – warm, thoughtful, and attentive, and the food at Muntigs Bar & Restaurant (part of the resort) was some of the best we had on the island.
Even with a toddler, it felt completely family-friendly – peaceful, safe, and luxurious without being pretentious. If you’re looking for a hotel in Nusa Lembongan that blends comfort and style, Batu Karang is unbeatable.
Other great stays in Jungut Batu include Ohana’s Nusa Lembongan, a lively beachfront resort with a pool, bar, and vibrant atmosphere, and Lembongan Beach Club & Resort, known for its spacious villas and direct beach access.
Mushroom Bay
If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed setting, Mushroom Bay is ideal. The beach here is calm and perfect for swimming, with plenty of cute cafés and beach shacks dotted along the sand.
I’ve stayed in Mushroom Bay twice, once solo and once with family, and it’s still one of my favourite areas for its tranquil vibe.
You’ll find a great selection of mid-range Nusa Lembongan villas and bungalows here, as well as luxury stays like Sandy Bay Beach Club Villas. It’s a great base for families and couples who want easy beach access without the busier atmosphere of Jungut Batu.
Our Top Picks:
Good Day Villas
Castaway
Hai Tide Beach Resort
Bay Shore Huts
Nusa Lembongan Restaurants – Where to Eat
Despite its size, Nusa Lembongan has an incredible food scene. From beach clubs to sunset bars and family-run warungs, there’s something for every palate.
Ohana’s Nusa Lembongan
A must-visit for beach days and sunset cocktails, Ohana’s has become an island institution. The vibe is coastal-cool, the food is fresh and modern, and there’s a pool you can dip into while sipping a mojito. It’s perfect for families too — our toddler loved playing in the sand here.
The Deck Café & Bar
Located just above the water near Batu Karang, The Deck is famous for its sunset views. We spent several evenings here watching the sky turn gold over Mount Agung. Their smoothie bowls, cocktails, and tapas-style menu are perfect for relaxed afternoons.
Thai Pantry
A local gem tucked behind Jungut Batu Beach. The curries here are fragrant and authentic, and the staff are genuinely lovely. It’s also great value, making it a must-try for anyone craving Thai flavours on the island. Thai Pantry is located right near Batu Karang so it became one of our go-tos during our stay.
Muntigs Bar & Restaurant
Part of Batu Karang Resort, this elegant restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes and exceptional service. Breakfast here was a highlight — think tropical fruit platters, coffee with a view, and fluffy pancakes.
Sanghyangbay Bar and Restaurant
Nestled by Mushroom Bay, this casual eatery serves great seafood and Indonesian favourites with your feet in the sand. It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and perfect for a sunset dinner after a day of exploring.
What to Do on Nusa Lembongan
Now for the fun part, everything you can see and do while you’re here. From island-hopping to snorkelling and spa days, these are our favourite Nusa Lembongan attractions and activities.
Beach Hop
Beaches on Nusa Lembongan are some of the prettiest in Indonesia. Don’t miss Nusa Lembongan Dream Beach for its stunning cliffs, Mushroom Bay for swimming, Sandy Bay for sunset cocktails, and Jungut Batu Beach for family-friendly fun. If you love dramatic coastlines similar to the famous Uluwatu beaches, you’ll especially appreciate the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters around Dream Beach.
Best Time: Morning for calm water, evening for sunset
Entry Fee: Free
Tip: Rent a scooter or buggy to see them all in one day.
Is this kid-friendly?: Definitely – most beaches have calm shallows.
Kayak Through the Mangroves
One of the most peaceful and scenic activities on the island, kayaking through the Nusa Lembongan mangroves is a must. The calm waterways are surrounded by lush greenery and teeming with birdlife. You can rent kayaks or hire a local guide for a short tour — perfect for families or couples wanting a break from the beach.
Location: North Nusa Lembongan
Best Time: Morning (for calm tides)
Entry Fee: Around IDR 100,000 per kayak
Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof bag for your phone.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes — it’s calm and safe for kids with life jackets.
Go Snorkelling
Diving Nusa Lembongan and snorkelling are world-class. The water is crystal clear, and you can often spot manta rays, turtles, and colourful coral reefs. The most popular snorkel sites are Crystal Bay, Manta Point, and Mangrove Point.
Tours depart daily, and most include equipment, transfers, and drinks.
Location: Depart from Jungut Batu or Mushroom Bay
Best Time: Morning (8–10 am)
Entry Fee: Around IDR 250,000–400,000 per person
Tip: Bring an underwater camera – visibility is amazing.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, for confident swimmers or with life jackets.
Relax, Indulge, and Spa Days
If you’re visiting Nusa Lembongan Bali for a honeymoon or relaxing getaway, make sure you book a spa treatment (or two). Lulur Spa and Spring Spa Lembongan are both beautiful, but our favourite was right at Batu Karang Resort — ocean views, fragrant oils, and the sound of waves while you unwind.
Location: Batu Karang Resort / Jungut Batu area
Best Time: Late afternoon before sunset
Entry Fee: Around IDR 350,000–700,000 per treatment
Tip: Pre-book during high season — spa slots fill up fast.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, if you book treatments separately or take turns.
Visit Devil’s Tears
This natural wonder is one of the most dramatic Nusa Lembongan attractions. Watch as huge waves crash into the cliffs, creating explosions of sea spray. It’s especially impressive at sunset.
Location: Near Dream Beach
Best Time: Late afternoon
Entry Fee: IDR 25,000 (small local fee)
Tip: Stay well back from the edge — it can be slippery.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, with caution — keep little ones close.
Day Trip to Nusa Penida
From Nusa Lembongan, it’s easy to take a day trip to Nusa Penida via the Yellow Bridge. Spend the day visiting Instagram-famous spots like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay.
You can join a group tour or hire a private driver for the day. The roads on Penida can be rough, but the views are worth it.
Location: Boat departs from the Yellow Bridge
Best Time: Early morning
Entry Fee: Approx. IDR 300,000–500,000 for return boat and tour
Tip: Wear good shoes and bring cash — many cafes don’t accept cards.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, with supervision — some cliffs aren’t fenced.
Admire the View from Panorama Point
Located on the hill between Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay, Panorama Point offers sweeping views over the coastline. It’s a great photo stop and one of the best places to admire Nusa Lembongan weather as the sun hits the turquoise water.
Location: Main road between Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset
Entry Fee: Free
Tip: Stop at a nearby warung for coconut water with a view.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, easy access and safe for children.
Rent a Paddleboard
If you love the water but prefer something calmer than surfing, rent a stand-up paddleboard. Nusa Lembongan surf conditions are gentle in the mornings, making it perfect for beginners.
Location: Jungut Batu or Mushroom Bay
Best Time: Early morning before the wind picks up
Entry Fee: Around IDR 100,000–150,000/hour
Tip: Bring a rash shirt and secure sunglasses — it gets sunny fast.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes — little ones can sit on the board with you.
Visit Ohana’s Beach Club
Whether you’re staying there or not, Ohana’s Nusa Lembongan is a must-visit. It’s the perfect mix of chill and chic, with great cocktails, delicious food, and beachfront vibes.
Location: Jungut Batu Beach
Best Time: Late afternoon for sunset
Entry Fee: Free entry, food & drink minimums apply for pool use
Tip: Arrive early — seats fill quickly for sunset.
Is this kid-friendly?: Absolutely — there’s a beach and pool.
Cross the Famous Yellow Bridge to Nusa Ceningan
This bright yellow suspension bridge connects Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Ceningan and is one of the island’s icons. You can cross by foot or scooter and explore Nusa Ceningan’s cliff bars, beaches, and viewpoints.
Location: Southeast Lembongan
Best Time: Anytime (avoid high tide if walking)
Entry Fee: Free
Tip: Go early morning for quiet photos.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, but hold hands — scooters also cross.
Watch the Sunset
No visit is complete without a Nusa Lembongan sunset. Our favourites are from The Deck, Ohana’s, or Sandy Bay Beach Club, where the sky turns pink behind Mount Agung.
Location: West-facing beaches
Best Time: 5:30–6:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Tip: Bring your camera – the light is incredible.
Is this kid-friendly?: Yes, sunset walks are the perfect family activity.
Nusa Lembongan is one of Bali’s best-kept secrets, an island that feels both adventurous and peaceful. It’s where you can surf, snorkel, and explore by day, then unwind with sunset cocktails and ocean views by night.
For us, it’s a place full of memories, from honeymoon spa days to sandy toddler feet at sunset. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Nusa Lembongan Bali will leave you wanting to come back again and again.
If you’re planning your trip, check out our other Bali travel guides for inspiration:
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