Nusa Lembongan is a small island in Klungkung regency about 12 km east of Sanur, connected to its neighbour Nusa Ceningan by a narrow yellow suspension bridge. From Denpasar, visitors drive about 20 to 30 minutes to Sanur Harbour and board a fast boat to Jungutbatu Beach, a crossing of 30 to 40 minutes. The island is flat and compact, so a scooter rental for the day or a short driver hire covers it easily. Mushroom Bay, on the southwest coast, is a calm, curved beach with a stretch of cafes and beach clubs suited to swimming and snorkelling. Devil's Tear, a short ride from Jungutbatu, is a rocky headland where waves crash into a cliff and throw spray high into the air, and the nearby Sunset Point and Dream Beach share the same coastline. The mangrove forest on the northeast coast can be explored by small boat or paddle. Snorkel and dive operators run trips to sites such as Manta Point and Mangrove Point, where seasonal manta rays are sometimes seen. A relaxed day starts with a mid-morning boat, so the visit begins at Jungutbatu with coffee, then continues to Devil's Tear and Dream Beach before lunch at a beachfront warung or cafe. The afternoon suits Mushroom Bay and a swim, with the return boat in the late afternoon. April to October is the preferred window, and May to September brings the calmest sea. Strong currents affect some swimming spots, so visitors should follow local advice. Sun protection and reef-safe sunscreen are worthwhile on this low-effort, mostly coastal trip.
| Distance | About 12 km east by sea from Sanur |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 30-40 minutes |
| Getting there | Fast boat from Sanur Harbour, IDR 170,000-250,000 (approx US$9.50-13.97) one way |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali 80771 |
How to get there
- Mode
- Fast boat
- Route
- Sanur Harbour to Jungutbatu Beach
- Duration
- 30-40 minutes
- Cost
- IDR 170,000-250,000 (approx US$9.50-13.97) one way
- Mode
- Scooter on island
- Route
- Jungutbatu to Devil's Tear
- Duration
- 15 minutes
- Cost
- Rental IDR 70,000-100,000 (approx US$3.91-5.59) per day
Location
Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali 80771
-8.6790, 115.4450 View on map
Highlights
- Devil's Tear wave-spray and cliff viewpoint
- Mushroom Bay beach for swimming and snorkelling
- Yellow suspension bridge to Nusa Ceningan
- Mangrove forest by small boat or paddle
Tips for visiting
- Rent a scooter at Jungutbatu to cover the island in a few hours, but take care on narrow lanes.
- Book snorkel trips with an operator that provides life jackets and checks the currents.
- Keep back from the cliff edge at Devil's Tear, where waves are unpredictable.
- Take the earliest practical boat and confirm the last return time.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water.
When to visit
May to September has the calmest sea and clearest water. Mornings are cooler and less crowded at Devil's Tear.
Accessibility
Boarding involves a beach landing or jetty with steps, and island paths are uneven. Cafes at Mushroom Bay are close to the beach, but wheelchair access is limited.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the boat from Sanur take?
The fast boat to Jungutbatu takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Sailings run through the day, with the last return boats leaving in the late afternoon.
Can Nusa Lembongan be done in a day?
Yes, the island is small and the main beaches and viewpoints are close together. A day trip is practical, though many stay overnight for diving.
Is it safe to swim at Devil's Tear?
No, it is a viewpoint rather than a swimming spot, as waves crash against the rocks. Mushroom Bay is better for swimming.
When is the sea calmest?
The sea is generally calmest from May to September. Crossings can be rougher in the wet season.