Nusa Lembongan

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Mushroom Beach, Nusa Lembongan
San Andreas, Wikimedia Commons

Nusa Lembongan is a serene island getaway featuring beautiful beaches, vibrant marine life for snorkeling and diving, and panoramic viewpoints, appealing to those seeking a relaxed yet active experience. It provides a peaceful alternative to Bali's busier areas while still offering opportunities for adventure and cultural insight.

The main social hubs are found around Jungut Batu beach and Mushroom Bay, where numerous beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants provide settings for dining, sunset viewing, and relaxed evening drinks. Establishments such as The Deck Cafe & Bar, Sandy Bay Beach Club, and Ohana's Bar & Beach Lounge are popular for their vibrant atmospheres, often featuring live music and events.

Top 6 Things to do in Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan offers a range of activities focusing on marine exploration, natural wonders, and relaxed island adventures.

1. Snorkeling and Diving with Manta Rays

Embark on an underwater journey to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter majestic manta rays, an unforgettable experience. Popular spots include Manta Bay and Crystal Bay, where crystal-clear waters reveal diverse marine life. Many tours include multiple snorkel points and opportunities to see other fish species and even turtles. For certified divers, the area offers excellent dive sites with chances to see larger marine life, including manta rays and, seasonally, mola mola sunfish. It is highly recommended to join a guided tour for safety and to access the best spots.

Cost: Snorkeling tours typically range from IDR 300,000 to IDR 900,000 per person, often including equipment and lunch. A 2-dive fun trip for certified divers costs around IDR 1,650,000, with surcharges for specific sites like Manta Point (around IDR 100,000-150,000). Beginner 'Discover Scuba Diving' experiences typically cost around IDR 1,200,000-2,100,000.

Transport: Tours often include hotel pickup and drop-off from areas like Jungut Batu. Boats depart from various points on the island, primarily Jungut Batu. If coming from Bali, day trips include fast boat transfers from Sanur.

2. Explore the Mangrove Forest

Discover the tranquil beauty of Nusa Lembongan's eastern side by navigating its extensive mangrove forest. Visitors can glide through serene waterways on traditional jukung boats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards. This immersive experience offers a peaceful escape, allowing for observation of various bird species and other wetland wildlife. It is a calm and quiet activity, suitable for all ages.

Cost: A traditional boat tour costs approximately IDR 100,000 per person (minimum two persons). Kayaking is around IDR 90,000 per person, and stand-up paddleboarding is about IDR 150,000 per board. Some tours may offer a slightly higher rate around IDR 170,000 per person for a traditional boat tour.

Transport: The Mangrove Forest is located on the northeastern side of the island. Many tours include free pickup and drop-off services from accommodations in Nusa Lembongan.

3. Visit Devil's Tear for Sunset

Witness the raw power of the ocean at Devil's Tear, a dramatic coastal outcrop where waves crash against limestone cliffs, creating spectacular sprays and powerful booms. This natural blowhole is particularly stunning during high tide and offers an exceptional location for sunset viewing, with vibrant colors streaking the sky. Exercise caution as the waves can be unpredictable.

Cost: There is typically no entrance fee for Devil's Tear itself. Costs would be for transport to the location.

Transport: Devil's Tear is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Lembongan. It is accessible by scooter or by hiring a local driver. Scooter rental is around IDR 75,000-100,000 per day. A private scooter tour including Devil's Tear might cost around IDR 350,000 per person.

4. Relax at Dream Beach

Spend time at Dream Beach, a picturesque cove renowned for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It offers a tranquil setting for swimming and sunbathing. Adjacent to the beach is a resort with an infinity pool and restaurant, providing amenities and stunning views. While not ideal for snorkeling directly, it is a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the island's natural beauty.

Cost: Access to the beach is generally free. If using facilities at Dream Beach Huts, such as the infinity pool or restaurant, costs will apply for food and drinks.

Transport: Dream Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Lembongan. It is easily reached by scooter or by arranging transport with a local driver. Scooter rental is approximately IDR 75,000-100,000 per day. A local driver could be hired for around IDR 165,000.

5. Explore Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan by Scooter

Embark on an adventurous self-guided tour by scooter to discover the islands of Nusa Lembongan and the connected Nusa Ceningan. Crossing the iconic Yellow Bridge, which connects the two islands and is only wide enough for motorbikes, offers scenic views. Key sights on Nusa Ceningan include the vibrant Blue Lagoon and Mahana Point, known for surfing and cliff jumping. This allows for flexible exploration of hidden beaches, local villages, and panoramic viewpoints, experiencing the islands at a personal pace.

Cost: Scooter rental typically costs IDR 75,000 to IDR 100,000 per day, often including a full tank of gas and a helmet. Group scooter tours with a guide can be arranged for around IDR 350,000 per person.

Transport: Scooters are the primary mode of transport on the islands. They can be rented from accommodations or local rental shops. The Yellow Bridge connects Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, and it is accessible only by foot and motorbike.

6. Learn to Surf

Nusa Lembongan boasts world-class surf breaks suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. Popular surf spots include Playgrounds, Lacerations, Razors, and Shipwrecks, known for their clear blue waters. Experienced local instructors are available to teach the basics of surfing or help improve existing skills, making it an engaging way to experience the island's dynamic ocean environment.

Cost: Beginner surfing lessons typically cost around IDR 400,000 per person for a two-hour session. Private lessons are available for approximately IDR 750,000 per person. Surfboard rentals are also available for those who prefer to surf independently.

Transport: Surf schools and rental shops are mainly located around Jungut Batu beach. Transportation to specific surf breaks is usually arranged by the surf schools or can be accessed via rented scooter.

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