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Is Nusa Lembongan Worth Visiting? 15 Honest Pros & Cons + Mini Travel Guide

If you’re wondering if Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting, it absolutely is.

I visited the Balinese island to get away from the buzz in Canggu, and thought it was a wonderful place. Its beaches, people, and laid-back island vibe are a highlight.

It’s one of three islands near Bali: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida. But I think Lembongan Island is the best place to base yourself, as you can easily explore the other islands from here.

It’s perfect for snorkelling, beachside lounging and sunset cocktails. However, it might not be the island for everyone. The undeveloped, local feel might not appeal to those of you after a more bustling atmosphere.

In this post, I share why I think Nusa Lembongan is the perfect island getaway, the reasons to visit, the drawbacks, and my tips, so you can plan it into your itinerary, or not.

Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting for the views.
Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting for the views.

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Is Nusa Lembongan Worth Visiting?

After jumping on a speedboat just 30 minutes from Sanur on mainland Bali, you will reach the small island paradise of Nusa Lembongan.

It was the start of an extraordinary week. I instantly fell in love with the off-the-beaten-path energy. It was uncrowded and unspoilt. It really feels like a tropical island, a far cry from the congested, concrete streets of mainland Bali.

One of the main reasons I enjoyed Lembongan Island was the friendliness of everyone. It was easy to chat with the guy drying seaweed on the side of the road or the lady at the warung serving me nasi champur.

These acts of kindness and community made the whole trip even more memorable.

The channel between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan
The channel between Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan, Bali.

๐Ÿจ Accommodation // Where To Stay In Nusa Lembongan // 8.9+ ratings
Budget-friendly: Walet’s Paradise | Mid-Range: Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas & Restaurant | Better: The Shacks at Sandy Bay

The island offers incredible viewpoints, and you can see Mount Agung from Jungut Beach, which is perfect for catching a breathtaking sunset. The beaches, with their fluffy white sand and layered turquoise and azure waters, were always going to be a winner.

There are many natural and beautiful spots. The mangrove forests are eerily captivating, and along the north are seaweed farms. Devils Tears is a phenomenon not to miss, and the snorkelling is unbelievable.

Aerial views over Lembongan Island.
Aerial views over Lembongan Island, Bali

You can do a Discover Scuba dive, drive over to Nusa Ceningan via a cute yellow suspension bridge and easily visit Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida.

With this in mind, it’s clear I think Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting.

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At a Glance: Reasons to Visit Nusa Lembongan

If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick overview of the reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting:

  • Soft, sandy beaches with clear turquoise and emerald water
  • Incredible sunsets without the mainland Bali crowds
  • World-class diving and snorkelling, including turtles and manta rays
  • Chilled surf scene with offshore breaks for experienced surfers
  • Rare mangrove forests to explore by canoe
  • Dramatic landscapes and viewpoints, from clifftops to blowholes
  • Easy access to three islands: Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida
  • Perfect base for day trips, especially to Nusa Penida
  • Rustic, laid-back island vibe with a slower pace of life
  • Great balance of adventure and relaxation, all in one place

๐ŸŒŸ My top pick >> You can explore independently, or if youโ€™d rather keep things simple, this Lembongan and Ceningan Island Tour is a great option. Pair it with a Nusa Penida highlights tour, and youโ€™ve covered all three islands.

How to get to Nusa Lembongan

The easiest way to reach Nusa Lembongan is by fast boat from Sanur, with the crossing taking around 30โ€“45 minutes. Itโ€™s straightforward, affordable, and the most popular option for visitors.

Many fast-boat tickets include hotel pick-up and drop-off from areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Ubud Centre, Denpasar and Canggu, as well as transfers to Nusa Lembongan.

๐ŸŒŸ Check price and availability here: Fast boat from Bali to Nusa Lembongan

(Iโ€™ve included a more detailed breakdown of boat options, what to expect, and arrival tips further down the page in my mini travel guide.)

โœˆ๏ธ HOW TO MAKE TRIP PLANNING EASY?

I’ve created the Allโ€‘Inโ€‘One Digital Travel Planner as a simple way to keep your trip organised. Track bookings, plan your days, manage your budget, and tick off checklists. ๐Ÿค—

>> ๐Ÿ‘‰ Learn more about the Travel Planner <<

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Where to eat in Nusa Lembongan

โญ Pro tip: Beachfront spots are breezier and more comfortable. Move inland, and it can get humid fast.

๐Ÿจ Accommodation // Where To Stay In Nusa Lembongan // 8.9+ ratings
Budget-friendly: Walet’s Paradise | Mid-Range: Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas & Restaurant | Better: The Shacks at Sandy Bay


Pros: Why Nusa Lembongan is Worth Visiting

Who is Nusa Lembongan for? If you’re seeking an unforgettable tropical island with an easy-going vibe, dusty roads, lazy beach days and great snorkelling opportunities, youโ€™ll love Nusa Lembongan. โค๏ธ

1. Soft, sandy beaches

Beautiful beaches on Nusa Lembongan make it a must-visit island!
Beautiful beaches on Nusa Lembongan make it a must-visit island!

Beautiful beaches are among the main reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting.

No exaggeration, as soon as you arrive, youโ€™re greeted by soft white sand and that instantly slower island pace.

The beaches here are genuinely lovely, with plenty of quiet corners where you can stretch out, switch off, and feel like youโ€™ve found your own slice of paradise.

The water changes colour depending on where you are.

In some spots itโ€™s crystal-clear blue, inviting you straight in; elsewhere it turns a deep emerald green. And because youโ€™re on a small island, beach time quickly becomes a daily ritual.

For me, the beaches alone are reason enough to visit Nusa Lembongan.

Hereโ€™s a quick run-through of the best ones:

Jungutbatu Beach
This is the islandโ€™s main beach, and where most of the action happens.

Itโ€™s lined with seafront accommodation, cafรฉs, and warungs, making it perfect for long, aimless walks and sunset strolls.

Itโ€™s also the go-to spot for surfing, with famous breaks like Shipwrecks, Playgrounds, and Lacerations just offshore.

Dream Beach

We had the whole infinity pool to ourselves at Dream Beach in Nusa Lembongan!
The infinity pool at Dream Beach.

Small, white-sanded, and tucked between cliffs, Dream Beach is one of Nusa Lembonganโ€™s most photogenic spots.

When I visited, it was surprisingly quiet.

The cliffside Pandan Cafรฉ is a great bonus; order a couple of cocktails, and you can usually use the infinity pool, which comes with unreal views over the bay.

Mushroom Bay
If youโ€™re travelling with family or looking for calm swimming conditions, Mushroom Bay is ideal. The water here is usually glassy and protected, and the beachfront is dotted with villas, resorts, and relaxed dining spots.

โญ Pro tip: This is one of the best places to book snorkelling trips or island-hopping tours.

Tamarind Bay
At low tide, Tamarind Bay is one of the best snorkelling spots straight from the beach. Itโ€™s a beautiful stretch of sand with a laid-back feel and good food options, and it was one of our favourite places to slow down for an afternoon.

Hidden Beach
Itโ€™s not quite the secret it once was, but itโ€™s still quieter than most. Strong swimmers can snorkel out towards the reef from Mushroom Bay. I didnโ€™t do it myself, but itโ€™s often mentioned as a peaceful way to explore the coral.

Pasir Putih Beach
Right at the northern tip of the island, Pasir Putih is a wide, open beach fringed with palm trees. It ended up being my favourite.

Itโ€™s also home to Mahagiri Resort, where youโ€™ll find a beach bar, pool, and casual activities like beach volleyball, perfect for lazy afternoons that accidentally turn into sunset drinks.

If youโ€™re chasing soft sand, swimmable water, and beaches that still feel relaxed rather than overrun, Nusa Lembongan really delivers.

2. Sunset on the beach

Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting for the stunning sunsets
The sea, the beach and the sky were shades of pink.

Most tourists who come to Bali are chasing a good sunset. Fact. And honestly, this is one of the many reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting.

My first night delivered a beautiful one, but the second night, that one still sticks with me. To this day, itโ€™s only been beaten by two others: one in Lombok and another in Vanuatu.

That evening, I wandered further down the beach than usual and stumbled upon a beach shack called Mola Mola. Barely there, completely laid-back, and instantly my favourite place on the island.

I ended up coming back again and again.

It was wonderfully simple: a thatched roof, bamboo poles, rough wooden tables, and open on three sides to the sea. A man played guitar while his friend sang softly beside him. It was quiet, almost empty, yet warm and welcoming in a way thatโ€™s hard to describe.

As the sun dropped, the sea, sand, and sky all turned shades of pink. The photo we took doesnโ€™t even come close to doing it justice.

My first night of sunsets at Lembongan Island.
My first night of sunsets at Lembongan Island.

That sunset was unreal: eye-watering, colourful, and almost surreal. Pastel pinks, purples, and soft aqua blues blended together like an artistโ€™s palette, the kind of sky you just stand and stare at in silence.

If youโ€™re looking for unforgettable beach sunsets without the crowds, Nusa Lembongan absolutely delivers.

Enjoying this blog? All my content is free, but I do spend a lot of time in coffee shops. If you’re finding my content helpful and would like to buy me a coffee, I’d love that! Thank you ๐Ÿค—

3. Surfing is a local hobby

surfing in Bali, Abi and a surfboard when the storm clouds rolling in
Learning to surf in Medewi, Bali. You can check out all the best things to do in Medewi.

Okay, so I didnโ€™t surf at Nusa Lembongan since I was there for scuba diving. Plus, I think the breaks at Nusa Lembongan are better suited to more experienced surfers.

I did see that there are some surf breaks a short paddle from the shore

The islandโ€™s best surf breaks are offshore at Jungutbatu Beach:

Playgrounds
From Coconuts Resort, you can start paddling out to find some of the easier breaks to ride and reach. The waves break both ways and can vary in size.

Lacerations
This one can be brutal if you fall. Its name comes from the shallow reefs that can do some serious damage. Itโ€™s a great spot for left-handers and barrels when the swell is right, but it can get busy.

Shipwrecks
This break sits further out in the bay, so youโ€™ll need a boat to reach it โ€” but that also means fewer crowds. With the right swell, it delivers an incredible ride.

โญ Pro tip: You can paddle out or grab a local boat from the beach to take you out. Itโ€™s around 50,000 Idr for a return trip, and surfboard hire costs about the same.

4. Rare mangrove forests

Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting to adventure into the Mangrove Forest on the northernmost tip
Navigating the labyrinthine waterways of Nusa Lembongan’s mangrove forest.

The northeast of Nusa Lembongan is covered in dense mangrove forest. I didnโ€™t actually know this when I set out, but my scooter led me there anyway, and before I knew it, I was climbing into a small canoe and heading straight into the maze.

The eerie stillness created a strange mix of nature, calm, and mild unease.

It felt quiet in a way that made you whisper without realising. Definitely the kind of place where your imagination starts running wild.

That said, it was also beautiful and oddly peaceful.

The mangroves form a winding network of narrow waterways, dark and muted in places, with soft beams of sunlight breaking through the leaves above. Itโ€™s a side of the island that feels completely removed from the beaches and bars.

Itโ€™s also prime mosquito territory, so bring insect repellent unless you enjoy being eaten alive. Trust me, itโ€™s essential.

โญ Donโ€™t want to haggle for a tour on arrival? I found this 1-hour mangrove tour online, which makes things much easier.

๐Ÿ’ก Did You Know?

Thereโ€™s actually a whole heap of life in mangrove forests and they are crucial ecosystems that provide a wide range of benefits.

They act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and storm surges, protect shorelines from wave action, and serve as nurseries for various marine species. 

Additionally, mangroves sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change, and provide livelihoods for local communities through fishing and ecotourism!

5. Snorkelling and diving

A green turtle under a rock in the ocean.
I do love turtles, and Crystal Bay is full of them.

One of the main reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting is its world-class diving and snorkelling, which is exactly why I went.

The coral reefs surrounding Nusa Lembongan are vibrant and bursting with life. I saw a huge green turtle at Crystal Bay, happily munching its way through the coral. I stayed and watched it for a while, but everywhere I looked, the reef was alive with colour and movement.

The Nusa Islands are also considered some of the best places in Bali for snorkelling with giant manta rays, which was incredibly exciting, even just knowing theyโ€™re out there.

Other dive and snorkel sites around the Nusa Islands offer exceptional water clarity, too. It’s a healthy, thriving underwater world โ€” one of the best Iโ€™ve experienced in Bali.

Those few days of scuba diving were genuinely unforgettable.

โญ Not diving? There are plenty of snorkelling tours available. This Nusa Penida Snorkelling Adventure is hugely popular and a great way to see the reefs and marine life without diving experience.

6. You can become a certified diver

If you want to learn to Scuba Dive, Nusa Lembongan is a great place to visit. Here Jack is learning his diving skills in the pool.
If you want to learn to Scuba Dive, Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting.

Iโ€™ve had my Open Water certification for years, so diving was always going to be a big part of my time on Nusa Lembongan.

One of the things I loved most was just how many dive centres there are on the island. Thereโ€™s plenty of choice, and when I visited, many were running offers, which made diving here even more appealing.

Before heading over, I spent time researching dive shops and reaching out to a few online. A last-minute hiccup with payment options meant a quick rethink the night before I left, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

I ended up diving with Dive Concepts Lembongan, and they were genuinely fantastic.

Professional, friendly, and incredibly well organised, they made the whole experience seamless from start to finish. If youโ€™re heading to Nusa Lembongan and want to dive, I canโ€™t recommend them enough.

โญ Looking to progress from Open Water to Advanced? You can book courses directly through Dive Concepts Lembongan here.

7. Swim with Manta Rays

Manta Rays at Manta Point of the coast of Nusa Penida

Manta Point is one of the most popular places in Bali to swim with manta rays. I was told thereโ€™s around a 90% chance of seeing themโ€ฆ which, unfortunately, put me firmly in the remaining 10%.

Unlucky? Absolutely.

That said, Manta Point genuinely does offer some of the best odds of encountering manta rays in the region, which is why it remains such a popular snorkelling stop.

Conditions play a huge role, and sightings can never be guaranteed, but when they do, itโ€™s meant to be an unforgettable experience.

Even without the mantas making an appearance for me, the snorkelling here is still impressive, with clear water and plenty of tropical fish to spot.

If swimming with manta rays is high on your bucket list, Iโ€™d definitely recommend booking a snorkelling trip to Manta Point in advance to secure better rates and increase your chances.

โญ Want to try your luck? This 3-spot snorkelling tour gives you the chance to swim with manta rays and explore some of the best reefs around the Nusa Islands.

8. Sensational landscape and viewpoints

Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting for the landscape and cliff views
Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting for the landscape and cliff views.

If you love dramatic landscapes (clifftops, crashing waves, and endless ocean), youโ€™ll love visiting Nusa Lembongan.

Like most Indonesian islands, the viewpoints here are incredible.

There are a few standout spots worth mentioning, but honestly, one of the best things about Nusa Lembongan is that you donโ€™t always need to plan them.

Many of the best views appear unexpectedly as you explore.

Sunrise Points
For sunrise, Panorama Point is an easy option. Itโ€™s a simple roadside stop with nothing fancy about it, but the views over the island as the sun comes up are beautiful and well worth the early start.

If youโ€™re after something a little more polished, Jenggala Hill Resort offers stunning sunrise views. You donโ€™t need to stay there, but you will need to make a purchase to access the viewpoint.

If your budget allows, staying overnight is even better. The views are incredible, and the experience feels special.

Devilโ€™s Tears Blowhole and Tide Pool

Jack at Devil's Tears In Nusa Lembongan
Devil’s Tears Blowhole in Nusa Lembongan

Devilโ€™s Tears is one of those places that reminds you how powerful the ocean really is.

Waves rush in at speed, smashing into the rock face and sending plumes of water and mist high into the air, sometimes up to 60 feet!

I sat watching deep turquoise water roll in, wave after wave stacking and crashing before exploding against the cliffs.

From the pergola, I was lightly sprayed with salty mist, followed by a low, rumbling sound from the sea below. Despite the drama, it felt strangely calming.

Itโ€™s a beautiful stop and not somewhere Iโ€™d recommend skipping when visiting Nusa Lembongan.

Any Clifftop Location
Some of my favourite views came from unplanned detours.

I spent time exploring dusty back roads and ended up at a quiet cliffside spot while searching for a possible cliff-jumping location (which I never actually found).

There was no one else around, just open ocean and total stillness.

I sat there for a while taking it all in, and thatโ€™s the magic of Nusa Lembongan. Youโ€™ll find moments like this scattered all over the island if youโ€™re willing to wander a little.

9. Three Island Exploration

Wide angle shot of Nusa Lembongan.

One of the reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting is that it gives you easy access to all three Nusa Islands: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida.

Lembongan is the most developed of the three, and I use that term loosely, because compared to Bali, it still feels refreshingly low-key.

Each island has its own character, but they all share dramatic coastlines, turquoise water, beautiful beaches, and incredible viewpoints. With a bit of planning, you can explore each one over a day or two without feeling rushed.

Getting to Nusa Ceningan is simple thanks to the famous yellow suspension bridge, while Nusa Penida requires a short boat ride, which is easy to arrange and well worth the effort.

โญ You can explore independently, or if youโ€™d rather keep things simple, this Lembongan and Ceningan Island Tour is a great option. Pair it with a Nusa Penida highlights tour, and youโ€™ve covered all three islands with minimal stress.

A Day Exploring the Islands

A seaweed farm at Nusa Lembongan
A seaweed farm at Nusa Lembongan

One of my favourite days on Nusa Lembongan was spent simply exploring. I rented a scooter and set off without much of a plan; the best way to see the island, in my opinion.

โญ Pro tip: Even if youโ€™re not the most confident rider, Nusa Lembongan is a great place to learn. Thereโ€™s far less traffic than on mainland Bali, fewer people, and the roads are generally quiet.

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If you want to rent a scooter in Bali as we did, you’re going to need a comfortable bike. I recommend BIKAGO, they are a popular Bali-based bike rental company. ๐Ÿค—

>> ๐Ÿ‘‰ Learn more about Bikago here <<

Driving a scooter in Canguu

My first stop was the Yellow Bridge, connecting Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Itโ€™s narrow, just wide enough for two scooters to pass, and crossing it is an experience in itself.

The famous yellow bridge connects Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.
The famous yellow bridge connects Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

From there, I stopped at a few scenic viewpoints, followed dusty roads to quiet clifftops, dipped into a cafรฉ, and hopped between beaches before finishing the day at Devilโ€™s Tears.

Along the way, I passed stretches of seaweed laid out to dry by the roadside.

Seaweed farming has been part of life on Nusa Lembongan for decades and was once the islandโ€™s main source of income. Itโ€™s a small but fascinating glimpse into local life and a reminder that this island hasnโ€™t always revolved around tourism.

โญ If you want to see the highlights in a day, this Nusa Lembongan Instagram Tour: The Most Famous Spots is a popular and easy option.

10. A Nusa Penida day trip

The famous Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida
The famous Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida

Another reason Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting is its close proximity to Nusa Penida, one of Baliโ€™s most dramatic and talked-about islands.

Itโ€™s incredibly easy to arrange a day trip from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida, which is one of the big advantages of basing yourself here.

Itโ€™s a great option if you want to see Penidaโ€™s famous beaches and viewpoints without dealing with the logistics or navigating the island yourself.

Nusa Penida is much more rugged and remote than Nusa Lembongan and has only really opened up to tourism in recent years.

Roads can be rough, distances are longer, and getting around independently isnโ€™t always straightforward, which is why a guided day trip makes a lot of sense.

โญ If I were to do it next time, this Nusa Penida Island Beach Tour would be my pick for covering the highlights in a single day without the stress.

11. Rustic but Charming

One of the things I loved most about Nusa Lembongan is its laid-back atmosphere and slower pace of life. It feels like a genuine escape from the noise and constant movement of mainland Bali.

Itโ€™s easy to slip into island mode here, spending slow mornings by the beach, chatting with locals, and letting the days unfold without much of a plan.

Life feels simpler, quieter, and refreshingly unhurried.

Nusa Lembongan is rustic in the best possible way. Itโ€™s not polished or flashy, and thatโ€™s exactly its charm.

In all honesty, this relaxed, down-to-earth feel is one of the main reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting.


Cons: Reasons Not To Visit Nusa Lembongan

While Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting, itโ€™s not without a few drawbacks worth knowing about before you go.

Getting there does require a boat crossing, prices are higher than in mainland Bali, and the island is far more rustic and less developed. Thereโ€™s no shopping scene, minimal nightlife, and conveniences can be limited at times.

None of these were deal-breakers for me, but theyโ€™re important factors to consider depending on the kind of trip youโ€™re planning.

12. Itโ€™s an island 

In the end, Nusa Lembongan is an island and there's no getting round that!
Nusa Lembongan is an island.

And wellโ€ฆ if you donโ€™t particularly like boats or water crossings, you’ll want to factor that in. Reaching the Nusa Islands does mean taking a boat, unless youโ€™re planning to splurge on a helicopter!

Boat crossings can be off-putting for some people, especially if youโ€™ve gone down a rabbit hole of worst-case reviews beforehand.

Iโ€™ll admit, I had my moments of doubt, too. But in reality, the crossing was smooth, calm, and completely uneventful, with blue skies and gentle seas the whole way.

The journey is rarely bad, and if youโ€™re feeling nervous, Iโ€™d recommend taking the slower ferry rather than a private speedboat. Theyโ€™re steadier, less bumpy, and a more relaxed way to make the crossing.

13. More expensive than Bali

The reality is that Nusa Lembongan is generally more expensive than mainland Bali.

Almost everything on the island arrives by ferry and is carried in by hand, which naturally drives up prices. Youโ€™ll notice this most with food, accommodation, and tours, and bargaining is far less common than it is in Bali.

That said, itโ€™s not wildly expensive across the board.

Compared to Baliโ€™s more touristy areas, prices can feel fairly similar, but if youโ€™re used to eating cheaply in warungs or travelling on a tight budget, youโ€™ll probably notice the difference.

Overall, Nusa Lembongan isnโ€™t budget-breaking, but itโ€™s not the cheapest place to travel in Indonesia either.

If keeping costs as low as possible is your priority, you may be better off staying on mainland Bali or exploring other islands where prices stretch further.

14. Less developed than Bali

Dream Beach, Nusa Lembongan
Dream Beach, Nusa Lembongan

Whether this is a pro or a con really depends on the kind of trip youโ€™re after. Nusa Lembongan is far more laid-back than Bali, and the overall energy is noticeably calmer.

Oceanfront restaurants and bars are ideal for long, lazy afternoons, but thereโ€™s no real party scene here. Occasionally, there is an event or a busier night, but for the most part, expect a relaxed, sun-kissed, cocktail-in-hand kind of stay.

You wonโ€™t find large resort hotels, big crowds, or noisy nightlife.

Instead, accommodation tends to be smaller and more low-key. With that comes a few trade-offs: cold showers, ATMs running out of cash, and conveniences not always guaranteed.

For me, that slower pace was part of the appeal, but itโ€™s definitely something to factor in if you prefer comfort, choice, and buzz.

15. Limited Shopping

If shopping is high on your holiday wish list, be aware of this. While Nusa Lembongan does have a handful of small boutique shops, itโ€™s nothing like the shopping scene youโ€™ll find in Bali.

Youโ€™ll come across a few lovely places selling resort wear, beach clothes, jewellery, accessories, and locally made souvenirs, mainly around Jungut Batu and popular tourist areas.

Theyโ€™re curated and charming, but the choice is limited, and prices are generally higher than on the mainland.

There are no markets, malls, or long shopping streets here, and whatever you do find will almost always cost more than the same item in Bali.

A good workaround is to combine your trips. Do your beach days, diving, and island exploring on Nusa Lembongan first, then head back to Bali for temples, shopping, cafรฉs, and anything else youโ€™ve missed.


Nusa Lembongan Mini Travel Guide

Where to Stay in Nusa Lembongan

If you want convenience, restaurants, and easy access to boats and dive centres, Jungut Batu is the best base. Itโ€™s the liveliest part of the island, with plenty of places to eat and great sunset views.

For calm water and a more relaxed feel, Mushroom Bay is ideal. Itโ€™s sheltered, swimmable, and a popular spot for snorkelling trips, with quieter evenings and beachfront resorts.

If youโ€™re after views and tranquillity, look at Sunset Beach or Dream Beach. Clifftop stays here come with incredible sunsets and fewer people, though youโ€™ll need a scooter or short taxi rides to get around.

For total peace and quiet, the mangrove area in the northeast is the most laid-back option. Itโ€™s close to kayaking and nature, but further from beaches and nightlife.

How to get to Nusa Lembongan

Getting to Nusa Lembongan does require a boat, so expect an early start if youโ€™re aiming for a morning crossing. I headed to the port with plenty of time and, despite a few minor hiccups, everything worked out smoothly in the end.

If one ticket office is shut or sold out, donโ€™t panic, there are usually several operators nearby offering the same routes, often at similar (or even cheaper) prices.

Itโ€™s all fairly fluid, and thereโ€™s almost always another option.

Where to Catch the Ferry?
There are two main ways to reach Nusa Lembongan:

  • Sanur Port: the most popular option, with frequent fast boats
  • Padang Bai: where the slower public ferry departs

Youโ€™ll have a choice between a slow ferry and a fast boat.

If you prefer to buy on the day, arrive early and be prepared for some negotiation.

The slow ferry is the cheapest option, but it takes much longer. Fast boats are more expensive but far quicker and still fairly large and stable. Private speedboats are also available if youโ€™re happy to pay a premium.

  • Slow ferry: around 2 hours
  • Fast boat: about 30 minutes
    That said, delays are common, so factor in waiting time at the port.

โญ Pro tip: Itโ€™s not essential to book in advance, but Sanur Port can be chaotic, so Iโ€™d recommend booking online to save time and avoid haggling. You can find tickets here.

Arriving in Nusa Lembongan
Thereโ€™s no proper jetty, so youโ€™ll step straight into shallow water and walk onto the beach. Once ashore, youโ€™ll be met by taxi drivers and accommodation hosts offering lifts.

Iโ€™d arranged a pickup in advance, which made things simple and stress-free. Within minutes, I was on my way to my stay.

โญ Pro tip: Keep your shoes with you. Youโ€™re often asked to remove them before boarding, and in the rush, itโ€™s easy for them to disappear into the pile!

How to get around Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is small, relaxed, and easy to explore. Roads are narrow, distances are short, and getting around is refreshingly simple compared to mainland Bali.

Scooter: The easiest option
Renting a scooter is the most convenient way to get around Nusa Lembongan. It gives you the freedom to explore beaches, viewpoints, cafรฉs, and dive centres at your own pace. Even one day on a scooter is enough to see a lot of the island.

The roads are generally quiet and easy to navigate, making it a good place to ride if youโ€™re comfortable on two wheels.

On Foot: Short distances
If youโ€™d rather not ride, walking is also an option, especially around Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay. The island is compact, and wandering on foot is a nice way to soak up the local atmosphere and chat with people along the way.

Crossing to Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are connected by the iconic yellow suspension bridge, which you can cross on foot or by scooter. Itโ€™s an easy way to explore a second island on the same day and offers lovely views over the water below.

Whether youโ€™re riding or walking, everything feels close, calm, and unhurried, one of the many reasons Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting.

Good to know before you go

  • Vegetarian & vegan-friendly: Nusa Lembongan has plenty of cafรฉs and beachfront restaurants offering great plant-based options. Eating veggies here is easy.
  • ATMs can be unreliable: Machines often run out of cash, so donโ€™t rely on them.
  • Cash is king: Some places accept cards, but many prefer cash, especially for activities, smaller restaurants, and accommodation.

Resources For Bali

Is it your first time visiting Bali? Weโ€™ve written lots of useful posts to help you plan your trip. You can check them all out on our Bali Page here, but below are some of our most popular articles:


End Note: Is Nusa Lembongan Worth Visiting

For me, Nusa Lembongan is absolutely worth visiting. Itโ€™s the kind of place that slows you down without trying too hard.

Itโ€™s not flashy, and itโ€™s not perfect.

Youโ€™ll take a boat to get there, pay a little more than you would in Bali, and give up shopping malls and nightlife.

But in return, you get soft sandy beaches, healthy reefs, manta-filled waters (if youโ€™re luckier than me), quiet roads, and a genuinely laid-back island atmosphere.

Thank you for reading my post. You can find my latest stories and articles on my blog homepage here. Follow me on Instagram (@abigailcarolina.dalton) and Facebook to see what Iโ€™m getting up to and where my upcoming trips are.

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