Record Numbers Of Tourists Are Visiting This Iconic Bali Escape

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New data shows that the number of tourists traveling from the main island of Bali to the outlying islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan is hitting record highs.

Since the opening of the new facilities at Sanur Harbor, more and more tourists are making the trip to the paradise isles. 

The Head of the Sanur Working Area at the KOSP Office, Ketut Surantnata, who oversees activities at Sanur Harbor, revealed last week that the daily average number of tourists making the crossing to Nusa Penida is soaring. 

Surantnata told reporters that, on average, there are 3,000-4,000 tourists making the crossing every day, with even more making the trip over the weekends.

There are over sixty fast boat ferry crossings each day, and interest in visiting Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan shows no sign of slowing down. 

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These numbers are notably bigger than the average number of tourists who had been using the port facilities before the renovations.

Before the new pier and harbor facilities were opened in November last year, the port could serve between 2,000 and 2,500 people per day. 

Travel To Nusa Penida From Sanur

There are two main gateways to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, from the main island of Bali. One is through the port at Padang Bai, but for the vast majority of tourists, the most accessible departure point is Sanur. 

There are many different fast boat providers, some of which can be booked online, while others can be booked through local travel agents.

Booking platforms like Bali Ferries allow travelers to secure their tickets ahead of time, which is especially important during the peak holiday season.

Round-trip tickets can be up to 25% cheaper than buying two one-way fares. 

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It should be noted that ticket prices fluctuate significantly based on demand, time of day, and day of the week. 

The average sailing time between Sanur Harbor and Nusa Penida is 50 minutes. It is entirely possible to cover the top attractions in Nusa Penida in a day trip.

However, to make the most of the experience and to have time to explore the stunning neighboring islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, a few nights’ stay is recommended. 

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Nusa Penida Highlights 

Nusa Penida is simply breathtakingly beautiful. The island may be tiny, but there is so much to explore in such a small space. 

Must-visit landmarks and attractions in Nusa Penida include the world-famous Kelingking Beach, as well as Angel’s Billabong, Diamond Beach, and the lookout point at Broken Beach. 

For a little more of a cultural immersion, be sure to explore Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave.

The temple is set deep within a cave, accessed by a steep set of steps. Remember to brush up on the do’s and don’ts of visiting a Balinese temple before you visit. 

Many tourists make the trip over to Nusa Penida to take the opportunity to swim with the manta rays.

This blissful and truly memorable experience is one of the many highlights of a vacation in Bali.

There are a few things to keep in mind before you go into the water; to read more about everything you need to know about swimming with manta rays in Bali, click here.

It is also sunfish season! An added bonus for marine lovers!

With demand growing for day trips to Nusa Pendia, if you fancy somewhere a little quieter, be sure to hop over to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan. 

Nusa Ceningan is an overlooked and underappreciated gem in the province of Bali. Perfect for a complete digital detox or a romantic retreat, remember to schedule an exit for a few days, as you will not want to leave Nusa Ceningan!

The same can be said for Nusa Lembongan, the island that has guests extending their stays time and time again!

Safety Concerns in Nusa Penida

Tourists are reminded that there are swimming bans in place at some of Nusa Penida’s most famous beaches.

This is due to a tragic rise in incidences where tourists have been dragged out to sea by strong currents and unforgiving waves.

Leaders in Nusa Penida have committed to improving safety facilities for tourists but have called on the public to take responsibility for their own actions.