White beaches, sapphire blue sea and stunning karst scenery are what lures tourists to Nusa Penida. 

Located southeast of Bali, the island is a dazzling picture-perfect spot with thousands of daily visitors.

For those planning to enjoy Nusa Penida’s beauty, here are a few tips for a nice, budget-friendly trip as compiled by kompas.com:

1. Purchase a boat-crossing ticket in advance

Nusa Penida can be reached with a speed boat that will take you from Sanur Port in Bali to Banjar Nyuh Port in Nusa Penida. A one-way trip costs Rp 75,000 (US$5).

The boat departs from Sanur Port at 8:15 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 3 p.m. From Banjar Nyuh Port, it departs at 9:15 a.m., 2:15 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Although tickets can be purchased on the spot, only a limited number of tickets are sold daily. It is better to buy tickets at least one day in advance to avoid a long line.

2. Rent a vehicle

The only way to move about in Nusa Penida is by renting a vehicle, so locals around Banjar Nyuh Port usually offer vehicles for rent. 

A regular one-day rental is Rp 75,000 for motorcycles and Rp 500,000 for cars. These prices include gas, so make sure the vehicle’s tank is filled up before renting.

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3. “Cheap” tourist spots

Raja Lima, or Molenteng as locals call it, is a tourist spot located 45 minutes away from Banjar Nyuh Port. It has treehouses where visitors can take pictures with vast sea and a karst backdrop.

Atuh and Diamond beaches are the two tourist spots nearest to Raja Lima. They boast Nusa Penida’s signature white sand, clear sea and karst.

These destinations cost a mere Rp 5,000 to enter. They are also located near Banjar Nyuh Port, perfect for a short trip.

4. Maximize your visit

Each corner of Nusa Penida Island offers a picturesque landscape. 

Thekompas.com team found over five interesting photo-taking spots in Raja Lima alone. 

Maximizing visiting time at each destination leads to minimizing spending.

5. Prepare supplies and equipment

Nusa Penida is very warm during the day, so apply sunscreen for skin protection. 

Comfortable clothes and footwear are also obligatory. Also take along drinks and snacks to save money, because at such tourist sites they are quite expensive.

6. Be punctual

Punctuality is the key to a cheaper Nusa Penida Island visit. Missing the speed boat crossing schedule means waiting for next day’s departure.

Nusa Penida has several inns with prices ranging from Rp 200,000 to 300,000 per night, but vacant rooms aren’t always available. (iru/kes)