Spend the day snorkeling with manta rays, relaxing at pristine beaches and soaking up the sun when you book a Nusa Lembongan day trip from Bali. This is your opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bali for the day and experience one of Indonesia’s most loved islands!
In this informative guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Nusa Lembongan day trips from Bali, including how to get there, how much it costs, the best time to visit, where to stay, the top-rated tours and so much more.
Let’s prepare for a fun-filled day spent exploring Nusa Lembongan’s top attractions and natural beauty.
Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!
Getting there: What’s the journey like from Bali to Nusa Lembongan?
The only way to get from Bali to the island of Nusa Lembongan is by boat as there isn’t an airport on the smaller island. Fortunately, there are many different options available, and there should be a boat ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan to suit a range of budgets and preferences.
While there are a few different ports of embarkation to choose from for your journey to Nusa Lembongan, the most popular port is Sanur Harbor as it provides the quickest voyage and the widest variety of boats. However, your other options include Serangan Harbour, Padangbai Benoa Harbour, and Banjar Bias Kusamba Harbour.
Boat operators between Bali and Nusa Lembongan
There are dozens of different boat operators available, all with varying prices and safety procedures, so you may want to do a bit of research ahead of time. Scoot Fast Cruises is one of the most reliable options available, with their fast boat services being very popular among tourists looking to reach Nusa Lembongan in comfort and style.
Glory Fast Cruise is another good option for those interested in taking a fast boat as they offer multiple departures each day. However, those who are on a tight budget can take a slow traditional boat, which is more budget-friendly. These slow boats are usually made from modified fishing vessels, kitted out with two or three engines.
Reaching the port
You can choose between making your way to the Sanur Harbor or any of the other embarkation points on your own or you could choose a package that is inclusive of pickup and drop-off services. These packages are very convenient as you don’t need to worry about getting to the embarkation point. Simply be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby at the scheduled pickup time.
As the island doesn’t have a pier, you should be prepared to get your feet wet upon your arrival and even wade through waist-high water depending on the conditions on the day. Crew members are always there to provide a helping hand, but it’s important that you know what to expect when it comes to disembarking.
Guided tours to Nusa Lembongan
If you’re looking to visit Nusa Lembongan for the day, the most convenient option would be to book a Nusa Lembongan tour from Bali. This way, an expert guide will take care of your travel plans, boat ride and itinerary, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Indonesia’s incredible islands!
Duration of travel: How much time does it take to reach Lembongan from Bali?
The time that it takes to reach Nusa Lembongan from Bali depends on the type of boat you choose to take and the point of embarkation, as well as the weather conditions on the day. The distance between Sanur and Nusa Lembongan is only around 20 kilometers, so no matter which option you choose the voyage shouldn’t take too long.
Fast ferries to Nusa Lembongan
The fastest way to get from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is to take one of the fast ferries from Sanur. These fast boats will get you from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan in around 35 minutes or less. A few of the transfer companies you could choose from include Dream Beach Express, Scoot Fast Cruises and Glory Fast Cruise among others.
Slow boats to Nusa Lembongan
The slow boats, which are more traditional in design and do not have the horsepower of the fast ferries, can take anywhere between 60 and 90 minutes depending on the conditions. These boats depart several times a day and their ticket offices can be found along Sanur Beach.
Cost considerations: What is the price range for a boat ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan?
No matter how much you’re comfortable spending on a boat ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan, there is an option that will be well-suited to your budget and preferences. Even the fast boats are relatively affordable, making Nusa Lembongan an ideal day trip destination from Bali.
Price of slow boats to Nusa Lembongan
Slow boats can cost as little as US$4 per person but may cost up to US$10 per person depending on the boat operator you choose. This price is not inclusive of hotel transfers and you’ll need to get to the embarkation point on your own.
Price of fast boats to Nusa Lembongan
Fast boats, which are more popular among tourists, typically cost around US$20 per person for a one-way ticket. If you’re interested in a package that is inclusive of hotel transfers, you can expect to pay around US$30 per person.
When you choose a fast boat, you won’t just be paying more for the convenience of reaching Nusa Lembongan in less time. You’ll also enjoy a more comfortable boat journey, with comfy seats, shaded areas and large windows for enjoying the views.
Top activities: What should you not miss in Nusa Lembongan?
Hit the beaches
Nusa Lembongan is best known for its stunning natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere and long sandy beaches. A trip to Nusa Lembongan is incomplete without a visit to the beach and a few of the island’s best beaches are Dream Beach, Mushroom Bay Beach and Jungubatu Beach, among others.
Explore the mangroves
Nusa Lembongan is also home to a fairly large mangrove forest, where rivulets are formed by the large trees that connect overhead. It’s possible to explore the mangroves and the unique ecosystem by local boat or kayak. The peaceful forests are home to a wide variety of animals including birds, shrimp, crabs and fish.
Discover Devil’s Tears
Another top-rated natural attraction is a place called Devil’s Tears, which got its name because of the sea spray caused by the waves crashing against the rocks. Devil’s Tears offers unique rock formations, stunning tidal pools and incredible sunset views. This is a must-see location for those visiting Nusa Lembongan for the first time.
Have an outdoor adventure
There are plenty of exciting outdoor activities that can be done on the island, including snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, swimming, cycling, hiking and so much more. It all just depends on what interests you most and how much time you have on the island.
Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities in Nusa Lembongan thanks to the island’s sheltered bays and diverse variety of marine life. There are plenty of dive schools to choose from, including Lembongan Dive Center and Legend Diving. Keep in mind that most scuba diving courses take place over multiple days, so you may need to extend your stay if you’re interested in getting your Open Water certification while on the island.
Read more: 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Bali
Visit Gala-Gala Underground House
Those interested in Indonesia’s fascinating history should not miss out on the opportunity to visit the Gala-Gala Underground House, which is a series of underground chambers carved out of limestone. The chambers were created in the 1950s and are steeped in fascinating local history!
Exploring tour options: Which are the most recommended Nusa Lembongan tours starting from Bali?
Booking a Nusa Lembongan day tour from Bali allows you to explore the smaller island in the company of a professional local guide, who will provide interesting commentary and answer any questions that you may have. Furthermore, hotel transfers and your travel itinerary will all be taken care of so that you can sit back and relax!
There are plenty of Nusa Lembongan tours to choose from, including private excursions and group tours. For those looking for a more comprehensive experience, there are also combination tours that visit nearby islands.
There are a variety of different activities offered on these tours and you can choose between excursions that focus on scuba diving, sailing and photography. It’s always a good idea to check tour itineraries before making a booking to make sure that the activities align with your interests.
Group tours to Nusa Lembongan
Basic group tours that visit Nusa Lembongan from Bali typically cost between US$50 and US$70 per person. These full-day experiences are usually inclusive of hotel transfers, boat rides and lunch. As other participants will be on the tour, you’ll get the chance to meet other travelers and make new friends.
Snorkeling and mangrove forest day trip
One of the most popular tours is the Snorkeling & Mangrove Forest Day Tour, which ensures you see the best natural attractions on the island. This small-group experience, which lasts roughly 12 hours, costs around US$110 per person including transfers, snorkeling equipment and lunch.
Bali Reef Cruise
Board a luxury catamaran for a fun journey to Nusa Lembongan. Enjoy unlimited water activities on an exclusive pontoon, including snorkeling, banana boat rides, and a cultural island tour. Savor a buffet lunch on board and opt for exciting additional dives.
This full-day excursion combines the thrill of water sports with the tranquility of cruising in comfort, making it an essential addition to your Bali vacation.
Read more: 11 Best Boat Tours in Bali you Shouldn’t Miss
Nusa Lembongan Instagram tour
The Nusa Lembongan Instagram Tour visits all the most photogenic spots on the island and ensures you get amazing photographs to post on social media or send to friends and family. This private tour, which caters solely to your group’s specific needs, costs roughly US$130 per person, depending on the size of your group.
Read more: Bali Instagram Tour – Everything you Should Know
Three Nusa Islands tour from Bali
If you want to make the most of your time in the region, you may want to embark on a Three Nusa Islands Tour from Bali, which visits the islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan on a 2-day adventure that costs as little as US$90 per person.
Whatever your budget and interests, there is a Nusa Lembongan tour from Bali to suit your preferences.
Optimal timing: When is the ideal period to plan a visit to Nusa Lembongan?
Dry season
The best time to visit Nusa Lembongan is during the dry season, which occurs between April and September each year. This is when you are least likely to experience rain, which can really dampen your experience on the island.
The dry season is also known for its warm weather and pristine visibility, which provides optimal conditions to view sea life such as manta rays, turtles, fish and more.
Peak season
Keep in mind that July and August are the busiest months in Indonesia as this is when the majority of tourists visit the islands so you may want to avoid these months if you dislike crowds. However, Nusa Lembongan will still be a lot quieter than Bali during this period.
Weekday vs weekend
As Nusa Lembongan is a popular weekend getaway destination for locals, you may want to try to visit the island during the week if you want to avoid the weekend crowds. You should also aim to reach your embarkation point as early as possible before the port starts getting too busy.
Packing essentials: What are the must-haves for a day trip to Nusa Lembongan?
Sun protection: When visiting Nusa Lembongan, it is best you bring along a small bag packed with all the essentials needed for a comfortable excursion on the island. The first thing you want to focus on is sun protection by packing sunscreen, a sun hat and sunglasses.
Swimming items: As most Nusa Lembongan day trips focus on water activities like swimming and snorkeling, you should pack in your swimsuit, a towel and an extra change of clothes. You’ll be provided with masks and snorkels should there be snorkeling on your itinerary.
A good camera: There will be many amazing views for you to enjoy, so don’t forget to pack in your camera so that you can capture the natural wonders of Nusa Lembongan. If you’re going to be taking photos on your phone, make sure you have enough storage.
The right footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes for walking around the island, but you may also want to bring a pair of flip-flops for when it comes time to explore Nusa Lembongan’s many beaches. You may also want to pack a light jacket for the boat ride as the breeze can get chilly.
Extra cash: You should also bring some spending money with you for buying souvenirs, snacks and any other personal expenses. Draw a sufficient amount before your trip as they ATMs on Nusa Lembongan are often offline and have limited withdrawal amounts.
A waterproof bag: You should pack your belongings into a waterproof bag if you have one so that your belongings are protected from any potential splashes.
Navigating the island: How straightforward is it to travel around Nusa Lembongan?
Nusa Lembongan is a small island that is mostly car-free. While you can walk to many of the island’s main attractions, you may still need to make use of some form of transport should you want to enjoy a comprehensive experience.
Fortunately, you have quite a few options available to you when it comes to traveling around Nusa Lembongan. While there are very few cars and taxis on the island, getting around is still straightforward and affordable!
Scooter or bicycle rentals
One of the most popular options you have available to you is to rent a scooter. There are dozens of scooter rental companies on the island that offer budget-friendly rates and the roads are a lot less busy than what you would have seen in Bali.
If you’re interested in an eco-friendly option, you could always rent a bicycle for the day. This is even cheaper than renting a scooter and you won’t have to worry about petrol. However, it may take you a bit longer to get from place to place than it would with a scooter.
There is no need to book bicycle or scooter rentals ahead of time, as you’ll see a variety of rental companies as you get off the ferry. Just make sure the scooter/bicycle is in relatively good condition.
Alternative rentals
Other options include renting a buggy, renting a quad bike, hiring a boat and making use of a shuttle service. No matter your budget and preferences, there will be a way to get around that suits you and your travel companions.
Guided tours
When you join a Nusa Lembongan tour from Bali, your guide will take care of all your travel arrangements so there is no need for you to organize transport on the island. You can simply relax and enjoy the experience.
Culinary delights: Where can you find the best food in Nusa Lembongan?
Just like Bali, Nusa Lembongan is filled to the brim with culinary delights and delicious local cuisine. Don’t miss out on the island’s tropical juices, traditional fried rice dishes, banana pancakes and fresh seafood!
Restaurants serving local cuisine in Nusa Lembongan: If you’re looking for a relaxed local dining experience that offers affordable authentic meals, you could try Warung Putu, Dhipa Warung & Shop, Gpan Corner Bar & Grill or Maria’s Bomboe Bali Warung.
Fine dining in Nusa Lembongan: Some of the island’s top-rated fine-dining restaurants include Karana Lembongan, Indica Restaurant and Lighthouse d’Nusa Restaurant. These restaurants are slightly more expensive but you can expect a wider range of dishes, more upmarket settings and incredible views.
Wherever you decide to eat, you can expect to enjoy a variety of delicious options, including both vegetarian and vegan dishes. If you’re looking for snacks on the go, you can always stop at a supermarket or corner shop to buy mineral water, chocolate bars, fruit, etc.
Considering Nusa Ceningan: Is a visit worthwhile?
Located between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan is the smallest of the Nusa Islands and is definitely worth a visit. Even if you only have a few hours to spare, you should make an effort to explore the magical island of Nusa Ceningan.
What will you experience at Nusa Ceningan?
The island is characterized by its rugged cliffs, idyllic surf spots and pristine water. One of the most popular things to do on Nusa Ceningan is to to visit the Blue Lagoon, which is famous for its turquoise waters, photographic opportunities and for being an ideal swimming spot!
If you want to beat the crowds, you could visit Secret Beach, which is only accessible through a restaurant. You’ll have to buy something from the restaurant in order to access the beach but it is definitely worth it.
Nusa Ceningnan is also home to plenty of surf spots and cliff-jumping opportunities. Adrenaline junkies will love jumping off Mahana Point into the blue ocean below. Just make sure you visit at high tide.
Don’t leave the island without making a stop at Ceningnan Cliff Point and take photos of the incredible views on offer. The onsite restaurant offers affordable, tasty dishes and provides the perfect place to relax after a day spent exploring the island.
Comparing islands: Which is more appealing, Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan?
While similar yet unique in their own ways, both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are worth a visit. While Nusa Lembongan is larger and has more attractions than Nusa Ceningnan, the smaller island is quieter and has some beautiful natural attractions of its own, making it impossible to determine if one island is more appealing than the other.
The ideal solution would be to simply visit both islands and decide which one you prefer for yourself! The iconic Yellow Bridge that connects these two islands makes it easy and convenient to visit both in one day.
The Yellow Bridge is an attraction all on its own and is one of the Nusa islands’ most recognizable spots for taking photos. The suspension bridge offers amazing views of both islands and it can be quite exciting to cross the bridge on a scooter.
Dual island adventure: Can one feasibly explore both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida in a single day?
If you have the time, you won’t regret a trip to Nusa Penida just 20 minutes away from Nusa Lembongan by boat. As long as you manage your time well and plan ahead, it is definitely feasible to visit both islands in a single day.
If you’re looking for the most convenient way to visit Penida, we suggest you book a boat tour to visit the west coast of the island, which is home to some of the best beaches on the island. Ferries and speedboats depart from Nusa Lembongan several times a day and provide an affordable and time-efficient way to travel between the islands.
What will you experience at Nusa Penida?
Some of the beautiful beaches that you can look forward to seeing during your time on Nusa Penida include Broken Beach, Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, Kelingking Beach, Crystal Bay and Suwehan Beach.
Besides the island’s famous beaches, there are several other natural attractions on Nusa Penida, including Guyangan Waterfall, Banah Cliff Point, ‘Teletubbies Hill’, Manta Point, Thousand Islands Viewpoint and so much more.
Those interested in the island’s history and traditions may also want to visit places such as the Goa Giri Putri Temple and other cultural hotspots. No matter where your interests lie, Nusa Penida offers something for everyone.
Read more: Check out our complete guide Nusa Penida Day Trip – All you Need to Know.
Considering an overnight stay: What lodging options are available for those wishing to spend the night on Nusa Lembongan?
Thinking of extending your stay on Nusa Lembongan? Spending a few nights on the island will allow you to see more attractions and explore the island at a more leisurely pace than you would if you were just going on a day trip.
Lower-cost accommodation in Nusa Lembongan
Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing accommodation options in Nusa Lembongan and you’ll find everything from quaint villas to 5-star luxury hotels and everything in between. If you’re looking for value for money, you might be interested in staying at Gedong Nusa Huts, Naturale Villas or Darsan Lembongan Boutique Cottage.
Luxury accommodation in Nusa Lembongan
If luxury accommodation is better suited to your needs, you may be interested in staying at Mahagiri Resort, Paus Putih Hotel or The Shacks at Sandy Bay. There are some truly beautiful places to stay on Nusa Lembongan and you can look forward to amazing views, friendly service and comfortable rooms.
Nusa Lembongan is a lot quieter than Bali, so you can expect cheaper rates, a more restful night’s sleep and an authentic island experience that you’ll remember for many years to come!
That’s a wrap! We hope you enjoyed our guide about Nusa Lembongan. Got some questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. Where to go next? Check out the best places to visit in Bali, and don’t miss our selection of fun things to do on the Island of Gods.
Enjoy Lembongan, wishing you a lot of fun there!