Looking for a laid-back island experience after exploring Bali’s mainland? Nusa Lembongan is a small island southeast of Bali that offers clear blue waters, dramatic coastlines, and a much calmer vibe than its bigger sister, Nusa Penida. It’s perfect for a few days of beach time, snorkeling, and coastal walks — without the chaos.

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Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida?

Choosing between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida? Here’s my take: Nusa Penida is known for its iconic viewpoints and raw beauty, but infrastructure is still developing — roads can be rough, and some beaches are hard to reach due to steep cliffs and strong currents. Accommodation and food options are also more limited. That’s why I recommend staying on Nusa Lembongan and visiting Nusa Penida as a day trip or with one overnight stay. This way, you get the best of both worlds.

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Where to Stay on Nusa Lembongan

For dreamy sunsets, stay near Sunset Point — one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the island. If you prefer to be close to the beach, Dream Beach is a stunning spot with turquoise waters and golden sand, perfect for relaxing and swimming.

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How to Get to Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is only accessible by boat. You can catch a speedboat from Bali (Sanur), Lombok, or the Gili Islands.

• From Bali: the speedboat takes around 30 minutes; slower boats take about an hour.

• From the Gili Islands or Lombok: travel time varies between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on sea conditions and the type of ferry.

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How Long to Stay

The island is small — you can walk from one side to the other in about 40 minutes. I recommend staying 2–3 days to explore at a relaxed pace. If you plan to do a day trip to Nusa Penida, 4 days gives you a bit more breathing room.

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Best Cafés and Restaurants on Nusa Lembongan

While smaller than Ubud, Nusa Lembongan still has some great cafés and restaurants worth trying. Here are a few local favorites:

• The Deck Café & Bar – Perfect for sunset drinks with a sea view. Their cocktails and tapas are top-notch.

• Tigerlillys – A cozy garden café with delicious smoothie bowls, fresh seafood, and a tropical vibe.

• Ginger & Jamu – Beachfront and perfect for brunch or lunch, with healthy, organic options and great coffee.

• Bali Eco Deli – Known for its eco-conscious setup and hearty meals, this is a great spot for breakfast or a midday bite.