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.