When I first visited Nusa Penida back in 2015, there were only two hotels to choose from. It was a simple decision to make: Ring Sameton on the north coast, owned by Indonesians, or Namaste Bungalows, located near Crystal Bay and run by French expats. It’s interesting to note that the nationalities of the owners have significantly influenced the island’s tourism industry. Namaste Bungalows, in particular, has attracted a sizable French tourist market, which has in turn fueled further investment from French investors. This has led to the emergence of a «French Corner» around Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay. Today, with over 340 resorts in Nusa Penida listed on Booking.com, I’ve narrowed down my top picks for the best hotels in Nusa Penida.
The first 5-star hotel in Nusa Penida
Maua Nusa Penida is the first 5 star hotel on the island. It just opened very recently. It has 25 air-conditioned villas with dressing room, private garden and private pool. Each villa has a beautiful view of Gamat Bay. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, a large swimming pool and a spa. You can also book one of the classical hotel rooms with an awesome valley view.
Hotel ranked first on Tripadvisor
The 4-star boutique hotel Adiwana Warnakali is the champion in all categories for Nusa Penida hotels on Tripadvisor. Best Tripadvisor ranking, best traveler ranking, best value for money! Its 15 air-conditioned rooms all have the same breathtaking view of the sea, Mount Agung, and the island of Nusa Lembongan. It offers all the services of a comfortable hotel, including a restaurant, room service, swimming pool, spa, and also features the PADI 5-star Dune Warnakali diving centre.
Try the glamping !
Autentik Nusa Penida develops a unique concept of « Glamping ». It is an eco-lodge that offers privileged guests 8 luxury safari tents nestled at the heart of unspoiled nature and offers breathtaking views of the coconut groves, the majestic Agung volcano and the ocean. For nature lovers, a return to the sources somehow… while making sure of the comfort of a chic lodge. A refreshing and unforgettable experience.
Joglos facing the sun
Tanah Damai, « Land of Peace » in Indonesian is aptly named. Set at the core of the jungle, in strict accordance with nature, this hand-built human-sized hotel offers 4 small, not overlooked, traditional wooden houses. It also features a magnificent villa equipped with three air-conditioned bedrooms, perfect for a family or group of friends. And a 200 m² deluxe suite overlooking the sea, ideal for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway.
Everything has been thought so that intimacy and quietness would be preserved. Nestled in lush greenery suitable for contemplation, you will enjoy the infinity pool overhanging the jungle and the ocean. The pool thus offers a breathtaking view and outstanding, memorable sunsets.
The restaurant favors homemade meals and will offer quality food, whether for colorful breakfasts or delicious dinners. Vegan options are also available to everybody’s liking.
The charm of the first bungalows on Nusa Penida
Namaste Bungalows is the first French-speaking hotel in Nusa Penida. It is also an oasis of tranquility, located just minutes from Crystal Bay and the welcoming Sakti Village. It includes 10 bungalows, arranged around a reception, a restaurant and a swimming pool overlooking the valley and Crystal Bays Bay and Gamat Bay.
great coverage of Nusa Penida.
if we are staying overnight in Nusa Penida, are there Snorkeling trips in the morning to the Blue Lagoon from Nusa Penida?
Hello,
The snorkeling trips from Nusa Penida usually go to Manta Point, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, Toyapakeh.
I don’ think there is any snorkeling trip going to Blue Lagoon from Penida.
Blaise
Hi Hozi I am heading towards nusa penia I am taking my own bicycle. I have cycled over the two main volcanos in Bali and prefer the coastal roads but they are very busy and I do like winding my way through the small villages. However sometimes the gradients are too steep and as in git git road I got stuck. Can you offer any advice please
HiSusan !
That’s great to hear you’re bringing your bicycle to Nusa Penida — it’s a beautiful island to explore!
I’d recommend taking the coastal road rather than the inner road. The coastal route is generally not very crowded, especially compared to the main roads in Bali, and it offers stunning views along the way.
The inner road cuts through the middle of the island and climbs up to around 400 meters in elevation. It’s very steep in some sections and not ideal for cycling unless you’re prepared for serious climbs.
Sticking to the coast will allow you to enjoy the scenery, pass through small villages, and avoid the toughest gradients. Just be aware that even along the coast, some parts can still be rough or hilly, so good brakes and gears are essential.
Enjoy your ride and stay safe!
Blaise
Hello Blaise,
This is truly a wonderful coverage of travel to Nusa Penida. I want to travel both Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands but could not find the appropriate resource. Today, your blog gave me the perfect answer.
Thanks!
Thank you so much for your feed back. It takes some time to update this Nusa Penida site. It’s good to know some readers appreciate its content !
Blaise
Hi, thank you for the info!
We are visiting Nusa Penida and I would like contact details for a local driver. Could you give any recommendations?
Thanx
Hi Simoné!
You can contact Roy. I sent you by email his contact details. He can help you find a reliable private driver with a car in Nusa Penida and even assist with any other trip arrangements you may need. Have a great time exploring Nusa Penida! 😊🚗🏝️
Blaise
Blaise
Buenas tardes, te agradezco el haber despejado mis dudas sobre como y donde llegar a Nusa Penida, me gustaría si pudieras darme la información de algún chofer que me lleve a distintas partes por el día y un valor aproximado, estaré allí el 12 y 13 de junio
Buenas tardes,
Me alegra saber que esta información te fue útil. Para moverse por Nusa Penida, te recomiendo contactar con Roy, quien puede ayudarte a organizar un conductor para recorrer la isla. Te envié su número de contacto por correo electrónico.
El precio promedio de una excursión en coche de un día completo a Nusa Penida es de alrededor de 700.000 IDR, dependiendo de la ruta y la distancia.
¡Buen viaje el 12 y 13 de junio!
Blaise
Hi,
Me and my family are planning to stay in nusa penida for a couple of days so we need a taxi from the portal to the hotel and vice versa. Can you please share details of the your contact who can provide the taxi.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Aman,
If it’s only for the pick-up and drop-off at the port, most hotels in Nusa Penida can arrange that service for you directly, so it’s best to check with your accommodation first.
If you’d like, you can also reach out to Roy. He isn’t a driver himself, but he can help you find a reliable local driver for your transfers. I sent you Roy’s contact by email.
Safe travels and enjoy your time in Nusa Penida!
Best regards,
Blaise