Nusa Lembongan Travel Guide
Just off the coast of Bali you will find two tiny, rugged islands, namely Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. No traffic jams and gigantic beach bars here, but mostly small-scale accommodations, cute hip joints and fine warungs. The two islands are connected by a yellow bridge, making it easy to move around. The coastline of the islands is very impressive, from rugged cliffs to beautiful sandy beaches.
Not only is it beautiful above water, but also underwater you will feast your eyes. In fact, this is one of the few places where you can dive with the Mola Mola, and there is a very good chance of spotting Manta rays here.
In this article
- To do
- Hotspots
- Travel time
- Budget
- Practical information
- The nicest accommodations
- How do I get there?
What to do in Nusa Lembongan
Although the island has only 5,000 inhabitants and is less than 8 square meters, there is more than enough to experience. From diving with manta rays to the most stunning sunset viewpoint.
Go diving or snorkeling
Nusa Lembongan is the paradise for diving enthusiasts. Think coral walls, diving among manta rays, you can do it all here! Diving schools abound, so no excuses not to go deep.
Rather not dive, you also have the option of snorkeling with manta rays. Fat tip!
Devil’s Tear
The giant waves of Devil’s Tear you definitely want to have seen once. Devil’s Tear is an impressive, somewhat dangerous, blowhole where water can easily shoot meters high into the air. Be careful not to get too close to the edge.
Beach bar hopping:
Hop from one beach bar to another and sip on insane cocktails while enjoying the island vibes. Watch the sun set as you chill on your easy chair. Some of our favorites are: Sandy Bay Beach Bar & Ombak Cafe.
Surfing on Nusa Lembogan
Yaaa! You can surf on Nusa Lembogan. There are several places you can go. The waves are often not that impressive, but the scenery there is beautiful. There are spots for both beginners and more experienced surfers.
Yellow Bridge to Nusa Ceningan
Drive across the famous Yellow Bridge and explore beautiful Nusa Ceningan. Also on Nusa Ceningan you will find beautiful viewpoints and nice beach bars. It is definitely a fun part to cruise over with your scooter.
Discover the mangroves of Nusa Lembogan
Hop aboard a boat and immerse yourself in the greenery of the mangrove forests as you calmly cruise the calm waters. Listen to the natural sounds around you as you marvel at the diversity of plants and animals that call these magical ecosystems home. This adventure offers a wonderful escape amidst the natural beauty.
Hotspots & food in Nusa Lembongan
- Cloudland Bar: Perfect for a breathtaking sunset.
- Sandy Bay Beach Club: Luxurious spot for an amazing sunset and delicious food.
- Ombak Cafe & Huts: Wonderful beach spot to relax and take a dip.
- Sea Breeze Cafe Ceningan: Cozy place for a drink by the water.
- Le Pirate Nusa Ceningan: Ideal for a swim in the pool or a tasty meal.
- Bonzer Cafe: One of our favorites for coffee and lunch.
- Mushroom Espresso: For excellent coffee.
- Kayo Lembongan: Relaxed spot for a delightful lunch.
- Cookies Coffee Shop and Warung: Affordable and tasty local food.
- Papa Tarros Bar and Resto: The place for tasty nasi goreng.
Also, read the article “Food Guide Nusa Lembongan“
Best time to travel to Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is a good idea year-round, but the best time depends on your preferences. For the dry season, April to October are ideal. Want less crowded and greener landscapes? Then consider the off-season from November to March.
Which budget do i need in Nusa Lembongan?
What budget you need to visit Nusa Lembongan depends on your needs and travel style. Here is an overview of what you can roughly expect in terms of costs on Nusa Lembongan.
Food and drink:
You can eat inexpensively in local warungs, think about 1-4 euros per meal. For a more upscale experience in restaurants, this can add up to 15-25 euros per person per meal. Drinks range from 1-3 euros for soft drinks to 3-6 euros for cocktails. A beer usually costs around 2 euros.
Accommodation:
Options range from simple guesthouses to luxury resorts. For budget accommodation, count on 10-20 euros per night. More comforts and amenities bring the cost to 20-50 euros per night or more. For true luxury, you often pay between 50 and 150 euros per night.
Activities:
- Scooter rental is fairly affordable, often around 3-8 euros per day.
- Most dive trips include 2 dives and cost about 50-70 euros per trip, including equipment. Multi-day packages may be more economical.
- Snorkeling trips range from 15-30 euros, depending on duration and included amenities.
- Admission to attractions such as Devil’s Tear or mangrove tours is usually between 1-3 euros.
What does Nusa Lembongan cost:
Budget backpacker: 10-25 euros per day per person
Flashpacker: 25-50 euros per day per person
Comfort traveler: 50-75 euros per day per person
Fancy Schmancy: 75-100 euros per day per person
Remember that these estimates can vary depending on the season, negotiating skills and personal preferences. It’s helpful to have some extra budget for unforeseen expenses and souvenirs!
Practical information about Nusa Lembongan
- Although many places have ATMs, it is helpful to bring some extra cash.
- Acceptance of debit cards is not guaranteed everywhere, so a credit card may come in handy.
- The sun is intense here! Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the tropical heat.
- Keep those mosquitoes at bay with good bug spray. Soffel is a favorite among connoisseurs!
- During the high season, accommodations are quickly booked up. To avoid disappointment, it is smart to book your stay in advance.
- Pay attention to where you go swimming. Not all spots are safe, so be aware of currents and tides before you dive.
- Help keep the islands clean. Take your trash with you and leave no trace. Respect nature and the beautiful surroundings.
- It is not always possible to dive or snorkel due to weather conditions. It is good to take this into account.
- The best way to explore the island is by scooter. Always wear a helmet and drive carefully!
What are nice places to stay in Nusa Lembongan?
How to get to Nusa Lembongan?
Getting from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is super easy. The main port is Sanur. The cost for the boat trip is around 10-15 euros per person and the crossing takes about 30 minutes. Sometimes it can be a bit bumpy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s smart to take a pill before you leave.