Nusa Lembongan guide: Island for a short getaway from Bali

Nusa Lembongan is a small island off the southeastern coast of Bali, often chosen for a short getaway from 2 to 4 days. It is part of the Nusa Archipelago along with Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida, but its atmosphere is quite different.

Lembongan is compact, easy to get around, yet rich in experiences: it boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the region, picturesque beaches with white sand, dramatic coastal cliffs, and mangrove forests. All of this is within 10–15 minutes from each other. It's easy to reach from Bali, and its infrastructure is made for travelers who want to combine beach relaxation, active marine activities, and beautiful views without an overloaded schedule.

This island is perfect for those who want to see "island Indonesia" in a condensed format. With MyBaliTrips you can go on a day tour to Lembongan or choose a trip to all three islands of the Nusa Archipelago.

How to get to Nusa Lembongan from Bali

You can independently get to Nusa Lembongan from Bali by taking a speedboat from Sanur. The journey takes about 45 minutes, depending on the weather and type of boat. This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the island without transferring through other islands. Boats arrive at Lembongan either at Jungut Batu or Mushroom Bay — both locations are convenient for starting your exploration and are close to major beaches and hotels. Tickets for the boat can be purchased on-site, but in high season, trips often fill up several days in advance. To avoid queues, uncertain schedules, and overpayments, tickets for the boat to Nusa Lembongan can be conveniently purchased in advance on our website with trusted carriers and clear departure times.

Main Attractions

Despite its compact size, Nusa Lembongan easily fills an itinerary for one or several days. Most iconic spots are located close to each other, making the island convenient for leisurely exploration.

Devil’s Tear
The most dramatic natural point on the island. Here, the ocean crashes into limestone cliffs with force, sending powerful fountains of water into the air. On sunny days, a rainbow often appears over the spray, and closer to evening, this location transforms into one of the best spots to witness the sunset.

Yellow Bridge
The suspension bridge connects Nusa Lembongan to the neighboring island of Nusa Ceningan. It is not just an infrastructure object but a symbol of the Nusa Archipelago. People move across it on foot and by scooters, and it offers views of the lagoon and boats moored to the shore. The journey to Ceningan often becomes a logical continuation of the Lembongan route, which is why both islands are conveniently explored within one day or a combined tour.

Mangrove Forest
Mangrove thickets are located in the northeastern part of the island and contrast sharply with the open beaches and cliffs of the southern coast. You can navigate through the mangrove forest on a kayak or boat with a local guide, following routes along narrow channels between the roots.

Things to do in Nusa Lembongan

Snorkeling with Mantas
One of the region's main attractions is snorkeling with majestic mantas. Encounters with giant oceanic rays occur at the famous Manta Point spot off the coast of Nusa Penida. Although the location itself is near the neighboring island, snorkeling trips can conveniently be organized from Lembongan. This format is suitable even for those without snorkeling experience. A briefing is held before the dive, all necessary equipment is provided, and the route is chosen based on weather conditions and ocean state.

Reef Cruise
The aquatorium surrounding Nusa Lembongan is known for its coral reefs and clear waters. It has some of the most vibrant and accessible reefs near Bali. A reef cruise is a format that allows you to see several reef spots in one day without self-organization. The program progresses at a leisurely pace and usually includes several stops for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation on the water, as well as lunch on board. This option is often chosen by those who want to spend a day in the ocean and get to know the underwater world without a tight excursion schedule.

Yacht Cruise
For a more private format, yacht cruises around Nusa Lembongan and neighboring islands are suitable. It's an opportunity to see the archipelago from the water, make stops in beautiful bays, and spend the day in a calm, individualized pace. Yacht cruises are often chosen by couples and small groups who want to add a special accent to their trip. Several yacht cruise options around Nusa Lembongan are available on our website.

Jet Ski
For those who want to add some dynamics to their relaxation, jet skiing along the coast of Nusa Lembongan will fit. Rides take place in the coastal zone, with an instructor, and are suitable even for beginners. Jet skiing combines well with beach relaxation or marine excursions, becoming an active addition to the trip. Book jet skiing in advance to avoid wasting time looking for activities on-site.

Yoga
In recent years, the island is becoming a popular place for yoga retreats and teacher training courses. One of the best places for classes is the Yoga Bliss studio, which also has a wonderful cafe where you can relax with a healthy cocktail or salad after classes.

Best Beaches

Dream Beach
One of the island's most photogenic beaches. White sand, vibrant water color, and open ocean. Swimming here depends on the waves, so people often visit for the views, walks, and as a stop between Devil’s Tear and other locations on the southern coast.

Mushroom Bay
A cozy bay with calmer water and a gentle ocean entrance. Ideal for swimming, especially in the morning. Boats and vessels often moor in this area, making Mushroom Bay a convenient starting point for island exploration.

Jungut Batu Beach
The most lively beach on Nusa Lembongan. It is surrounded by cafes, hotels, and water activity centers. Swimming is possible in calm seas, and toward the evening, the beach is often chosen for walks and sunsets with views of Mount Agung on Bali.

Sandy Bay
A small beach in a cove on the western part of the island. More intimate and secluded compared to others. It's often visited in connection with nearby restaurants and viewpoint spots.

Where to Have Breakfast?

Bali Eco Deli: one of the most popular breakfast spots on the island. Everything on the menu is homemade from fresh, locally-sourced products from organic farms. Good coffee, bowls, banana bread, toasts, eggs, and light dishes. Convenient to start the day before marine activities or island rides. Open every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Bali Eco Deli also launched a small recycling program. If you bring plastic to be recycled, you'll get a 10% discount on your entire order.

B’Fresh Juice Bar & Coffee Corner: it is managed by the owner along with her daughter, yet manages to prepare incredibly tasty dishes of Indonesian and Western cuisine. The chicken burger is called the best on the island. Drinks can be ordered to go, like freshly squeezed juice or smoothies.

Ohana’s Coffee: a popular place in the Jungut Batu area with a focus on quality coffee and hearty breakfasts. The menu features eggs in various styles, toasts, bowls, pastries, and a good selection of coffee drinks. Conveniently located near major guesthouses and the beach, so people often stop by before the beach, snorkeling, or island trips. There is a pool on site where you can sit with a cocktail.

Where to Dine?

The Deck Cafe & Bar: a restaurant with a panoramic view of the ocean, located on a high ground. People visit mainly for the sunset and relaxed evening ambiance. The menu offers Western cuisine, seafood, cocktails, and wine. A good option for a leisurely dinner and evening with a view, best to come closer to sunset.

Al Ponte: an Italian restaurant emphasizing pasta, pizza, and a wine list. Suitable for those looking to take a break from Asian cuisine and have a private or celebratory dinner for two. Guests note the freshness and excellent taste of dishes, as well as the wide selection on the menu. It is centrally located in Nusa Lembongan, with views of the opposite island Nusa Ceningan and has direct beach access.

Lemongrass Bar & Restaurant: a restaurant in the Jungut Batu area, initiated by locals, serving exquisite Indonesian and Western dishes. From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, there is a "happy hour" with cocktails 2-for-1, and pleasantly, they offer free transfer from your hotel or villa. In the evenings, live music plays and there is a view of Mount Agung.