Is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting? 12 reasons to explore Nusa Lembongan

Yes, Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting because it is off the path, less popular than the nearby islands, but pristine and more authentic. We spent about 10 days in Nusa Lembongan, and it was fantastic. We actually liked this tiny island more than the nearby bigger Nusa Penida. The laid-back atmosphere is unique within Bali. However, is it truly worth visiting Nusa Lembongan?

Well, the island is just about a 40-minute fast boat ride from Sanur Harbour on Bali’s east coast. The tropical vibes, with the charming bars and restaurants on the shore that lit up at night, were the main reasons we extended our stay on Nusa Lembongan.

Is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting? Yes. We confirm that it offers two islands to explore in one, cheap accommodations compared to nearby places, many activities, hidden beaches and better nightlife than Nusa Penida. It’s now time to wrap up the introduction and show you the best of Nusa Lembongan. Through our Nusa Lembongan guide, you will get 10 reasons why you should pack your bags to one of the most underrated places in Bali.

Why you should consider Nusa Lembongan

We always suggest spending some of your holidays in Bali in Nusa Lembongan. Everyone is deeply fascinated by the allure of Nusa Penida’s best highlights, from Kelinking and Diamond Beach to the less popular Tembeling Forest and pools. However, you can get all that at a fraction of the price of staying in Nusa Penida. Also, it would help if you considered that the facilities on the beach make Lembongan ideal for watersports. We also considered Lembongan because of the proximity of Bal. Travelling to the island in the low season with chances of rain makes it easy to feel safe staying closer to the big Bali.

Things to know before visiting Nusa Lembongan

Before heading to Nusa Lembongan, you must be aware of a couple of things. We didn’t know what to expect before the trip. Well, there are a few guides, but the island is so off the path that very few explore it. Most of the travellers head to Nusa Penida, which is way more crowded.

The trip to Nusa Lembongan might be cheaper, but better to know where to stay, as the island has some remote spots that you will never get by. In some ways, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan (This last even more) reminded us of Koh Lanta in Southern Thailand.

After all, it was not the first time you heard somebody affirming that these islands resemble Bali about 20 years ago.

Best time to visit Nusa Lembongan?

So, you’re dreaming of escaping to the tropical paradise of Nusa Lembongan, but you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Nusa Lembongan? Well, let me spill the island’s secrets. The ideal time to set foot on this Indonesian gem is during the dry season, which spans from April to September. These months bring abundant sunshine, perfect for basking on the pristine beaches, diving into the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the island’s natural wonders.

However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don’t mind a bit of rain, the wet season from October to March still offers its unique charm. It’s all about what kind of adventure you’re seeking, but rest assured, Nusa Lembongan welcomes you with open arms year-round!

How to get to Nusa Lembongan?

How to get around Nusa Lembongan?

We mostly walked around Nusa Lembongan. The island is flat, and actually, walking is enjoyable. However, you need a scooter to reach one side and the other of the island. Compared to Bali Island, renting a scooter on Nusa Lembongan is more expensive but worth it. No gasoline stations exist, so you must refill the gas at the local shops on the road from the bottles. Gasoline prices are slightly higher than in Bali.

We have seen families renting a Golf buggies, yes, the one used  on the golf course, and it was funny. If you are still familiar with driving a motorbike in Southeast Asia, consider this option.

Best tours from Bali to Nusa Lembongan

Is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting? 12 Reasons why visit Nusa Lembongan!

We love Nusa Lembongan and enjoyed our stay on the island more than Nusa Penida. In fact, we extended our original period because we were truly relaxing and enjoying the beaches. This guide to Nusa Lembongan highlights some of the best things to do on the island. Some of the best reasons to visit Nusa Lembongan are highlighted in our list. Is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting? Yes. And these are 12 reasons you should include it in your Bali itinerary.

Less touristy than Nusa Penida

One of the most interesting aspects of visiting Nusa Lembongan is that you leave behind the crowds of Penida. Yes, hundreds of tourists arrive at Nusa Penida daily, ruining your stay if you wish for a remote back atmosphere. The good thing about Nusa Lembongan is that it is close enough for a day trip to Nusa Penida but doesn’t get affected by the crowds.

Check the best tours from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida

Laid back atmosphere

As said, one of the best selling points of Lembongan is that it is chill and quiet. We enjoyed our stay with a very slow rhythm that helped us relax and recharge our batteries before a long trip through Northern Bali. Nusa Lembongan can offer short or long stays depending on your needs. It is very close to Bali, so even a weekend is possible. You can also use Nusa Lembongan as a base for daily adventures, from snorkelling with Mantas in Nusa Penida to exploring the hidden gems such as the Blue Lagoon or well-known spots of Kelingking Beach, Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach.

Hidden beaches

The first thing that will sweep you off your feet in Nusa Lembongan is its pristine beaches. It is underrated, but actually, we liked our beach time here more than on Bali Island. That’s one of the main reasons we first hated Bali: no nice beaches in the popular spots. 

By the way, the turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and the gentle sway of palm trees set the perfect tropical backdrop. Is Nusa Lembongan worth visiting for the beaches? Without a doubt. Whether you’re lounging at Dream Beach or catching some rays at Mushroom Bay, you’ll find paradise in every grain of sand.

Other beaches to explore on Nusa Lembongan island

Ideal for watersports, snorkelling and diving

Surfers, take note! Nusa Lembongan is your hidden gem, away from the crowds of Bali’s mainstream surf spots. The consistent waves at Playgrounds, Lacerations, and Shipwrecks make it an ideal destination for surfers of all levels. Is it worth going to Nusa Lembongan for a surfing adventure? Absolutely!

Prepare to be dazzled for the underwater enthusiasts wondering if Nusa Lembongan is worth visiting. This island boasts a thriving marine ecosystem, making it a mecca for divers and snorkelers. Glide alongside majestic manta rays at Manta Point, explore vibrant coral gardens, and swim with exotic fish in the crystal-clear waters. It’s a journey into an aquatic wonderland that’s worth every moment.

Adventure through the Mangroves

If you think the adventure was to the end, you are wrong. On the opposite side of Mushroom Bay is a mangrove forest that grows undisturbed, boasting stunning natural scenery. Actually, the Mangrove forest of Nusa Lembongan is a large portion of the island, with about 1.5 miles covered. It is one of the major attractions to the little sister of Nusa islands. Locals can take you on an interesting tour, passing through narrow waterways via the mangroves.

We stayed on this side of the island quite a bit and enjoyed the atmosphere of the local restaurants. While touring this part of Nusa Lembongan, we suggest a couple of places: Bali Eco Deli for healthy food and Warung Sebit Sari for tasty food and decent pizza.

Cute restaurants and bars

Nusa Lembongan isn’t just about natural beauty; it also offers a taste of culinary delights. The island has cute restaurants and bars serving delicious Indonesian and international cuisine. Savour a beachfront dinner as the sun sets, or enjoy a refreshing cocktail at one of the laid-back beach bars.

Also, it would help if you considered that sticking with local cuisine might save you some bucks. While we explored Southeast Asia for nine months in 2023, we followed the backpacking route, trying to stay on a budget as possible. Nusa Lembongan is extremely affordable, and eating at a nice restaurant doesn’t make you feel guilty.

Day Trips to Nusa Penida: Instagram-Worthy Views

Yes, Nusa Lembongan can be your quiet entry point to Nusa Penida. Imagine exploring the island in a day, joining a snorkelling tour, and not being frustrated by transportation, dirt roads, lack of internet and nightlife. It is perfectly right. That’s why before evaluating Nusa Penida as a base, we suggest checking our blog post: “Is Nusa Penida worth visiting?”.

Within a 20-minute boat ride from Nusa Lembongan, you can explore the fantastic attractions of Nusa Penida, from Kelingking Beach to Diamond Beach and the hidden blue lagoon. Get Your Guide offers one of the best day trips from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida.

Two islands, one journey

Nusa Lembongan offers more than just a solitary island experience. It’s worth going to Nusa Lembongan to explore not just one but two captivating islands! The neighbouring Nusa Ceningan is accessible via a charming yellow bridge. Which you can see is an instagrammable place in Bali.

As you cross over, you’ll discover its unique charm, like the best-looking bay on Nusa Lembongan, and it’s all within reach. We rented a motorbike and crossed the yellow bridge, which was fun and reminded us of the adventures in Vang Vieng (Laos). The island is rough, with a few asphalted roads, but not less charming. I actually walked from Mushroom Bay to the Yellow Bridge to fly the drone, and it was about a 40/45 minute pleasant stroll. As said, Nusa Lembongan is mostly flat.

The Harbour is closer to Sanur

If you plan an escape to Nusa Penida, you might discover that Nusa Lembongan is on your way. In fact, the tiny island is often a midpoint to get off other travellers before another 20-minute boat to Penida. Usually, you will stop at Lembongan on the slow boat. If you want to stay closer to Sanur, Lembongan or Cenningan are the ideal places to consider. The two islands are just 40 minutes by fast boat from Sanur. We can’t forget the beautiful vista of Mount Batur from Mushroom Bay to show you how close Bali and Lembongan are.

Perfect for a weekend away

Is it worth going to Nusa Lembongan for a weekend? Absolutely! Nusa Lembongan’s proximity to Bali makes it an excellent choice for a quick escape. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, you can craft your perfect weekend getaway on this enchanting island.