Head to Sanur harbour, hop on a boat, and before you can say "happy holidays" you'll arrive in paradise. Welcome to Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan!
Ahhh Nusa Lembongan – our fave island escape that’s just a hop, skip and a short 40 minute boat ride away from mainland Bali. Lapped by aquamarine waters, fringed by powder-white sands and centred by lush green mangroves, this quaint little island has a lot to love – and that’s before we mention the swoon-worthy hotels, delish restaurants and wild island adventures (with a few tropical cocktails at the island’s best beach clubs!).
So, if you’re heading over to Nusa Lembongan for a break from Bali, consider this your complete guide on where to eat, stay and play on the island. And because Nusa Lembongan is connected to Nusa Ceningan (via that instagrammable Yellow Bridge), we’ve also chucked in a few Ceningan must-dos too. But first, here’s a few tips before you island-hop to Nusa Lembongan…
How to get to Nusa Lembongan from Bali
The best way to get to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida (AKA the Nusa Islands) is by hopping aboard a fast boat from Sanur Harbour. The port is located on the northern end of Sanur Beach, approximately 30 to 60 minutes by car from the airport, depending on traffic and the time of day. The boat ride from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan is a 30- to 45-minute journey, with ticket prices starting from IDR 120,000 one-way (which can be booked online), plus a Lembongan port fee of IDR 10,000.
How to get around Nusa Lembongan
Unlike on mainland Bali, Nusa Lembongan doesn’t have GoJek or taxis. Instead, you’ll find motorbikes and a handful of pick-up trucks. If you’re confident and properly licensed, a popular mode of transport in Nusa Lembongan is by riding a scooter, which you can hire for around IDR 80,000 per day. Just beware of the narrow, bumpy roads, and always wear a helmet. Alternatively, you can relax in the back of a pick-up truck (AKA the local taxi service), for as little as IDR 50,000 per trip. Top tip: some Nusa Lembongan accommodation offers transportation (or even push-bikes!) as part of your stay, so it’s always best to contact your hotel or villa for more information before you arrive.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. Cross the Yellow Bridge from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Ceningan
Connecting Nusa Lembongan to its little island sister, Nusa Ceningan, the famous Yellow Bridge (AKA The Bridge of Love) is a must-visit on any island itinerary. Seen on almost every Insta-feed worldwide, the Yellow Bridge is a truly stunning sight, with its vibrant sunshine hues suspended over turquoise seas beneath. By nightfall, this legendary landmark lights up, so come back after dark to capture a totally different vista.
2. Snorkel or dive into the deep sea
Nusa Lembongan is home to stunning, crystal-clear waters and some of the most diverse reefs on the planet (you can spot Manta Rays and Mola-Mola if you’re lucky!) so a snorkelling trip or scuba dive here is an absolute must. Our fave sites? Head to Mangrove Point, The Wall and Crystal Bay (off the coast of neighbouring Nusa Penida) on a multi-stop snorkelling trip. Or if you’re really keen, simply hire a snorkel and mask and explore the calm waters from the beach.
3. Visit Devil’s Tear
One of Nusa Lembongan’s most famous natural wonders, Devil’s Tear is a breathtaking spectacle that’s like something out of a movie set. Rugged cliff meets wild ocean tides at this “edge of the earth” location, where a powerful blowhole spits out giant plumes of water. A visit here is always awesome no matter the time of day, but come here for sunset for a seriously stunning display of fiery skies that reflect off the surrounding rock pools. It’s when Devil’s Tear looks most… heavenly!
4. Surf Lembongan’s waves
While Nusa Lembongan’s waters are mostly lake-like levels of calm, the island is where you’ll find a handful of super famous surf breaks that rival some of Bali’s best. Head to Playgrounds on high-tide if you’re a beginner, or for more advanced surfers, head out to Shipwrecks or Lacerations – you can paddle out by yourself if you’re game for a 5-10 minute crossing, or simply hire one of the fishing boats to drop you off and pick you up. And when it hits low tide? Hire a stand-up paddle board and cruise around the calm bays instead.
5. Explore the island on a scooter
With no cars or taxis on the island (only the pick-up trucks that transport guests to their hotels) the only way to get around Nusa Lembongan is by scooter. With sometimes bumpy and windy roads, it’s not for the fainthearted, so only hire your own if you’re licensed and you’ve driven one before. Visit the Mangrove Forest, hunt for an empty beach, cross the Yellow Bridge or simply park up at a beach club and laze your days away on your own time. The island is your oyster!
THE BEST HOTELS IN NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa
A five-star retreat dripping in both style and serenity, Batu Karang is home to a collection of luxurious villas and suites carved into the island’s coral hillside. Overlooking the main Jungut Batu bay, the ocean views here are endless, confined only by the distant silhouette of Mount Agung. Inside, expect modern and traditional architecture, plus all the glamorous perks you’d expect from such a stylish stay. Think enormous bathtubs, chic lolling spots and even private pools and plunges in every villa.
Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa, Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 366 559 6377 / +62 811 3977 316, e. [email protected]
2. Indiana Kenanga
A luxury boutique resort that melds French elegance with traditional Balinese art, Indiana Kenanga is one of the very best all-villa hotels in Nusa Lembongan. Surrounded by tropical gardens with the white sand beach and turquoise ocean on its doorstep, the resort feels like a secret paradise the second you step inside. The one- and two-bedroom abodes are perfect for couples and friends travelling together, while the beachfront restaurant is the perfect place to while away slow island days, topped off with excellent service.
Indiana Kenanga, Jl Jungutbatu Beach No. 56, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 366 559 6371 / +62 859 3506 5565, e. [email protected]
3. Ohana’s Lembongan
A boutique resort within walking distance of Lembongan’s best restaurants, shops and spas, Ohana’s is the island’s trendiest beach club that also happens to house a collection of bright and minimalistic boho-chic suites. And while these contemporary abodes have everything you could ever need during your stay, it goes without saying that the beach club’s lineup of awesome food, cocktails and poolside nooks means every base is covered here.
Ohana’s Lembongan, Jl Jungutbatu Gg. Nusa Indah, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 811 3960 0787, e. [email protected]
THE BEST VILLAS IN NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. Villa Seascape
Sitting absolute beachfront on the elite strip of Sandy Bay, Villa Seascape is a five-bedroom seaside villa that stands two-storeys tall on the cove’s shorefront. Blessed with unobstructed sea views, the villa is awash with contemporary interiors and innovative design elements. There’s even a suspended living area that hangs high up on the mezzanine level, and a bedroom that can transform into a private cinema. Each of the rooms are individually themed, and being so close to the ocean, the sounds of the waves lull you to sleep each blissful evening. Top tip: at sunset, settle in to the beachfront fire pit.
Villa Seascape, Jl Sandy Bay, Sunset Beach, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 361 737 498.
2. The Beach House at Sandy Bay Lembongan
A beach-chic, oceanfront beauty, The Beach House at Sandy Bay Lembongan is a four-bedroom coastal-themed villa on Nusa Lembongan’s most sought-after bay, with private, direct access to the gorgeous Sandy Bay Beach Club. The open-plan and breezy villa is fronted by a glittering infinity pool that stretches out to the aquamarine ocean, nudged by a beachfront sofa on the sand, a manicured lawn and a dining table with a built-in barbecue. Inside, a cosy, cushion-filled living area beckons, with two hanging egg-chairs and personalised decor that makes you feel right at home.
The Beach House at Sandy Bay Lembongan, Jl Sandy Bay, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 877 4329 1700, e. [email protected].
3. Lago Beach House
Your very own home-from-home, Lago Beach House is arguably in the very best address on the entire island. This island abode sits on the cliffs above the main Jungut Batu walkway, overlooking Playgrounds surf break and Mount Agung in the distance. You’ll find five serene suites and a dazzling infinity pool at this stylish sanctuary, with Lembongan’s most famous destinations right on your doorstep. You’ll also have access to the Lago Sundeck, with a sauna, ice plunge, sunbeds and unparalleled ocean views, perched just below your private residence. All of this, with beach access just a few steps away beneath a canopy of a Balinese ceremonial tree. Bliss!
Lago Beach House, Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 8113 970 300, e. [email protected]
4. Pantai Palms
Tucked away down a quiet laneway in the heart of Jungut Batu village, Pantai Palms houses a collection of charming, budget-friendly bungalows beneath swaying palm trees. While these bungalows are typically rented individually, we say, book out all five bungalows to have the entire place to yourself. Like your own private five-bedroom villa for up to 10 guests, you’ll be just a short walk from the island’s best restaurants, day spas and white-sand beach. We loved the pool floaties and cute bicycles that you can use throughout your stay to get around Lembongan, and you’ll even score a special discount at the Island Traders store!
Pantai Palms, Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, e. [email protected]
THE BEST CAFES IN NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. Ginger & Jamu
An absolute gem that’s all about honest food, Ginger & Jamu is an all-day restaurant right on the beachfront of Lembongan’s main strip. Dishing up wholesome plates at an affordable price, you won’t find any nasty ingredients here (we’re looking at you, MSG, preservatives and bad oils). Instead, you’ll find fresh and organic hand-picked produce that’s been transformed into incredible healing creations, like smoothie bowls for brekkie, to vegetarian dahl, tempeh tacos and pasta puttanesca for lunch and dinner. To give you an idea of Ginger & Jamu’s awesomeness, we ate here three times (in just one day).
Ginger & Jamu, Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 823 3980 1838; Open daily 7.30am – 9pm.
2. Let’s Bake
If you’re on Lembongan and you’re craving still-warm croissants, ooey-gooey eggs and perfectly brewed coffee, you’ll want to head to Let’s Bake. This French bakery fits right in with the island’s tropical vibes, with it’s sand-covered floor, cute pink cups and all-natural interiors. Swing by to grab some baked goods, or settle in for a salmon bagel, loaded sandwiches or a classic Croque Monsieur. and . A day of island life here starts with a creamy matcha latte, a buttery croissant and a turmeric wellness shot for good measure. And whatever you do, don’t leave without a scoop (or three!) of Gusto’s gelato.
Let’s Bake, Jl Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
3. Kayu Lembongan
Meaning “wood” in Indonesian, Kayu is a beautiful and breezy restaurant set inside a traditional 90-year-old Joglo. Step through the solid wooden doors from the dusty streets outside and you’ll enter an oasis of calm, where delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served up in the semi-alfreso dining lounge, surrounded by manicured tropical gardens. It’s here that you can feast on Kayu’s signatures, like loaded brekkie burgers and tofu scramble, to beef rendang tacos, herb-crusted tuna, and poke bowls for lunch and dinner. And the kicker? All of the produce supports local artisan bakers, cheesemakers and brewers, brought over fresh from Bali each day.
Kayu Lembongan, Jl Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 878 5180 6128, e. [email protected]; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
4. Bonzer Cafe
Serving brunch and dinner all day, Bonzer Cafe is an island favourite, sitting on the top end of Nusa Lembongan. Head here for great coffee, classic breakfasts and sweet treats too (like the lemon meringue croissant!), and settle in to the palm-shaded dining area. For lunch, tuck into poké bowls, sandwiches and salads, then come back for classic Indonesian comfort food for dinner. We love the Balinese crispy pork belly, and the deep-fried duck. You’ll also find great steaks here, plus classic cocktails and fab wines from Bonzer’s own cellar.
Bonzer Cafe, Jl Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 823 3992 3439; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. The Deck
Sitting on the oceanfront boardwalk overlooking Nusa Lembongan’s main Jungut Batu bay, The Deck is our go-to for delish food and cocktails at any hour of the day. The Australian-style brekkies are the main draw in the morning, but it’s at nighttime when The Deck really comes to life. The pizzas, pastas and share plates are all served with pristine ocean views, which means you’ll definitely need to secure your front-row seat for sunset. All of this, topped off with chilled tunes, happy hours and regular live music.
The Deck, Jungut Batu Beach, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 366 559 6377 / +62 811 397 7316, e. [email protected]; Open daily from 7.30am.
2. Tigerlillys Beach Shack
Tigerlilly’s Beach Shack is a family-friendly restaurant and bar right on the beach, with yummy breakfasts by day, and lively sunset vibes by night. Prop up by the bar overlooking the ocean, or nab an oceanfront seat as you graze on delicious bites, burgers, pastas and classic fish and chips. Trust us when we say you’ll score the most epic sunset views and candy coloured skies here, best paired with an Aperol Spritz or ice-cold beer on tap. Swing by on a weekend for epic Happy Hours, live music and movie nights too.
Tigerlillys Beach Shack, Jungutbatu Beach, Nusa Lembongan, e. [email protected]; Open daily from 8am.
3. Curry Traders
One of the higher-end restaurants on Lembongan, Curry Traders is where it’s at for an elegant-yet-casual spice-inspired feast. Step through the restaurant’s archway and you’re instantly hit with the vibrant aromas wafting from the open kitchen. Not a curry house nor an Indian restaurant, you’ll find a fusion of Indian, Sri Lankan and Southeast Asian delicacies here, perfectly complemented by signature cocktails handcrafted with premium spirits. Our faves? The signature butter chicken, the Bangladesh-style prawn curry with chunks of pineapple, and the vegan Sri Lankan daal.
Curry Traders Restaurant & Bar, Jl Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 821 4668 4894; Open daily 5pm – 11pm.
4. Thai Pantry
Sitting on the waterfront of Jungut Batu, Thai Pantry is a rocking retro combi van slinging authentic Thai food. You won’t find any of your usual island burgers or spaghetti here, only spicy green curries, zesty pad thai, wok-fried vegetables and every other Thai staple done right. Arrive early to catch the sunset, and stick around until after dark for the buzzing vibes at this humble, outdoor dining destination.
Thai Pantry, Jungut Batu Beach (next to The Deck), Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 811 3831 1628; Open daily 7.30am – 10pm.
THE BEST BARS IN NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. The Pontoon at Lago
Floating on the ocean off the coast of Jungutbatu Beach, The Pontoon is a solar-powered bar surrounded by sea, good vibes and epic views. Settle into a bean bag by the edge of the water, or jump on one of the floaties and watch surfers rip up Playgrounds surf break just metres away. Tuck into small bites and order round-after-round of ice-cold beers, classic margies and espresso martinis. It’s the perfect spot for a boozy afternoon in the sun, with much-needed fuel-ups like hand-cut chips with gravy and peri peri chicken burgers.
The Pontoon at Lago, shuttle boat from Jungutbatu Beach, Nusa Lembongan; Open daily 12pm – 7pm.
2. The Howff
A hidden whiskey and gin bar tucked away under The Deck, The Howff is Nusa Lembongan’s speakeasy that hangs over rugged rock and serves some of our very fave cocktails.The drams of powerful whiskey and globes of botanical gins at this dungeon bar are of the finest calibre, served with class and a touch of Scottish-Balinese character. Try the Lossie Haze – it’s made with Glen Moray Speyside whiskey to add smoothness to this hazy, smokey and wood-infused tipple.
The Howff at Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa, Jungutbatu, p. +62 366 559 6377 / +62 811 3977 316, e. [email protected]; Open daily.
3. The Coconut Hut
A barefoot horizon of all-natural materials, The Coconut Hut is Nusa Lembongan’s shabby-chic bar, restaurant and mini-golf combo that had us at Pina Coladas and putt-putt. Awesome food and drinks are served up throughout the day here (think hotdogs and pastas) with funky tunes and epic Espresso Martinis – all while glowing golf balls find their way through the 18-hole course of Balinese deities and Hindu temples. Sinking a few cocktails as you sink a hole-in-one isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly recommended…
The Coconut Hut, Jl Raya Pangkung, p. +62 812 3644 9119; Open daily 8am – 11pm.
4. Nusa Bodega
A far cry from the island’s boho beach clubs and sandy bars, Nusa Bodega is a sultry tapas and wine bar that transports you to the streets of Spain with just one flick of a flamenco dress. From the same family as The Coconut Hut (above), Nusa Bodega is the fiery little sister to this island icon, slinging fab premium wines and Spanish tapas ’til late.
Nusa Bodega, Jl Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 812 3972 3787; Open 5pm – 11pm (closed Wednesdays).
5. KLYF Club
Glamorous, spectacular and directly overlooking the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, KLYF Club on Nusa Ceningan is a kaleidoscope of cobalt with its stunning infinity pool, sophisticated daybeds, a DJ booth and a world-class bar and restaurant. You’ll want to settle in for the refined, modern-Asian and Mediterranean menu from Chef Kieran Morland of Merah Putih in Bali, and most of all, you’ll want to try allllll the dranks, while lapping up the stunning ocean views.
KLYF Club, Jl Sarang Burung, Blue Lagoon, Nusa Ceningan, p. +62 852 1700 266, e. [email protected]; Open daily.
THE BEST BEACH CLUBS ON NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. Ohana’s
Bringing super stylish vibes to Lembongan’s beach club scene, Ohana’s is where it’s at for luxe lounging, beachfront bites and fab cocktails. Think fresh seafood spreads, wholesome salads and big juicy steaks – all served up on bright-white daybeds beneath breezy umbrellas that border the oceanfront pool. You’ll want to arrive early to nab prime sun-soaking positioning here, then stick around until after dark for dinner on the upper deck beneath the stars.
Ohana’s, Jl Jungutbatu Gg. Nusa Indah, p. +62 811 3960 0787, e. [email protected].
2. Sandy Bay Beach Club
Sandy Bay Beach Club is so good, we regularly make the trip over to Nusa Lembongan for this alone. Sitting in a glorious bay with a sand-in-your-toes open-air lounge (with the crashing ocean as the soundtrack), we can’t think of a better spot to feast on fantastic beachy fare while sinking a few tropical cocktails. Try everything on the Grazing Menu, then tuck into the ocean-fresh tiger prawns or traditional beef rendang. Wash it down with a Bloody Mary or margarita, and stick around until sundown for the nightly glow.
Sandy Bay Beach Club, Jl Sandy Bay, p. +62 877 4329 1700, e. [email protected]; Open daily 11am – 11pm.
3. Suku Beach Club
Nestled above Nusa Ceningan’s pristine white sands is Suku Beach Club – a tiered pool lounge, restaurant and bar overlooking Ceningan’s legendary surf break. Spend slow days by the pool with a cold coconut in hand, or nab a seat on a plush daybed and graze on easy beachside bites. And while we love an ice-cold beer, you’ll want to try Suku’s signature cocktails. Our favourite is the chilli-infused Aga cocktail, with tequila, cointreau, watermelon and agave – a tropical twist on the classic Margarita.
Suku Beach Club, Jl Suku Matahari Jl Sarang Burung, Nusa Ceningan, p. +62 822 1013 0077, e. [email protected]; Open daily 8am – 9pm.
4. Le Pirate Beach Club
Sitting on the water’s edge of Nusa Ceningan, Le Pirate is a laid-back beach club with slow swaying palms. This boutique beach club presents island simplicity as its best – the kind of place you can turn up to in your bikini and prop up the bamboo-clad bar with sand and salt still in your hair. Order a tropical cocktail and kick back in a stripey deck chair, overlooking the aquamarine lagoon. If you can’t bear the thought of leaving, check-in to one of the beach-shack bungalows for a night of simple island living.
Le Pirate, Nusa Ceningan; Open daily.
5. The Sand Ceningan
A laid-back and breezy toes-in-the-sand beach bar right by the ocean on Nusa Ceningan, The Sand is where you’ll find potent cocktails, an Instagrammable swing suspended over the water, and a menu of nibbles to help fuel a daytime sesh in the sunshine. You’ll want to bring your bikini for this one…
The Sand, Nusa Ceningan, p. +62 813 5379 6684; Open daily 8am – 10pm.
6. Agung Beach Club
The local and expat choice when it comes to beach club lounging, Agung Beach Club is Lembongan’s no-fuss hangout where you can soak up the sun and sea, and lounge all day long right on the beach. It’s much quieter and smaller compared to other beach clubs around, but it’s got a special charm all of its own. Work your way through the menu on the floating cabana, cosy up in the little wooden beach shack, or sway on the beach swings. Be sure to stick around for golden hour – this place is in direct view of the sunset.
Agung Beach Club, Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 817 551 826; Open daily 8am – 8pm.
THE BEST SPAS ON NUSA LEMBONGAN & CENINGAN
1. Spring Spa and Sanctuary
Thanks to the globally renowned and Kiwi-born Spring Spa group, this celeb-fave chain has brought its spa excellence to the “millionaire mile” of Nusa Lembongan. You’ve probably spotted Spring Spa all over Bali already, and trust us when we say you’ll want to take your sun-kissed skin to this island location for some of the best treatments around (all with ocean views!). Make it a mani-pedi or a cream bath to score direct views over the bay, or go for a full-body massage to head up to the luxury spa villas with their outdoor en-suites. Whatever you choose, you’ll love, love, love this Lembongan address.
Spring Spa and Sanctuary, Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 852 3914 1775, e. [email protected]; Open daily 10am – 7pm.
2. Glo Day Spa & Salon
While there are plenty of no-frills spas on every corner of the island, you’ll want to head to Glo Day Spa & Salon (next door to Sandy Bay Beach Club) when you want to lap up luxe beauty rituals and therapies. Think massages, hair treatments and facials too. With countless other locations across mainland Bali, this is a tried-and-tested winner – a one-stop spa shop for all your beauty and relaxation needs.
Glo Day Spa & Salon, Sandy Bay, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 811 399 6622; Open daily 10am – 7pm.
3. Indiana Spa
The spa at Indiana Kenanga is a luxurious, boutique spa that’s got it all: expert therapists, divine interiors and the age-old wisdom of Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. The selection of massages here are particularly special, from hot volcanic stone massages, to herbal traditional massages, and of course, Balinese massages with jasmine, ylang-ylang or sandalwood essential oils.
Indiana Spa at Indiana Kenanga Villas, Jl Jungut Balu Beach No. 56, p. +62 859 3506 5565.
4. Lulur Spa at Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa
For a pampering splurge, try the gorgeous Lulur Spa at Batu Karang. Just one step inside this calming sanctuary and you’ll come face-to-face with the sweet aromas of essential oils. Soak up the therapeutic atmosphere and choose from a number of treatments designed to complement the ambience of the island, all using botanical ingredients. Our fave treatment? The Waterlily Apple Collagen Facial that uses rose, frangipani, lemongrass and ginseng.
Lulur Spa at Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa, Jungutbatu, p. +62 366 559 6376, e. [email protected]; Open daily.
Love this guide to Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan? Check out all the best things to do in Nusa Penida!