Although Penida is known for its world-class dive sites, this is a striking land waiting to be explored above the surface. Our Nusa Penida travel guide takes you beyond the reef and into a rugged landscape of cliffs, tide pools, hidden beaches, and sacred places — a world carved by wind, sea, and silence.

If you’re wondering what to do in Nusa Penida beyond diving, the answer lies in its raw, untamed terrain. Unlike Bali’s polished edges, Penida still feels wild. Roads wind through hills, and every turn opens up to a new horizon. It’s not always comfortable, but that’s part of what makes it unforgettable.

Top Things to Do in Nusa Penida (Above Water)

1. Kelingking Beach

The most iconic of all Nusa Penida attractions, Kelingking’s cliffside view — often compared to a T-Rex headland — drops dramatically into a turquoise bay. The hike down is steep and challenging, but the beach below is pristine and worth the effort. Even if you don’t go down, the view from above is reason enough to visit.

2. Angel’s Billabong & Broken Beach

This coastal duo sits on the island’s southwest side and forms one of the most photogenic places to visit in Nusa Penida.

• Angel’s Billabong: A natural infinity pool formed by the erosion of volcanic rock, located near Broken Beach. During low tide, the water is calm and clear, creating a serene spot for visitors. However, caution is advised, as the area can become dangerous with sudden waves and changing tides. citeturn0search4
• Broken Beach: Known locally as Pasih Uug, this site features a natural archway over the sea, resulting from a collapsed sea cave. The circular cove and turquoise waters make it a favorite among photographers.

Together, these two make for a compact, stunning stop — ideal for photographers and anyone who appreciates natural coastal formations.

3. Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach

On the eastern coast, Diamond and Atuh Beaches offer a slower, quieter kind of beauty. Towering limestone cliffs surround narrow coves of white sand, accessible by long staircases carved into the rock. Early morning is the best time to visit — soft light, fewer people, and a chance to see the cliffs glowing gold with the rising sun.

4. Thousand Islands Viewpoint & Rumah Pohon

Not far from Diamond Beach, this viewpoint offers sweeping views of the small offshore islets that give the spot its name. The wind blows hard here, and the drop is steep, but the panoramic perspective is unlike anywhere else on the island. Rumah Pohon Treehouse, perched on a cliff edge nearby, adds a surreal touch to the landscape — and it’s become a favorite among Instagram visitors.

5. Peguyangan Waterfall

One of Nusa Penida’s more spiritual experiences, Peguyangan is not a typical waterfall but a sacred water site. A long blue staircase clings to the side of a cliff, guiding visitors down to a temple overlooking the ocean. Locals come here to perform purification rituals with the fresh spring water that flows from the rocks. The descent offers one of the most thrilling (and humbling) views on the island.

6. Crystal Bay

On the island’s western edge, Crystal Bay is where many end their day — or their dive. But even if you’re not diving, the calm waters and laid-back beach scene make this an ideal sunset spot. A few warungs offer cold drinks and light meals, and the bay’s orientation gives you front-row seats to the evening sky.

How to Explore Nusa Penida

Getting around Nusa Penida takes a bit of planning. Roads vary — some are newly paved, others are still narrow and bumpy. Renting a scooter is an option, but only recommended for experienced riders. Hiring a local driver or joining a small tour is often the safest and most relaxed way to move around, especially if you’re short on time.

Nusa Penida: A Destination for Everyone

This guide to Nusa Penida only scratches the surface. Whether you’re a diver or a land explorer, the island offers something for everyone. Its beauty doesn’t shout — it waits. On cliff edges, down forest paths, in quiet moments facing the sea.

So if you’re planning a trip and wondering what to see in Nusa Penida, remember: it’s not just about what’s under the water. Sometimes the most powerful views are the ones above the waves.