Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is the largest of three islands off the south eastern coast of Bali, the others being Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Nusa Penida is much larger than the better known Nusa Lembongan. However, tourist infrastructure is very limited here but growing fast.
Due to a lack of natural fresh water, little is grown or produced on Nusa Penida, and even some basic foodstuffs come in by boat. Visitors should therefore expect higher prices than in Bali, and not bank on any tourism-related luxury items being available for purchase here.
Nusa Penida has also become an unofficial bird sanctuary for endangered Balinese and Indonesian bird species, including the critically endangered Bali Starling (Leucopsar rothschildi).
There are many quiet and secluded white sand beaches along the north and northwest coasts. Other geographical highlights include limestone caves, spectacular high coastal cliffs with karst formations and offshore pinnacles in the south and east, and rugged hill tops in the high centre.
Crystal Bay, is a stunning white sand beach at Banjar Penida west of Sakti village on the north western coast facing Nusa Ceningan. Perfect clear waters and excellent snorkeling.
There are large limestone caves on the east coast about 4km north from Suana village. Inside the caves there is (electrical) light and a place for meditation. The whole place has an awesome atmosphere. Some impressive stalactites and other typical limestone formations can be seen.
Pura Penataran Ped, an extremely important temple to the Hindu Balinese many of whom make an annual pilgrimage specifically to pray here to protect against illness, disease and death. This temple is built on a quite grand scale which makes for something of a contrast with the generally rather austere nature of Nusa Penida.
Puncak Mundi is the highest point of Nusa Penida at some 521m above sea level Puncak Mundi temple perches high on the hill.
The whole southern coast of Nusa Penida has spectacular, high white limestone cliffs which will simply take your breath away. Some of the karst formations are really dramatic as are the numerous offshore pinnacles.
