A small Indonesian island with clear waters and coral reefs, located southeast of Bali. Known for mangrove forests, seaweed farms, and prime spots for surfing and diving.
Nusa Lembongan lies 8 kilometers southeast of Bali, where manta rays swim through crystal-clear waters and waves break over coral reefs. You can surf at spots like Shipwrecks, where consistent right-hand waves roll in year-round, or snorkel alongside tropical fish at Mangrove Point. At Dream Beach, limestone cliffs frame a white sand shoreline, while at Devil's Tear, waves crash against rocks, sending spray up to 30 meters into the air.
Getting to Nusa Lembongan
Fast boats leave Sanur Beach in Bali every hour between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, arriving at either Jungut Batu or Mushroom Bay after a 30-minute journey. You'll wade through knee-deep water to board most boats, so pack your belongings in waterproof bags. Morning crossings tend to be calmer, as afternoon winds often create choppy conditions.
Moving Around the Island
Local transport consists mainly of small pickup trucks with bench seats. You can rent a scooter to navigate the narrow, paved roads, or walk - a complete circuit of the island takes about two hours on foot. Small concrete paths connect the main beaches and villages, making walking practical for distances under 2 kilometers.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Dream Beach's white sand stretches along the south coast, where powerful waves create swimming conditions best suited for experienced swimmers. Sandy Bay faces west, where you can watch the sun set behind Bali's Mount Agung. Jungut Batu, stretching over 2 kilometers, contains most of the island's restaurants and guesthouses, plus the main boat landing area.
Water Activities and Marine Life
Manta rays frequently swim at Manta Point off neighboring Nusa Penida. Three main surf breaks cater to different abilities: Shipwrecks and Lacerations suit experienced surfers, while Playgrounds has gentler waves for beginners. Local dive shops run daily trips to more than 20 dive sites around the three Nusa islands, where you can see reef sharks, turtles, and schools of tropical fish.
Natural Attractions
A dense mangrove forest covers the northeastern coastline, where you can kayak or paddleboard through narrow water channels. At Devil's Tear, waves force water through limestone cracks, creating powerful sprays during high tide. Visit at low tide to explore the surrounding rock pools, which fill with small fish and crabs.
Villages and Local Life
The island's three main villages each have distinct characters: Jungut Batu buzzes with restaurants and hotels; Mushroom Bay remains calm with several beachfront resorts; and Lembongan Village maintains its traditional character with small shops and local homes. Seaweed farmers still tend their plots in the shallow waters between Jungut Batu and Lembongan Village, though tourism now drives most of the local economy.
