Nusa Penida is a paradisaical island located about 45 minutes away from the touristy destination of Bali. Known for its turquoise water, jaw-dropping cliffs, white sand beach, and the famous dinosaur head (Kelingking Beach), Nusa Penida is becoming one of the best travel destinations.
However, as tourism only opened a few years ago, many of the infrastructures on Nusa Penida are lacking. There are no street lights, the roads are in bad condition, and accessibility to the necessities such as food and water could be questionable.
That is why deciding on where to stay in Nusa Penida is so important.
Our guide below will give you the best hotels and hostels in Nusa Penida to guarantee that you have an amazing trip!
Quick Tip On Where To Stay In Nusa Penida
In a hurry to decide on where to stay in Nusa Penida?
Nusa Penida is still a fairly undeveloped island and lacks infrastructure. For that reason, I would recommend not staying too far from where the harbor is, Toyapakeh.
Toyapakeh is definitely the best area to stay in Nusa Penida because it is the most developed area on Nusa Penida. Restaurants, cafes, groceries, and pharmacies are all concentrated in that neighborhood. Most accommodations are located in Toyakpakeh or within close proximity to it.
Best Hostel in Nusa Penida – Nuansa Penida Hostel
Best Cheap Hotel in Nusa Penida – Asoka Bungalows
Best Luxury Hotel in Nusa Penida – Daphila Cottage
Best Areas To Stay In Nusa Penida, Indonesia
Unlike Bali, there really aren’t a lot of neighborhoods to stay in Nusa Penida. The most popular place to stay is in the area located on the Northwestern side of Nusa Penida known as Toyapakeh, where you can get the ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida and vice versa.
Some people decide to stay on the eastern part of Nusa Penida, and that is usually a lot quieter but you have nicer hotels and a better view of the sea.
There are a few accommodations that dot the center of the island. These places are more unpopular, since getting to them is quite difficult. If you are looking for a secluded holiday, you could consider some of them.
Staying in Toya Pakeh (Northwestern Nusa Penida)
Because this area is closest to the port, the northwestern part of Nusa Penida has the most infrastructure. You will have a much easier time finding groceries, restaurants, bars and ATMs.
Unless your accommodation is all-inclusive and can provide you with food, water, and other necessities, I highly recommend staying close to Toyapakeh.
The island doesn’t have many street lights once you get far out of Toyapakeh. So if you were staying outside of town and had to get come in to get dinner at one of the warungs (local restaurants), it would be difficult.
Pros of Staying in Toya Pakeh (Northwestern Nusa Penida)
- Has more infrastructure
- More convenient because you are located near the port
- Easy to hop over to Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan Island
- A variety of accommodations
- Easy to get to the iconic attractions of Nusa Penida such as Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong
Cons of Staying in Toya Pakeh (Northwestern Nusa Penida)
- Might not appeal to travelers looking for a secluded getaway in nature with nice beaches
Staying on Eastern Nusa Penida
As you get further and further away from Toya Pakeh (northwestern Nusa Penida), it gets more quiet and secluded. Restaurants and shops are a lot less common, but so are tourists.
If you are looking for a romantic getaway in a tropical paradise surrounded by amazing vistas and beaches, then eastern Nusa Penida is perfect for you.
Pros of Staying in Eastern Nusa Penida
- Peace and quiet in the most beautiful part of Nusa Penida
- Close to Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach, Thousand Islands Viewpoint, and Goa Giri Putri Temple
- Some of the most luxury properties are located here
- Near the Instagram famous Rumah Pohon “Tree House”
- Perfect for a romantic getaway
Cons of Staying in Eastern Nusa Penida
- 1-hour drive away from the ferry to Bali
- Not much infrastructure near that area
- Even further from the iconic Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong
- Renting a driver or scooter is a must
The best place to stay in Nusa Penida on the eastern side is at an accommodation that can provide you with everything you will need.
Lastly, you have all the accommodations in between the northwestern part of the island and the eastern part. The simple rule applies, as you get more east from Toya Pakeh, the less infrastructure and longer it takes you to get to places.
Best Rentals & Airbnbs In Nusa Penida
1. Bunga Jepun – Penida Bambu Green Villas
Penida Bambu Green Villa is a unique eco-friendly villa on Nusa Penida. Each villa is made using local bamboo and boasts a rustic yet charming atmosphere. Situated on a small hill, visitors can admire the spectacular mountainous views while soaking in their spacious infinity pool.
After a day of exploring Nusa Penida, guests can return to Penida Bambu Green Villa for a relaxing traditional Balinese massage or dine in their affordable and delicious on-site restaurant.
This accommodation on Nusa Penida is perfect for couples, honeymooners, or even solo travelers out to enjoy a nice outdoor experience.
- Location: Northwestern Nusa Penida
- Price: $
2. Safari Tent Experience @ AuthentikNusaPenida
If you would like to take advantage of the pristine nature in Nusa Penida, then consider AuthentikNusaPenida. Located in the lush forest, this Airbnb in Nusa Penida allows guests to reconnect with mother nature.
Guests can enjoy a glamping experience by staying at one of their eco-friendly safari tents with air-conditioning, WiFi, ensuite bathroom with hot showers, mosquito nets, and more.
When you are not out exploring Nusa Penida or in your tent, relax in their overflowing swimming pool. Lay down in one of their sun loungers and you will see the magnificence of mother nature’s creation!
This Airbnb is a great experience for couples and honeymooners, but not so for families or kids.
- Location: Toya Pakeh
- Cost: $$
3. Tropical Bungalow Nusa Penida
Perched on a dramatic cliff, this Airbnb bungalow soars above the oceans and offers unparalleled panoramic views. With the concept of flow and nature in mind, the open-air bungalow is nestled between hundreds of palm trees, allowing guests to be one with nature.
Because of the secludedness of this Airbnb, this is one of the best places to stay in Nusa Penida for a honeymoon. Spend your day looking at the turtles, manta rays, and even dolphins swimming by, Finish your night by admiring the beautiful starry skies on the double-person hammock!
Come enjoy the most unspoiled nature in Nusa Penida in this private bungalow with your loved ones!
- Location: Eastern Nusa Penida
- Price: $$
No list of places to stay in Nusa Penida is complete without including the Rumah Pohon Treehouse, one of the places that brought Nusa Penida to fame. Wake up every morning to sweeping views of the ocean, lovely birdsongs, and the warmth of the sun on your face.
That is the definition of tropical paradise.
However, though this iconic Bali treehouse is gorgeous in photos, we must warn you what it is like to stay in it. The treehouse only has one twin bed, and that is pretty much it. You do not have air-conditioning, no fan, no WiFi, no electricity, nothing. But you do get a lock so you can secure your belongings.
The property also offers no kitchen but there is a small warung nearby serving traditional Indonesian dishes such as nasi goreng and mie goreng.
With spectacular views like that, it is no surprise that the Rumah Pohon treehouse is located in the eastern part of the island. Getting there is not easy, but this hotel does offer free private parking.
- Location: Eastern Nusa Penida (Near Thousand Islands Viewpoint)
- Cost: $
Best Hotels In Nusa Penida
Best Luxury Hotels in Nusa Penida (Villas/Resort/Etc)
Kompyang Cottage is one of the best cottage-style accommodations in Nusa Penida. Located on the northeastern part of the island, it is within close proximity to Atuh Beach (Diamond Beach). However, Kompyang Cottage is located 30-minutes away from the Toya Pakeh harbor. But worry not, they provide free pick-up services!
Floating breakfast in their beautiful pool, refreshing outdoor bathroom, and its location within walking distance to many restaurants are some of the best features of this hotel.
And if you don’t want to walk around? The property offers free bikes to all its guests! No wonder why this Nusa Penida hotel has one of the highest ratings and reviews.
- Location: Northern Nusa Penida
- Price: $
If you are a sucker for views, Daphila Cottage is the best hotel in Nusa Penida for you. Known for its breathtaking views from its clean infinity pool, you will not find a better sunset anywhere else.
Their huts are cute and the sleek wooden design of the interior is beautiful. Their on-site restaurant has some of the best authentic Indonesian food so you don’t need to travel far for food. The staff is friendly and will help you organize any tours you want or arrange transportation!
- Location: Northern Nusa Penida
- Price: $-$$
3. Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida
If you are looking for a tranquil place to stay in Nusa Penida, look no further. Semabu Hills Hotel is located in the quiet hills of Nusa Penida, away from the noise. Guests can relax in their beautiful infinity pool with breathtaking views of the island and the sea.
Their on-site restaurant has some of the most delicious food you will find on Nusa Penida island. They organize tours as well as free transport from and to the ferry. If you want a private driver to visit some of the best attractions in Nusa Penida such as Kelingking Beach, they can arrange that for you too!
- Location: Northwestern Nusa Penida
- Price: $$
If your holiday in Nusa Penida consists of enjoying the calming waves and relaxing, then this beachfront hotel in Nusa Penida is perfect for you. Located in northeastern Nusa Penida, Ogix Cliff Paradise offers guests a completely immersive experience of the pristine nature Nusa Penida is known for.
When it comes to the rooms offered at Ogix Cliff Paradise, each room comes with air-conditioning, free WiFi, and comfortable beds. The property also features family rooms, perfect for anyone in Nusa Penida with kids.
Because it is so secluded from the rest of Nusa Penida, the hosts offer tours and transportation, so you don’t have to worry about not seeing anything or getting to the ferry port. The Nusa Penida hotel also has an excellent and affordable on-site restaurant where you can eat to your hearts content and then go back to relaxing by the sea!
- Location: Northeastern Nusa Penida
- Price: $
Best Cheap Hotels in Nusa Penida
A beautiful and affordable hotel in Nusa Penida, Sunset Hill Cottage is a great option for anyone backpacking Bali or Indonesia. Tucked away in a comfortable and quiet location, but only within a 15-minute walk away from the restaurants, bars, and the beach, guests can have a perfect night’s rest and be close to the action.
- Location: Northern Nusa Penida
- Price: $
Asoka Bungalows is a family-owned hotel with some of the best services available. The owner and his family are very helpful and friendly with the guests and can help you with anything you will need on the island.
The rooms are sparkling clean and the included breakfast is simple and amazing. Each bungalow has its own relaxing outdoor seating area and if you get too bored you can jump into the swimming pool!
Its convenient location on the north part of the island has many restaurants, mini markets, and the beach!
- Location: Northern Nusa Penida
- Price: $
Double-G Guest House is a cheap guest house run by the husband and wife of a family. Their hospitality will turn your stay at their guest house to a stay in your second home. They go out of your way just to make sure you have a good time in Nusa Penida, such as personally driving you to a restaurant at night.
Located a few minutes from the harbor, guests can rest in their clean and spacious rooms after the turbulent journey from Bali.
Scooters or a private car can be rented from here if you want to have a day tour of the best attractions in Nusa Penida, such as Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Peguyangan Waterfall, Manta Point, Crystal Bay, and more!
- Location: Northern Nusa Penida
- Price: $
Best Hostels In Nusa Penida
Nuansa Penida Hostel is definitely the best hostel in Nusa Penida. Outdoor swimming pool, a bar, on-site restaurant, there are so many features to love about this hostel. The shared lounge is one of the best places to meet travelers from other parts of the world.
If you want to just relax and suntan, you will fall in love with their outdoor swimming pool area. They also offer rental services for those who want to explore the island. And maybe you will meet a friend or two to share the cost of a private car?
- Location: Toya Pakeh
- Price: $
2. Bintang Hostel and Homestay
Bintang Hostel and Homestay is one of the cheapest hostels in Nusa Penida. Offering a big swimming pool area where you can relax, you will surely wonder why you are only paying so little for such a great place to stay.
The whole accommodation feels like a villa with the big outdoor area and the amount of sunlight their big and spacious rooms get. Their on-site restaurant is affordable and the staff is happy to help you with transportation around the island.
This hostel is within walking distance from Crystal Bay, one of the best snorkeling spots on Nusa Penida. However, that means it is far from the harbor but once you arrive at the hostel, you will find nothing but comfort and adventure!
- Location: Western Nusa Penida
- Price: $
Getting Around Nusa Penida Island
One of the things you must consider when picking a place to stay on Nusa Penida is how you plan on getting around. The island certainly does not have the best infrastructure – there are no public transportation and a limited number of roads.
Most travelers get around by renting a scooter, which they can do at most accommodations for a reasonable price. However, if you can’t ride a motorbike, then you might be in a sticky situation.
We don’t recommend renting a car and driving in Nusa Penida, many of the roads are narrow and can be in terrible conditions, especially after heavy rain.
If you don’t mind spending a little bit of money, the best way to get around Nusa Penida is by chartering a private car. This way, you can have a local that is knowledgeable about the road and can take you to all the places to visit on Nusa Penida.
Visiting Nusa Penida FAQs
How Many Days To Stay In Nusa Penida?
We recommend spending at least 2 full days in Nusa Penida to explore its most famous attractions. But if you want to explore off the beaten path on the island, you might want to stay longer, perhaps 4 or more days. From Nusa Penida, you can explore the nearby Nusa Islands, such as Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan.
Is Nusa Penida Worth Visiting?
Nusa Penida might be a speedboat ride from Bali, but it is definitely worth a visit! The island is not yet spoiled by tourism, which means you can find pristine white sand beaches, jaw-dropping cliffs, and a pristine landscape.
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Deciding on where to stay in Nusa Penida can be difficult with the various locations on the island and their accessibilities. I hope you found an accommodation you like in our guide!
Any questions? Leave a comment below!
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