Nusa Penida is an island located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. It is one of three islands that make up the Nusa Islands, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Nusa Penida is the largest and most rugged of the three islands, known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
Diamond Beach is undoubtedly one of its most picturesque gems. With its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs, Diamond Beach offers a secluded paradise for travellers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
In this detailed travel guide, we will explore everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Diamond Beach.
GETTING TO NUSA PENIDA
To reach Nusa Penida, you have a few transportation options:
- Ferry: The most common way to reach Nusa Penida is by taking a ferry from Sanur in Bali. The ferry ride takes around 30 to 45 minutes and costs 100,000 IDR/ticket (6 USD). Ensure you book your tickets in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Guided Tours from Bali: There are many tour operators that operate daily tours to Nusa Penida from Bali. There are many different packages available, depending on what you’re interested in. There are even day trips available. There vary in cost depending on the package, so shop around to find the best deal!
GETTING TO DIAMOND BEACH
Diamond Beach is situated on the eastern coast of Nusa Penida. After arriving at the main harbour of Nusa Penida, Banjar Nyuh, you have a few options to reach the beach:
- Scooter Rental: Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable choice. Many rental services are available near the harbour. Scooters rent for around 80,000 to 150,000 IDR/day ($5-10USD) depending on the model. The roads in Nusa Penida are very narrow, windy, and filled with potholes. Only rent a scooter if you feel confident driving in these conditions. Expect at least a one hour ride to Diamond Beach, and be prepared for some challenging road conditions. Always prioritise safety by wearing a helmet and driving cautiously.
Tour Package: If driving a scooter on the narrow windy roads isn’t your thing, joining a guided tour is a hassle-free option. Numerous tour operators in Nusa Penida offer guided trips to Diamond Beach. They typically include transportation, a guide, and visits to other attractions on the island. Head down to Crystal Bay and shop around for the best deals.
WHEN TO GO?
Since it is eastern facing, Diamond Beach is an amazing place to watch the sunrise. However, you will have to brave the windy and narrow roads of Nusa Penida in the dark to reach this beautiful point for sunrise!
FEES
There is a 25,000 IDR/person fee ($1.67 USD) to enter Diamond Beach. This fee also covers visiting the next door Atuh Beach. They will give you a small bottle of water as part of the entry fee.
There is also a 5000 IDR ($0.33) fee for parking.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT DIAMOND BEACH
After you pay your entrance fee, follow the path to the top of the magnificent cliff face. There are multiple viewpoints and photo spots along the cliff side. You can get a birdseye view of both Diamond Beach to the right, and Atuh Beach to the left!
The entrance to the beach involves descending a steep flight of stairs that is carved out of the limestone cliff! Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking views along the way. The hike only takes about 15-20 minutes, and once you reach the beach, you will be greeted by powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and towering limestone cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop.
THE BEACH
Diamond Beach offers a beautiful white sand beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs, perfect for unwinding and immersing yourself in nature. You can sunbathe on the soft sands, take refreshing dips in the turquoise waters, or stroll along the shoreline while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. However, swimming is prohibited, due to the sharp coral and very strong currents.
ATUH BEACH
If you want to continue the adventure, you can walk back up and hike down the other side of the cliff to Atuh Beach. The descent is much easier than the one for Diamond Beach, with only 166 steps to get down. Atuh Beach is also set up with little stalls and chairs to relax in, making it a nice area to rest and soak in the sun! Similar to most beaches in Nusa Penida, swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents.
ESSENTIAL TIPS
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain during the descent to the beach.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as there are limited facilities directly on the beach.
- Respect the environment and keep Diamond Beach clean by disposing of your trash properly. Be mindful of the fragile ecosystem and avoid damaging corals or other marine life.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
There are other amazing attractions in Nusa Penida, such as Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Manta Cliff, and Kelingking Beach. You can extend your adventure day by visiting a couple other sites after Diamond Beach!
Diamond Beach is an incredible landscape that will blow you away with its natural beauty. It is a perfect place to enjoy a sunrise, and dip your toes in the bluest water you’ll ever see! Make sure you add Diamond Beach onto your itinerary when you visit Nusa Penida!
