Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan (2025): Best 5 Things To Do In One Day

Last Updated on November 26, 2025

Are you planning a day trip to Nusa Lembongan from Bali and looking for tips on how to make the most of it?

Heading to Nusa Lembongan, even just for one day, is the best way to experience that tropical island atmosphere without the crowds you’d find in Bali.

Nusa Lembongan is just perfect: there’s enough to explore to fill a day without leaving you with that FOMO. You can have a wellness- and relaxation-focused trip or sprinkle in some exploration and adventure. It’s truly the best of both worlds.

In this article, I’ll share how to plan a day trip from Bali (with info on getting there from Nusa Penida, too) and the best things to do in Nusa Lembongan in one day.

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How to Plan a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan

1. Book A Guided Tour

There are so many day tours from Bali, including snorkeling boat trips, land exploration, and even a combination of the two. If you’re the kind of traveler who wants to sit back and enjoy the journey, then you should book a guided tour.

This 8-hour tour from Bali includes all the best things to do on the island: Dream Beach (my favorite), a boat trip through the Mangrove forest, and a stop at Devil’s Tears (the most iconic viewpoint).

Ferry tickets, lunch, and pick up from cities like Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud are included. You really don’t have to worry about a thing. Pick-up from your selected location is scheduled for around 7 am, depending on the area, and you will be back at around 5:30 pm.

If, on the other hand, you are planning a snorkeling trip, most tours from Lembongan usually include the snorkeling spots around Nusa Penida. So, if that’s the option you’re going for, I would book a snorkeling trip to Nusa Penida directly, instead of going to Lembongan and being picked up there.

This snorkeling tour is honestly one of the best and is highly rated. It’s an all-inclusive private boat trip from Bali that stops at the most beautiful snorkeling spots around Nusa Penida (Manta Bay, Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and The Wall). It includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, as well as lunch at Maruti Beach Club on Nusa Penida.

2. Ferry From Sanur

If you prefer to explore Nusa Lembongan on your own, you can take the ferry from the port of Sanur. Ferries depart from around 7 am and take 30-45 minutes to reach Nusa Lembongan.

You can purchase your tickets directly at the port. When choosing a provider, keep in mind that there are two landing beaches on Nusa Lembongan—Jungut Batu and Mushroom Bay—and not all companies serve both. Depending on your itinerary, landing at one may be more convenient than the other.

If you prefer to book your tickets in advance, you can purchase them through this link. The last ferry is around 4:30 pm.

3. Ferry From Nusa Penida

Many travelers decide to stay on Nusa Penida and take a day trip to Nusa Lembongan. That makes so much sense, and it’s actually even easier to plan.

Ferries from Toyapakeh Harbour depart daily, multiple times, and take around 20 minutes to reach Lembongan. Just be aware that ferries from Penida usually arrive at the Yellow Bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. If you’re not planning to rent, you may need to find a buggy taxi once you’re at the port (which is very easy).

If you’re staying in Penida, ask your accommodation to book ferry tickets for you (when I arrived, I couldn’t find a legit-looking ticket booth), or you can also book your tickets in advance here.

The first ferry departs from Penida at 10 am (which may be a bit late; that’s why I suggest checking with your hotel first), and the last from Lembongan departs at 4:30 pm.

How to Get Around in Nusa Lembongan

If you’re planning to explore Nusa Lembongan on your own, here’s how you can get around on the island.

Renting a scooter is the most flexible option. Be aware that roads in Lembongan are sometimes narrow and very bumpy. However, if you drive slowly, they’re totally manageable, especially in the daylight.

Scooter rentals start from around IDR 80,000 per day (less than $5), and you’ll find many rental services around Mushroom Bay and Jungut Batu.

If you’re not planning to rent a scooter and prefer walking or arranging a pick-up, I suggest you land at Jungut Batu beach.

The area is much more walkable, with a wider variety of restaurants and shops, and you can even rent a bycicle to head to the Mangrove Forest. That’s also the best area if you’re planning some casual snorkeling, surf, paddleboarding, or kayaking.

Make sure to check my Lembongan transportation guide for other options, whether you’re visiting with your family or want a more comfortable experience.

The Best Time to Visit Nusa Lembongan

I personally visited Nusa Lembongan in September, and it felt amazing. The weather was so lovely: long sunny days and fantastic sunsets.

Despite being closer to the beginning of the rainy season, it didn’t rain at all, and the peak season crowds were nowhere to be found.

Another great time to visit Nusa Lembongan is right after the rainy season ends, from February to May, when rain transforms the landscape into a vibrant sea of green.

However, 2025 was particularly rainy until June, so it might not have been the ideal time this year. Unfortunately, the weather in Bali is very unpredictable, and we can’t do much about it.

The dry season, from June to August, is the best for surfing, and that’s also when the island is the most crowded. As a pro, you can be 90% sure that the weather will actually be nice. (never 100% sure though).

Best Things To Do on a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan

1. Stop At Dream Beach & Devil’s Tears

Dream Beach is definitely one of my favorite beaches in Nusa Lembongan, and also the one where I spent the most time.

It’s definitely not ideal for swimming or paddleboarding.

There’s a very tiny stretch of ocean without rocks where people usually get in, but the currents are generally powerful, and the sea is definitely not flat.

Still, you’ll notice how many people decide to spend the day here, on the white stretch of sand of Dream Beach, to sunbathe or relax.

Right above Dream Beach, you’ll find the resort Dream Beach Huts, which is also a really great place if you want to relax by the pool during your day trip.

It’s the best of both worlds: you can enjoy the beach from above with its turquoise waters turning into a white foam every time a wave comes in, and you can refresh in the pool with a view.

The sun-loungers are IDR 100K for the day ($6), and you’ll also find a simple but great restaurant right beside the pool area, as well as a massage spa if you’re in the mood.

Devil’s Tear is located right beside Dream Beach when you arrive, and it’s the most iconic and dramatic viewpoint on Nusa Lembongan (if we exclude Blue Lagoon and Mahana Point in Nusa Ceningan)

The waves crash with so much force against the cliffs that they create these huge bursts of white spray. It’s the kind of place where you stand there watching nature do its thing.

Just be mindful of where you’re stepping, because the rocks can get slippery, especially if you’re getting close to the edge to take photos. To get in, you’ll need to pay a small fee of IDR 25,000 (less than $2).

2. Check Out Blue Lagoon & Manana Point on Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Ceningan is the smallest of the Nusa Islands, and even within its 4 Km2, you can still find some of the best viewpoints and cool beach clubs where to spend the day.

You’ll cross the iconic Yellow Bridge, on the southern coast of Nusa Lembongan, and right at the end of the main road on Nusa Ceningan, you have Blue Lagoon and Mahana Point.

Even if the best time to get there is definitely at sunset, you can still enjoy the view during the day.

Blue Lagoon is a lagoon (as the name suggests) enclosed by dramatic cliff rock formations. Here, Arna Suites is one of the best places to stay, with an insane view over the lagoon.

The water within the bay is of the bluest shade, with the waves crashing on the rocks beneath. It’s definitely a sight you shouldn’t miss.

On the other side of the cliff (where many visitors practice cliff jumping), you’ll find Mahana Point.

The ocean is not enclosed here, and the highest waves crash against the cliff, with the coastal line of Nusa Lembongan in the background.

Most people here stop at the bar right on top of the cliff to enjoy the view with a drink in hand. It’s one of the best views on Nusa Ceningan.

3. Stop by Secret Beach on Nusa Ceningan

Secret Beach is one of those hidden spots in Nusa Ceningan that instantly makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something quite special.

Being completely honest, the road to get there is an adventure itself: it’s very bumpy. But the location is honestly so worth it!

It’s not a beach where you’ll swim for hours: the waves can be a bit unpredictable, and the shoreline is rocky in some parts. However, the tranquility and atmosphere are unmatched.

Most people come to Secret Beach to slow down: sunbathe, read a book, or enjoy the peacefulness that you don’t always get on the more popular beaches in Nusa Lembongan.

4. Explore The Mangroves

I’ll be honest, most of the things to see on Nusa Lembongan are white-sand beaches and dramatic viewpoints.

That’s why exploring the Mangroves makes for the perfect, slightly different activity.

The Mangroves area of Nusa Lembongan is tucked away in the north-east of the island, close to the Jungut Batu village. Here, you can plan to book a kayaking or paddleboarding tour through the Mangrove.

It’s such a great way to explore a unique ecosystem with opportunities for many wildlife encounters, birdwatching, and photography.

Winding through the silent forest is, without a doubt, a very calming and therapeutic experience.

If you’re already in Lembongan, check out this 1-hour mangrove tour. You can choose between kayaking, paddleboarding, or a gondola ride.

5. Snorkeling at Jungutbatu Beach

As mentioned, another popular activity to plan from Nusa Lembongan is snorkeling.

However, I’d suggest you book a snorkeling trip from Bali rather than heading to Lembongan and being picked up there.

The best snorkeling spots in this area are all located between Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida: Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, Manta Point, Wall Bay, and Mangrove Point.

You can indeed plan some DIY snorkeling in Lembongan, and the best location is undoubtedly Jungutbatu Beach.

Here, the currents are calm, the sea is flat, and you can rent gear along Jalan Raya Jungutbatu, the main road.

Beach Clubs & Restaurants in Nusa Lembongan

For such a small island, you’ll find more restaurant options than you could expect, especially around the Jungut Batu area.

A local legend is without a doubt The Deck, located right at the beginning of Jungut Batu Beach.

The food is excellent, but the highlight is definitely the view over the entire stretch of sand at Jungut Batu, with Gunung Agung towering far in the background (especially on a clear day).

You can actually see the clouds covering its peak from Nusa Lembongan. The view is definitely surreal.

If you’re actually hoping to eat with your feet in the sand, you can head to Ginger and Jamu.

They focus on whole foods: healthy, colourful, and delicious plates. Make sure to try one of their bowls or the chicken satay burger!

If you’re looking for more options, you can check out my Nusa Lembongan restaurant guide with all the spots I tried during my stay.

When it comes to the beach club, besides Dream Beach Huts, you can check out Sandy Bay beach club, located close to the beach that gives the club its name, Sandy Bay.

Here, the beach is not very accessible; therefore, the beach club makes for the perfect way to enjoy the sand and the beach view, while allowing you to take a dip in the pool if the heat is unbearable.

There are plenty of other cool beach clubs on Nusa Ceningan.

If you’re choosing to spend some time on the smaller Nusa during your day trip, you can check out Le Pirate Beach Club (one of the most popular) or Suku Beach Club (which is one of the most exclusive and luxurious).

Nusa Lembongan Day Trip Itinerary

If you’re looking for some inspiration on your day trip itinerary, here are the stops I would include and that would fit into an 8-10-hour trip (assuming you’d take the first ferry at 7 am and rent a scooter):

• 08:00 – Arrive in Nusa Lembongan (Jungut Batu or Mushroom Bay, depending on your fast boat)
• 08:15 – Rent a scooter or arrange a pick-up
• 08:30 – Head to Devil’s Tear for the first stop while it’s still quiet
• 09:00 – Walk down to Dream Beach: Have breakfast, relax, or take a quick stroll
• 10:30 – Drive to the Mangrove Forest and explore by kayak or boat (30–45 minutes)
• 12:00 – Lunch at Gunung Agung Beach Club, close to the Mangrove forest
• 14:00 – Cross the Yellow Bridge to Nusa Ceningan
• 14:15 – Visit Blue Lagoon and Mahana Point
• 15:00 – Relax at Secret Beach for a quiet moment or visit one of the beach clubs
• 16:00 – Head back toward Lembongan for a last stop and dip at Mushroom Beach
• 16:30 – Catch your boat back to Bali (or 17:00, depending on the company)

What to Pack for a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan

Here are a couple of essentials you may need for a day trip to Nusa Lembongan:

• Cash: for tips, smaller purchases, and Warungs that may not accept cash
• Comfortable clothes: Both ports in Nusa Lembongan don’t have a jetty, so you’ll have to “jump” off the ferry into the water. Something short is better to avoid getting wet.
• Sandals/Flip-Flops: Ditch the sneakers. Sandals or flip-flops are perfectly fine for every activity you may plan
• Water shoes: You may need water shoes if you’re planning a snorkeling trip, kayaking, or paddleboarding
• Sun Protection: That goes without saying…Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are a must.
• Power Bank
• Refillable Water Bottle
• Towel and Swimsuit

Final Thoughts: Is a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan Worth It?

Yes, a day trip to Nusa Lembongan is absolutely worth it.

I love Bali’s mainland, but let’s say that its beaches (especially in the Seminyak and Canggu areas) aren’t the best.

If you’re looking to experience Bali’s crystal clear waters and tropical island vibe, you’ll absolutely love Nusa Lembongan.

You can actually create your own day trip itinerary depending on what you’re looking for:

• Spending the day on the beach or at a pool club with a view, if you want to relax.
• Hopping on a scooter and exploring the viewpoints, the mangrove forests, and its beaches, if you’re the type who gets bored.

If there’s something I recommend, it’s to spend the night before your day trip in Sanur (or as close as possible).

This will allow you to take the earlier ferries (without waking up at the crack of dawn) and have more time to explore.

FAQs Section

1. Can you do a day trip to Nusa Lembongan from Bali?

Yes, a day trip from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is actually a great idea. Nusa Lembongan (and the nearby Ceningan) is not a big island. You can easily make the most of it in just one day.

There aren’t as many things to see as in Nusa Penida, and it’s easily explored by scooter or on foot.

Of course, if you’re planning on doing all the things: surfing, snorkeling, or you may need more time.

However, overall, Nusa Lembongan makes for a perfect day trip from Bali.

2. Can you do a day trip to Nusa Lembongan from Nusa Penida?

Yes, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are just 15-20 minutes apart, and you can easily reach the smaller island (Lembongan) by ferry.

While many people decide to stay on Lembongan and take a day trip to Nusa Penida, the opposite may actually make more sense, given that Nusa Lembongan is much smaller.

It very much depends on the experience you’re envisioning: Nusa Penida is much wilder and rough (harder to explore), offering a more adventurous type of holiday.

At the same time, Nusa Lembongan feels more like a vacation focused on relaxation.

3. Does it make sense to visit Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan in one day?

Nope, after visiting Nusa Penida, I can confirm the island has way too much to offer to be visited in just one day (I wouldn’t even imagine visiting the two in one day).

Nusa Penida alone requires at least two full days.

If you’re actually doubtful about which of the Nusa islands you should visit, I wrote a small Nusa Penida Vs. Nusa Lembongan guide to help you figure it out.

There you go, here’s the easiest way to plan your day trip to Nusa Lembongan and the best things to do to make the most of it.

If you’re still planning your trip to Bali, make sure to check out my Bali travel guide. You’ll find everything from VISA requirements to the best places to stay for first-timers. And if you have any questions about Nusa Lembongan or Bali in general, make sure to drop them in the comments. I’m happy to help!

Other Articles You May Find Helpful While Planning Your Trip

• Bali Tips for First-Timers: 30 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Trip
• 21 Bali Must-Haves: What to Pack for Bali Rainy and Dry Seasons
• Day Trip to Nusa Penida: West vs East — Which Side Of The Island Is Worth Visiting?
• Getting Around Nusa Lembongan: 7 Options for First-Time Visitors

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