Tucked away between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan has a charm all of its own and is well worth a visit on any Bali itinerary. Here are my recommendations for what to see and do on the very beautiful Nusa Ceningan.
What to know before you go
The smallest of the three islands, Nusa Ceningan has an area of just three kilometres and the entire island can easily be explored on foot in a day. Most of the main points of interest are quite close together, and are found along a stretch of road that runs between the well known Yellow Bridge and Mahana Point that is less than a kilometre long.
Joined to the neighbouring Nusa Lembongan, it is easily accessible by crossing the Yellow Bridge, either on foot or on a bike or scooter. There are no ATMs on Nusa Ceningan that I am aware of, so make sure to bring enough cash with you for the day, as some places may not accept card payments.
The island has a beautiful coastline with views of crystal clear waters and is ridiculously photogenic, so bring a phone or a camera, and make sure to wear sunscreen as it is breezy and has very little shade, so getting sunburnt is almost guaranteed.
The Blue Lagoon
Probably the most well known spot on the island is the very aptly named Blue Lagoon. Identified only by a small sign on the side of the road, it is easy to miss. I have visited a couple of times, and on both occasions I walked right by without even noticing it. Keep your eyes peeled for the sign on your left as you are heading towards Mahana Point. The lagoon itself is only a very short distance in from the road but isn’t visible as you drive or walk by.
If you’re using Google maps for directions, make sure that you have it set to bring you to the actual landmark, and not to one of the accommodations or restaurants that have named themselves after this popular tourist spot.
Cliff Jumping
For any swimmers and thrill seekers, there are two popular cliff jumping points on the island, Mahana Point cliff jump and Blue Lagoon cliff jump.
Secret Beach
The first, and possibly most important, thing to know about Secret Beach is that it is not actually a secret. Overlooked by the Secret Point Huts, it is unlikely that you will have the place to yourself. Accessed by a steep flight of steps, it is also unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues, as are many of the beaches on the Nusa islands and even on the mainland of Bali.
Once you get to the beach itself, you will be welcomed by warm, soft, white sands and clear waters, as well as a couple of the beach swings that Bali is known for. Over to the right, there is a quiet little cove where you can easily spend an hour or two enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
Bali Swings
With its abundance of beach bars and restaurants scattered along the roadside between the Yellow Bridge and Mahana Point, Nusa Ceningan is home to some of the most Instagram-worthy swings and hammocks I’ve seen in all of Bali. Most of the bars have at least one, with some serving as actual seating in the bar, and others down below on the beach itself. Why not take a break from the sun, order a cocktail or a juice, and treat your inner child to a relaxing swing in these beautiful surroundings?
Sea Breeze
Bali in general is known for having some amazing beach clubs and bars, and Nusa Ceningan is no exception. You won’t find the party atmosphere of Finn’s or La Brisa here, but the island is home to some of the best chilled out beach vibes I’ve ever come across, with Sea Breeze being my absolute favourite place to spend an afternoon. With a nautical theme running cleverly throughout the decor, it offers swings, a hammock, cabanas, and even a swim up bar. No matter how you like to relax, Sea Breeze has you covered. Make sure to bring swimming clothes and a towel, and cancel all plans for the rest of the day.
Yellow Bridge
Once you’ve finished exploring Nusa Ceningan, it’s time to head towards the Yellow Bridge that joins it with to closest neighbour, and head across to Nusa Lembongan to continue your adventures there.
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