If you’re looking to escape the busy resorts of south Bali, hop on a boat to Nusa Lembongan. Just a short ride from Sanur, this small island offers a slower pace and a relaxed vibe. You’ll find affordable beach huts right on the sand, quiet beaches with few people, and friendly local restaurants. It’s also a great spot for surfing and diving. One of the island’s unique features is its seaweed farms. As you walk along the main beach, you can often see farmers planting, harvesting, or drying seaweed.
To experience what Bali felt like before mass tourism, visit Nusa Penida. This island sees fewer visitors, so it still feels authentic. You can explore white-sand beaches, towering limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters rich with marine life. Traditional villages and sacred temples add to the island’s charm. Locals often come here for religious ceremonies. You might see processions to sites like Gua Karang Sari, a cave temple, or Pura Dalem Penataran Ped, one of the most important temples on the island.
Nature lovers should add Nusa Ceningan to their itinerary. You can walk there from Nusa Lembongan using the island’s famous yellow suspension bridge. The island has scenic trails and coastal paths that offer amazing ocean views. For a cultural experience, consider joining an eco-tour with JED, the Village Ecotourism Network. These tours give insight into local traditions and sustainable living.
Where to Stay
Lago Beach House
Lago Beach House is a luxury cliff-top villa on Nusa Lembongan. All five bedrooms offer ocean views, including sights of the famous Playgrounds surf break. On clear days, you can even see Bali’s volcanic peaks in the distance. The villa features a 15-meter infinity pool, a sun deck, a sauna, and an ice bath. A stone staircase carved into the cliff leads directly to the white sand beach below.
Intaaya
Intaaya is a sustainable luxury retreat located on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida. This exclusive, adults-only property features 13 ocean-facing tented suites, each thoughtfully designed with rammed-earth interiors and handcrafted furnishings . Guests can unwind in the 17-meter salt-chlorinated infinity pool, participate in daily yoga sessions at the manta-shaped yoga shala, or explore the on-site permaculture gardens.
Dining at Intaaya emphasizes a farm-to-table philosophy, with meals prepared using organic ingredients sourced from the property’s own gardens. The retreat operates entirely off-grid, utilizing solar power and sustainable water harvesting systems . For those seeking a transformative experience, Intaaya offers tailored wellness programs, including spa treatments, sound healing sessions, and cultural activities.
Planning Your Stay in Bali
To discuss planning your stay with one of our villa specialists, please get in touch.
