TRIP NUSA NADHI
Planning a quick escape from Bali? This guide shows exactly how to get from Sanur to Nusa Penida the easy way: fast boat times & prices (30–45 min), what “dry boarding” looks like at Sanur Harbour, alternative routes, how to go Ubud → Sanur, must-see beaches & manta rays, safety tips, where to stay, and a Book Now
The Sanur → Nusa Penida fast boat is the most popular, quickest route. Crossings typically land at Banjar Nyuh/Toya Pakeh or Sampalan on Penida’s north coast.
Duration: ~30–45 minutes (sea/tide dependent)
Price range: competitive one-way & return; round-trip often saves more
Boarding: Sanur Harbour now uses piers & gangways (no more wet-feet beach boarding)
Check-in: arrive 45–60 minutes early with passport/ID + e-ticket
Baggage: most operators include ~20–25 kg per person + small carry-on; surfboards/oversize usually allowed with length limits & a small fee (declare when booking)
Hotel pickup: shared shuttles from Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Ubud; private cars on request
Seasickness tip: choose morning boats, sit mid-ship, inside, and focus on the horizon
Which arrival pier?
Banjar Nyuh/Toya Pakeh: best for west-coast sights (Kelingking, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay)
Sampalan/Buyuk: handy for north/east stays (Atuh, Diamond)
Sanur/ Serangan fast boats: frequent, comfortable boarding, easy logistics from South Bali.
Padangbai Ro-Ro ferry: budget option with a longer, more basic crossing (roughly 60–90 min at sea).
Kusamba (East Bali) → Penida: short sea leg and convenient if you’re staying nearby.
Via Nusa Lembongan: hop Sanur → Lembongan, then local boat from the Yellow Bridge to Penida (fun for 2-island itineraries).
Private car/taxi: ~1.5–2 hours depending on traffic; door-to-door and best with luggage/boards.
Shuttle bus: ~2–3 hours with fixed pickup points.
Public bus: cheapest but slowest (connections via Denpasar).
Build buffer time for check-in—aim to arrive at Sanur Harbour 45–60 minutes before departure.
| Route | Why choose it | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| Sanur to Nusa Penida | Many daily departures, direct & fast, easiest from South Bali | Peak boats fill fast—book early for morning seats |
| Nusa Penida to Sanur | Good for returns or day-trippers | Afternoon seas can be choppier; last boats = limited seats |
Day-trip play: early outbound + mid/late-afternoon return.
Kelingking Beach: the “T-Rex” viewpoint; steep hike, epic photos
Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong: natural arch & infinity rock pool (watch sea conditions)
Crystal Bay: easy snorkeling & sunset
Atuh & Diamond Beach (East): white sand coves below dramatic cliffs
Tembeling Forest & Natural Pools: jungle path, secret pools, quiet atmosphere
Best season: Apr–Oct (dry). For fewer crowds, go early and avoid weekends/holidays.
Seeing manta rays glide past is a Penida highlight.
Sites: Manta Point (cooler water, more swell) & Manta Bay (more sheltered)
Book reputable operators: small groups, briefings, spotter boats, and respect for wildlife
Etiquette: keep distance, no touching, no chasing, no flash; stay calm and horizontal in the water
Banjar Nyuh/Toya Pakeh & Sampalan (North): easiest arrivals, ATMs/cafés, great base for day tours
Crystal Bay (West): beach sunsets, snorkel-friendly; quieter at night
Atuh/Diamond (East): sunrise views & cliff villas; remote, plan transfers & fuel
Budget : Luxury: from friendly homestays to cliff-top villas with pools—book early in peak months
Sea & weather: operators may delay/reschedule for safety—keep plans flexible, especially around flights
Roads: narrow/patchy; ride scooters only if experienced, always helmeted
Cliffs & blowholes: keep distance; watch footing (especially at Devil’s Tears & Billabong)
Respect culture: modest dress at temples, follow local guidance
Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, water, hat, small first-aid kit, offline maps
How long is the Sanur → Nusa Penida fast boat?
About 30–45 minutes, depending on sea and operator.
What time are the first/last boats?
First boats are usually 08:00–09:00; last returns late afternoon. Always check live departures.
Can I bring luggage or a surfboard?
Typically ~20–25 kg per person included + one small carry-on. Surfboards/oversize allowed with limits & a small fee (declare when booking).
Ubud → Sanur: what’s the best way?
Private car (1.5–2 h) for convenience; shuttle bus (2–3 h) for savings.
Is the Ro-Ro ferry cheaper?
Yes—Padangbai → Penida is the budget pick with a longer, simpler crossing.