How to Get to Nusa Penida from Bali: A Complete Guide for 2026
Nusa Penida is one of the most stunning tourist destinations in Bali. This island, located somewhat hidden away, offers dramatic cliffs, white-sand beaches, and world-class diving experiences. It’s no wonder that millions of tourists each year search for information on how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali before planning their trip.
The good news: the trip from Bali to Nusa Penida is very easy and only takes about 30–45 minutes. In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to get to Nusa Penida, from departure points and transportation options to the latest ticket prices for 2026, to finding a comfortable resort.
Why is Nusa Penida Worth Visiting?
Before discussing how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali, it’s important to understand why this island is so special. Nusa Penida is part of the Coral Triangle, meaning this region boasts the highest marine biodiversity on earth. Here you can swim with manta rays year-round, see Mola Mola (giant moonfish) during the July–October season, and explore legendary diving spots like Manta Point and Crystal Bay.
Above the water, Nusa Penida offers equally thrilling views. Destinations include the towering, dinosaur-like cliffs of Kelingking Beach, the natural pools of Angel’s Billabong, and panoramic sunsets that can be enjoyed directly from the rooftop of Nusablu Resort in the Kutampi Kaler hills.
Read other related articles:
- Mola Mola Nusa Penida: When, Where & How to See
- When Can You See Manta Ray Nusa Penida?
- How to Prepare for Your First Dive in Nusa Penida
Transportation Options: Fast Boat vs. Public Ferry
The first question that arises when wondering how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali is usually: which way to get there? There are two main options:
Fast Boat (Recommended)
Fast boat is the most popular and comfortable way to reach Nusa Penida. These high-powered vessels can make the trip in just 30–45 minutes. However, this also depends on sea conditions and the departure point. Almost all boats are equipped with life jackets, air-conditioned seats, and an outdoor deck for those who want to enjoy the ocean views.
One-way fast boat tickets range from IDR 150,000 to IDR 200,000 per person (approximately USD 9–13). If you buy a round-trip ticket, many operators offer discounts of up to 25%.
Public Ferry
Public ferries or local boats can be found in Kusamba (Klungkung) to Sampalan Harbor in Nusa Penida. Tickets are much cheaper, around IDR 70,000–100,000, but the journey time is longer (around 45–60 minutes) and the comfort is limited. This option is suitable for those traveling by motorcycle, as fast boats do not accept vehicles.
Recommendation: For the best experience and time-saving, choose a fast boat. They are faster, safer, and more comfortable, especially if you’re bringing diving equipment or traveling with a family.
Departure Point from Bali
This is an important part that is often overlooked when understanding how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. Where is the departure point? This clearly affects the travel time and cost.
- Sanur (Most Popular)
Sanur Harbor is the busiest and most recommended departure point. The modern fast boat terminal in Sanur has been renovated so passengers no longer need to walk on water when boarding. The boarding process is much more comfortable than before. From Sanur Harbor, fast boats depart from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM. There are more than 90 fast boat departures daily, with travel times of just 30-45 minutes.
- Padang Bai
Another alternative is a harbor on the east side of Bali. It’s more suitable for those staying around Ubud, Karangasem, or Candidasa. Padang Bai is closer to Nusa Penida than other harbors, about 25-30 minutes. Boats from Padang Bai dock at Buyuk Harbor in Nusa Penida.
- Kusamba
From Kusamba, you can take a public ferry to Sampalan. The departure schedule is more limited and the facilities are more basic, but this option is often used by tourists with motorized vehicles.
Fast Boat Departure Schedule 2026
First, familiarize yourself with the fast boat departure schedule in Bali, especially if you’re wondering how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. Here’s a general overview of the fast boat schedule from Sanur:
- First departure: 6:30 AM WIB
- Last departure: 5:00 PM WIB
- Frequency: every 15–30 minutes during peak season (April–October)
- Popular operators: Maruti Express, Angel Billabong Fast Boat, Eka Jaya, El Rey Fast Cruise
For the opposite direction (Nusa Penida to Sanur), the first boat usually departs at 7:00 AM and the last at 5:00 PM. Always check the latest schedule directly with the operator, as it can change depending on the season and weather conditions. Nusa Penida Fast Boat Ticket Prices 2026
Here are the estimated prices for Bali–Nusa Penida fast boat tickets in 2026:
| Route | One-Way Pricing | Return Price |
| Sanur → Nusa Penida | IDR 150.000 – 200.000 | IDR 250.000 – 350.000 |
| Padang Bai → Nusa Penida | IDR 100.000 – 150.000 | IDR 180.000 – 270.000 |
| Kusamba → Nusa Penida (ferry) | IDR 70.000 – 100.000 | – |
It is highly recommended to book tickets at least 1–2 days before departure to secure a seat at your desired time.
Travel Tips to Nusa Penida: For a More Comfortable Trip
Now that you know how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Arrive early: It’s best to arrive at the port at least 30-45 minutes before check-in to ensure a smooth queue.
- Bring motion sickness medication: Take anti-motion sickness medication 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. The seas in Nusa Penida can be choppy, especially during the rainy season from December to March.
- Book tickets online: Many operators offer online ticket bookings. You can check through their official websites, Klook, or GetYourGuide.
- Bring cash: It’s crucial to have cash on hand, as not all locations in Nusa Penida accept QRIS or credit cards.
- Arrive in the morning: Mornings generally offer calmer seas, a more comfortable journey, and more time to explore.
Upon Arrival in Nusa Penida: Head Straight to Nusablu
One of the main advantages of Nusablu Resort & Diving Center is its strategic location close to Nusa Penida’s main harbor. This is why Nusablu is the first choice for tourists arriving in Nusa Penida.
From the harbor, the Nusablu team can pick up guests directly to the resort, located atop Kutampi Kaler Hill. From here, tourists can enjoy sweeping views of the Indian Ocean with Mount Agung in the distance.
In addition to luxurious accommodation with a rooftop bar and swimming pool, Nusablu is also a PADI-certified dive center offering dive packages for all levels. Therefore, this package is suitable for beginners diving for the first time to experienced divers who want to come face-to-face with Mola Mola or manta rays.
FAQ
How long does it take to travel from Bali to Nusa Penida?
If guests choose to take a fastboat from Sanur, the journey only takes about 30-45 minutes depending on sea conditions. Departing from Padang Bai, the travel time is only 25-30 minutes.
Are there daily ferries from Bali to Nusa Penida?
Fastboats in Sanur operate daily, including during the rainy season. Schedules may change or be canceled due to extreme weather conditions in the Balinese seas.
How much does a fastboat ticket cost from Bali to Nusa Penida?
One-way fastboat tickets range from IDR 150,000 to IDR 200,000 from Sanur Harbor. Travelers are advised to choose a round-trip ticket, as it offers a more economical price.
Can you bring a motorcycle to Nusa Penida?
Yes. If you want to bring a motorcycle to Nusa Penida, you must depart from Kusamba to catch the ferry. Sanur Harbor does not offer fastboats for transporting vehicles. If you’re having trouble getting there, you don’t need to bring a motorbike, as Nusa Penida has many operators offering motorbike rentals.
Which is the best departure point from Bali?
If you’re staying in Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, or Sanur, depart from Sanur Harbor, as it’s the busiest and most well-equipped. If you’re staying in Ubud or Karangasem, Padang Bai Harbor might be a more efficient option.
Is it safe to take a fast boat to Nusa Penida?
It’s very safe, as long as you choose an officially licensed operator. All boats are equipped with life jackets and operated by experienced captains. Avoid purchasing tickets from unauthorized parties outside the harbor.
How do I get to Nusa Penida after arriving in Nusa Penida?
The Nusa Penida team provides a pick-up service from the harbor for guests who have made a reservation. Simply contact the Nusa Penida team via WhatsApp before departure, and our team will be ready to assist you upon arrival at the harbor.
Conclusion
The answer to the question of how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali is actually very simple: take a fast boat from Sanur or Padang Bai. Within 30–45 minutes, you’ll arrive at Nusa Penida Harbor to witness the world’s best underwater paradise.
What makes this trip even more perfect is arriving in Nusa Penida and being greeted by the tranquility and luxury of Nusablu. This destination offers a resort and dive center designed to provide the best of both worlds: the beauty of Nusa Penida’s land and its underwater wonders.
Ready to plan your adventure? Contact the Nusablu team now and find the perfect accommodation and diving package to suit your needs.
