About Nusa Lembongan

Strict government control means that local life remains unspoiled and relaxed, therefore relatively intact on Nusa Lembongan and her two sister islands of Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida. “Nusa” translates as “Island.”

Regarded as safe and inexpensive, they enjoy minimal rainfall and humidity compared to Bali and Lombok, with virtually no touts or mosquitoes.

With such easy access to Bali they have remained surprisingly overlooked until recently, little is mentioned in guide books, and it is worth taking a look around. There are few roads and no cars, motorbikes being the preferred transport, and several small trucks for group transport. A coastal path joins several of the beaches on Nusa Lembongan, or you may hire a local boat to explore your options. Expect crystal clear waters, coral gardens, surf and dramatic coastlines. The islands are reminiscent of Bali 30 years ago, and it is often commented, “This is what I dreamed Bali to be.”

Lembongan Island is one of three sister islands, nestled just 19 kms, and one hour by boat from Sanur, Bali, off the east coast. Being about 9 sq kms in size, it has only four beaches on the Northern coast, two on the Western coast, mangroves to the East, and a deep channel on the other, separating it from Nusa Penida Island, and their baby sister, Nusa Ceningan, a small island, which may be reached by bridge from Nusa Lembongan.

Extremely friendly Hindu inhabitants depend on the local seaweed industry , which provides base extracts for use in natural cosmetics and medicines, fishing, and the expanding tourism business. There are virtually no cars, noise or pollution, and pristine golden beaches bound the Lembongan reef area , which is a protected marine park , and contains large expanses of coral gardens , the destination for most visitors.

Discovered in the 60's, as a popular haven for surfers and divers, nowadays it is regarded as one of the safest Asian destinations, enjoying a lifestyle similar to Bali in the 1930's. There are few signs of major development, and there are strict rules regarding the development of the three islands and the surrounding waters.

Primitive in many ways – many cheaper guest houses do not have hot water [hardly needed due to climate] and with a mix of full time power, and generators which provide power from dusk till dawn, expect many romantic candle lit dinners. Top end resorts are available with all facilities.

There is no tourist office, post office or ATM on Lembongan. There is Bank BPD, but it is advised you bring cash with you, as rates are very low on the island. There is Internet at Mainski Inn, on Jungut Batu Beach, and at Coconuts Resort, and the Hospital is on the main road of Jungut Batu Village. The other village is Nusa Lembongan Village, located at the opposite end of the island

Surfing is popular from April to December, but is definitely not for beginners, and can be dangerous for experts. The three main breaks are Playgrounds, Lacerations, and Shipwreck, on the Lembongan Reef.

Diving and snorkeling are popular, and many activities are available on a one-day excursion from Bali.

Getting there boats leave from Sanur Beach, and Kusamba, in Bali. From Lembongan at 5am. a Boat leaves from Jungut Batu Beach daily, and from the Ceningan Bridge at 7.30am.

back to top