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After spending a month exploring Bali, we finally made our way to Nusa Penida and spent four nights discovering this incredible island.
From the jaw-dropping cliffs of Kelingking Beach to Broken Beach, Diamond Beach, and the rolling Teletubbies Hills, Nusa Penida quickly became one of our favorite parts of the trip.
We wondered if four days would be enough to see the main highlights — and honestly, it was. But we were out from morning till sunset every day. If you prefer a slower pace, we’d recommend staying at least five to six days to really enjoy it without rushing.
During our stay, we based ourselves in two different areas — Toyapakeh on the west coast and Atuh & Diamond Beach on the east. That turned out to be the perfect combination since most of the island’s top attractions are spread out along the south.
Choosing the right place to stay in Nusa Penida can make or break your trip. Distances may appear short on the map, but the roads are rough, and travel takes time.
That’s why we’ve put together this honest guide to the best places to stay in Nusa Penida, including the areas we personally tried and hotel picks we’d happily book again after plenty of research and real experience.
In a hurry?
These are our top hotels in Nusa Penida we’d book again
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Semaya Beach Resort (Our Top Pick) – Peaceful beachfront resort with private villas, sea views, and the best sunrise spot on the island.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️⭐️ De Vindra Resort – Modern hillside stay with ocean-view rooms and a stunning infinity pool overlooking the north coast.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️ La Roja Bungalows – Cozy budget bungalows with a relaxed pool area and easy access to restaurants and the harbor.
👉 See prices & availability →
Where to stay in Nusa Penida: Our experience
After taking the ferry from Bali, we arrived at Toyapakeh Harbour, rented a scooter straight away, and headed to our accommodation just a few minutes from the port.
This part of the island turned out to be super convenient — it’s where you’ll find the highest concentration of hotels, cafés, restaurants, and rentals, making it one of the most popular areas to stay in Nusa Penida.
From here, we explored the southwest coast, visiting Crystal Bay, Broken Beach, Kelingking Beach, and Banah Cliff Point. While there are a few places to stay further south, restaurants and nightlife are limited, so Toyapakeh really was the perfect base for us during the first half of our trip.
After two nights, we decided to switch things up and head east. The inland roads were narrow and full of curves — it took us about an hour and a half to reach the other side — but honestly, it was a fun ride. If you prefer something calmer, the north coast road is an easier and more scenic alternative along the ocean.
Staying near Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach was completely different — quieter, more remote, and surrounded by incredible scenery. We loved being able to walk down to Diamond Beach for sunrise, which is easily one of the best times to go if you want to avoid the crowds.
While the east is still less developed than the west, we were surprised by how many nice cafés and small warungs we found nearby. From this base, we explored Teletubbies Hills, Tembeling Beach and Forest, and even made it to Manta Point.
We didn’t stay on the north coast or around Crystal Bay, but we spent plenty of time exploring both. The north coast (Ped & Sampalan) is flat, easy to drive, and lined with small hotels and restaurants — perfect if you want convenience and a sunset view without the crowds.
Meanwhile, Crystal Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, ideal for snorkeling and watching sunsets, although accommodation options are limited and somewhat more isolated.
Overall, staying on both sides of the island helped us see how different each area feels — from lively and social to calm and scenic.
If you want to see all the best things to do in Nusa Penida, we recommend staying on both sides of the island if you’re exploring by scooter. Here’s what we learned about each part of the island and how to choose the best one for your trip.
Best areas to stay in Nusa Penida
Before we dive in, here’s a quick map showing the best areas to stay in Nusa Penida so you can easily picture where everything is. It provides a clear idea of how the island is laid out, making it easier to choose which part suits your trip best.
Toyapakeh area
Toyapakeh is where most travelers first arrive — and for good reason. It’s close to the main harbor, packed with cafés, restaurants, and dive centers, and makes exploring the island super easy. We stayed here for the first half of our trip, and it turned out to be a convenient base. Everything you need is within a few minutes’ drive, from scooter rentals to restaurants and sunset viewpoints.
The vibe is lively but not chaotic, and it’s easy to meet other travelers. We loved being able to grab dinner by the water after a long day exploring. If you’re staying here, don’t miss Kelapa Penida — it quickly became our favorite restaurant in the area for its really good food.
The only downside is that traffic around the harbor can get busy during ferry times, and some roads nearby are quite narrow. If you’re looking for a base that strikes a balance between convenience, comfort, and good food options, Toyapakeh is hard to beat.
✅ Pros: Central, main harbor, lots of restaurants and cafés
❌ Cons: Traffic near the harbor
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, divers, and anyone who wants a convenient base
Atuh & Diamond Beach Area
Located on the far east coast, the Atuh and Diamond Beach area is where Nusa Penida shows off its most dramatic scenery — towering cliffs, turquoise coves, and untouched nature everywhere you look. It’s a quieter, more remote part of the island, ideal for anyone who wants to wake up to ocean views and enjoy the beauty of this island without the crowds.
We stayed here for the second half of our trip and loved how peaceful it felt compared to Toyapakeh. Watching the sunrise at Diamond Beach before the crowds arrived was a highlight of our stay. The drive down is curvy and slow in parts, but the scenery easily makes up for it.
There aren’t many big resorts here, just small villas, bamboo huts, and family-run guesthouses overlooking the cliffs. There are enough cafés and warungs, so you still have multiple choices for meals without going far.
✅ Pros: Quiet, scenic, close to Diamond and Atuh Beach
❌ Cons: Harbor is not close, and there is limited nightlife
⭐️ Best for: Couples, sunrise lovers, and anyone who prefers nature over crowds
Ped & Sampalan
Just east of Toyapakeh, the Ped and Sampalan area runs along the north coast and is one of the most popular places to stay. It’s flat, easy to drive, and has a relaxed coastal vibe with plenty of cafés and small hotels scattered along the main road.
We explored this area before hopping on our ferry to Lombok and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and easy access to everything you might need — scooter rentals, restaurants, and small shops are all close by.
The only downside is that if you plan to visit the south coast attractions by scooter, the rides can be quite longer compared to staying in Toyapakeh or Atuh Beach. We found it somewhat inconvenient for day trips.
✅ Pros: Quiet, plenty of restaurants and rentals
❌ Cons: Longer drives to southern sights, no major beaches nearby
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want comfort and harbor access
Best hotels in Nusa Penida
This list brings together the best places to stay in Nusa Penida — hotels we would happily book after exploring the island from coast to coast.
We’ve done the hard research so you don’t have to. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay near the harbor, a cozy villa by the cliffs, or a quiet spot with ocean views, here are the best hotels in Nusa Penida worth considering for your trip.
Budget hotels start at $20–50, mid-range stays range from $60–130, and luxury hotels cost $140+ per night for two.
Best hotels in the Toyapakeh area
If you want a convenient base close to the harbor, cafés, and dive centers, Toyapakeh is the best area to stay. It’s lively yet relaxed — perfect for exploring the west coast highlights without long drives.
Kurnia Guest House & Spa $
We stayed at Kurnia Guest House & Spa during our time in Toyapakeh while backpacking around Nusa Penida and couldn’t have asked for a better budget base. The rooms were simple yet clean and comfortable, with good air conditioning and everything we needed for a two-night stay.
What we really loved was how close it was to the harbor — just a short ride after arriving by ferry. The small pool and on-site spa were a nice bonus after long, hot days of exploring. For anyone traveling on a tighter budget, this place is exactly what you hope to find: affordable, friendly, and in the perfect spot to start discovering the island.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want comfort and convenience.
👉 See prices & availability →
Blue Harbor Beachfront Villas & Resto $$ (Our Top Pick)
Right on the water in Toyapakeh, Blue Harbor Beachfront Villas & Resto is one of the best places to stay in Nusa Penida if you want a mix of comfort and ocean views.
There are two outdoor pools, a beachfront restaurant serving both Indonesian and Western food, and plenty of cafés and dive shops within walking distance. The setting is peaceful, especially at sunset, and the staff provide attentive service.
It’s close to the main road, so you might hear the occasional scooter, but everything else more than makes up for it. Still, it stands out as our top pick thanks to its unbeatable beachfront location, excellent food, and the balance between comfort and value for money.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a comfortable beachfront base with great views.
👉 See prices & availability →
Pramana Natura Nusa Penida $$$
Tucked into the cliffs above Toyapakeh, Pramana Natura Nusa Penida offers one of the most spectacular stays on this part of the island. It’s a modern, elegant retreat where every suite and villa faces the ocean, carefully designed to make the most of the ocean views. The location and service are outstanding — it’s the kind of place made for unwinding.
The infinity pool is a real highlight, perfectly maintained and overlooking the cliffs with a panoramic view that’s hard to beat. There’s also a spa, restaurant, and bar on-site, making it ideal for relaxation.
Reaching the property requires a short uphill drive, but it’s well worth it once you arrive. Overall, it’s one of the best hotels in Nusa Penida for those seeking luxury, tranquility, and world-class views.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers looking for a luxury escape with ocean views and top-notch facilities.
👉 See prices & availability →
Best hotels in Atuh & Diamond Beach area
For dramatic views and a slower pace, the east coast around Atuh and Diamond Beach is unbeatable. Stay here if you want sunrise cliffs, raw scenery, and that remote island feel away from the crowds.
Atuh Forest Cottage $
We stayed at Atuh Forest Cottage during our time on the east coast, and it turned out to be one of those places that feels truly local. Surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, the small wooden cottages sit in a quiet area just a few minutes’ drive from Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach. It’s simple but clean, with cozy balconies where you can relax in the evening.
What we really loved was the feeling of being tucked away in nature — you wake up to the sounds of birds and views of the hills. The owners are warm and helpful, and breakfast is freshly made each morning. If you’re traveling on a budget and want an authentic, peaceful stay, this one is the perfect pick.
⭐️ Best for: Backpackers and nature lovers looking for a quiet local experience near Atuh and Diamond Beach.
👉 See prices & availability →
Aloka Penida $$
Aloka Penida is a lovely mid-range stay, perfect if you’re looking for comfort without overspending. The rooms are bright and clean, each with a balcony overlooking the hills or ocean, and the small pool area is great for cooling off after a day of exploring.
There’s an on-site restaurant with a relaxed vibe, serving both local and Western dishes. Additionally, scooters can be rented directly at the hotel — a super handy option for getting around if you come by private car. The only thing to know is that the road up to the hotel is a bit steep, but the quiet location and views make it totally worth it once you arrive.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a peaceful, mid-range stay.
👉 See prices & availability →
Semaya Beach Resort $$$ (Our Top Pick)
Semaya Beach Resort is the kind of place that makes you instantly slow down. Tucked away on the east coast, it feels private and secluded, with plenty of space between villas and no crowds in sight. The setting is calm and exclusive — perfect for anyone looking to relax, unwind, and enjoy a genuine island escape.
The rooms are spotless and elegant, with soft linen, cotton robes, and sea views that make it hard to leave. The infinity pool and beachfront bar area are the kind of spots you could spend hours in, watching the waves with a drink in hand. You can even have your meals delivered straight to your room.
It’s about a 15-minute drive from Diamond Beach, but the peace and comfort you get here make it more than worth it. There aren’t many luxury hotels nearby, and this one truly stands out for its privacy, atmosphere, and that dreamy island holiday feel.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a private, beachfront escape with comfort and style.
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Best hotels in the Ped and Sampalan area
Set along the flat north coast, Ped and Sampalan offer a peaceful, easygoing vibe with plenty of restaurants and small hotels. It’s a good area if you want a calm base with everything nearby and don’t mind longer scooter rides to the south.
La Roja Bungalows $
Set just off the main road on Nusa Penida’s north coast, La Roja Bungalows is a relaxed budget stay with everything you need for a few easy days on the island. The wooden bungalows are bright and spacious, featuring air-conditioning, private terraces, and large open-air bathrooms. The pool area has a laid-back feel, surrounded by palm trees — a nice spot to cool off after exploring.
Breakfast is freshly prepared each morning, and scooters can be rented directly on-site. The atmosphere is friendly and quiet, though its roadside location means you might hear some traffic during the day. We think it’s one of the best-value places to stay in Nusa Penida if you’re after comfort, convenience, and a local touch without spending much.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a simple, comfortable stay with easy access to cafés and restaurants.
👉 See prices & availability →
De Vindra Resort $$
De Vindra Resort is a beautiful hillside stay with some of the best ocean views you’ll find on the north coast. The rooms are bright, modern, and spotless, each featuring a private balcony with sweeping views over the sea. The infinity pool sits perfectly positioned for sunset — one of those places where you’ll want to stay a little longer.
There’s an on-site restaurant serving fresh local dishes, and the staff are genuinely kind and helpful, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Getting here involves a short uphill drive, but once you arrive, the peaceful setting and incredible views make it feel like a private retreat.
It’s one of the best mid-range places to stay in Nusa Penida if you’re after comfort, scenery, and a touch of luxury without the high price.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want ocean views, comfort, and a quiet atmosphere.
👉 See prices & availability →
The Sankara Beach Resort $$$ (Our Top Pick)
Right on the sand in Ped, the Sankara Beach Resort is a modern beachfront escape with everything you need for a relaxing stay. The rooms and villas are stylish and spacious, with sea-view balconies, soft beds, and bright, open interiors.
The twin pools and beach bar make it easy to spend lazy afternoons by the water, and you can even snorkel just a few steps from your room. What we love most is the calm vibe — you can watch the sunset straight from the pool or your room without another building in sight.
The restaurant serves fresh local dishes, and the whole place has an island vibe that makes you want to stay longer. It’s our top pick in this area because it combines beachfront location with great design, comfort, and privacy.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a peaceful, beachfront stay with modern comforts.
👉 See prices & availability →
FAQ about the best places to stay in Nusa Penida
Where should first-time visitors stay?
For first-time visitors, we’d recommend Toyapakeh. It’s the most convenient area to stay in Nusa Penida — close to the harbor, scooter rentals, cafés, and most west coast attractions like Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach.
What are the best adults-only hotels in Nusa Penida?
For an adults-only stay in Nusa Penida, we recommend checking out MAUA Nusa Penida Bali, La Marrocco Villas, and Beachfront Luxury Dome Villas – Gamat Bay Resort.
What are the best 5 star hotels in X?
If you’re looking for the best 5-star hotels in Nusa Penida, we highly recommend checking out Seven Dreams A Pramana Experience, Semaya Beach Resort, and MAUA Nusa Penida Bali.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Nusa Penida
After spending four days exploring both the west and east sides of Nusa Penida, we realized how much the area you stay in can shape your experience. Distances look short on the map, but the roads are steep, winding, and therefore a bit slow — so choosing the right base really matters.
For first-time visitors, Toyapakeh is the most practical choice. It’s close to the harbor, restaurants, and cafes. If you prefer something quieter, Ped & Sampalan offer an easier pace with plenty of local cafés and sea views. And for those after raw scenery and sunrise views, staying near Atuh and Diamond Beach is hard to beat.
Looking back, splitting our stay between the west and east worked perfectly. We had easy access to all the main attractions. If we were to come back, we’d do it the same way again, and that’s what we recommend for everyone reading this post.
