How to Get from Bali to Nusa Penida

From the shores of Sanur, the rugged silhouette of Nusa Penida looms across the strait. While Bali offers manicured resorts and bustling beach clubs, Penida is its wilder, more dramatic sibling, famous for the dinosaur-shaped cliffs of Kelingking Beach and for manta rays. The crossing is a rite of passage for travelers who want to trade the island of the gods for the island of adventure.

The crossing is short, but you need to pick a departure point and a boat operator. Sea conditions can change quickly, turning a calm morning into a bumpy ride by afternoon. Whether you are staying in Ubud or on the southern cliffs of Uluwatu, there is a chain of transfers that gets you from your hotel to a boat seat. You can browse schedules and book your tickets for this route on GoAsia.cc.

Bali to Nusa Penida by Ferry

Speedboats are the main link between Bali and Nusa Penida. Most boats leave from the new Sanur Harbor terminal.^[1] Others leave from Padang Bai or Kusamba, depending on the operator and where you start. The crossing to Toyapakeh or Sampalan usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the weather.^[2]

On booking platforms, a one-way boat ticket costs about $8 to $13 (November 2026).^[3] The ride is usually smooth in the morning, and the afternoon swells can make it livelier, so those prone to motion sickness should plan accordingly.

Sanur Departures

Sanur is the most popular departure point for visitors. Because Sanur is centrally placed between the tourist hubs of Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu, it is the main gateway for day-trippers and long-stay visitors. BlueWater Express describes Penida as just 45 minutes east of Sanur.^[4]

Nusa Lembongan Departures

For island hopping, a small boat links Nusa Lembongan with Nusa Penida. The Island Majesty runs daily between Jungutbatu Beach on Lembongan and Toyapakeh on Penida in about 12 to 15 minutes. Departures from Lembongan are at 09:00, 12:00 and 16:00, and from Penida at 09:30, 13:00 and 16:30. A one-way ticket costs IDR 100,000 per adult.^[5] It is a good way to combine both islands in a single itinerary without returning to the Bali mainland.

Bali to Nusa Penida by Van and Boat

If you prefer a door-to-door experience, combined van and speedboat packages are the most convenient option. They pick you up from your accommodation in Bali and bring you to the harbor in time for your boat, so you skip negotiating with taxi drivers and Bali's traffic. On booking platforms, these packages cost about $24 to $26 (November 2026).^[3]

Ubud to Nusa Penida

From Ubud the journey takes from about 4 hours with a van and speedboat package.^[3] The drive to the coast can be unpredictable because of local ceremonies or traffic, so leave a buffer.

South Bali Departures (Uluwatu, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua)

From Nusa Dua the trip takes from about 3 hours 30 minutes, and from Jimbaran, Uluwatu and Pecatu from about 4 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes.^[3] Given the distance from the southern tip of Bali to Sanur Harbor, leaving early is the best way to avoid midday heat and heavy road traffic.

Comparing Your Options

Tips for Traveling from Bali to Nusa Penida

• Book in Advance: In the peak dry season, boats can fill up quickly. Booking online gets you the departure time that fits your schedule, especially for a day trip.
• Getting Around: Once on Penida, most visitors rent a motorbike or a car, with or without a driver. The terrain is hilly and partly rocky.^[2]
• Luggage Considerations: Speedboats have limited space, and a backpack is much easier than a large suitcase on narrow jetties and beach landings.
• Footwear: Some arrival points may mean stepping into shallow water. Wear sandals or flip-flops rather than expensive sneakers.
• Kelingking Beach: The way down to the beach is a steep and dangerous descent, so wear shoes with grip and go slowly.^[2]
• Seasickness: If you are sensitive to motion, sit toward the back of the boat and consider taking medication 30 minutes before boarding.