How to Get from Nusa Lembongan to Sanur

Leaving the slow-paced island life of Nusa Lembongan for the bustling shores of mainland Bali is a transition between two very different worlds. The island offers quiet limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons, while Sanur greets you with its long paved seaside boardwalk and a sunrise that paints the sky gold. The stretch of water between them, the Badung Strait, can be a glassy mirror or a choppy challenge depending on the tide.

Most travelers make the crossing after a few days of snorkeling at Mangrove Point or exploring the yellow bridge to Nusa Ceningan. The distance is short, so you can enjoy a slow breakfast on your last morning before heading to the beach. Whether you want the cheapest ticket or a transfer that includes a ride to your next hotel, there are several reliable ways to make this popular crossing.

Nusa Lembongan to Sanur by Boat

The most common way across is by water. Speedboats dominate the route, and there are also slower ferries and combined shuttle tickets. Boats arrive at the New Sanur Harbour, and some operators run from jetty to jetty.^[1] On booking platforms, boat tickets cost from about $9 to about $24 (November 2026), depending on the vessel and the service included.^[2]

Speedboat

The speedboat is the first choice of most travelers. A direct crossing takes as little as 30 minutes, and up to 1 hour depending on sea conditions and the pier you use.^[2] Speedboats leave throughout the day, from early morning to late afternoon. They are fast and offer indoor seating, but the ride can be bumpy if the swell is high.

Ferry and Shuttle

Slower ferries take around 1 hour to reach Sanur. Some operators sell a shuttle plus ferry ticket that includes a pick-up, handy if you stay in a remote part of Nusa Lembongan. With the transfers, the whole trip takes up to 3 hours 15 minutes door to door.^[2]

Nusa Lembongan to Sanur by Bus

You cannot drive a bus across the sea, but several companies sell a combined bus and speedboat ticket. On booking platforms it costs from about $13 (November 2026), and the trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.^[2] The ticket covers the boat crossing and a bus or large van ride from the harbor in Sanur, so you reach your final destination without haggling with drivers.

Nusa Lembongan to Sanur by Van

A shared van with boat transfer costs from about $17 on booking platforms (November 2026) and takes about 2 hours in total.^[2] It is a comfortable middle ground if you prefer a smaller vehicle than a bus, and it gives you a pre-arranged connection from the island to the mainland.

Comparing Your Options

Tips for Traveling from Nusa Lembongan to Sanur

• Be ready to get wet: Some boats still board from the beach. Wear shorts and flip-flops rather than long pants and boots.
• Check where you land: Operators use different landing points. Check your ticket for the exact drop-off.
• Book in advance: In the dry season boats fill up, especially mid-morning departures.
• Protect your valuables: Crews usually carry heavy bags onto the boat. Keep small valuables in a waterproof dry bag with you.
• Plan for seasickness: The Badung Strait can have strong currents. If you are prone to motion sickness, take a tablet about 30 minutes before boarding and sit towards the back.