3-Days Nusa lembongan & Nusa Penida island Complete Tour

When it comes to experiencing Bali beyond the usual beaches and temples, the 3-day Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenic vistas, and island charm. While the tour isn’t perfect — some reviews highlight the crowds and traffic — it delivers enough memorable moments to make it worth considering, especially if you’re after a taste of Bali’s more rugged, untouched side.

What really wins us over are the stunning viewpoints like Kelingking Beach, the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant waters, and the convenience of hotel transfers and organized logistics. However, be aware that this tour packs a lot into three days, meaning busy schedules and busy spots. If you’re someone who prefers a laid-back, less crowded experience, this might feel a little rushed or crowded at times. But if you’re eager to tick off key highlights with minimal fuss, it’s a practical choice.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and snorkel time, appreciate guided group tours, and don’t mind sharing the space with other visitors. It’s especially good for those who want a straightforward way to explore these spectacular islands without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

Comfortable logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off from key Bali areas make planning easier.
Diverse activities: From breathtaking viewpoints to snorkeling, it offers multiple ways to enjoy your day.
Packed schedule: It’s a fast-paced itinerary, so expect a busy, full day at each stop.
Value for money: With accommodation, meals, and transfers included, it’s a decent package for the price.
Some crowds: Popular sites like Kelingking Beach can be crowded, which might affect the experience.
Weather dependence: Schedules depend heavily on the weather, especially for snorkeling and boat transfers.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Bali to Nusa Penida — the Highlights Begin

The adventure kicks off early with a fast boat transfer from Bali, taking roughly 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida. The smooth boat ride is generally comfortable, but it’s worth noting that seas can be choppy, especially for those prone to seasickness. Once on the island, the first stop is the famous Kelingking Beach, known for its dramatic cliff-top view resembling a T-Rex. The viewpoint is truly spectacular — perfect for photos, and if luck’s on your side, you might catch a glimpse of manta rays from above, as some travelers have noted.

Of course, the crowds can be intense here, especially during peak hours. A review from a traveler in December called it “a beautiful overcrowded ant hill,” highlighting how popular this site has become. Still, the view remains breathtaking, and the selfie in front of the T-Rex is a must-do.

Following a quick visit, you’ll enjoy lunch before heading to Pasih Uug or Broken Beach. The archway and natural pool here are visually stunning, with water flowing through the natural rock formation creating a mesmerizing scene. This spot is less crowded than Kelingking but still draws a good number of visitors.

Next up is Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool that’s perfect for dipping your toes and snapping photos. It’s just a short walk from Broken Beach, and the surrounding scenery makes for an idyllic pause.

The day continues with a visit to Crystal Bay, famous for its clear waters and coral reefs. The bay is ideal for snorkeling, but the currents can be quite strong — a point that some reviews point out. Bring fins, don’t venture too far, and avoid trying to reach the middle rock temple; the water’s power can be unpredictable.

In the late afternoon, the tour takes you to Raja Lima or Thousand Islands Viewpoint before ascending to Diamond Beach — a stunning stretch of sand with panoramic views. The effort to reach the top of Raja Lima is rewarded with spectacular vistas, making it a highlight for many.

Day 2: From Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan — the Transition

After checking out of your hotel, another boat ride takes you to Nusa Lembongan, a quick 20-minute trip. On the way, you’ll stop at Yellow Bridge, an iconic yellow suspension bridge connecting Nusa Lembongan to Ceningan Island — a perfect photo op.

The day’s main draw here is Devil’s Tears, a dramatic cove where roaring waves crash against rocks, creating a mist and spray that deliver the “tears” in the name. The force of nature on display makes this spot an exhilarating visit, though it can get crowded with selfie-takers eager to capture the action.

Later, you’ll explore the island’s charming Nusa Lembongan village, enjoy some free time to relax, and take in the laid-back vibe that differs from the busier Nusa Penida.

Day 3: Snorkeling and Return to Bali

The final day is dedicated to snorkeling in three different sites — Mangrove Point, Crystal Bay, and Gamat Bay — depending on weather conditions. The included snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore the vibrant underwater life, although the experience might vary based on sea conditions. A reviewer appreciated this part, noting the “beauty under water,” a definite highlight for water lovers.

After snorkeling, a relaxing visit to the Mangrove Forest caps off the tour before enjoying lunch. The entire trip back to Bali involves a 20-minute boat ride and subsequent transfer to your hotel, completing a fairly full, adventure-packed three days.

Practical Considerations and What You’ll Love

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep things manageable. The guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, facilitate the experience smoothly, providing insights and helping navigate busy spots. The hotel pick-up and drop-off in Bali add convenience, especially if you’re staying in central locations like Kuta or Ubud.

Cost and Value

At $250 per person, the tour covers accommodation, meals, transfers, and activities. Compared to booking each element separately, it’s a good deal, especially considering the hassle of logistics, ferry rides, and entry fees. Note, however, that conservation taxes and harbor fees are paid separately on-site, and these additional costs can add up — roughly Rp.25,000 per harbor and Rp.100,000 for marine protected areas.

Activities and Highlights

You’ll experience some of Bali’s most iconic sights: the spectacular cliffs of Kelingking, the natural wonder of Broken Beach, and the adrenaline rush of Devil’s Tears. Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan offers a chance to see tropical fish and coral reefs, making the underwater part of the trip worthwhile.

The Crowded Reality

One major consideration that multiple reviews touch on is how crowded these sites have become. Kelingking and Crystal Bay can feel more like theme park attractions than secluded escapes — especially during peak seasons or weekends. The roads are narrow and traffic can be bumper-to-bumper, which might be frustrating if you’re expecting a peaceful retreat.

Timing and Weather

The schedule is tightly packed, and activities depend heavily on weather conditions, especially for boat rides and snorkeling. Poor weather could lead to cancellations or schedule changes, a common issue for island-hopping tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan without the hassle of planning. It suits those who are comfortable with a fast-paced itinerary and don’t mind sharing crowded spots with other travelers. It’s also perfect if you’re after good value for money — the included accommodation, food, and activities are hard to beat at this price point.

However, if you’re seeking a relaxing, off-the-beaten-path experience or prefer fewer crowds, you might find this tour too busy. Those who dislike a structured schedule might also want to consider a more flexible, tailored option.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In the end, this tour promises a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and convenience. The highlights like Kelingking Beach and Devil’s Tears are unforgettable, and snorkeling adds an extra dimension to your Bali trip. The organized nature and the inclusion of hotel transfers make it a practical choice, especially if you want to maximize your time.

That said, the crowds and traffic are unavoidable realities of popular destinations like these. If you go in expecting a lively, bustling experience rather than a serene escape, you’ll likely leave satisfied.

All in all, this tour offers solid value, memorable sights, and the chance to tick off some of Bali’s most photogenic spots — perfect for travelers who want an action-packed, guided adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Bali areas such as Kuta, Ubud, Nusa Dua, Canggu, Jimbaran, and Sanur.

How long is the boat ride between Bali and Nusa Penida?
The fast boat transfer takes approximately 45 minutes.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, two lunches are included on day 1 and day 3, allowing you to enjoy local flavors without extra planning.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
Bring fins for better swimming control, and be mindful of the strong currents — don’t go past the boat moorings and avoid trying to reach the central rock in Crystal Bay.

Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
Yes, conservation taxes and harbor fees are paid on the spot, roughly Rp.25,000 per harbor, plus marine protected area fees of Rp.100,000 for adults and Rp.50,000 for children.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
The minimum age for snorkeling is 8 years old; the activity is best suited for fully able-bodied participants comfortable with boat rides and walking.

To sum it up, if you’re after a well-organized, diverse experience of Bali’s Nusa islands with memorable viewpoints and snorkeling, this tour offers excellent value. Just prepare for crowds and a busy schedule, and you’ll likely walk away with plenty of photos and stories.