Have fun 1 day in Nusa Penida: snorkeling, kelingking & broken beach incl lunch

Discover the Charm of Nusa Penida in a Day

Our review of the “Have fun 1 day in Nusa Penida” tour offers a detailed glimpse into what promises to be an action-packed day exploring Bali’s stunning neighboring island. While we haven’t personally joined this exact tour, the itinerary and reviews suggest a well-rounded experience suited for travelers eager to see Bali’s iconic sights without overextending their schedule.

What draws us to this tour are the eye-catching sights like Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach, the inclusive snorkeling adventure, and the small-group setting that promises more personalized attention. The price point of $87 per person seems reasonable considering the transport, entry fees, and meals included, making it a good value for those looking for a full-day adventure.

However, one consideration is the boat experience, which some travelers found less than ideal—specifically, the public boat used for transfers can be crowded, and the quality might vary. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of boat crowding and are looking for a well-organized day of sightseeing and snorkeling in a single trip.

Key Points

• Iconic Landmarks: See Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Coral Beach, with stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling Included: Gear is provided, and you’ll get a chance to explore underwater life in the clear waters around Nusa Penida.
• Convenient Transport: Round-trip transfers from many south Bali hotels make logistics easier.
• Small Group Size: Tours are limited to 15 travelers, allowing more interaction and personalized attention.
• Lunch and Refreshments: Enjoy a restaurant lunch and afternoon tea or coffee, fueling your day’s adventures.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Morning Pickup and Transfer

Your day begins early, with hotel pickups starting around 7:00 am. The tour’s pickup times are tailored to your location in south Bali, such as Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Seminyak, or Sanur, which means you won’t need to worry about arranging transport. Once you’re in the private, air-conditioned vehicle, the journey to Mertasari Harbour is smooth and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

If you have luggage, the tour offers a practical solution: leave your belongings in the car, and they’ll be picked up later at Mertasari Harbour when you return—an often overlooked but helpful feature for travelers with onward plans or additional luggage.

Boarding and Island Arrival

Boarding at Mertasari Harbour is scheduled for around 8:00 am, with check-in procedures straightforward. The fast boat ride to Nusa Penida takes roughly an hour, and while the reviews mention some dissatisfaction with public boat crowds, the overall transfer is generally well-organized, and the timing aligns with making the most of your day.

Visiting Kelingking Beach

By 10:00 am, you’ll arrive on Nusa Penida, ready to explore the island’s famous sights. The highlight here is Kelingking Beach, often called the ‘T-Rex’ because of the shape of its cliffs. While the view from the top is breathtaking—giving you that postcard shot—be prepared for a steep descent if you choose to hike down to the beach itself, which isn’t included in the tour but is worth considering if you’re up for an adventure.

According to reviews, the spot is more crowded than expected, but the scenery justifies the effort. One traveler mentioned that the view “is hard to beat,” even if the pathway down may be challenging for some.

Broken Beach and Coral Beach

Next, you’ll visit Broken Beach, a natural circular cove surrounded by cliffs that create a dramatic backdrop perfect for photos. Travelers have noted that the cliffs here are spectacular, and the area offers a great chance for a quick walk and scenic captures.

Coral Beach, the third stop, is smaller but excellent for relaxing or a quick snorkel. Expect clear waters and vibrant marine life, especially since snorkel gear is included in the package. One reviewer commented, “The snorkeling was surprisingly good, and the gear was in decent condition,” which is reassuring for those new to underwater adventures.

Lunch at Funtasea Restaurant

Around noon, the group heads to a local restaurant for lunch. The al fresco setting is ideal for enjoying Balinese flavors while soaking up the views. The inclusion of lunch in the tour price adds great value, and many travelers appreciated having a rest and fuel their energy for the afternoon activities.

Afternoon Snorkeling and Relaxation

Post-lunch, the tour offers additional snorkeling or alternative options, allowing for a bit of flexibility based on your preferences. The gear is provided, and the waters are generally calm and inviting, making it a memorable part of the day.

An important practical tip: the snorkeling session lasts about 1.5 hours, so bring your own underwater camera if you want to capture the marine life, as some reviews note the quality of equipment varies.

Coffee Break and Departure

As the afternoon progresses, you’ll enjoy a brief tea or coffee break—an excellent way to unwind before heading back to the harbor. The return boat departs around 3:30 pm, and you’ll arrive back at Mertasari Harbour by roughly 4:30 pm.

Ending the Day

After being dropped off at your hotel by 6:00 pm, you’re free to relax or explore further. The tour’s timing and transportation logistics help maximize your day without feeling rushed.

The Experience: What Works Well

Transportation and Organization: The private, air-conditioned transfer from your hotel ensures comfort from start to finish. The coordination of pickup, boat transfers, and return is generally smooth, though there is some variability in boat comfort, which travelers should keep in mind.

Sightseeing Highlights: The key attractions—Kelingking, Broken Beach, and Coral Beach—are all visually stunning, and the tour is well-paced to give ample time at each spot. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment allows you to explore the waters without extra hassle.

Small Group Dynamic: Limiting the group size to 15 travelers means more personalized attention, less waiting, and better chances to ask questions or photograph the sights without crowds blocking your view.

Culinary Experience: The lunch at a local alfresco restaurant adds a relaxing pause, offering authentic flavors in a scenic setting. The afternoon tea or coffee break is a smart touch for recharging.

What Could Be Better

Boat Experience: Some reviews highlight issues with the public boat used for transfers—crowded, noisy, and sometimes uncomfortable. While this is common with group tours in Bali, those seeking a private or more luxurious boat might need to look elsewhere or pay extra.

Timing and Crowds: Popular spots like Kelingking Beach can get crowded quickly. If avoiding crowds is a priority, early mornings or alternative viewpoints might be necessary.

Additional Costs: While most essentials are included, travelers should budget for personal expenses or extras not covered by the tour, such as souvenirs or optional activities.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a full-day exploration of Nusa Penida without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets. It suits those willing to deal with the crowds at popular sites and who value inclusive snorkeling and local cuisine. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and underwater fun.

Final Thoughts

This “Have fun 1 day in Nusa Penida” tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Bali’s neighboring island, combining iconic scenery, snorkeling, and local food within a manageable timeframe. The small-group approach enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

While the boat arrangements might not satisfy everyone, the overall itinerary delivers a memorable day for anyone wanting to tick off Bali’s must-see spots in one go. Whether you’re chasing picture-perfect views, underwater adventures, or simply want to escape the Bali crowds for a day, this tour provides good value and authentic touches.

For travelers craving an active, scenic day with convenient logistics and a decent price, this tour ticks most boxes. It’s best suited for those looking to see the highlights without too much fuss—and with a spirit of adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transport, round-trip fast boat transfers, snorkeling gear, visits to Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Coral Beach, lunch at a local restaurant, afternoon tea or coffee, all admission tickets, and insurance.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you might want to bring your own underwater camera or waterproof phone case if you plan to capture underwater moments. Also consider bringing a towel, sunscreen, and a hat.

Is the boat crowded?
The boat used for transfers is a public one, and some travelers have found it crowded and uncomfortable. If you prefer a private boat experience, this tour may not fully meet that expectation.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Bali to Nusa Penida takes approximately one hour each way, depending on sea conditions.

Can I hike down to Kelingking Beach?
The tour stops at the viewpoint, but the hike down is not included. The descent is steep and challenging, so consider your fitness level before attempting it.

What’s the best time to visit?
While the tour operates with good weather guarantees, Bali’s dry season from April to October generally provides the most suitable conditions for this trip.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It depends on individual fitness levels. The steep hike at Kelingking and boat transfers may be challenging for some, so consider this before booking.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is fixed, but the tour offers some flexibility at snorkeling and beach stops. You’ll have enough time to enjoy the main sights and relax.

What if it rains?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour balances adventure with convenience and offers a fantastic taste of Bali’s breathtaking Nusa Penida. Suitable for those eager to explore, snorkel, and take iconic photos in one day, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Bali escape.