Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan are two charming islands just 25 minutes by boat from Bali, that make for the perfect relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Bali. Whether you’re looking for snorkeling adventures, swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, or sip sunset cocktails, these islands are a paradise. If you’re wondering what to do, you’re in the right place!
In this travel guide, we’ll share all the best things to do on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, from hidden gems to must-try activities, so you can make the most of your time on these stunning islands. We spent 4 days exploring both islands, and here’s everything you need to know to plan your own unforgettable trip!
1. Mangrove tour
The mangroves of Nusa Lembongan stretch across much of the island’s northeastern coastline, playing a vital role as a natural barrier against large waves and protecting the shoreline from erosion. These lush, dense mangrove forests are not only beautiful but also an important ecosystem that helps maintain the island’s delicate balance. One of the best things to do on Nusa Lembongan is to explore the mangroves up close on a boat tour.
The mangrove tour offers a peaceful and scenic journey through these tranquil waters. For 75k IDR per person, you’ll glide through the narrow channels, surrounded by towering mangrove trees. The tour lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to appreciate the beauty of the area while learning about its importance to the island. It’s definitely one of the most unique and relaxing things to do on Nusa Lembongan, offering a serene escape into nature.
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2. Yellow Bridge Nusa Lembongan – Ceningan
Things to do on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the iconic Yellow Bridge. This bridge, rebuilt in 2017 after a collapse, connects the two islands and is the only link between them. It’s wide enough for both pedestrians and motorcycles, making it a must-see landmark. Whether you’re walking across or taking photos, the Yellow Bridge is an unforgettable part of your Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan adventure!
3. Devil’s Tears
Violently beautiful, Devil’s Tears is a cliff on Nusa Lembongan where massive waves crash dramatically against the rocks. But here’s the thing—those powerful swashes don’t happen all day long. We visited in the afternoon when the sea was low and calm, so we missed the full effect. If you want to see this spot at its most intense, be sure to check it out when the tide is right! During summer, that was usually around 2 p.m. And here’s a tip: when you’re exploring things to do on Nusa Lembongan, always keep a safe distance from the waves. They can be dangerous, even deadly, so enjoy the view but be cautious!
4. Dream Beach
The title really does describe this place perfectly. White, soft sand, turquoise blue water, an infinity pool, and plenty of sunbathing spots—this beach truly has it all. Whether you decide to visit during the day, catch the stunning sunset, or even stay in one of the cute huts, you’ll absolutely love it here! It’s no surprise that this was my favorite spot on Nusa Lembongan. If you’re looking for things to do on Nusa Lembongan, this beach should definitely be at the top of your list!
5. Gala Gala underground house
Gala-gala was built by Made Byasa over the course of 15 years to protect his family, and it’s more of an underground bunker than a traditional house. While it’s supposed to have two kitchens, a sitting room, and two bedrooms, I wouldn’t exactly call it a house—can you guess which room is which? It’s much bigger than you’d expect, but still not for those who are claustrophobic. Visiting this spot was one of the more unique things to do on Nusa Lembongan. It kind of reminded me of the Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam, except much more spacious. Definitely a must-see for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience!
We looked around for the entrance but there was no one there, so we wandered above and below for free. People have been paying different entrance fees here though, so if the price is higher than 10,000 IDR per person make sure you haggle.
6. Sunset at Cloudland Bar
Get to Cloudland Bar an hour before sunset to snag a beanbag, grab a cocktail or a Bintang, and get ready for nature to show off with its stunning sunset colors. While Cloudland Bar on Nusa Lembongan is pretty basic, don’t expect to eat here. But don’t worry—just a 5-minute walk away is Sandy Bay, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner. If you’re looking for things to do on Nusa Lembongan, this sunset spot should definitely be on your list!
7. Snorkeling tour
There are plenty of people offering snorkeling tours starting from Nusa Lembongan and heading to Nusa Penida. The best spots to visit are Gamat Bay, Manta Bay, and Crystal Bay. Most tours will include snorkeling gear, so you’re all set to dive in. We booked a private tour with Mae Shop for 650k IDR, which included our own boat, and they even picked us up and dropped us off right in front of our hotel. If you’re looking for things to do on Nusa Lembongan, this snorkeling experience is definitely a must!
8. Blue Lagoon Nusa Ceningan
A beautiful spot for jumping, taking pictures, or simply relaxing, Blue Lagoon has something for everyone. We opted for the latter and spent a few hours sunbathing and enjoying a delicious meal at the nearby Klyf Club. It’s the perfect place to unwind while soaking in the stunning views! If you’re looking for things to do on Nusa Ceningan, this spot is a must-visit.
9. Mahana Point Nusa Ceningan
Attention thrill-seekers! If cliff jumping, surfing, and pristine white sand beaches are your thing, then you absolutely can’t miss out on Mahana Point. Here, you’ll find one of the most epic jumping spots on the islands, with jumps from both a 10-meter and a 5-meter platform. Whether you’re diving into the crystal-clear waters or just enjoying the view, it’s an adrenaline-packed experience you won’t forget.
And if you’re just tagging along with a thrill-seeker, don’t worry—you can still have an amazing time. This spot is also home to a laid-back warung, where you can kick back and relax with a Bintang in hand, watching the action unfold. If you’re looking for things to do on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, Mahana Point is definitely a must-see!
10. Swing
It won’t take you long to notice the sheer number of swings scattered across Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan. They’re not just for kids—these swings are perfect for taking in the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. Some of my favorites included the swing at Dream Beach, which offered a beautiful view of the turquoise waters, and the one at Seabreeze Ceningan, which had a laid-back vibe and fantastic coastal scenery.
Secret Point Beach also has a swing with a more secluded feel, perfect for snapping some photos, while The Sand Ceningan has a swing that overlooks both the beach and the cliffs, offering a breathtaking perspective. If you’re looking for things to do on Nusa Lembongan, these swings are definitely worth a visit—whether you’re chasing that perfect photo or just enjoying the unique experience!
Best bars and restaurants in Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan
Both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan have some great restaurant and bar spots, perfect for grabbing a bite or enjoying a drink after a day of exploring. These are the ones that stood out as the best during our visit.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beachside café or a lively bar with ocean views, each island offers its own unique dining and drinking experience. If you’re exploring things to do on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, these spots should definitely be on your list for a delicious and memorable time!
Lembongan:
Thai Pantry – Best food and cocktails, went here 3 times in 4 days
Kayu Lembongan – Great food and frozen margaritas
Cloudland – Sunset spot with cheap cocktails
Sandy Bay Beach Club – Sunset cocktails and dinner spot
The Deck – Dinner and drinks, located right next to Thai Pantry
Ceningan:
Seabreeze Caningan – Beautiful setting, but slow service so make sure you allow enough time to be here
The Sand Caningan – Grab a coconut and enjoy the swing
Le Pirate Beach Club – Cute lunch spot and burgers
KLYF Club – Food and cocktails with a view of the blue lagoon
From Bali to Nusa Lembongan
The easiest way to get to Nusa Lembongan is by boat from Sanur, Bali. The only thing you need to keep in mind when going from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is which provider you go with. We luckily went with Arthamas, who doesn’t drop off at Mushroom Bay like the rest. This was especially handy for us who booked a place to stay just 2 minutes down the road from Arthamas Bay.
The boat from Bali to Nusa Lembongan cost IDR 350k (24 USD) per person for a return ticket and we went there on the 9.15 am boat and returned 4 days later on the 16.15 pm boat.
How to get around
When you get off the Arthamas boat (or arrange before arriving), you’ll want to WhatsApp message Suli from Mae Shop on +62 822 3661 6369 and get your scooter rental. They were our go-to company for all tours as well since they repeatedly gave us good prices. Getting around both of these islands is easiest on a motorbike and Nusa Ceningan is only accessible by walking or motorbike.
A smaller motorbike such as Scoopy is enough for these islands since the roads (with some exceptions in the north part of Ceningan) are great. We paid 70k (4,80 USD) per day for a Scoopy and 150k (10 USD) a day for a bigger NMax.
Getting from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Ceningan
Both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are small islands, and you can easily drive around each in about an hour, so getting from one to the other is a breeze. Once you arrive on Nusa Lembongan, the easiest and most iconic way to get to Nusa Ceningan is by crossing the famous Yellow Bridge, which connects the two islands.
You really can’t miss it—it’s a bright yellow structure that stands out against the turquoise waters below. It’s a short drive from the main areas of Nusa Lembongan to the bridge, or if you’re on foot or renting a scooter, the walk or ride takes only about 10 minutes. As you cross the bridge, you’ll get a lovely view of the ocean and surrounding islands. The bridge itself is a popular photo spot, so make sure to snap a picture before heading over to explore all the amazing things to do on Nusa Ceningan!
Where to stay
While there are many great places on both Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, I would recommend booking your stay at Pemedal Beach Resort. The rooms and the resort are nicer than their pictures, the breakfast was included & delicious (that omelet was *chef’s kiss*) and the staff was so kind! Did I mention it was only €90 for a room for 3 nights?
On Nusa Ceningan I thought the prettiest and similarly priced place was Le Pirate Beach Club. It’s small and simpler than Pemedal, but the pool and restaurant area are absolutely lovely.
ATM’s on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan
Paying by card hasn’t been an issue for us on either Nusa Lembongan or Caningan. Often they will charge an extra 2-3% though, so the best thing to do is take out cash before you get here or on the island. We drove past 3 ATMs on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan and took out money here without problems.
A lot of people mention that often the ATMs don’t have cash though, so better come prepared though.
I hope you enjoyed these 10 best things to do on Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan. During my 4 total months on Bali, these two islands made it to the top of my list, and if you have at least two nights to spare during your Bali trip, then make sure you head to both Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.
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