If you are looking for a tropical getaway that is off the beaten path, then you might want to consider Nusa Ceningan, a small island that is part of the Nusa Islands, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. Located just 30 minutes by boat from Bali, Nusa Ceningan is a hidden paradise that attracts tourists with its turquoise water, white sand beaches, lush green hills, and colorful culture.
Nusa Ceningan is the smallest of the three Nusa Islands, with a size of only 4 square kilometers and a population of about 2,000 people. The island has a warm and humid climate, with an average temperature of 28°C and a rainy season from December to March. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, butterflies, and marine life.
Nusa Ceningan offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests, from relaxing on the beach, snorkeling with fish, zip-lining over the ocean, diving with the underwater Buddha, to exploring the local culture and cuisine. Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo trip, Nusa Ceningan has something for everyone.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the best things to do, see, and experience on Nusa Ceningan. We will also give you some practical information and tips for planning and enjoying your trip to this amazing island. So, let’s get started!
Getting There
To get to Nusa Ceningan from other parts of Bali, you need to take a fast boat from Sanur Beach or Benoa Harbor to Nusa Lembongan, which is the closest island to Nusa Ceningan. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes and costs between $15 to $30 per person. Once you arrive at Nusa Lembongan, you can cross the Yellow Bridge, which is a bright yellow suspension bridge that connects the two islands. You can walk, bike, or scooter across the bridge, which offers a scenic view of the ocean and the islands.
Alternatively, you can also take a small boat or swim across the channel between the islands, but this might not be convenient with your luggage. Nusa Ceningan is a small island, so you can explore it easily by foot or by renting a scooter or bike.
The Best Things to Do on Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan is a small island, but it has a lot to offer. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that you should not miss on your visit to Nusa Ceningan.
Jump into the Blue Lagoon
One of the most popular and spectacular spots on Nusa Ceningan is the Blue Lagoon, a natural pool with crystal clear water and a stunning contrast of blue and green colors. The Blue Lagoon is also a favorite spot for adrenaline junkies, who can jump off the cliffs into the water from various heights, ranging from 4 to 13 meters. If you are feeling brave, you can join them and experience the thrill of free-falling into the lagoon. However, if you prefer to stay on the safe side, you can also enjoy the view and take some amazing photos from the edge of the cliffs.
To get to the Blue Lagoon, you will need to rent a scooter or a bike and drive for about 15 minutes from the Yellow Bridge, which connects Nusa Ceningan with Nusa Lembongan. The road is bumpy and steep, so be careful and drive slowly. Once you reach the parking area, you will need to walk for about 5 minutes to the cliffs. There is no entrance fee to the Blue Lagoon, but you might need to pay a small parking fee for your scooter or bike. The best time to visit the Blue Lagoon is in the morning or afternoon, when the sun is not too strong and the water is calm. There are no facilities or shops at the Blue Lagoon, so make sure to bring your own water, snacks, sunscreen, and towel.
Cross the Yellow Bridge
Another iconic landmark on Nusa Ceningan is the Yellow Bridge, a bright yellow suspension bridge that connects the island with Nusa Lembongan. The Yellow Bridge is also known as the Love Bridge, because it symbolizes the unity and harmony between the two islands. The bridge is only wide enough for two scooters or bikes, or a few pedestrians, to pass at a time, so be patient and respectful when crossing the bridge. The bridge offers a beautiful view of the ocean and the islands, and it is especially scenic at sunset, when the sky turns into a colorful painting.
The Yellow Bridge is not only a transportation link, but also a cultural and social hub, where you can find local vendors selling snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and handicrafts. You can also witness some traditional ceremonies and festivals that take place on the bridge, such as the Nyepi Laut, or the Sea Silence Day, when the locals refrain from any activities on the water, such as fishing, boating, or swimming, to honor and appease the sea gods. The Yellow Bridge is also a great starting point to explore both Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan, as you can easily access the attractions and activities on both islands.
Relax at the Secret Beach
If you are looking for a quiet and secluded beach to relax and unwind, then you should head to the Secret Beach, a hidden gem on Nusa Ceningan. The Secret Beach is a small and pristine beach with soft white sand, clear blue water, and a peaceful atmosphere. The beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or reading a book under the shade of the palm trees. The beach is also home to the Ceningan Island Resort, a luxury resort that offers an infinity pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a spa, where you can indulge yourself with some pampering and comfort.
To find the Secret Beach, you will need to follow the signs from the main road, and drive for about 10 minutes on a dirt road. The road is narrow and rough, so be careful and drive slowly. Once you reach the resort, you will need to pay a small entrance fee to access the beach, which is refundable if you spend a certain amount at the resort. The best time to visit the Secret Beach is in the morning or afternoon, when the tide is high and the water is calm. There are no facilities or shops at the beach, except for the resort, so make sure to bring your own water, snacks, sunscreen, and towel.
Zip-line over the Ocean
If you are looking for some fun and excitement on Nusa Ceningan, then you should try the zip-line, an adventure activity that lets you glide over the ocean from one island to another. The zip-line is the first and only one of its kind in Indonesia, and it offers a thrilling and exhilarating experience that you will never forget. The zip-line is about 100 meters long and 50 meters high, and it runs from Nusa Ceningan to Nusa Lembongan, crossing the Yellow Bridge. You can enjoy the breathtaking view of the islands, the bridge, and the water, as you fly over the ocean at a speed of up to 60 km/h.
To book the zip-line, you will need to visit the Ceningan Zipline Adventure office, which is located near the Yellow Bridge. You can also book online or by phone, but you will need to confirm your booking at the office. The zip-line is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the price is 200,000 IDR per person, which includes the equipment, the safety briefing, and the insurance. The best time to try the zip-line is in the morning or afternoon, when the weather is clear and the wind is not too strong. You will need to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and leave your belongings at the office. You will also need to sign a waiver and follow the instructions of the staff.
Dive with the Underwater Buddha
One of the most unique and fascinating attractions on Nusa Ceningan is the Underwater Buddha, a dive site that features a submerged statue of Buddha surrounded by coral and fish. The Underwater Buddha is a part of a larger underwater temple complex, which was created by a local dive center as an artificial reef and a conservation project. The Underwater Buddha is about 7 meters deep and 15 meters wide, and it is accessible for divers of all levels. You can admire the serene and majestic statue of Buddha, as well as the colorful and diverse marine life, such as angelfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, lionfish, moray eels, and octopus.
To arrange the dive, you will need to contact one of the dive centers on Nusa Ceningan or Nusa Lembongan, such as Ceningan Divers, Lembongan Dive Center, or Blue Corner Dive. You can also book online or by phone, but you will need to confirm your booking at the dive center. The dive is available all year round, but the best time to dive is from April to October, when the water is clear and the visibility is good. The price of the dive varies depending on the dive center, but it usually ranges from 500,000 to 800,000 IDR per person, which includes the equipment, the guide, the boat, and the insurance. You will need to have a valid dive certification and a dive logbook, and follow the rules and regulations of the dive center.
Nusa Ceningan is a hidden paradise in Indonesia that offers stunning natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventurous activities. It is a perfect destination for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing and memorable vacation. Whether you want to jump into the Blue Lagoon, cross the Yellow Bridge, relax at the Secret Beach, zip-line over the ocean, or dive with the Underwater Buddha, Nusa Ceningan has something for everyone.
We hope that this article has given you some useful information and inspiration about Nusa Ceningan. If you have any questions or experiences to share, please feel free to leave them in the comments below.
