When planning your Indonesian adventure, the sheer number of incredible islands near Bali can feel a little overwhelming. To simplify your choices, we’ve zeroed in on the top contenders for most travelers: the Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan), the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, Gili Air), Komodo, Lombok, Flores, and Menjangan.
Each of these destinations offers that coveted tropical island ambiance and stunning beaches, yet they each possess a distinct character. For instance, Menjangan, Nusa Penida, and Komodo are celebrated as prime locations for diving enthusiasts, not just near Bali but across Indonesia. Komodo stands alone as the place where visitors can readily encounter the famous Komodo Dragon within Komodo National Park. If peace and quiet are what you seek, the tranquil Nusa Ceningan or the relaxed Gili Meno are wonderful choices. For those seeking a lively nightlife scene, Gili Trawangan, affectionately known as “Gili T,” is undoubtedly the place to be.
Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation, a group trip, or a romantic honeymoon, allow us to guide you towards the island that perfectly aligns with your travel preferences and style.
Nusa Penida stands out as a highly sought-after island destination from Bali; in fact, dedicating a day to exploring Nusa Penida is frequently listed among the premier experiences available in Bali! As one of the three Nusa Islands, this beautifully unspoiled island resides off Bali’s southeastern coast, separated by the Badung Strait. It’s particularly renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pristine white sand beaches, and incredibly clear blue waters.
The island’s awe-inspiring landscapes and untouched natural beauty cement Nusa Penida’s status as a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, especially when it comes to engaging in outdoor pursuits like hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
For avid divers, Nusa Penida enjoys global recognition for its dive sites, which consistently offer excellent conditions throughout the year and teem with diverse marine life. This includes magnificent Oceanic Sunfish (Mola Mola), an array of reef fish, vibrant coral formations, stingrays, playful clownfish, serene turtles, sleek barracuda, and much more.
Hikers looking for a challenging workout will find the trek to Kelingking Beach incredibly rewarding, as will the descent down the iconic blue stairs leading to Peguyangan Waterfall.
Other popular attractions on Nusa Penida include Angel’s Billabong, Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach, and Crystal Bay.
Top activities to enjoy in Nusa Penida:
Dive alongside Manta Rays and Mola Mola at Manta Point.
Discover the secluded beauty of Diamond Beach.
Swim and bask in the sun at Atuh Beach and Pasih Uug Beach.
Indulge in a refreshing swim at Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool.
Go snorkeling offshore in the pristine turquoise waters of Crystal Bay.
Hike to the breathtaking viewpoint of Kelingking Beach.
Reaching Nusa Penida:
Nusa Penida is exclusively accessible by boat. You can catch a boat from Sanur Beach, Serangan Harbor, or Padangbai Harbour. It’s highly recommended to secure your fast boat tickets in advance, particularly if your travel dates fall within the peak season (July and August).
Nusa Lembongan is the second largest of the Nusa Islands, situated remarkably close to Nusa Penida. Despite its modest size (covering just 8 square kilometers), Nusa Lembongan offers a wealth of experiences for visitors, ranging from exquisite beaches with translucent waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, to superb surfing waves and picturesque vistas.
Nusa Lembongan provides the quintessential island escape from Bali for those desiring a peaceful retreat from the usual crowds, while still appreciating convenient access to beach clubs, nightlife, and local culinary delights.
Best things to do in Nusa Lembongan:
Relax on the soft sands and swim in the clear waters of Dream Beach.
Snorkel in the calm, inviting waters of Mushroom Beach.
Explore the Gala-Gala Underground House for a glimpse into the island’s past.
Take a surfing lesson or marvel at the pros riding waves at Playgrounds surf break.
Witness the spectacular sight at Devil’s Tears, where powerful waves dramatically crash against the limestone cliffs.
Getting to Nusa Lembongan:
Catch a fast boat to Nusa Lembongan from Sanur in Bali, a journey that typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes. You can also depart from Benoa Harbour and Serangan Harbour, though travel times may vary from these locations.
Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan holds the distinction of being the most petite and serene among the three Nusa Islands. Connected to Nusa Lembongan by a distinctive bright yellow suspension bridge, Nusa Ceningan is merely 3 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide. It is celebrated as one of the finest islands near Bali, prized for its stunning natural landscapes, tranquil seclusion, and wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. While the island is compact enough for pedestrian exploration, one of the most effective ways to thoroughly experience it is by scooter. If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter yourself, hiring a scooter with a driver is a convenient option.
Top activities to enjoy in Nusa Ceningan:
Swim in the hidden beauty of Secret Beach.
Experience the thrill of cliff jumping into the deep blue waters of the Blue Lagoon.
Unwind at Sea Breeze Beach Bar, complete with an infinity pool and suspended hammocks.
Indulge in a cocktail after ziplining at Driftwood bar.
Discover the diverse wildlife of the mangroves nestled between Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan, including various bird species, lizards, crabs, turtles, and the unique crab-eating frog.
Reaching Nusa Ceningan:
There are no direct boat services to Nusa Ceningan. You must first take a fast boat to Nusa Lembongan, and then cross the famous yellow bridge either on foot or by scooter. Alternatively, you can arrange a private boat tour to the island.
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan, or “Gili T,” reigns as the largest of the three Gili Islands and is widely regarded as one of the best tropical island escapes accessible from Bali. Its allure stems from its soft white sands, crystalline blue waters, and the unique fact that island transit is limited to walking, cycling, or horse-drawn carts!
Located off Bali’s eastern coast, Gili T is often mistakenly associated with Bali’s own islands, but it actually falls under the West Nusa Tenggara province and is technically a part of Lombok.
This compact island, measuring just 6 square kilometers, is entirely free of cars and scooters, creating a truly peaceful island retreat. It boasts exceptional offshore snorkeling spots, numerous beachside cocktail bars, and an abundance of fresh seafood.
While Gili Trawangan has a well-known reputation as a vibrant party island with a bustling nightlife, it still presents travelers with opportunities for a quiet and tranquil island escape. Therefore, don’t discount it for a family holiday or a romantic getaway. If the bar and club scene isn’t your primary interest, consider staying on the west side of the island, which tends to be more peaceful and relaxing.
Best things to do in Gili Trawangan:
Go snorkeling alongside turtles at Turtle Point.
Experience scuba diving at Halik Reef to admire its beautiful and colorful marine life.
Cycle around the entire island.
Watch a magnificent sunset from the famous Sunset Swing.
Party at the bustling clubs and enjoy live music performances.
Take a scenic tour around the island in a horse cart.
Rent a kayak or a paddleboard for water exploration.
Embark on a day trip to the neighboring islands of Gili Meno or Gili Air.
Getting to Gili Trawangan:
Take a fast boat from Padangbai, located on Bali’s eastern coast; the journey typically lasts around two hours.
Gili Air
Gili Air is often described as the calmer sibling island to Gili Trawangan, providing a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere that sharply contrasts with the energetic island life and party scene of Gili T.
With its gorgeous beaches and ideal spots for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, Gili Air serves as the perfect island near Bali for those seeking to disconnect and unwind. Despite its tranquil vibe, it still offers convenient amenities like tourist-friendly hotels and diverse restaurants. Remember to carry cash, as there are only a handful of ATMs available on the island.
Best things to do in Gili Air:
Swim and sunbathe on the inviting Gili Air Beach.
Snorkel amongst sea turtles at the designated Turtle Sanctuary.
Go diving at Air Wall, a distinctive macro dive site.
Dedicate a day to cycling around the island (given the absence of cars).
Find your center in a calming yoga class.
Indulge in a rejuvenating massage.
Getting to Gili Air:
Catch a fast boat from Padangbai, Sanur, or Serangan. The travel time can range from two to three hours, depending on your departure port and prevailing water conditions. You can also reach Gili Air from Bangsal in Lombok.
Article Summary:
The article outlines the best islands to visit near Bali for various travelers, categorizing them into Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan) and Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, Gili Air), alongside Komodo, Lombok, Flores, and Menjangan. Each island offers unique attractions, from world-class diving in Menjangan, Nusa Penida, and Komodo (where Komodo Dragons can be seen), to tranquil escapes in Nusa Ceningan and Gili Meno, and vibrant nightlife in Gili Trawangan. The guide provides detailed information on what to do and how to get to each island, catering to different preferences such as adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences. Specific highlights include Nusa Penida’s dramatic landscapes and Manta Point, Nusa Lembongan’s peaceful vibe, Nusa Ceningan’s serene beauty, Gili Trawangan’s car-free environment and party scene, and Gili Air’s tranquil charm. Emphasized is the need to book fast boat tickets in advance during peak season and specific travel details for each destination.
