One of the most popular spots on the west side of Nusa Penida island is Crystal Bay & Beach.
This is not really a โmust seeโ location, but itโs still a good hangout or suntanning spot, and it has plenty of warungs (little food and drink shacks) for refreshments.
Thereโs even accommodation here if youโd like to stay close to the beach. This travel guide will explain how to get there, and everything you need to know before you go!
Where To Stay In Nusa Penida
What To Do At Crystal Bay Nusa Penida
โข Snorkeling
Snorkeling gear can be rented here for 50k IDR (~$3 USD), and the corals are supposed to be pretty good if you go further out, but do be careful because Iโve heard the ocean currents at this bay can be a bit dicey in some spots.
Generally there are plenty of traditional boats anchored out in the bay that you could grab onto though, if need be.
โข Temples
Thereโs a small rocky island with some trees on it out in the center of the bay, but access for tourists is limited since thereโs an old Hindu temple on it.
Thereโs also a temple on the main beach that is surrounded by palm trees and makes for a cool photo op, and you can go inside if youโre dressed properly (sarong).
โข Crystal Beach
I first visited Crystal Bay back in 2017, when Penida was a quieter island and still in the process of being discovered by tourists.
I flew a little drone over the ocean and looked at the boats from a distance, while some very intrigued local kids huddled around to watch.
Nowadays, the beach here is getting pretty crowded with tourists, but I still think itโs worth a stop to at least look around or chill for awhile.
โข Sunset
In my opinion, the best thing about Crystal Bay is that itโs one of the great spots to catch the sunset in Penida.
Last July, I went back here with a buddy and we sipped Bintangs with our toes in the sand while the sunset came down over the rocks on the coast.
This is a great place to stop for some downtime or finish the day after touring Penida.
Entrance Fees
Thereโs a 10k IDR (less than one US Dollar) parking fee as of 2020.
How To Get To Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay is on the west side of Nusa Penida island.
Itโs accessible by car or scooter, about 30 minutes drive from the main docks and accommodation in northern Penida.
If youโre looking for more info on how to get to Nusa Penida island in the first place, you can find that here.
More Nusa Penida Travel Tips
Looking for more information on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida in Bali?
Don't forget to check out my full Nusa Penida Travel Guide with free tips, maps, photos, and more.
This island is loaded with nice beaches, cliffs, caves, and snorkeling spots!
Day Tours To Nusa Penida
If you're on a tight schedule or want to skip the extra steps involved in arranging your own trip to Nusa Penida, GetYourGuide has prearranged day trips to Penida, complete with hotel transfer, fast boat tickets, island tour, and same day return to Bali.
We've used GetYourGuide for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they're great! Highly recommended.
Book Now: Nusa Penida Day Trip
Where We Stayed
We stayed at Saren Villa on the north coast of Nusa Penida, and paid 240k Rupiah ($15 USD) for a private double room with cold A/C, hot shower, and good WiFi.
This is one of the cheapest options in Penida, and it's in a great location near the best restaurants! We were happy.
Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.
See Also
- Nusa Penida Island: Complete Travel Guide
- 4-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary - Bali's Blue Paradise Island
- How To Get To Nusa Penida From Bali
- What To Do In Nusa Penida - Caves, Beaches, Cliffs, & Temples
- GetYourGuide Day Tours To Nusa Penida Island
- Bali Beach Guide - The Best Beaches In Bali
- Bali Waterfalls Guide - The Best Waterfalls In Bali
- Bali Temple Guide - The Best Temples In Bali
- Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands - Best Places To Visit In Indonesia