Coastline spots
Once you reach the sweeping shores of Nusa Panida, it’s advisable to hire a driver for the day and agree on a price beforehand. There are plenty of drivers to be found at the main harbour and they are more than happy to show you the best sites.
Kelingking Beach
If views and beach are on your agenda, tell your driver to head to Kelingking Beach as your first port of call. A restaurant is perched atop the bay and is the main entrance point, but walk towards the cliff face to reveal the true splendour of this hidden gem.
From this awe-inspiring vantage point you can see the cove which encloses the unspoilt beach. The cliffs surrounding the pristine white sand and crashing waves resemble a dinosaur, with its head to the left and its body and tail sweeping around the cove — almost as if it were protecting concealed treasures.
Continue down the rugged path along the ancient beast’s spine towards the brilliantly blue waters below. Although the sea is crystal clear, what is hidden to the naked eye is the closeness of the shore break, so be cautious if you plan to cool off in the water — the waves are, however, idyllic for a private surf.
Angel’s Billabong
The next stunning location on your tour around the coastline is Angel’s Billabong. If you catch this bay at low tide, it reveals a mesmerising cove where you can wade out and take a dip. Enclosed by the cliff faces, this tranquil locale becomes its own natural infinity pool, creating picture-perfect scenery.
Broken Beach
Just a five-minute walk from this intriguing location lies another rock formation that is equally as impressive and millions of years in the making. Broken Beach is a wonderful and jaw-dropping cove that is crowned by a gigantic, naturally formed archway that provides a gateway to the ocean. Unfortunately, there is no way down to experience first-hand the inviting waters below, but it makes for the most amazing vista.
Crystal Bay
For a coastline destination that is a little more laid back, Crystal Bay presents golden sand, calm waves and excellent facilities to make your day at the beach a supremely relaxing one. The water quality lives up to its name and although there are plenty of snorkelling tours that start from this beach, if you’re able to swim about 30 yards, a bountiful coral reef full of life and possibly turtles lies beneath the waves. If you plan to stay on Nusa Penida for the night, this beach’s westerly-facing direction makes it the ideal spot for the most beautiful sunsets on the island.
Atah Beach
Atah Beach offers similarly spectacular qualities, but is a classic example of a tidal bay. At low tide all you’ll see is a scattering of rocks spread across the exposed ocean floor, but at high tide, Atah Beach reveals an unparalleled location. A hike down the stairs and past the dense layers of trees and vines will take you to the shoreline and its incredible scenery. In the foreground lay grand rock formations, including an enormous arch that stands proudly against the skyline.
