Crystal Bay Nusa Penida – Sunset Beach In Bali

by David & Intan

One of the most popular spots on the west side of Nusa Penida island is Crystal Bay & Beach.

This is not really a β€œmust see” location, but it’s still a good hangout or suntanning spot, and it has plenty of warungs (little food and drink shacks) for refreshments.

There’s even accommodation here if you’d 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

β€’ 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 I’ve 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.

Aerial view of the small island in front of Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali

Boats floating at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali

Boats floating at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali
 
 

β€’ Temples

There’s a small rocky island with some trees on it out in the center of the bay, but access for tourists is limited since there’s an old Hindu temple on it.

There’s 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 you’re dressed properly (sarong).

Palm trees and Balinese Hindu temple at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali

Aerial view of the small island at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali

Drone view of boats and swimmer at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali
 
 

β€’ 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 it’s worth a stop to at least look around or chill for awhile.

Fresh fruit drinks on a beach table at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali

Bintang beers on a table at a Crystal Bay warung
 
 

β€’ Sunset

In my opinion, the best thing about Crystal Bay is that it’s 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.

Bintang beer bottles in the sunset at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali
Sunset on the beach at Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali
 
 

Entrance Fees

Entrance is FREE as of 2024, but there’s a parking fee of 5k IDR for scooters.
 

How To Get To Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is on the west side of Nusa Penida island.

It’s accessible by car or scooter, about 30 minutes drive from the main docks and accommodation in northern Penida.

If you’re 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.


 

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