Nusa Penida ranks as being among the three largest islands that can be found to be situated in the South-Eastern coast of Bali. The other two islands are Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. This place comprises of a total of 200 square kilometres and although may appear small and petite, there is a lot waiting for the visitors to discover at this beautiful holiday destination. It is much larger than the other two islands and the tourist infrastructure is fast growing.
Interesting part about Nusa Penida is that it lacks abundance of natural, fresh water. Therefore, very little is grown of produced on the lands. However, basic food amenities come via means of boats. Therefore, some places charge slightly higher prices as compared to the rest of Bali. Luxury items won’t be discovered in this place as the island city prevails of being simplistic and rural by nature.
Nusa Penida only recently became the unofficial bird sanctuary for several endangered species of birds such as the Balinese Starling and other Indonesian birds. Looking at how things were panning out especially with the nearing extinction of the Balinese Starling bird, the Friends of the National Park Foundation or FNPF started an introduction program in 2004 that protected near-extinct birds. Under this program 64 birds were released into the wild. Since then, similar release bird projects have been preventing from these birds to become extinct.
When it comes to travelling in this area, there isn’t much to explore. You can catch the daily public ferry or the private speed boat. There are many quite, beautiful and sand-ful beaches that visitors can explore while they are here. Located mostly in the north and north-west coasts, these are among the best ones.
Keep touts at bay.
Do not over indulge in liquor. Drink only as much as you can handle.
If you enroll yourself in water sports, make sure you keep a check on the safety gears and equipment. Never neglect your safety at any cost.
If you come across a foreigner who is weirdly dressed or anyone who seems like a drug dealer to you, keep away. Do not make eye contact and just walk away.
Do not indulge in drugs of any form.
Avoid getting in physical or verbal brawls with any local here.
Make sure you dress decently when you go to a religious place.
Do not wear clothes that are skimpy or over the top revealing.
Make sure you acquire all the necessary information before going to any new place.
Do not go to any secluded place all alone.
Make sure you do not get over friendly with strangers.
Keep your valuables safely.
Do not leave your valuables and excess cash in the hotel room.
Enquire about the room safe where you can keep your valuables.
Carry with you at least one identity proof.
Take a room or resort in an area that is know to you.
Buy only bottled mineral water.
Do not buy a bottle that does not have a seal on it.
Buy water only from a brand that is known to you.
Do not eat from the street vendors without checking the quality.
Visit the Crystal Bay: Visitors can take the western road from the main road of Lusa Penida and visit the Crystal Bay. This beach is white, stunning and perfect for adventure activities such as snorkeling, trekking and tourist chilling. This is among the primary attractions of Lusa Penida.
Get mesmerized by the FNPF Bird Sanctuary: The FNPF Bird Sanctuary is a conservation and community development centre that started the introduction program for preserving the endangered species of birds in Bali.
Check out the limestone cave at Suana village: This location consists of a unique-looking temple and a limestone cave wherein one can indulge in the art of meditation. If you are lucky enough, you might even be able to witness a ceremony or two.
Trekking on Mundi hill: One of the highest points in Lusa Penida is Puncak Mundi or the Mundi hill. One can take part in activities such as trekking or hill-climbing and reach this perfect holiday destination.
Mountain-biking with amazing coastline views: What would be perfect is if you were mountain-biking with amazing coastline views. This visit is perfect. The island which covers approximately 200km sq. can be covered in a day quite easily.
Take part in the culture: The natives are primarily Hindus and the language is spoken over here is an ancient dialect of Balinese. The architecture and dance is also quite unique. Take part in the culture and become one with the locals.