Setting Sail to Nusa Penida

The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon as my wife and I were picked up from our hotel in Nusa Dua. Our driver, Peter, greeted us with a warm smile and a clean, air-conditioned SUV stocked with water and snacks. It was the perfect start to our day of adventure. The drive to Sanur Port was a breezy 30 minutes, and we had just enough time to enjoy some pastries and lattes at Tootsie Coffee & Eatery before boarding our speedboat to Nusa Penida.

The speedboat ride was shared with about 30-50 other travelers, but it was comfortable and offered stunning views. I recommend sitting on the left side on the way there and the right side on the return trip for the best views of the volcano. As a surfer, I always appreciate a good view of the ocean, and this ride did not disappoint.

Exploring the Island’s Legendary Spots

Upon arrival at Nusa Penida, we were greeted by our tour guide, Robert, whose knowledge of the island was as vast as the ocean itself. The roads were narrow and winding, but Robert’s expert driving made the journey smooth and safe. Our first stop was Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool with crystal-clear waters cascading into the ocean. It was a sight to behold, and I couldn’t resist taking a dip.

Next, we visited Broken Beach, a stunning cove with an archway that allows the ocean to flow in and out. The views were breathtaking, and Robert knew all the best spots for photos. He even took some fantastic shots of my wife and me, capturing the essence of our adventure.

Kelingking Beach, or T-Rex as the locals call it, was our final stop before lunch. The cliffs here form the shape of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and the view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. It’s no wonder this spot is a favorite among tourists and Instagrammers alike.

A Rainy Retreat

Lunch was at BQ Kitchen, where we enjoyed a delicious mix of Balinese and North American cuisine. The service was excellent, and our server, Rian, made sure we were well taken care of. Unfortunately, the weather took a turn, and heavy rain hit just as we were planning to swim at Crystal Bay Beach. As much as I love the ocean, we decided to skip the swim and head back to the port.

Our return journey was seamless, with Peter waiting for us at Sanur Port to take us back to our hotel. Despite the rain, our day on Nusa Penida was unforgettable, and the service from Forever Vacation Bali was top-notch. This adventure was a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, and I can’t wait to return to Bali for more sun-soaked memories.