5 Ways How to Get to Nusa Penida from Bali

If you have seen the photos of the cliffs and beaches, you probably already know you want to go. Now you just need to figure out how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. It is actually a lot simpler than it looks because you have a few different harbors to choose from depending on where you are staying in Bali and how much you want to spend. Getting there is straightforward as long as you pick the right boat for your schedule.

Here are five simple ways on how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali, plus tips to help you arrive stress-free!

Fast Boat From Sanur to Nusa Penida (Most Popular Option)

Sanur Harbor is the most common starting point for anyone figuring out how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. It sits on the southeast coast, which makes it easy to reach if you are coming from Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu.

Here is why most people end up catching a boat from here:

• Boats leave all day long so you have plenty of timing options for your schedule.
• You can handle the booking online ahead of time to avoid any last minute stress.
• There are many different boat companies to choose from depending on your budget.

The crossing usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes depending on the waves. If you want a simple and predictable route, Sanur is usually the easiest choice. Just keep in mind that Sanur often requires a "wet landing," meaning you will likely have to walk through the water to get onto the boat.

Fast Boat From Serangan to Nusa Penida (Good for South Bali)

If you are based in the south of Bali in places like Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, or Uluwatu, Serangan Harbor is a much smarter choice when looking at how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali. Driving all the way up to Sanur in the morning traffic can be a nightmare, so heading here instead saves you a lot of time and frustration. The boats from this harbor are generally more organized and you will not have to deal with the massive, pushy crowds found at the bigger ports.

The tickets here are usually a bit more expensive, but many companies include a hotel pickup which simplifies your entire morning. It is the best option if you want to skip the chaos and start your trip with a much smoother boarding process. You will definitely appreciate the extra sleep and the fact that you aren't fighting through a mob of people just to get on the boat. Choosing this route means you trade a little extra money for a much more relaxed travel day.

Fast Boat From Padang Bai to Nusa Penida (Handy for East Bali)

If you are already staying in East Bali, Padang Bai is the most logical place to start your trip to Penida. This harbor is commonly used for trips to the Gili Islands, but some fast boats also serve Nusa Penida. 

It’s especially convenient if you’re staying in areas like Candidasa or exploring East Bali, as it helps you avoid long drives across the island. Many travelers also choose this route if they plan to combine a Penida trip with onward travel to Lombok. The crossing usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the route and sea conditions.

Fast Boat From Kusamba to Nusa Penida (Fastest Crossing)

For those who want the shortest sea journey when researching how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali, Kusamba Harbor is often the fastest crossing point. Located between Sanur and Padang Bai, Kusamba offers a direct and quick transfer.

Because it’s closer to Nusa Penida geographically, travel time can be as short as 20–30 minutes. However, facilities here are simpler and departures are less frequent, so it’s best suited for travelers who prioritize speed over convenience.

Go Via Nusa Lembongan First, Then Transfer to Nusa Penida

Another interesting option when thinking about how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali is traveling via Nusa Lembongan first. Many fast boats stop at Lembongan before continuing to Penida, or you can stay overnight and transfer the next day. This route works well if you want to visit two islands in one trip, prefer slower and more flexible travel, or plan a short island-hopping itinerary. The Lembongan-to-Penida transfer is quick, often just 10–15 minutes by local boat, making it a great choice for travelers who want to explore both islands in one journey.

Which Route Should You Choose (Simple Pick Guide)

With several options available, choosing how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali depends on where you’re staying and how you like to travel. But, most travelers still prefer Sanur because it balances convenience, availability, and ease of booking.

Quick decision guide:

• Staying in Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud → Choose Sanur
• Staying in Uluwatu or Nusa Dua → Try Serangan
• Staying in East Bali → Padang Bai makes sense
• Want the fastest crossing → Consider Kusamba
• Want to island-hop → Go via Nusa Lembongan

Once you have figured out which boat route works for you, the hardest part of the trip is already finished, and you can get ready to actually enjoy your time on the island.

Arrival Tips on Nusa Penida So Your Pickup Is Smooth

Getting the boat right is only half the battle. Once you actually land on the island, there are a few things you should know to avoid getting stuck at the harbor. When you arrive, a little preparation can make things much easier. Nusa Penida is still more simple than Bali, so the arrival may feel different but with some planning, everything can go smoothly.

Here are a few helpful arrival tips:

• Pre-arrange pickup with your hotel or driver
• Wear sandals or simple shoes for beach landings
• Keep small cash for harbor fees or local transport
• Travel light if possible

If your pickup is ready, you can avoid stress and start your Nusa Penida trip.

Make Your Arrival Easy at Deep Roots Nusa Penida Resort

Once you have figured out how to get to Nusa Penida from Bali, you need to pick a place to stay that doesn't add more stress to your trip. Deep Roots Nusa Penida resort is built for this. You can have Deep Roots handle your pickup from the harbor so you don't have to haggle with drivers as soon as you step off the boat. From there, it is easy to set your own pace for the rest of your visit. You can book diving Nusa Penida trips to see the mantas or join a yoga Nusa Penida session if you just need to move after the boat ride.

Staying at this Nusa Penida resort is really the only way to see the island without the pressure of a day-trip schedule. Instead of rushing to finish your tour before the last boat leaves for Bali, you can actually take your time at the viewpoints. You get to wake up on the island, eat breakfast without a crowd, and see the famous spots before the boatloads of tourists arrive from the mainland. It makes the whole experience feel like a real trip rather than a race.