On the west side, you’ll find White Sand Beach, with soft white sand and calm water that’s perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. On clear days, you can even spot the outline of Mount Agung in the distance, adding something extra special to the view. On Ceningan, Song Tepo Beach is one of the island’s quietest spots, especially popular at sunset. Wander along here and you’ll come across small beachside eateries where you can enjoy a local meal with your feet in the water.

At the edge of the island, right next to Hidden Beach, the waves crash powerfully against the rocks, sending dramatic sprays of water into the air. Devil’s Tears is one of those places where nature shows off its raw power, and it only gets more beautiful as the sun starts to set.

Nusa Lembongan also has a completely different side to it: a sprawling mangrove forest full of winding waterways and local wildlife. By boat or kayak, you can paddle calmly through the greenery, a nice change of pace from a day of sun and sand, and a good reminder of just how diverse this small island really is.

On the west coast of Ceningan lies Blue Lagoon, a beautiful bay with crystal-clear water and colorful coral reefs. You park along the road and walk a few minutes through the grass to reach the viewpoint, a small effort that’s more than rewarded once you see the water.

What also makes the Nusa Islands interesting is their culture. Old beliefs around magic still play a role in daily life here. It’s not a tourist attraction, but a fascinating part of what sets these islands apart from the rest of Bali.

From Sanur, you can reach Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan by speedboat, a crossing that takes about 30 to 45 minutes. On the islands themselves, a scooter is the easiest way to get around, thanks to the good main roads and light traffic. If you’d rather not drive yourself, hiring a local driver is also an option. For a visit, plan on 2 to 3 nights, giving you enough time to snorkel, dive and explore the highlights at a relaxed pace. If you’re short on time, even one night is enough to see the essentials.