About the ride from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan
Leaving laidback Sanur for the ultra-sleepy Nusa Lembongan might feel like you're trading one Indonesian shore for the next. But each place has its own vibe, and they are nothing alike.
Sanur is a popular spot in Bali, and while it offers calm beaches and a chilled-out atmosphere, Nusa Lembongan takes it to the next level. It's like a lost paradise. It's the kind of place where you slow down, soak up the natural beauty, and just breathe.
Luckily, getting between the two destinations couldn't be easier.
You've got two choices:
A 30-ish minute ferry.
A 1-2 hour van + ferry combo ticket.
We'll give you all the details below.
But first…
Five cool things to do in Nusa Lembongan
Despite its small size, this island has quite a few breathtaking sights and unique experiences.
Start with these:
Beach-hop in paradise. You're on an island, so soak up the sun! Start with Dream Beach in the south, then work your way up to Jungutbatu Beach. Whether you're lounging in the sand or dipping into turquoise waters, this is island bliss at its finest.
Ride the waves. If you've ever wanted to surf, this is the place to do it. Whether you're a total newbie or a pro chasing the perfect break, Nusa Lembongan's surf scene has something for everyone. Book a lesson or paddle out to renowned surf spots.
Chase epic views. From the crashing waves at Devil's Tears to the jaw-dropping colors of Sunset Point, the island is full of panoramic beauty. Bring your camera — and a backup battery.
Float through the mangroves. The north side of the island is home to serene mangrove forests, best explored by boat. A guided tour lets you glide through this peaceful ecosystem, a perfect escape from the beach crowds.
Snorkel with marine life. Vibrant coral, colorful fish, and majestic manta rays are just beneath the water's surface. Snorkel straight from the shores of Dream Beach or slip through a rock crevice at Mushroom Beach to reach the aptly named Secret Beach.
How to get from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan
To get between these two beachy havens, you'll for sure need a ferry. The question is whether to include a minivan pick-up from your hotel. Here are the details:
Ferry: The fastest way
Prices start at $5
Duration: 30-40 minutes
The ferry is the quickest way to get from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan.
Your departure place varies depending on the operator you choose. You might take off from Sanur Port, Sanur Beach or the company's own location. But no matter what, you'll need to arrive at the ticket counter for check-in one hour early, or they'll consider you a no-show.
So, even though you're on an island, don't get too comfortable with island time.
Just as the departure points vary, so do the arrival destinations. Lembongan Harbour, Mushroom Beach, and the Tanis Beach Resort are a few possibilities.
Most operators allow at least 44 lbs/20 kg of luggage. Not all ferries are direct, but the ride is never more than 40 minutes. You'll be in paradise in no time.
Bus + Ferry: The most convenient way
Prices start at $16
Duration: one to two hours
Yes, this option takes longer, but you'll get picked up at your hotel in an air-conditioned minivan, making it extra convenient. There is no need to figure out where to go or worry about finding the correct departure spot.
The minivan will drive you to the ferry for the 30-40-minute ride to Nusa Lembongan.
The travel time might vary depending on the number of passengers and hotel stops that must be made before getting to the ferry.
Details about the trip from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan
The ride east from Sanur across the Bali Sea to Nusa Lembongan is a breeze, especially if you decide to sit on the top deck of the ferry to take in the views. However, depending on your ferry departure time, it might be sweltering — sitting in the inside air-conditioning might be an even better alternative.
You'll wish it was a longer ferry ride after speeding from one paradise to the next over the sparkling azure water.
The best time to travel from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan
April to October is the dry season, which means low humidity but long days full of sunshine. If you're there to surf, this is the perfect time.
Monsoon season arrives in full force from November to March, which renders the island pretty useless if you're there on a beach holiday.
How many days should you spend in Nusa Lembongan?
It's a small island, but three to four days is enough time to really unwind and switch off. Stay longer if the thought of going back to reality gives you heartburn.
Where to go after Nusa Lembongan
Once you're itching for a little liveliness, the next logical spot is the island of Lombok. In less than four hours, a ferry or flight can whisk you away to a fresh island adventure.
Or you can spend a whopping $4 and ferry next door to Nusa Penida.