SANDY SHORES
Generally, the beach is incredibly quiet, with a limited number of tourists due to its distance from the other main destinations in the north of Nusa Penida, as well as the beach being harder to access. When walking along the stretch of white sand, the sheer cliffs above are accentuated, towering high above in an impressive manner. The sea can be rough due to the strong waves and current, an underlying reef, and many rocks. Thus, swimming is not ideal, and visiting at low tide is advised. As a relatively new tourist destination, caution should be taken as little help will be present. Despite the rough waves, a range of wildlife has been spotted on the shores, from turtles to dolphins, manta rays, and monitor lizards.
Diamond Beach
Indonesia
Nusa Penida, Bali, is an island on the east coast of Bali mainland and is home to some spectacular coastlines, one of which is the untouched, hidden Diamond Beach, located on the south-eastern tip of the island. Like many other coastlines of Nusa Penida, immense cliffs overlook Diamond Beach and its turquoise, crystal waters. The distinct diamond-shaped rock, positioned in the shallows, is what gave this beach its name and is what sets this beach apart from multiple others.
BEACH DECENT
The view from the top of the cliff is quite breathtaking, many saying it is straight from a postcard. Originally, this beautiful beach was inaccessible, with no way of reaching its white shores. Yet, in 2018, a stairway was carved out of the limestone cliff edge, and visiting the beach became possible after a 20 minute steep descent. With the cliff-hanging over the steps in parts, some may find the walk down challenging. Near the bottom, the famous swing and nest spots allow photo opportunities, surrounded by palm trees. The stairs construction has not been fully completed and the final section is precarious as it requires climbing over some rocks before emerging onto the beach.
"The view from the top of the cliff is quite breathtaking, many saying it is straight from a postcard"
DESTINATION ARRIVAL
Both car and moped are ways of arriving at Diamond Beach, where there is a minor parking fee of 10,000 IDR (less than 1US$). The drive from the main Nusa Penida docks and island accommodation in the north takes about an hour and is a relatively simple drive, but caution should be taken if travelling by moped or motorbike due to the rough, narrow roads and fast cars. The neighbouring Atuh Beach is also an incredible destination and only takes 15 minutes to walk there from Diamond Beach.