The Hidden Beauty of Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida: A Tourist Paradise and Top Diving Spot in Bali
Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali, is often referred to as one of the world’s hidden paradises.
This beach not only attracts local visitors but also tourists from around the world, much like Bali’s famous Kuta Beach.
Known for its cliff formations resembling a pinky finger, the beach offers breathtaking natural views from the cliffs down to the white sandy shoreline.
Attractions of Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach offers a variety of attractions that make it so special in the eyes of travelers.
From stunning cliffs to swimming with manta rays, here are some highlights to enjoy at Kelingking Beach:
T-Rex Cliff
The cliffs here resemble the shape of a Tyrannosaurus Rex (T-Rex), one of the main attractions of Kelingking Beach.
The lush green cliffs towering over the sea create a dramatic and stunning view when seen from above.
Love Tree: A Popular Photo Spot
Near the “Kelingking Secret Point,” there is a tree known as the Love Tree.
This tree became popular after being used for pre-wedding photo shoots and has since become a favorite spot for tourists to take pictures.
The Legend of the Kelingking Dragon
There is a local folklore attached to the beach, where the rock formation is believed to be the remains of a dragon killed by a hero.
The local community highly respects this legend, reflecting the deep connection between nature and local culture.
Unique Entrance Resembling a Pinky Finger
To reach the beach, visitors must descend from the top of the cliff via a challenging path. The entrance juts out toward the sea, resembling a pinky finger, matching the beach’s name.
The path down is steep and requires good physical condition to navigate the steps leading to the beach.
Swimming with Manta Rays
For divers, Manta Point near Kelingking Beach offers an extraordinary diving experience. Here, visitors can swim alongside manta rays, creating an unforgettable experience.
Unlike other diving spots, this location allows you to be surrounded by dozens of freely swimming manta rays.
Diving and Snorkeling
The water around Kelingking Beach is incredibly clear, with beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life.
This makes Kelingking Beach one of the best diving spots in Nusa Penida. Visitors who enjoy water sports can also try snorkeling to explore the underwater beauty.
Soft White Sand
Kelingking Beach boasts soft, clean white sand that is perfect for walking or simply relaxing.
The crystal-clear waters add to the beach’s charm, making it ideal for swimming or just splashing around.
Access and Routes to Kelingking Beach
There are several routes to reach Kelingking Beach, depending on where you start your journey:
- Padang Bai Harbor, Karangasem From Padang Bai Harbor, visitors can take a ferry or fast boat to Nusa Penida. Ferry tickets cost around Rp50,000 per person, while fast boat prices vary depending on the operator chosen.
- Sanur Beach Alternatively, visitors can depart from Sanur Beach using a traditional boat to Nusa Penida. The trip takes about an hour, and boat fares are less than Rp50,000 per person.
- Nusa Penida Island If you’re already on Nusa Penida Island, you can use land transportation such as a rented car or motorbike to continue your journey to Kelingking Beach. Vehicle rental prices start from Rp70,000 per day, or more if you hire a driver.
Once you arrive at the Kelingking Beach area, you can park your vehicle in the designated parking area.
Entrance Fee and Facilities
To enter Kelingking Beach, visitors are charged an entrance fee of Rp10,000 per person, with additional parking fees between Rp2,000 and Rp5,000.
Basic facilities such as parking areas and toilets are available near the beach, although the path to the beach requires extra stamina due to the challenging terrain.
Best Time to Visit Kelingking Beach
To avoid crowds, the best time to visit Kelingking Beach is after 3 PM. In the morning, the beach is still shaded by the cliffs, so the views are not as spectacular as when the sun begins to set.
If you’re only planning to enjoy the view from above, the ideal time is between 4 and 5 PM. However, avoid staying too late, especially if you need to drive on dark roads.
Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida is a must-visit destination when traveling to Bali. From the iconic T-Rex cliffs to diving with manta rays and relaxing on soft white sand, this beach offers a variety of incredible experiences.
With affordable entrance fees, Kelingking Beach is the perfect choice for a vacation with your partner, family, or friends.