Islands Near Bali
Nusa Penida
The largest and most dramatic of the Nusa islands, Nusa Penida is a rugged paradise of towering limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and crystal-clear waters teeming with manta rays and vibrant coral reefs. Its jaw-dropping landscapes — most famously the T-Rex-shaped Kelingking Beach cliff — have made it one of the most Instagram-famous destinations in all of Indonesia. Despite its growing popularity, much of the island remains wild and undeveloped, with bumpy dirt roads leading to breathtaking viewpoints and secluded coves. A day trip or overnight stay here is an absolute must for anyone visiting Bali who craves raw natural beauty and genuine adventure.
Nusa Lembongan
A small, laid-back island just off Bali's southeast coast, Nusa Lembongan offers the perfect blend of tropical beauty and easy-going island vibes without the overwhelming crowds. Its turquoise waters, mangrove forests, and seaweed farms paint a picture of a simpler, slower life — yet the island still delivers world-class surfing at Playgrounds and Lacerations, plus the spectacular Devil's Tears blowhole where ocean swells explode against jagged cliffs in rainbow-misted sprays. The island is small enough to explore by scooter in a day, with charming beachfront warungs and sunset viewpoints around every corner. Nusa Lembongan strikes the ideal balance between accessible comfort and authentic island charm.
Nusa Ceningan
The smallest of the three Nusa islands, Nusa Ceningan is a hidden gem connected to Nusa Lembongan by a striking yellow suspension bridge that has become an icon in its own right. The island is best known for its mesmerizing Blue Lagoon — a narrow cliff-framed inlet where impossibly turquoise water crashes against limestone walls — and for adrenaline-pumping cliff jumping spots that draw thrill-seekers from around the world. Despite its tiny size, Ceningan packs a surprising amount of character with hillside viewpoints, secret beaches, and a handful of chilled-out cafes perched above the ocean. It offers the most intimate and uncrowded island experience of the Nusa trio, perfect for those who want to feel like they have discovered somewhere truly special.
Gili Trawangan
The largest and liveliest of the three Gili islands, Gili Trawangan — affectionately known as Gili T — is legendary for its vibrant nightlife, stunning white-sand beaches, and a unique car-free lifestyle where horse-drawn carts and bicycles are the only way to get around. By day, the island is a world-class diving and snorkeling destination with crystal-clear waters, abundant sea turtles, and colorful coral gardens just steps from the shore. As the sun sets, the west coast transforms into a buzzing strip of beach bars, live music, and fire dancers, earning Gili T its reputation as the party island of Indonesia. Despite the nightlife scene, the quieter north and east sides of the island offer peaceful stretches of sand and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Gili Air
Sitting closest to the Lombok mainland, Gili Air strikes the perfect balance between the party energy of Gili Trawangan and the serene seclusion of Gili Meno, making it a favorite among travelers who want a bit of everything. The island has a thriving local Sasak community whose traditional culture blends seamlessly with a growing scene of yoga studios, beachfront restaurants, and boutique guesthouses. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling right off the beach, with sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations visible just meters from shore. With no motorized vehicles, a walk around the entire island takes just over an hour — passing coconut groves, turquoise lagoons, and some of the most spectacular sunsets in Southeast Asia.
Gili Meno
The smallest and most tranquil of the three Gili islands, Gili Meno is a barefoot paradise that feels like a castaway dream — powdery white sand, impossibly clear water, and a blissful absence of crowds and nightlife. The island is home to a beloved turtle sanctuary where hatchlings are raised and released, and its surrounding waters offer some of the best snorkeling in the Gilis, including the hauntingly beautiful underwater NEST sculpture installation. With just a handful of rustic bungalows and beachfront restaurants, Gili Meno has earned its reputation as the ultimate honeymoon island, where the biggest decision of the day is whether to snorkel before or after your beachside massage. For travelers seeking genuine peace and pristine nature, Gili Meno delivers an unforgettable escape from the modern world.