Where to Eat, Stay and Play on Bali’s little sister island.
Thirty years ago, the only visitors to Nusa Lembongan were surfers, and you had to ask the King for permission to stay. Fast-forward another ten years, and day-trippers swarmed the beaches on pleasure cruises from Bali. Today, Nusa Lembongan is a destination worth spending time in—with beautiful villas, boutique hotels, local and international restaurants, cute cafes and bars, and one of the best natural playgrounds in Bali.
Nusa Lembongan beckons with turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and a laid-back charm that’s hard to resist. Just 20 minutes from Sanur, seasoned adventurers and relaxation connoisseurs know that Lembongan’s charms are what holidays are all about. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, there’s plenty to see on Nusa Lembongan and the neighbouring islands Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida. Here are our tips on the best places to eat, stay and play.
Check out our favourites:
Best Eats on Nusa Lembongan
Curry Traders
Balmy nights and spicy curries are best friends. Step into this breezy colonial-style building with an old-fashioned bar and discover a world-class curry house in the centre of Nusa Lembongan. Order a seductive menu of curries and flatbreads made for sharing, partner with a spicy cocktail like a chai martini, or choose from a list of craft beers and tropics-worthy wines. Whether there are two of you or ten, Curry Traders is a brilliant restaurant and bar that isn’t just great for Lembongan, it’s as good as you’ll find anywhere. Inspired by their Asia travels, Kendra and Michael Philips launched Curry Traders in Australia, selling their popular spice kits, and their delicious home-style recipes are showcased brilliantly here. There are just six curries on the main menu from Goan fish to their signature Butter chicken and a Malaysian rendang, each cooked individually to make them distinctly different. Order some naan or roti and dip in. The restaurant is located in Jungutbatu, Nusa Lembongan’s town centre and main beach.
Tip: Don’t miss the water bubble shots, they’re a great way to start the evening.
Nisi Taverna.
From the family behind O’Hana’s Beach Club, Nisi Taverna captures the spirit of the Aegean in this family-style taverna. From keftedes to souvlaki to yoghurt-brined whole chickens, slow-cooked lamb, and the obligatory Greek salad, Nisi is a great addition to dining out in Nusa Lembongan. Casual, fan-cooled, with a lively bar and big tables to enjoy a Greek feast with friends or family, they have brought the concept of family with home-style dishes full of zingy flavours from herbs, citrus, yoghurt and fetta. It’s another great addition to Nusa Lembongan’s list of restaurants.
Tip: the crispy, tender keftedes (meatballs) will be a big hit, dip them into the tangy yoghurt sauce and transport yourself to the Greek Islands.
Sandy Bay Beach Club.
Sandy Bay Beach Club sits on one of the prettiest corners of Nusa Lembongan’s west coast, with waves crashing onto the rocks just metres from your table. It has that easy, beach-holiday feel you expect from Lembongan: soft coastal tones, plenty of natural textures and a relaxed pace that invites you to settle in for a long lunch or a lazy afternoon by the pool. The views are the star here, especially as the light shifts into late afternoon and the whole bay glows.
The menu is straightforward and reliable, from fresh seafood, salads, and pizzas to tropical cocktails and an excellent wine list that sets you up for a perfect laid-back day or evening by the sea. You come here for the setting as much as the food, and it delivers—especially if you time it for sunset.
Tip: Check out their live entertainment schedule and grab a seat facing the water, the best spot to watch the waves roll in.
Al Ponte.
Overlooking the channel between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, Al Ponte serves up decent Italian food all day. The location combined with piping hot pizzas straight out of the wood-fired oven, finger-licking garlic prawns and some predictable but tasty pasta dishes makes this home-style cafe a popular destination. Owned by an Italian, the dishes ring with authenticity. With a small pool, lots of deck space and great views of the seaweed farms and the neighbouring island, Al Ponte is as easy and breezy as you want on an island holiday.
Tip: Garlic prawns by the sea are always a hit, or try them as a pizza topping. There’s a decent wine list or you can BYO and pay for corkage.
The Coconut Hut.
This family-friendly Nusa Lembongan Cafe is just perfect in so many ways. There’s tasty homemade food, a great bar, a mini golf course to keep the kids busy while the grown-ups enjoy their cocktails, they have weekly markets and a cracking roast chicken dinner every Sunday that you can get delivered if eating out is all too much.
Set back from the beach at the end of Jungut Batu, The Coconut Hut is an island favourite that’s fun any time of the day or night. Fancy meeting some new friends, you’ll find them here.
Tip: The Sunday Roast is seriously good, tastes homemade and comes with all the trimmings.
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Suku Beach Club
For those seeking beachside luxury. the chic Suku Beach Club adds a touch of elegance to the shores of Nusa Ceningan. This family-friendly beach club boasts a two-story restaurant overlooking one of the island’s most renowned surf breaks. Relax on plush loungers by the infinity pool, sipping on delectable cocktails while gazing at the azure ocean vistas.
The club’s design merges modern sophistication with island vibes, providing the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy moments. The diverse menu offers everything from refreshing salads to seafood delicacies and tropical cocktails. Whether basking in the sun or enjoying a romantic early dinner (Suku closes at 8 pm), Suku Beach Club is stunning and a great experience for visitors looking to enjoy a little luxury by the turquoise sea in Nusa Lembongan.
Tip: Stay tuned as they plan to open their boutique hotel soon.
Lago
Who doesn’t love a great pontoon bar? The short boat trip from the Lago’s base on a beautiful white sand beach is free, and you’ll love being surrounded by crystal-clear water while surfers float past on the famous waves. Lago is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, adventure seekers, party people and anyone who wants to enjoy a great day out. This vibrant aquatic playground offers activities from snorkelling and diving to paddleboarding and kayaking. Dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life or paddle serenely along the coastline, absorbing the scenic beauty of Nusa Lembongan.
Tip: can’t drag yourself away from this gorgeous spot? Check out Lago Beach House for accommodation. They have a sweet beach cafe as well. Stop in to order a boat to take you out to the pontoon, they’ve captured the spirit of Nusa Lembongan beautifully – carefree, barefoot and fuelled by cocktails.
Nusa Lembongan's Best Stays
Sandy Bay Beach Shacks
Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Sandy Bay Beach Shacks epitomise laid-back luxury fused with rustic charm. This charming boutique resort offers an authentic island experience in beautifully designed ‘shacks’ behind the Sandy Bay Beach Club. With a spa, pool, yoga room and a beautiful breakfast included in the affordable rates, enjoy quiet afternoons on your verandah, sink into deliciously comfortable beds at night, and make your way down to the beach club to enjoy the wild surf beach and horizon pool, entertainment nights and a delicious menu of beach club classics.
Lembongan Traveller Villas
For those seeking a more lavish retreat, Check out the selection offered by The Lembongan Traveller and check out their collection of private villas. Take your pick of some of the island’s most beautiful villas, located across the island, get great rates and enjoy discounts on your transfers from Bali. Nusa Lembongan is home to beautiful villas in all sizes and there’s something to suit all budgets, check it out.
Batu Karang Resort
One of the original and still among the best Nusa Lembongan resorts, Batu Karang is all about the views – and they are spectacular. Stay in stunning self-contained rooms with balconies that overlook the bay and the mighty Mt Agung on Bali, the location is a dream. It’s luxe so you’ll spend a bit more but waking up to the sound of the waves and the stunning views from your private terrace makes it all worth it.
Tip: On the coastal walk to Batu Karang you’ll find The Deck, a popular spot for lunch or dinner. Beneath The Deck is one of Nusa Lembongan’s best secret bars where whisky reigns but cocktails are fun too.
Le Pirate
Le Pirate’s iconic beach-chic bungalows offer a bohemian escape with charming beachfront bungalows and a lively atmosphere. Located on the other side of the yellow bridge on the sweet side of Nusa Ceningan, Le Pirate attracts a young crowd who love the location overlooking the channel, and easy access to famous surf spots, boat trips to swim with mantas and excellent snorkelling. Nusa Ceningan now has some great attractions including two beach clubs and picturesque spots to grab the perfect photos. The adults-only (over 16) beach resort is fun, pretty and well-priced.
Top Things To Do In Nusa Lembongan.
Surf. It all began with the surfers who discovered the breaks, with names like Impossible and Lacerations (sounds a little scary to me), and this is still a big surf town.
Enjoy a day at the beach. Swimming at Sandy Bay is a little treacherous and not recommended but the pool overlooking the beach is lovely. Otherwise, Mushroom Beach is still the best swimming for my money, while Mahagiri at the right tide is beautiful. Dream Beach is also a pretty swimming beach at the right tide.
Tour the Mangroves. The mangroves at Nusa Lembongan are rich with sea life. Boardwalks line the entrance and tours by boat which includes snorkelling is a great way to discover this green pocket of the island.
Cliff jumping. While not for everyone, and sometimes accidents do happen, an amazing amount of people do jump the cliffs at Devil’s Tear.
Swim with the Mola Mola and snorkel with the Mantas: This is one of the best places to see the giant sunfish. Manta Point is full of gentle giant mantas and it’s a perfect stop on a day trip to Nusa Penida.
Discover Nusa Penida. Boats go daily from near the bridge. Crystal Bay is a beautiful swimming beach while dive trips are organised daily from Nusa Lembongan.
Snorkel and dive. This is some of the clearest water you will find and everyone from beginners to experienced divers will find stunning coral and abundant sea life. For beginners there are some excellent dive schools where you can get your PADI.
Rent a bike. The roads around Nusa Lembongan are the perfect place to learn to drive a scooter. The roads are busier than they were so you’ll need to take care but it’s a great way to explore.
Check out our other blog about Nusa Penida HERE
A Quick Guide to Nusa Lembongan.
Nusa Lembongan, Bali’s little sister island, beckons with turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and a laid-back charm that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a relaxation connoisseur, Lembongan offers a captivating blend of experiences to tantalise your taste buds, soothe your soul, and ignite your sense of wonder.
A Culinary Journey: From Curries to Pontoon Margaritas
Nusa Lembongan’s culinary scene is a delightful surprise.
- Curry Traders: Spice up your evenings with a visit to Curry Traders. This colonial-style gem offers a world-class curry experience, perfect for sharing with friends over refreshing cocktails or a glass of wine.
- Nisi Taverna: Transport yourself to the Aegean with Nisi Taverna’s family-style Greek fare. Indulge in succulent souvlaki, slow-cooked lamb, and tangy salads, all bursting with the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean.
- Sandy Bay Beach Club: For a taste of island life, head to Sandy Bay. This family-run haven offers a delectable selection of burgers, pizzas, and pastas alongside breathtaking ocean views. Don’t miss their famous ice cream or the decadent vegan chocolate cake!
- Al Ponte: Savour authentic Italian flavours overlooking the channel at Al Ponte. This charming cafe serves piping hot pizzas, fresh seafood, and classic pasta dishes, perfect for a relaxed lunch or sunset dinner.
Island Adventures: Sun, Surf, and Serene Escapes
Beyond the culinary delights, Nusa Lembongan offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained.
- Suku Beach Club: Indulge in beachside luxury at Suku Beach Club on Nusa Ceningan. Unwind on plush loungers by the infinity pool, savour delicious food, and soak in the stunning ocean vistas.
- Lago: Get your adrenaline pumping at Lago, a vibrant pontoon bar. This aquatic playground offers everything from snorkelling and diving to paddleboarding and kayaking. Relax in the crystal-clear water and witness the beauty of the marine life.
- Spring Spa: Find your island bliss at Spring Spa, one of Bali’s Best Spas with views that stretch across the Bay and world-class treatments and packages for hair, beauty and rejuvenation.
Island Bliss: Where to Rest Your Head
Nusa Lembongan caters to a variety of tastes and budgets when it comes to accommodation.
- Sandy Bay Beach Shacks: Experience laid-back luxury with a touch of rustic charm at Sandy Bay Beach Shacks. These beautifully designed “shacks” offer a tranquil retreat with a spa, pool, yoga room, and delicious breakfast included.
- Lembongan Traveller Villas: For a luxurious escape, explore the private villas offered by The Lembongan Traveller. Choose from stunning villas across the island and enjoy great rates and transfer discounts.
- O’ハナ’s (Ohana’s): Embrace comfort and charm at O’Hana’s. This beachfront haven features a lively beach club and comfortable accommodations, perfect for families or groups of friends.
- Le Pirate: Escape to the bohemian paradise of Le Pirate on Nusa Ceningan. These iconic beach-chic bungalows offer a vibrant atmosphere and stunning views, ideal for surfers and adventure seekers.
Beyond the Beach: Unveiling Nusa Lembongan's Hidden Gems
While Nusa Lembongan is perfect for relaxation, there’s more to explore for the adventurous soul:
- Dive and Snorkel: Explore the vibrant underwater world with diving and snorkelling tours. Beginners and experienced divers will find a variety of options to suit their needs.
- Swim with the Mantas: Embark on a thrilling adventure by taking a day trip to Nusa Penida and snorkelling alongside majestic manta rays in Manta Bay.
Nusa Lembongan is a destination with delicious flavours, captivating experiences, and idyllic escapes. Book your trip and soak up the sun, explore the hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories in this island paradise.
