Full Day Trip Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan Islands from Bali

If you’re craving a day away from Bali’s bustling crowds, this full-day tour to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan offers a refreshing escape filled with spectacular scenery, laid-back island vibes, and some of the best views Indonesia has to offer. While it’s a popular choice, the experience seems to strike a good balance between guided convenience and authentic outdoor adventure.

What we love about this trip is how it starts with the promise of peaceful beaches and ends with a taste of local life—without the hefty price tag. The included lunch and guided tours make it both engaging and relaxing. However, keep in mind that the ferry transfers and group size might impact your overall experience. It’s ideal for travelers short on time, who want to enjoy a snapshot of Bali’s nearby islands without sacrificing comfort or scenery.

This tour is best suited for those seeking beautiful beaches, natural scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day trip with some good photo opportunities and local flavor, you’ll find it a worthy addition to your Bali itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with beaches, cliffs, and turquoise waters
• Visit multiple highlights like Dream Beach, Devil’s Tears, Blue Lagoon, and the Yellow Bridge
• All-in-one experience with transportation, guided tours, and local Indonesian lunch
• Flexible pickup options including hotel transfers or meeting at Sanur harbor
• Balanced pacing with enough time to explore without feeling rushed
• Affordable value for a full-day island adventure at $89 per person

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup (if you choose that option) or at a designated meeting point in Sanur. From there, it’s about 45 minutes on a fast boat to Nusa Lembongan, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and get excited for the day ahead. The boat ride is generally smooth, and you’ll often find the ride quite scenic with the boat slicing through Bali’s busy waters towards these quieter islands.

Exploring Nusa Lembongan

Once on Nusa Lembongan, the tour offers about three hours of guided exploration. The highlights include Dream Beach, known for its pristine sands and calm waters—perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing with a coconut in hand. We loved the way the tour guides share local insights, making the visit more meaningful than just snapping photos.

Next, there’s a visit to Devil’s Tears, a dramatic coastline with crashing waves and natural rock formations. The name hints at the roaring sea, but the real draw is the spectacular cliff views and the chance to watch the powerful surf, which, according to many reviews, is “absolutely breathtaking” and offers “one of the most beautiful views” on the islands.

The Blue Lagoon is another favorite stop, with crystal-clear waters ideal for photos or quick dips. The tour guides often emphasize the importance of respecting the environment here, which helps keep these natural wonders pristine for future visitors.

Crossing to Ceningan Island

After a few hours in Nusa Lembongan, you’ll cross a famous yellow bridge—a symbol of Ceningan Island—marking your transition to a quieter, less developed part of this island chain. Here, the 2-hour guided tour introduces you to a more laid-back, less touristy vibe.

On Ceningan, the tour typically visits scenic spots and offers spectacular cliff views, along with the opportunity to learn about local life. The island’s small size means you’ll get a good sense of its relaxed pace, and the guides do a nice job of sharing stories and insights along the way.

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Returning to Bali

After a fulfilling day, you’ll catch a 45-minute ferry back to Sanur, with some tours offering drop-offs at Ubud, Denpasar, or Badung. The timing is generally in the late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to unwind after your adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel transfers, a return fast boat ticket, snack towel, welcome drink, lunch, and a professional guide. It’s a comprehensive package, especially at $89, which offers significant value considering the transportation and guided experience. Plus, insurance coverage adds peace of mind.

Not included are personal expenses—like souvenirs or extra snacks—and anything outside the fixed itinerary. The tour’s flexibility with optional pickup makes it convenient for various travelers.

The Value Proposition

At $89, this tour presents a cost-effective way to explore Bali’s nearby islands without the hassle of planning multiple transportation segments. The guided aspect ensures you won’t miss key sights, and the lunch included adds to the overall value—especially given the quality of the Indonesian set menu.

Many reviewers mention that the stunning views are the highlight, with others appreciating the peaceful vibe away from Bali’s busy tourist spots. However, some note that the group tours can sometimes be crowded or that the boat ride might be a bit choppy for sensitive travelers. Still, these are minor considerations in exchange for the overall experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Ferry Ride

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or meet at Sanur. The ferry ride offers a 45-minute window of sea travel—short enough to enjoy the ocean breeze and catch glimpses of Bali’s coastline.

In Nusa Lembongan

The guided tour here covers around 3 hours, giving plenty of time to soak up the views. You’ll visit Dream Beach, which many describe as “beautiful and quiet”, ideal for relaxing or some quick snorkeling if you wish. Devil’s Tears is a highlight for its spectacular natural power, with waves smashing against cliffs—an adrenaline-pumping scene.

The Blue Lagoon, often praised for its crystal-clear waters, is perfect for quick swims or picturesque moments. Many travelers appreciate the informative guides who share insights into local life and environmental challenges, making the visit both scenic and educational.

Crossing to Ceningan

The Yellow Bridge is more than just a photo op—it’s a symbol of the islands’ connected charm. On Ceningan, expect a more laid-back, less commercialized atmosphere, with stunning cliff views and opportunities to learn about local island life. The guides tend to share stories about Ceningan’s quieter, more authentic vibe.

Return Journey

Your day wraps up with a ferry back to Bali in the late afternoon. The return trip is smooth and offers time to reflect on the day’s highlights and photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Bali’s nearby islands. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer organized tours that include transportation, guides, and meals—less hassle means more time for sightseeing and relaxing.

Those looking for stunning scenery, beaches, and cliffs will find plenty to love. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but who want a comprehensive, authentic experience in a beautiful setting. The tour’s moderate pace makes it accessible even for families or seniors, provided they’re comfortable with boat rides.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip to Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty and practical convenience. You’ll get to see some of Bali’s most Instagram-worthy sights—Dream Beach, Devil’s Tears, and the Yellow Bridge—without the hassle of organizing transfers or ferry tickets yourself. The inclusion of lunch and guided tours ensures you get a taste of local life along with plenty of photo opportunities.

While it’s not a deep dive into the islands’ culture or hidden corners, it’s a solid snapshot of island life, perfect for short-stay visitors or those wanting a relaxing day in nature. The value for money is hard to beat, especially considering the comfort and guided expertise included.

If you’re after stunning views, easy logistics, and a tranquil escape from Bali’s hustle, this tour provides that in a neat, well-organized package. Just remember to bring your sun hat, camera, and waterproof gear—and prepare for a day of unforgettable scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup can be arranged in Bali, depending on your booking option, covering areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, Jimbaran, Ubud, and Nusa Dua.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan takes around 45 minutes each way, providing a comfortable window for sea views and photos.

What can I expect during the guided tour?
You’ll visit popular spots like Dream Beach, Devil’s Tears, Blue Lagoon, and the Yellow Bridge with a guide sharing interesting insights about each location and local culture.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a local Indonesian set menu lunch, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

Can I join if I don’t like boat rides?
The boat ride is about 45 minutes each way; if you’re sensitive to sea travel, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention choppy waters, though many find the ride smooth.

What’s the best time to join this tour?
The tour departs around 08:30 or 09:15 am. Check the availability for exact starting times, and plan accordingly for a full day of exploration.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s not suitable for travelers over 70 years or those requiring wheelchair accessibility, due to the physical nature of some stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a camera (waterproof recommended), and perhaps a towel if you want to swim. Pets, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted.

Is there flexibility to customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but you can choose options such as hotel transfers or meeting at Sanur harbor, based on your preferences.

How do reviews rate this experience?
With an overall rating of 4.5, travelers appreciate the stunning scenery and smooth organization, making it a dependable choice for a day trip from Bali.

In short, this tour offers a peaceful, picturesque escape with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and local flavor—perfect for those short on time but eager to see Bali’s nearby islands in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: