If you’ve ever dreamed of finding a hidden spot that’s just bursting with raw, untouched beauty, Broken Beach in Nusa Penida is it. I remember the first time I visited—I was just looking for something off the beaten path. You know, the kind of place where you can snap a few Instagram-worthy photos but also just sit and soak it all in, no rush, no crowds. Well, I got that, and then some.
The Journey to Get There (Oh, the Roads!)
Let me start by saying that getting to Broken Beach is an adventure in itself. And when I say adventure, I mean you’re going to need some serious patience and possibly a strong back. The roads in Nusa Penida aren’t what you’d call “smooth.” Imagine dirt roads with potholes the size of small craters, and that’s on a good day. My friends and I rented scooters, thinking it would be a fun way to explore the island. Yeah, fun is one way to put it.
About halfway there, we had to stop because the road got so bumpy we were sure our scooters were going to fall apart. We even joked that they should rebrand the trip to Broken Beach as the “Broken Scooter Adventure.” But honestly, the struggle was part of the charm. You know that feeling when you finally reach a destination after a tough journey? It makes it feel so much more rewarding.
What Makes Broken Beach Special?
Once you finally arrive, the sight of Broken Beach is breathtaking. It’s this massive circular rock formation with a natural arch that opens up to the sea. The water is a vivid shade of blue, like something straight out of a postcard. What I loved most about Broken Beach is that it’s not an actual beach in the traditional sense. You can’t walk down to the water, but the view from above is what makes this spot unique.
Here’s the thing: Broken Beach is called “Pasih Uug” by locals, which loosely translates to “damaged beach,” but don’t let that fool you. The name comes from the archway that formed after part of the cliffs collapsed. It looks like a giant took a bite out of the landscape. Nature literally broke the beach—hence the name.
The First Time I Almost Skipped It
I’ll admit, before I visited, I almost skipped Broken Beach. I mean, it looked cool in pictures, but I was also hearing a lot about how rough the roads were and how some people were disappointed because you can’t swim there. Boy, am I glad I didn’t listen to that advice. If you’re going to Nusa Penida for pristine white sands and beach lounging, Broken Beach might not be your vibe. But if you’re after something more dramatic, more awe-inspiring, it’s 100% worth it.
Besides, it’s not just about the beach itself. The entire area is surrounded by cliffs that offer views for days. You can walk along the edge (but be careful—it’s a long way down!) and just take in the scenery. I remember sitting there, completely mesmerized by the waves crashing against the rocks below. It felt like nature’s own private show.
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Timing is Everything
If you want to make the most out of your visit to Broken Beach, timing matters. The best time to go is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. My first trip there was during midday, and let me tell you, it was scorching hot. I could barely focus on the view because the sun was so intense. There’s not a lot of shade, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
On my second visit (yes, I went back—it was that amazing), I arrived just before sunset. The colors in the sky combined with the ocean were out of this world. The sun sets right behind the natural arch, making for the most beautiful golden hour light. It’s a photographer’s dream, but even if you’re not into photography, it’s just one of those moments you’ll want to experience.
What I Wish I Knew Before Going
One thing I didn’t realize before visiting Broken Beach was how remote it really feels. There are no facilities nearby—no cafes, no bathrooms, nothing. So, if you’re like me and always forget snacks, make sure to grab something before you head out. I ended up munching on a couple of granola bars I found buried in my backpack from who-knows-when, and that’s not the vibe you want when you’re in paradise. The entrance fee to Broken Beach is IDR 25.000,- per person.
Another thing I wish I’d known is that there’s a little hiking trail nearby that leads to Angel’s Billabong, another must-see spot in Nusa Penida. It’s a natural infinity pool that looks just as incredible as it sounds. It’s only about a 10-minute walk from Broken Beach, so definitely make the most of your time by visiting both.
Hotels around Broken Beach Nusa Penida
Here’s the deal: Nusa Penida isn’t like Bali where every corner has something to offer. This is a rugged island with limited infrastructure, so staying in a place that’s close to your points of interest, like Broken Beach, is a smart move. Trust me, the roads can be bumpy and long, so location really matters.
For my first visit, I didn’t pay enough attention to how far the hotel was from Broken Beach. Big mistake. I ended up staying in a lovely guesthouse near the main harbor (Toyapakeh), which was fine in terms of access to restaurants and shops, but it was about a 45-minute scooter ride to Broken Beach. And let’s just say my inexperienced driving didn’t help—there were moments when I thought I might be flung off the bike due to the rough roads! I spent more time commuting than enjoying the stunning views.
On my next visit, I stayed at Kabeh Jati Garden Villa & Restaurant. Now, this place is only about a 30-minute drive from Broken Beach, and let me tell you, that 15 minutes made a world of difference. It’s still not right next to Broken Beach, but close enough that you can make a day trip out of visiting the west side of the island, including Angel’s Billabong, which is nearby. This was my sweet spot—a balance between comfort and proximity. Plus, waking up to the sound of nature here felt like a dream. The Kabeh Jati Garden Villa & Resaurant’s room rates starting from IDR Rp 869.400,- per night.
The Trade-Off Between Comfort and Budget
Let’s be real—most of us are trying to balance our budget with a bit of comfort. Nusa Penida isn’t exactly swarming with five-star resorts (yet), but there are a few hidden gems if you know where to look.
For example, if you’re a backpacker or just on a tighter budget, Penida Bambu Green is a solid choice. This eco-friendly option is located about 40 minutes from Broken Beach. They offer bamboo huts surrounded by lush greenery, and even though it’s not fancy, the vibe is super chill. One morning, I woke up to the sound of roosters (yes, roosters!) and immediately stepped outside to a view of rolling hills—definitely a change from the city life I’m used to.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida is a great option, though it’s further away from Broken Beach (about 45-50 minutes). They’ve got an infinity pool with a view that stretches out to the ocean, and after a long day of exploring, a dip in that pool feels like pure heaven. I stayed here during my last trip, and while it was a bit of a drive to Broken Beach, the amenities made up for it.
What to Look For in a Nusa Penida Hotel
I’ve learned over time that when booking a hotel on Nusa Penida, you need to keep a few things in mind:
- Transportation Options: Some hotels offer free shuttle services to major attractions like Broken Beach. This can save you the hassle of navigating the rough roads yourself. If you’re not into scooters (I get it, they’re not for everyone), this can be a game changer.
- Wi-Fi Quality: Listen, Nusa Penida isn’t known for its fast internet. If you plan to do any remote work or upload those Insta-worthy shots of Broken Beach, you might be disappointed. I stayed at one hotel where the Wi-Fi barely worked—lesson learned! Now, I make sure to check reviews about the internet quality before booking.
- Electricity: This one’s a little random, but hear me out. Power outages are more common than you’d think on the island. During my second trip, the hotel I stayed at lost power for about three hours one night. It wasn’t a huge deal because it happened while I was out for dinner, but it’s something to be aware of. Some hotels have backup generators, so it’s worth asking if that’s something you’re concerned about.
Broken Beach is one of those places that looks exactly like the photos, if not better. It’s rugged, untouched, and has a way of making you feel small in the best possible way. If you’re planning a trip to Nusa Penida, don’t skip it. Yeah, the road there might be a bit of a nightmare, and no, you can’t swim, but trust me, it’s all worth it for that view.
Just remember: it’s not about getting the perfect Instagram shot or checking something off your bucket list. Sometimes, it’s about the journey—bumps, broken scooters, and all.
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