Diamond Beach Bali: The Best Beach On Nusa Penida
Getting to Diamond Beach is a bit of an adventure: a boat from Bali, a bumpy ride across Nusa Penida, and a steep set of stairs carved into the cliff. But if you’re chasing that postcard view of turquoise waves crashing against white sand and towering cliffs, this spot delivers.
Before 2018, you could admire it from above, but actually getting down to the beach wasn’t even an option. When we visited in 2019, the stairs were still fairly new, but the secret was already out. So, we set off early to beat the crowds and started the 20-minute climb down just after sunrise.
If you’re after some pretty awesome views and a bit of an adventure, this guide’s got you covered. I’ll walk you through how to get to Diamond Beach, when to go, and what to expect, so you can focus on the fun (and get those photos) without the faff.
Short On Time? These Are The Best Ways To Reach Diamond Beach
– Click Here To Book Your Fast Boat From Bali To Nusa Penida
– Click Here To Book Your Private Driver On Nusa Penida
– Click Here To Plan Your Nusa Penida Day Tour From Bali
Diamond Beach Bali At A Glance
In a rush? Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know before visiting Diamond Beach:
📍 Where Is It?
On the east coast of Nusa Penida
🚗 How Do You Get There?
Hop on a boat from Bali to Nusa Penida, then either rent a scooter or grab a private car to the cliffs
🥾 How Long Is the Walk?
About 20 minutes down a pretty steep staircase, some parts are uneven, so take your time!
🌞 Best Time to Visit:
April to September for the driest weather
⏰ Best Time of Day:
Early morning to beat the heat (and the crowds)
💸 Entrance Fee:
45k IDR per person (around £1.60 / $2.50)
⚠️ Safety Note:
Don’t go for a swim, the waves are strong, unpredictable, and those rocks aren’t messing around
Where Is Diamond Beach?
Diamond Beach sits on the east coast of Nusa Penida, and it’s 100% worth adding to your Bali itinerary if you’re up for a bit of an adventure.
To get there from mainland Bali, you’ll hop on a fast boat to Nusa Penida. It takes about an hour, and heads up—it can be a bumpy ride. If you get seasick, definitely take something beforehand (we learned that one the hard way).
Once you’re on the island, it’s roughly another hour’s drive to reach Diamond Beach. The roads can be a bit rough in parts, so unless you’re super confident on a scooter and have decent travel insurance, I’d skip renting one.
We booked a private driver for the day, which made things so much easier. He took us to Diamond Beach and a few other spots too. You could also book a day tour if you prefer everything sorted for you.
Diamond Beach Viewpoint
Before the stairs were carved into the cliffs, this was the spot to see Diamond Beach, and honestly, it’s still pretty jaw-dropping. Even if you’re not up for the climb down to the sand, it’s 100% worth a stop if you’re passing by.
It’s also a pretty place to see the sunset or sunrise.
Atuh Beach is on the other side of this viewpoint, which you can also reach by climbing down a separate bunch of stairs.
What To Expect At Diamond Beach
When you arrive at the car park, you’ll need to pay a small fee — 5k if you’re on a scooter (about 25p), though if you’re with a private driver or on a tour, it’s usually already included.
From there, it’s a short walk to the entrance, where you’ll pay 45k to access the viewpoint and the start of the stairs.
A few steps in, and you’ll get your first proper look at Diamond Beach, that iconic view of bright turquoise water, soft white sand, and dramatic cliffs. It’s a great spot for photos before you tackle the climb down.
To reach the beach, you’ll take on the stairs carved right into the cliffside. They look dramatic (and yep, at some points they really are), but if you go steady and take your time, it’s totally doable.
The Climb Down
It takes about 20 minutes to get to the bottom, and I’ll be honest, if you’re not great with heights (like me!), try not to look down too much at the start. The top is pretty high up, and I definitely felt a bit dizzy glancing over the edge.
The first 10 minutes or so aren’t too bad. The stairs are neatly carved into the cliff with a handrail to help you along. But after that? Let’s just say it gets a bit sketchy.
The lower, steeper part is uneven, there’s no handrail, and you’ll be holding onto a loose rope attached to the cliff wall. It’s not impossible, but it’s definitely not a stroll either.
I really didn’t love that bit, but if you’re sure-footed and reasonably fit, you’ll be fine. Trainers are your friend here. I saw people trying it in flip-flops, and it didn’t look fun. I’d also recommend chucking your stuff in a backpack so you’ve got both hands free for the rope.
Before you hit the sand, there’s a small flat area where you’ll spot one of those famous Bali swings and a hanging basket. There’s also a tiny warung (local café) and a toilet if you need a quick break.
From there, it’s the final stretch, another sketchy bit with a rope to help you down that last part to the beach.
Diamond Beach
Once you’ve landed your feet in the sand you’ll be able to explore the white sandy shores of this beautiful beach. Behind you is the towering cliff face and palm trees along the base of it, while in front of you, the bay is filled with the turquoise ocean and is dotted with rock formations.
Apart from the small warung on the way down to the beach, there isn’t anything else here (which I love!) so make sure you bring plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen so you can relax here for as long as you like.
Can You Swim At Diamond Beach?
Although you can go for a swim at Diamond Beach, I really do not recommend it. The waves and current here are unbelievably strong and there is no lifeguard to help if you find yourself in a sticky situation.
Although you can paddle here at low tide, there are broken bits of coral and rocks that smash into your feet pretty hard with the force of the waves.
When’s The Best Time To Visit?
Visiting Bali in general is best between April – September and the same goes for Diamond Beach and Nusa Penida. This is because it’s Bali’s dry season and the weather is best around this time.
The best time of day to visit the beach is at sunrise as the beach faces eastwards. This is also when it will be quietest. Any time after 9 am and the crowds start to roll in which makes going down the stairs even more difficult.
How Do You Get To Diamond Beach From Bali?
The fastest way to reach Diamond Beach from Bali is by fast boat from Sanur.
There is also the option to get a ferry but this will take more time and will only take you as far as Nusa Lembongan where you will then need to get another boat.
Some boat tickets will include pick-up from your hotel but if you are staying in places that are further out such as Sidemen, Munduk or parts of Canggu and Ubud, you may need to arrange your own transport to the harbour.
You can arrange a trip to the harbour via one of Bali’s ride-sharing apps, a Bluebird taxi or by arranging transport with your accommodation.
Is Diamond Beach Worth Visiting?
I definitely think that Diamond Beach in Bali is worth visiting if you have the time on your trip! As long as you have a good level of fitness to climb down the stairs (and then back up again!) it’s a great place to visit while you’re on the island.
Things To See Near Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach is in a really good spot as it is close to a few of the other popular locations on Nusa Penida.
On the other side of the viewpoint at the top of Diamond Beach is another set of stairs that will take you to the neighbouring Atuh Beach. This beach has a few little cafes and restaurants as well as sun loungers that you can rent for the day.
You may be able to take a dip in the water at Atuh Beach but always check the tides and be aware of the rocks under your feet.
Rumah Pohon Tree House is also nearby and, although I do think this has turned into a massive tourist trap, it might still be somewhere you plan to visit. The treehouse has stunning views across the bay but you will need to queue to get a photo (which you also have to pay for) and is another big climb down a set of stairs.
Thousand Island viewpoint is also here but again I’ve heard this has also turned into a bit of a tourist trap since I was last here.
Where To Stay On Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida has lots of great accommodation for you to choose from and there is a place for all types of budgets.
MAUA Nusa Penida is a luxury, sleek and modern getaway, with private villas and breathtaking views of Gamat Bay and Nusa Lembongan.
A mid-range eco-friendly retreat, Penida Bambu Green, has unique bamboo structures with stunning views and blends comfort with sustainability.
VnS Beachfront Guesthouse, located close to the port in Nusa Penida, offers stunning views of Mount Agung and the ocean.
Where To Eat On Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida might be a small island in comparison to Bali but there are lots of amazing places to eat.
Eastside Penida Kitchen & Bar is not too far from Diamond Beach and is a great place to fuel up before or after your climb down to the beach.
Vegan Soul Kitchen is nestled in the jungle on Penida Island and is one of my favourite restaurants to visit. They do a really amazing Gado Gado.
Cactus is a beach club on Nusa Penida but it’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat while relaxing by the pool for the day.
Final Thoughts
Diamond Beach has got to be one of the most picturesque beaches in Bali! Even though the steps down to the beach are a little bit of a challenge it is well worth the visit!
Just an hour by boat will get you from Bali to Nusa Penida and then an hour from the harbour will get you to Diamond Beach. If you travel by scooter be aware of the uneven roads but you can also book your trip as part of a day tour or by using a private driver for the day.
