Diamond Beach

The basics

There’s a charge to visit Diamond Beach, as well as a small fee for parking. It lies on the east coast of Nusa Penida, around a 1-hour drive from the west side attractions like Kelingking Beach, which most Nusa Penida day trips focus on. As Penida roads can be unnerving for even experienced scooter riders, many travelers opt to visit on a tour or with a private driver. Options run from 2-day packages, which spend one day discovering Nusa Penida’s west side and a second exploring the east side, to full-day trips centered on the east. A few Nusa Penida Instagram tours also visit here.

Things to know before you go

• Diamond Beach is a great choice for photographers, hikers, social media mavens, and adventure seekers.
• Strong currents and often high waves mean Diamond Beach is no place for a swim, or even a paddle. Several travelers have died after being swept away.
• The beach has a basic bathroom and a warung with cool drinks and snacks, but you’ll need to bring essentials such as sunscreen.
• While not as lethal as the Kelingking Beach path, the descent to Diamond Beach is tricky in places. You’ll need a decent level of fitness to manage the rope descents and ascents. Bring trekking sandals unless you’re confident climbing in bare feet; flip-flops won’t cut it.
• Diamond Beach is not suitable for families with young children.

How to get there

Diamond Beach lies across the headland from Atuh Beach on the eastern end of Nusa Penida. There are no public transit or rideshares on the island and local drivers set rates centrally on a cartel basis. Unless you’re a seasoned, licensed motorbike rider, your best options are hiring a private driver or joining a tour.

When to get there

Diamond Beach is usually open during daylight hours. It can be particularly lovely at sunrise, with the soaring offshore islands silhouetted: You’re also guaranteed an uncrowded descent and ascent. Even in the wet season, Nusa Penida sees much less rain than mainland Bali, but if beaches have a starring role in your vacation plans, you’d be wise to avoid January and February.

Exploring Nusa Penida’s east coast

Most Nusa Penida day trips focus on west side attractions, such as Kelingking Beach, Crystal Bay, and Angel’s Billabong, which are also near the main port at Toyapakeh. But the east coast has bags to offer travelers. Rumah Pohon Tree House, a cluster of tree houses with spectacular views, are an Instagram magnet (often to the detriment of guests); Atuh Beach, next door to Diamond Beach, is almost as beautiful as its neighbor; and Thousand Islands Viewpoint offers mesmerizing photo opps.