By 
Broken Beach Nusa Penida is a round, cliff-lined bay that the sea enters through a huge natural arch, and you see it best by walking the path around the rim. Angel’s Billabong, a rocky tidal pool, sits only a few minutes away. As a result, most visitors see both in one stop of about an hour on a west-coast day trip.
Quick facts
- Local name: Pasih Uug, which means “broken beach” in Balinese
- Location: west coast of Nusa Penida, sharing one parking area with Angel’s Billabong
- Rim walk: an easy loop of roughly 15–20 minutes around the bay
- Angel’s Billabong: a short walk from Broken Beach, best at low tide in calm seas
- Swimming: not possible at Broken Beach; only in the pool when the sea is calm
- Time needed: about 45–75 minutes for both spots
What is Broken Beach in Nusa Penida?
Broken Beach Nusa Penida is a circular cove surrounded by high cliffs. The ocean flows in through a large arch in the rock, so the bay looks like a giant natural swimming pool. Locals call it Pasih Uug, and “uug” means broken or collapsed.
Many people believe the bay formed when the roof of a sea cave fell in, leaving the arch as the last part standing. Today, grass and low trees cover the cliff tops. On a sunny day the water inside glows turquoise, while waves crash against the outside of the arch.
How do you walk around Broken Beach Nusa Penida?
A path loops around the top of the cliffs, and it takes about 15 to 20 minutes at an easy pace. It is mostly flat, so almost anyone can do it.
Start from the parking area and walk toward the arch first. From there, you look straight through it to the open sea. Then continue around the far side for a view back over the whole bay. In addition, small stalls near the car park sell drinks and snacks. Some parts of the path have no railing, so keep children close and stay away from the edge.
Photo spots on the rim
The best photo of Broken Beach Nusa Penida shows the arch with the bay behind it. Walk to the side of the bay opposite the arch to fit both in one frame. Also, look down into the clear water, because manta rays sometimes swim near this coast. Our driver-guides know the safe angles and will happily take your photos.
What is Angel’s Billabong?
Angel’s Billabong is a natural rock pool on the cliff edge next to the ocean. When the tide is low and the sea is calm, the water inside is clear and still, like an infinity pool. Meanwhile, the open ocean sits just beyond its rocky rim.
The walk from Broken Beach Nusa Penida takes only a few minutes along a short path. You can view the pool from the top of the rocks. Some visitors also climb down to the rock shelf beside it, but only when conditions are calm.
Is it safe to swim at Angel’s Billabong?
It is only safe on a calm day at low tide, and never when waves break over the rocks. Big sets can surge across the rock shelf without warning and pull people toward the open sea.
Before you go near the water, stand back and watch the sea for a few minutes. If any wave washes over the outer rim, stay out and enjoy the view from above. The rocks are also sharp and slippery, so wear sandals with grip. Our driver-guides check the conditions on the day, and we always follow their advice. In fact, on many days the honest answer is to look, not swim.
When is the best time to visit Broken Beach Nusa Penida?
For Broken Beach Nusa Penida, morning light and fewer people make the biggest difference. For Angel’s Billabong, the tide matters most, because the pool looks best and feels calmer at low tide.
Tide times change every day, so check a local tide chart before your trip. The dry season, roughly April to October, also tends to bring clearer water. However, big ocean swells can still arrive in any month. For forecasts and warnings, see the Indonesian weather agency (BMKG). Our article on when to visit Nusa Penida explains the seasons.
| Spot | What you do | Best conditions | Swimming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broken Beach | Walk the rim, view the arch | Morning light, any tide | No access to the water |
| Angel’s Billabong | View or dip in the rock pool | Low tide, calm sea | Only when no waves cross the rocks |
How do Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong fit the West Tour?
Broken Beach Nusa Penida and Angel’s Billabong share one parking area, so they make a single stop on our West Tour. We usually visit them right after Kelingking, then stop for lunch before Crystal Bay.
Plan about 45 to 75 minutes here in total. That is enough time for the rim walk, photos and a look at the pool. Because every tour is private, you can stay longer if the tide is right for a dip. To compare the stops, read our Kelingking Beach guide with T-Rex hike tips. For prices and inclusions, see the private West Tour package, or choose the Mix West + East Tour to add Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach.
For a full day plan, our one-day Nusa Penida itinerary shows how the timing works. Also, the Nusa Penida travel guide covers boats, roads and what to pack.
Broken Beach Nusa Penida FAQ
Can you go down to the water at Broken Beach?
No, there is no safe path down to the water at Broken Beach Nusa Penida. The bay sits below high, steep cliffs, and the sea enters through the arch with strong surges. You enjoy it from the rim path above, which gives the best views anyway. For a swim, plan a calm snorkel stop instead.
How far is Angel’s Billabong from Broken Beach?
Angel’s Billabong is only a few minutes’ walk from Broken Beach. Both spots use the same parking area, so you do not need to drive between them. Most visitors walk the rim at Broken Beach first, then follow the short path to the pool and return to the car the same way.
Do you need special shoes for Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong?
Comfortable trainers or sandals with good grip work well. The rim path at Broken Beach is easy, but the rocks at Angel’s Billabong are sharp and slippery. Avoid smooth flip-flops if you plan to step onto the rock shelf. Also bring a hat, sun cream and water, because there is little shade.
Is Broken Beach Nusa Penida worth visiting?
Yes, for most travellers it is one of the highlights of the west coast. The walk is easy, the arch is unusual, and Angel’s Billabong is right next door. It also suits families and anyone who wants big views without a hard hike, unlike the steep trail at Kelingking.
Plan your Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong visit
Our private West Tour includes Broken Beach Nusa Penida, Angel’s Billabong, Kelingking and Crystal Bay, with the fast boat, a driver-guide, entrance tickets and lunch. Send us a message on WhatsApp at +62 812-3795-0254 with your date and group size. Then we will confirm your tour directly in the chat.
