By Diamond Beach Nusa Penida is a white-sand cove on the island’s east coast, reached by a steep staircase cut into a limestone cliff. Most guests spend about an hour here: they walk down for photos and a paddle, then climb back up. It also sits a few minutes from Atuh Beach, so it fits neatly into an East Tour day.
Quick facts
- Location: East coast of Nusa Penida, near Pejukutan village, right next to Atuh Beach.
- Access: A steep staircase in the cliff face with a rope or rail to hold; allow 10 to 15 minutes each way.
- Swimming: Only on calm days, close to shore. Waves and currents change fast, so ask your guide first.
- Best light: Morning, when the sun shines straight into the east-facing cove.
- Time needed: About 45 to 90 minutes, including the climb back up.
- On our tours: Part of the East Tour and the Mix West + East Tour.
Where is Diamond Beach Nusa Penida and how do you get there?
You will find the beach on the far east side of the island, right beside Atuh Beach. Both beaches share one car park at the top of the cliffs. From the harbour where Sanur boats land, the drive usually takes an hour or more, because the roads are narrow and winding.
That is why we plan the east side as its own day. If you are still deciding between the two sides, our guide to West or East Nusa Penida compares them side by side.
What are the Diamond Beach stairs like?
The stairs down to Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida are steep, narrow and uneven, but most people with normal fitness manage them fine. Local workers cut the path into the cliff a few years ago, and before that the beach was very hard to reach.
The path winds down the rock face in tight zigzags, with a rope or metal rail to hold. However, some steps are tall, and they can be slippery after rain or when sea spray blows in.
How long does the walk take?
Going down takes about 10 to 15 minutes at a steady pace. The climb back up takes a little longer, especially in the midday heat. Wear shoes with a good grip instead of flip-flops, and keep one hand free for the rail. With bad knees or a fear of heights, you can still enjoy the view from the top.
Can you swim at Diamond Beach Nusa Penida?
Sometimes, but only on calm days and only close to shore. Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida faces the open sea, so waves can break hard on the sand and strong currents can pull swimmers out.
Conditions change from day to day and even hour to hour. For this reason, always check with your driver-guide before you go in. Our team grew up on Nusa Penida, so they read the water well and will tell you honestly if it is a day to stay on the sand. On rough days, a paddle at the edge and some photos are the safer choice.
There is little natural shade on the beach itself, and the sun reflects strongly off the white sand. So bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and enough water for the climb back up.
When is the best time for photos at Diamond Beach?
Morning is the best time to photograph Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida. Because the cove faces east, the sun lights up the water and the white cliffs early in the day. Later on, the high cliffs behind the beach start to cast shade over the sand.
Mornings are also quieter, so you have a better chance of a clean shot from the top of the stairs. The classic photo frames the curved staircase, the rock pinnacles and the turquoise water in one view. Your driver-guide is also your photographer, so you can be in every picture instead of behind the camera.
What else is near Diamond Beach on the East Tour?
Three more highlights sit close to Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida: Atuh Beach, Molenteng Tree House and Teletubbies Hill. Together they make up our private East Tour of Nusa Penida, which is quieter than the busy west side.
| Stop | What you see | Effort |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond Beach | White sand, rock pinnacles, cliff staircase | Steep stairs, 10 to 15 minutes each way |
| Atuh Beach | Sheltered bay with a rock arch offshore | Long staircase from the car park |
| Molenteng Tree House | Wooden huts above the Thousand Islands view | Short walk, some steps |
| Teletubbies Hill | Rolling, rounded hills inland | Easy, mostly a viewpoint stop |
Atuh Beach
On Nusa Penida, Atuh Beach lies right beside Diamond Beach, and a clifftop path links the two viewpoints. The bay feels more sheltered, with small warungs and sun loungers to rent. Offshore, a rock island with a natural arch makes a great photo. However, you still need to check sea conditions before you swim.
Molenteng Tree House
The Molenteng Tree House, also called Rumah Pohon, is a cluster of small wooden huts on stilts above the sea. From here you look out over the Thousand Islands Viewpoint, a line of green rock islands along the coast.
Teletubbies Hill
Teletubbies Hill is a group of round, grassy hills inland. During the wet season they turn bright green, while in the dry months they fade to gold and brown. Our guide on when to visit Nusa Penida explains how the seasons change the views.
Want to see all four in one relaxed day? Book the East Tour, which includes the fast boat from Sanur, a private car with a driver-guide, entrance tickets and lunch. If you also want Kelingking, the Mix West + East Tour covers both sides in one day.
What should you bring?
Pack light, because you will carry everything down the stairs and back up. Here is what we suggest:
- Shoes with good grip, such as trainers or sports sandals.
- Swimwear and a small towel, in case the sea is calm.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- At least one litre of water per person.
For a full picture of the island, read our Nusa Penida travel guide. Also see our one-day Nusa Penida itinerary for how a full day flows. For wider Indonesia travel info, the official Wonderful Indonesia site is a good start.
Diamond Beach Nusa Penida FAQ
Is Diamond Beach Nusa Penida safe for kids?
Older children who walk well usually manage the stairs with an adult close by. However, the steps are steep and have drops on one side, so it is not ideal for toddlers or anyone you need to carry. On the beach, keep children out of the waves unless your guide says the sea is calm.
Do you have to pay to enter Diamond Beach?
There is usually a small local entrance or parking fee for the Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach area on Nusa Penida. On our East Tour and Mix Tour, we include all entrance tickets, so you pay nothing extra at the gate.
Can you visit Diamond Beach Nusa Penida and Kelingking on the same day?
Yes. Our Mix West + East Tour visits Kelingking, Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong in the west, then Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach in the east. It is a long day with more driving, so it suits travellers who want to see the highlights of both sides in a single trip.
What happens if the sea is too rough on the day?
If fast boats stop running because of rough seas, we reschedule your trip or adjust the plan at no extra cost. On the island itself, your guide may suggest skipping a swim and focusing on the viewpoints instead. Safety always comes first, and we will talk you through the options on WhatsApp.
Plan your Diamond Beach Nusa Penida day trip
Diamond Beach on Nusa Penida rewards an early start, so let us handle the timing for you. Our private East Tour covers Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, Molenteng Tree House and Teletubbies Hill at your own pace. Message us on WhatsApp at +62 812-3795-0254 to check dates and confirm your booking.
