Your Essential Guide: How to Get to Nusa Lembongan from Bali (2025 Update)
So, you’ve heard the whispers? About an island escape just a hop, skip, and a short boat ride from mainland Bali? Yep, we’re talking about Nusa Lembongan! Forget long, complicated travel days. Getting to this little slice of paradise is surprisingly easy, and this Nusa Lembongan Travel Guide 2025 edition will show you exactly How to Get to Nusa Lembongan from Bali. Get ready for turquoise waters, chilled vibes, and island adventures!
Step 1: Head to Sanur Harbour – Your Gateway to Paradise
First things first, your journey to Lembongan will almost certainly start at Sanur Harbour on Bali’s east coast. Gone are the days of wading through waves to board! Sanur now boasts a proper terminal, making the whole process much smoother and drier. It’s the main hub for fast boats zipping across the channel.
Getting There: Grab a taxi, use a ride-sharing app, or arrange a driver. Give yourself plenty of time, as Bali traffic can be unpredictable!
Step 2: Choose Your Fast Boat – Ride the Waves!
Okay, decision time! Several companies run fast boats between Sanur and Nusa Lembongan. Names you’ll often see include Rocky Fast Cruise, Scoot, D’Camel, Arthamas Express, Glory, and more.
What’s the Difference? Honestly, most offer a similar service: a roughly 30-40 minute ride across the strait. Prices generally range from IDR 150,000 to IDR 250,000+ one-way (approx $10-$17 USD), but can vary by season and operator. Some might include Bali-side pickups/drop-offs (check when booking).
Finding Schedules: While we mention operators, the Fast Boat Sanur to Lembongan Schedule changes. Your best bet is to check online booking sites (like 12go.asia, directferries.com, or the boat company’s own website) for the most up-to-date times when you plan your trip.
Step 3: Booking Your Ticket – Don’t Miss the Boat!
Especially during peak season (June-August) or holidays, booking your boat tickets in advance is a super smart move.
Online is Easiest: Booking online is usually cheaper and guarantees your spot. You’ll get an e-ticket, making check-in at the harbour a breeze.
At the Harbour: You can sometimes buy tickets directly at the Sanur Harbour offices, but prices might be higher, and boats can sell out.
Step 4: The Journey – Quick, Breezy, and Beautiful!
Check-in at the harbour at least 30-45 minutes before departure. Once you board, find a seat and enjoy the ride!
The Vibe: It’s a quick crossing. You’ll see Bali shrink behind you and Lembongan appear on the horizon. Feel the sea spray!
Smooth Sailing? Morning trips are often calmer. If you’re prone to seasickness, maybe take a tablet beforehand and sit towards the back of the boat. But generally, it’s a pretty straightforward trip.
Step 5: Touchdown! Welcome to Nusa Lembongan!
You’ve made it! Most fast boats arrive at one of two main spots:
- Jungutbatu Beach: The main village area, bustling with activity, restaurants, and access to lots of accommodation.
- Mushroom Bay: A slightly quieter, pretty bay also with places to stay and eat.
Heads Up (or Feet Wet?): Depending on the tide and the boat company, you might step off the boat directly onto the sand and into shallow water (wear shorts and flip-flops!). Some services (like Rocky) have their own jetty for a dry arrival.
Getting Around: Once ashore, local transport awaits! Arrange a pick-up with your accommodation beforehand, or grab one of the local ‘taxis’ (usually small trucks with benches) or rent a scooter (the most popular way to explore for youth travelers and adventurous families!). Note: Ride-sharing apps like Gojek/Grab don’t operate on the island.
Finding Your Island Base (Like Gecko Bungalows!)
Many amazing places await your arrival. If you’re staying somewhere like Gecko Bungalows, nestled conveniently in the Jungutbatu area (beachfront, near the northern end by the mangroves!), they can often help arrange transport from the harbour. Just ask when you book! It makes settling into island life that much easier.
Top Travel Tips Recap:
- Book Ahead: Especially boats and popular accommodation.
- Travel Light: Getting luggage on/off boats is easier with less stuff.
- Wear Easy Clothes: Shorts & sandals/flip-flops are perfect for the boat trip.
- Morning Glory: Early boats often mean calmer seas.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water for the journey.
- Embrace Island Time: Relax, you’re heading to paradise!
Getting to Nusa Lembongan from Bali is a breeze. It’s a short, scenic trip that marks the beginning of an incredible island adventure, perfect for families looking for fun and youth travelers seeking exploration.
Now, go book that boat and get ready for the magic of Lembongan!