Nusa Penida, Nusa Islands, Indonesia
One of the world's most photographed viewpoints β a T-Rex shaped cliff above pristine turquoise waters, accessible only by a thrilling jungle descent.
Location
West Nusa Penida
Sand Type
White
Water Clarity
Crystal Clear
Facilities
Viewpoint, Basic Warung, No Beach Facilities
Best Season
April β October
Access From Bali
Fast Boat from Sanur (30β45 min)
Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida is arguably the most visually dramatic beach location in all of Indonesia β and one of the most shared photographs in the world. The iconic image shows a massive limestone cliff shaped unmistakably like a T-Rex dinosaur, with its "head" forming a headland and the beach tucked into the crescent cove below. The water is an extraordinary shade of turquoise that borders on supernatural.
The viewpoint at the top of the cliff is the main experience for most visitors β the vista is genuinely jaw-dropping and best photographed in the early morning light. For those wishing to reach the beach itself, it is accessible via an extremely steep, rope-assisted jungle trail that descends approximately 100 metres through dense tropical vegetation. The descent takes 30β45 minutes and is demanding β the ascent back up is harder. Sturdy footwear and a good level of fitness are essential.
The beach itself is usually deserted or near-empty (given the effort required to reach it), with brilliant white sand and extraordinary water clarity. Swimming should be undertaken cautiously due to powerful ocean currents β the water is best appreciated visually.
The viewpoint is accessible from the car park with a short walk. The trail to the beach is extremely steep and not accessible for those with mobility issues. Even fit visitors should allow 1.5β2 hours for the round trip to the beach.
Take a fast boat from Sanur (Bali) to Nusa Penida (30β45 min). From Nusa Penida pier, hire a motorbike or join a guided tour. Kelingking is in the western part of the island, about 45 min ride from the port. Most visitors take a full-day tour of western Nusa Penida.
π Manta Point
World-class manta ray snorkelling spot
π Crystal Bay
Crystal-clear snorkelling bay on Nusa Penida
π¦ Mola Mola Diving
Ocean sunfish sightings JulβOct
π Angel's Billabong
Natural infinity rock pool on east coast