Exploring Nusa Lembongan with Kids: Why It’s a Must for Your Bali Travel Plans!

I’m often asked, Where to stay in Bali with kids? and while I have written loads about that, I want to talk about how great the islands of Bali can be for families as well!

Particularly, Nusa Lembongan. Ever heard of it? Many haven’t.

It's an area we love going to because it's easy to get to from Bali (just a 30-minute ferry ride away), and there's not a lot to do there except play in the sand, swim and eat. Paradise!

With no cars or traffic pollution, it’s a wonderfully peaceful environment to unwind, reconnect and truly relax.  So, if you’re deciding where to stay in Bali and have two weeks or more, I'd definitely consider adding Nusa Lembongan to your itinerary!

Why Choose Nusa Lembongan?

Nusa Lembongan is home to beautiful, pristine beaches and is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Bali - yet it truly feels like an entirely different world.

At just 8 km in size, with no cars on the island, it offers a stark contrast to bustling Bali, and out of all the islands (Gilis, Penida, and Ceningan), I’d say it’s the most suited for families.

Nusa Lembongan is the perfect place for you and your kids to disconnect from daily life and recharge your adrenals.

How to Get to Nusa Lembongan from Bali:

We use D'Stars Ferries and catch the ferry from Sanur. The fast boat from Bali to Lembongan takes 30 minutes, and you can often get discounted tickets through The Lembongan Traveller.

The D'stars fast boat always departs from Sanur Harbour and disembarks at Jungut Batu beach. The ferry schedule is as follows:

Departure Times from Sanur Harbour:

09.15 am | 14.00 pm | 17.00 pm 

Departure Times from Jungut Batu Beach:

08.00 am | 12.30 pm | 16.00 pm

Note: Fast ferries between Sanur and Lembongan will not run in extreme weather, or on Nyepi Laut (Sea Silence Day).

Where to Stay: Jungut Batu? Or Mushroom Beach?

We stay in the Jungut Batu area. I’ve found that Jungut Batu and the nearby Coconut Beach are the best areas for kids on the island. Plus, everything is walkable from Jungut Batu if you don't want to hire a golf cart or scooter.

Nusa Lembongan Accommodation Recommendations:

Personally, Lembongan Island Beach Villas and Lembongan Sanctuary Villas are at the top of my list if you want an element of luxury or a villa with a private pool on your family holiday. If you’re after something cheaper than these two villas, check out Oka Bungalow 7.

Hai Tide Beach Resort is another great pick if you're after hotel-style accommodation, but it's not in the Jungut Batu area. It's located at Mushroom Bay, and I feel the beach here is too rough for smaller children.

Lots will say to stay at Mahagiri Resort Nusa Lembongan but I feel this resort is very run down for the price point.

In terms of pricing, on our last trip, we paid $400 per night for 2 adults and 2 children at Lembongan Island Beach Villas and $150 at Lembongan Sanctuary Villas.

Oka Bungalow 7 usually ranges between $70 and $125 per night, and Hai Tide Beach Resort sits at around the $400 mark.

The communal pool area at Lembongan Island Beach Villas 

You can view independent reviews of each of the properties I have recommended via the below links. 

Lembongan Island Beach Villas

Lembongan Sanctuary Villas

Oka Bungalow 7

Hai Tide Beach Resort

Tip: If you’ve got bad knees or will be piggybacking a toddler, make sure you pick accommodation close to the beach to avoid too many stairs.

While stairs are unavoidable in Lembongan due to the island’s terrain, you can limit how many you need to navigate. Villa 201 (pictured above) at Lembongan Island Beach Villas is a good choice if you fall into this category. 

Eating Out: Nusa Lembongan Restaurants

There are lots of great places to eat in Nusa Lembongan. We love La Bianca and The Beach Cafe at Lago; although, we often eat at Lembongan Island Beach Villas when we stay as it's convenient, and they do basics (eggs on toast, fruit platters, spring rolls) well! Ginger & Jamu, Nicks Place and The Sampan are also excellent choices. 

Tip: Most restaurants offer a pickup/drop off service if you want to try somewhere that’s further than walking distance. 

The Lembongan Traveller Booking Service: 

Whenever we travel, I typically book all of our accommodation directly; however, when on Lembongan, I go through The Lembongan Traveller.

The Lembongan Traveller is a one-stop shop for the island, and you can book accommodation, ferry tickets, golf carts, scooters, and pool fences through them. They have connections all over the island, which often means better rates, and they also price-match all online agents. 

It’s an incredible service that truly shines when it comes to curating unforgettable trips, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or memorable getaway. Plus, it saves you valuable time in the planning process!

Answering Common Nusa Lembongan Questions:

Can You Do a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan?

Yes, but it would be a long day, especially for kids. I recommend at least 24 hours (taking the first ferry over and the last ferry back). However, 3 days or 2 nights is the minimum I’d suggest to truly enjoy the experience.

Once you’re there, you might find you don’t want to leave - We always say we want to stay longer.

Is the Fast Ferry Safe?

In our experience the D'Stars Fast Ferry is the safest option. While it may not meet the exact standards you’re used to in the Western world, the seats are comfortable, the ferries appear well-maintained, and they do have life jackets on board for all passengers. 

We have also used Rocky's but prefer D'stars.

Where Does the Fast Ferry Leave From?

The fast ferry to Nusa Lembongan departs exclusively from Sanur. 

For convenience, I recommend spending a night or two in Sanur before and after your trip.  Also, be sure to allow extra time to reach the ferry terminal. While your Sanur accommodation may only be 3-4 kms from the harbour, traffic can be hectic! 

Sanur Accommodation Recommendations:

As I mentioned above, it's best to spend a night or two in Sanur before travelling to Nusa Lembongan.

If you're on a budget, I recommend Asoka Sanur and Bumi Ayu. For mid-range options, check out Sagara Villas & Suites, Parigata Resort and Spa, The Mercure, or Artotel (though the latter is better suited for couples or older children). If you're looking for something more luxurious, consider the Hyatt or Tandjung Sari. 

Is Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan Better?

While Penida is beautiful, I believe Lembongan is better suited for kids. Plus, you can easily explore the connecting Ceningan Island via a bridge - just note that golf carts won’t fit across it, so you’ll need to ride a scooter to visit Ceningan.

Is Nusa Lembongan Expensive?

Don't expect the usual Bali prices here as everything is more expensive on Lembongan (prices are comparable to those in Australia). That being said, I find that while you do pay more for food, and transport, you spend less on activities. There aren't as many distractions in Lembongan as there are in Bali, and you and your kids will embrace the simple life.

Here's a sneak peek inside Lembongan Sanctuary Villas - This villa cost our family $150 AUD per night. P.S Don't worry the verandah doors are lockable, so toddlers can't climb out! 

What About Medical Care on the Island?

If you or your kids need medical care while on Lembongan there’s a 24/7 doctor service, hospital, and ambulance. Being an island that attracts a lot of scuba divers, and snorkelers, it’s equipped to handle basic emergencies that may arise, so you can have peace of mind during your stay. 

Are There ATM's on Nusa Lembongan?

ATMs are there, but I'd always take cash with you as they can be unreliable.

How to Get Around the Island: 

Scooters are the best way to get around the island if you feel confident riding one. My hubby’s an experienced rider so it feels safe for us to travel around by scooter. We only travel at around 30kph, and traffic tends to be very light on the island. 

If you don't feel comfortable riding a scooter with your kids, you have the option to hire a golf cart. Plus, what screams island vacay more than a golf cart?

You can book them both through The Lembongan Traveller. Golf carts are a lot more expensive than scooters, but they're so much fun! Especially for kids. 

Final Thoughts:

Nusa Lembongan is a perfect addition to your itinerary if you're seeking a peaceful break, either at the start or end of your trip, offering a refreshing change of pace from Bali’s lively atmosphere.

It carries a nostalgic charm, reminiscent of what Bali felt like 15-20 years ago, and I guarantee that after your visit, you’ll join the growing number of people (including us) who say - next time, we’re staying on Lembongan even longer. It’s so soothing, laid-back, and irresistibly serene.