Atuh Beach in Banjar Pelilit
Atuh Beach The Enchantment of the Beauty of a Remote Beach in Nusa Penida that is Under a Ravine The Very Popular Atuh Beach Atuh Beach is a remote beach in Nusa Penida that is famous for its uniqueness, flanked by two spectacular high cliffs. On the right is the Labuan Ampuak cliff and on the left is the Tanjong Juntil cliff. From these cliffs, you will be presented with a view of the crystal clear blue sea with a dazzling stretch of white sand. The surrounding limestone rock formations add to the impression of a hidden paradise. The beach has four cliffs with unique rock formations, namely Batu Melawang, Batu Abah, Batu Paon and Bukit Jineng. You can also try extreme sports such as cliff jumping from a height of 3 meters. However, it is advisable to check the depth first and make sure you don’t hesitate when jumping. Atuh Beach is one of the Klungkung Interesting Places to Visit, with white sand and clear sea water as its main attraction. One of the unique features of this beach is a large rock in the middle of the sea known as Batu Melawang. This rock has a hole through which sea water can pass, so it is often referred to as Batu Bolong, which means ‘holey’ in the local language. History of the Beach Name Near the beach, there is a temple called Atuh Temple, which is frequented by the Hindu community from Pejukutan and Tanglad villages, especially during ceremonies. To the west of the temple, there are two springs that are still used today by the local community. One of the springs is considered sacred, used only for ceremonial purposes, while the other is used for daily needs. According to a story shared by I Wayan Satu Nusantara from Pelilit Hamlet, a villager once witnessed a kneeler drinking water beneath a coconut tree during the dry season. That night, the villagers received a divine revelation instructing them to dig for a spring at that very spot. Upon further exploration, a spring was discovered beneath the tree. One of the remarkable aspects of these springs is that they never run dry, even during the harshest dry seasons. This led to the naming of the beach as “Atuh,” derived from the words “A,” meaning ‘not,’ and “Tuh,” meaning ‘dry,’ thus giving the name “Atuh” the meaning of ‘never dry.’ Location and Route to Atuh Beach To visit Atuh Beach, you must go to Nusa Penida Island, precisely in Banjar Pelilit, Pejukutan Village. This beach is one of the popular tourist destinations, especially for tourists traveling to East Bali. The journey to this beach is quite challenging due to the extreme and winding roads. Here is the travel route that you can follow: Sea JourneyStart your journey by crossing from Sanur Harbor to Banjar Nyuh Pier in Nusa Penida. This sea trip takes about 45 minutes. Land JourneyAfter arriving at Banjar Nyuh Pier, you can continue your journey by car or rented motorcycle. The land route to Atuh Beach takes about 75 minutes, along a winding and rocky road, so you need to be careful during the journey. On FootAfter arriving at the parking lot, you will need to walk about 10 minutes to the edge of the cliff that leads to Atuh Beach. Along the way, you will pass Atuh Cliff (Atuh Hill), which offers a beautiful view of a row of small islands in the middle of the sea. From the top of the hill, you can also see the beautiful white sands of Atuh Beach from a distance. Attractions of this Beautiful Beach Atuh Beach has several attractions that make many tourists interested in visiting this place. Here are some of the main attractions of Atuh Beach: Hidden Beautiful Beach Atuh Beach is known as a hidden beautiful beach. Its location that is blocked by high cliffs makes this beach feel more exclusive and private. Although not very long, this beach offers a view of clear blue water with clean white sand, making it one of the most attractive beaches in Bali. Surrounded by Beautiful Cliff View The beach is surrounded by two high cliffs that resemble small islands flanking it. The view of these large rocky cliffs adds a dramatic and mesmerizing impression when you visit Atuh Beach. The Beautiful Curve of the Beach One of the uniqueness of Atuh Beach is its beautiful coastal arch. This coastal arch is seen stretching along the rocks in the water, creating a very stunning view. Many Food Vendors Around the beach, you will find several food stalls selling a variety of food and drinks. These vendors serve a variety of dishes such as grilled fish, coconut ice, and various Indonesian specialties. You can also enjoy fresh seafood provided by vendors on the beach while relaxing on the bean bags available. Interesting Activities to Do at Atuh Beach Atuh Beach offers various interesting activities that will give you an unforgettable vacation experience. Here are some activities that you can enjoy: Enjoying the Beach View You can choose two view options to enjoy the scenery of Atuh Beach: from the cliff or directly from the beach by climbing down the cliff. On the beach, you can feel the vast expanse of white sand with the waves lapping against the shore. Sunbathing Atuh Beach is the perfect place to sunbathe, enjoying the sunshine while relaxing on the soft white sand. The beautiful view of the beach will certainly make this activity more enjoyable. Seeing the Beauty of the Sunrise Atuh Beach is also famous as the perfect place to watch the sunrise. The best time to come is around 5:30 am. The beauty of the sunrise on this beach will provide an extraordinary experience. Swimming on the Beach If you come when the tide is low, you can swim or run around on the beach. The calm condition of the sea water at low tide makes this activity safer and more
First Time in Nusa Penida? Here’s What You Should Expect!
First Time in Nusa Penida? Here’s What You Should Expect! A short guide for a first-timer going to Nusa Penida. Nusa Penida, a small island southeast of Bali, has rapidly become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking unspoiled beauty, stunning landscapes, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure. While the island’s popularity continues to grow, it still retains a raw charm that attracts those looking for a slice of paradise. However, as with any destination, a trip to Nusa Penida comes with its own set of expectations and realities. This guide will help you understand what awaits on your first visit to Nusa Penida, highlighting both its breathtaking appeal and some challenges you might encounter. Natural Beauty: A Photographer’s Dream Nusa Penida is best known for its natural landscapes, which seem to belong to a dream. Iconic landmarks such as Kelingking Beach, with its dinosaur-shaped cliff, and Broken Beach, a picturesque cove with a natural arch, are some of the highlights. These locations are stunning in photographs, but experiencing them in person is an entirely different level of awe. The turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery create a backdrop that seems almost too perfect to be real. Crystal Bay, another favorite, offers a serene beach experience with calm waters ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing. The island is also home to Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool where you can witness the mesmerizing beauty of waves crashing into the rock formations. For underwater enthusiasts, Nusa Penida’s marine life is a major attraction. Manta Point is famous for its resident manta rays, and swimming alongside these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience. A Mix of Adventure and Serenity What sets Nusa Penida apart from other destinations is the balance between adventure and tranquility. Exploring the island often involves navigating bumpy roads, climbing steep stairs, and braving intense heat. For those who love a challenge, this only adds to the allure. Once you reach a viewpoint or hidden beach, the effort feels worthwhile. On the flip side, Nusa Penida also offers peaceful moments of relaxation. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet sunset at Suwehan Beach or soaking in the slow-paced island vibes in one of the coastal villages, you’ll find opportunities to unwind and escape the chaos of daily life. Challenges: The Price of Raw Beauty While Nusa Penida is undeniably beautiful, it is not without its challenges, especially for first-time visitors. The infrastructure on the island is still developing. Roads are often narrow, uneven, and riddled with potholes, making navigation tricky, particularly if you’re riding a scooter. Travelers inexperienced with motorbikes might find this aspect daunting. Read Also: Planning to Enjoy WaterSport in Bali? Here’s What YOU Need to Know! Additionally, the journey to Nusa Penida itself can be a bit of an adventure. Most visitors take a speedboat from Sanur in Bali, and while the ride is relatively short (30–45 minutes), it can be rough during bad weather. Upon arrival, the docks can be crowded and chaotic, especially during peak tourist season. Another challenge is accessibility to some of the island’s famous spots. For instance, reaching Kelingking Beach requires descending a steep and uneven staircase, which can be physically demanding. Similarly, Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach involve steep climbs and slippery paths. While the views from above are spectacular, travelers with mobility issues or those unwilling to endure the effort might feel left out. Hospitality and Local Culture The locals of Nusa Penida are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. Despite the growing influx of tourists, the island retains a strong sense of tradition and culture. The Balinese Hindu influence is evident in the numerous temples scattered across the island. Pura Goa Giri Putri, a unique cave temple, offers a spiritual experience that many visitors find memorable. To enter the cave, you’ll need to crawl through a narrow opening, but inside, you’ll find a vast cavern used for religious ceremonies. While the locals are welcoming, it’s important to respect their customs and way of life. Modesty in dress, particularly when visiting temples, and adherence to local etiquette are appreciated. Accommodation and Dining Nusa Penida offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets, from luxury villas with infinity pools to budget-friendly guesthouses. However, compared to Bali, the options are more limited, and it’s advisable to book in advance during peak seasons. The dining scene on the island has improved in recent years, with an increasing number of cafes and restaurants offering both local and international cuisines. Fresh seafood is a highlight, and dishes like grilled fish and sambal matah are not to be missed. That said, some visitors might find the variety and quality of dining options less extensive compared to Bali. Environmental Concerns As tourism grows in Nusa Penida, so does the strain on its environment. While many travelers are drawn to the island’s pristine nature, the impact of increased visitor numbers is becoming apparent. Plastic waste and overcrowding at popular spots are concerns that both tourists and locals must address. If you’re visiting, consider taking steps to minimize your ecological footprint—carry a reusable water bottle, avoid single-use plastics, and respect natural habitats. Tips for First-Time Visitors Plan Your Transportation: Decide whether you’ll rent a scooter or hire a private driver. While scooters offer flexibility, they require confidence in handling challenging roads. A driver can make your trip safer and more convenient, though it might be costlier. Start Early: Many of Nusa Penida’s top attractions get crowded during the day. Starting your explorations early ensures you can enjoy these spots with fewer people and better lighting for photography. Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes, and plenty of water are must-haves. The island’s heat can be intense, and some of the trails are rugged. Respect Nature and Culture: Be mindful of your actions, both at natural sites and when interacting with locals. Respect sacred areas, don’t litter, and follow the rules at protected marine zones. Stay Overnight: While many people visit Nusa Penida as a day trip from Bali, staying
