Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
spot simply to admire the view in the shade beneath palms for now. Worryingly, at the time
of research a developer was proposing a luxury villas resort.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: NUSA PENIDA
From Nusa Lembongan
A public boat from Jungutbatu to Toyapakeh departs early in the
morning - 6am at the time of research (30min; Rp80,000). Other boats go roughly hourly
(dependent on passenger numbers) from the bridge to Nusa Ceningan during daylight hours
(15min; Rp50,000 each way). You might also be able to charter a boat from Jungutbatu for
around Rp300,000 return. For all trips, bear in mind that heavy swells in the channel can dis-
rupt sailing.
From Bali
From Sanur, Optasal public boats speed to Toyapakeh seven times a day between
7am and 4pm (40min; Rp175,000 one-way). Private operator Maruti Express ( 0338 754
848,
balimarutiexpress.com
) sails twice a day (30min; Rp250,000/Rp480,000 one-way/re-
turn). From Padang Bai to Buyuk Harbour there are small fast boats (up to 4 daily, 7am-noon;
45min; Rp60,000) plus a large vehicle ferry (1 daily; 1hr; Rp18,000).
GETTING AROUND
By bemo
A sketchy public bemo service operates between Toyapakeh and Sampalan, via
Ped, between about 6am and 9pm.
By motorbike
The best way to get around is by motorbike. Motorbike drivers/guides wait
at Toyapakeh harbour to meet arrivals from Lembongan, and will offer to guide; Rp250,000
is a reasonable price for a full day of riding and guiding. You can also rent your own bike
here for about Rp50,000-70,000/day - try Rod ( 0818 0533 3747), who speaks excellent
English (the chances are he'll find you). The island is a maze of remote lanes and signposts
are few. That said, getting lost may be half the fun.
ACCOMMODATION AND EATING
If it ever gets off the ground, the luxury
Chedi Nusa Penida
resort at Crystal Bay will be
a game-changer. For the moment, Sampalan has the most guesthouses, most of which are
simple two-room affairs (roughly Rp150,000). Eating options are limited to restaurants in the
hotels and simple warung. Be warned: the further south you go, the more limited your options
for food - it's packet snacks only in the deep south.
Homestay Ray
Opposite the market, Sampalan 0366 559 6674.
Rather pricey for what is
comfortable but plain accommodation. Still, this has nine clean and quiet fan rooms designed
in traditional style with carved pillars and Kamasan p
aintings, a
ll set around a courtyard with
caged birds. Odd grotto-style bathrooms may appeal.
Rp300,000
Made's Homestay
0852 3764 3649.
Down a lane towards the beach near the Bank Bri
ATM, this friendly family-run place has four small, simple, bright rooms in a Balinese-style
