Diamond Beach Nusa Penida, Bali: a candidate for ‘the world’s finest beaches’

A beach like Diamond Beach belongs on the list of the world's finest. The ‘diamond beach’ of the island of Nusa Penida (Bali) serves up heavenly scenes around rock pinnacles, the ‘diamonds’, and palm trees.

Diamond Beach, with a staircase hewn from the rock as the jewel's introduction

It is worth going to Diamond Beach if you are staying on Nusa Penida. Once there you can go down a staircase hewn from the rock. Only do not descend too quickly, or you will miss the view.

This top attraction on the east side of the island looks remarkably beautiful from above. The arrival point at the top of the steps doubles as a magnificent vantage point. So take the descent calmly, for safety's sake as well.

Be warned, the way back up can be quite demanding. Possibly less intense than at Kelingking Beach on the west side, but do not underestimate it. Only do this if you are fit, and take enough drinking water with you.

Nusa Penida (Bali) and the world's finest beaches

Now for the beach itself. As publishers writing about beach holidays we see a fair number of beaches. We have no hesitation in saying that Diamond Beach is among the finest in the world.

White sand, blue water and the rock pinnacles standing in it, shaped like diamonds. With palm trees here and there on top of that. And immediately behind the narrow beach, an ultra-steep cliff. Astonishing.

The inviting blue water quickly tempts you in, although caution is called for. Swimming easily turns dangerous because of sharp stones and rocks, combined with treacherous currents.

To Diamond Beach by scooter

A Renting a scooter on Bali is very common. On the nearby island of Nusa Penida you can do the same, but do pay attention to the ‘equipment’ again. We were given an old scooter with broken gauges…

Looking back, we need not have agreed; it will have been adventurous enthusiasm. Either way, there is another reason to consider the alternatives: you are vulnerable on the road there.

There are sometimes plenty of cars, and it can get tight on certain roads.

The best time for Diamond Beach

Between the end of November and mid-March you can run into heavy downpours. For the rest of the year it is almost always the ‘best time’ for Diamond Beach. Try to avoid the peak moments during the day.

We visited the beach at the beginning of November, as it happens. That worked excellently. For timing we aimed at the late morning, and that suited us well. Around midday it quickly got busier.

Travel advice for Bali in 2022

• Since 16 February 2022 Indonesia has been free of a negative travel advisory. At first only tourists from these 19 countries could go to Bali, now everyone.

There may still be requirements around corona tests and corona vaccinations.