Nusa Dua Travel Guide 2023: Top Attractions, Hotels, and Tips
Nusa Dua is a peninsula located in the Southeastern part of the island of Bali, Indonesia. It is home to pristine stretches of beaches and is ruled by luxury hotels and resorts. Compared to many touristy parts of the island, Nusa Dua is more quiet, low-key, and a popular beach destination for weddings, honeymoons, and couples in general.
I had the privilege to stay in Nusa Dua for a week and fell in love with this little corner of Bali. With walking paths along the coast creating interconnected and accessible communities, being a great launchpad for exploring surrounding attractions in Southern Bali, tons of water sports and beaches to sunbathe on, a number of restaurants to enjoy Balinese dishes, accommodations with that Bali flair, ease, and hospitality - Nusa Dua is a beach destination to add to the list.
In this blog post, I go into detail on where to stay, where to eat, and what to see in Nusa Dua. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this Nusa Dua travel guide is your key to unlocking an unforgettable vacation in this tropical oasis.
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Best Time to Visit Nusa Dua & How Many Days
Nusa Dua is a year-round beach destination for its warm climate and swim-ready beaches. The most popular months to visit are April through September, the best months for sunny days, perfect for water activities. The rainy season is highest in December and January.
I personally visited Nusa Dua in May. While tourist traffic in other parts of Bali, like Ubud and Canguu, were ramping up, Nusa Dua felt like a little oasis away from the hustle and bustle.
I recommend staying in Nusa Dua for 4-7 days. The main attraction here for visitors is the beaches, of course. For some, there is only so long you can stand lying on a beach. Luckily there are some things to check out around the area, some of which may warrant a longer stay in Nusa Dua to not feel rushed through your trip. You can read about what to do in and near Nusa Dua here.
How to Get to Nusa Dua
The international airport of Bali, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport - Bali (DPS), is located in the Southern part of the island. Access to Nusa Dua from the airport is easy. The Bali Mandara Toll Road, a toll bridge that cuts through the Gulf of Benoa opened in 2013, makes the drive quick - just about 30-40 minutes depending on the area you are staying and inevitable traffic!
I recommend getting an airport taxi or Grab upon arrival at the airport to take you to your hotel in Nusa Dua. Drivers are plentiful in Bali! Alternatively, if the hotel you are staying at offers hotel pickups (car or shuttle), this could be a more convenient mode of transportation for you to arrange ahead of time.
While in Nusa Dua, the best ways to get around are walking, Grab, taxi drivers which you can find on the main streets, transport organized with your hotel, or guided day trip tours through agencies such as Viator.
Where to Stay in Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua’s quiet nature and clean beaches with comfortable, luxury accommodations make the area a haven for vacationers. The closer you are to the water’s edge, the more expensive the options (and there are a lot of them). But there are also more affordable places to stay in Nusa Dua for those on a budget. Here is a list of hotels and resorts in Nusa Dua.
Budget Hotels & Guesthouses in Nusa Dua
Green D'Mel Luxury Homestay is a comfortable 3-star homestay with room service, WiFi, swimming pool, for stunningly low price per night. You will find the best Balinese hospitality just a short drive from Nusa Dua attractions and beaches.
Kubu Benoa Guest House is an intimate Balinese guesthouse with simple hotel suites located on a quiet street on the Nusa Dua peninsula just a few minutes walk from the nearest beach. Rooms start as low as $40/night.
Pondok Agung Bed & Breakfast has cozy rooms starting at $18/night. What a deal! Also included are bed and breakfast grounds in gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, and breakfast included with select room bookings for an extra small charge. One minute walk to the beach!
Mid-Range Hotels in Nusa Dua
Bali Nusa Dua Hotel is located more inland - about a 10-minute drive from the nearby beaches and 15 minutes from the airport- but affordable, comfortable, 3-star goodness! The hotel offers paid shuttle services to help you get around, an on-site restaurant and buffet, and a stunning swimming pool.
Tijili Hotel Benoa boasts a rooftop infinity pool, beachfront loungers on soft sands, and daily breakfast buffet. Tijili has on-site restaurants and is located a short drive to most nearby attractions.
Grand Whiz Hotel Nusa Dua Bali has access to a private beach a short walk from Grand Whiz. The hotel features a restaurant serving Balinese and Western dishes, 24-hour front desk, and rooms with a terrace to enjoy.
Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Nusa Dua
The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is a high-end resort stretched along white-sandy beaches featuring luxurious suites and villas, excellent service, 7 pools, 5 restaurants on-site, and activities/tours provided by the hotel.
Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali is an all-inclusive resort fit for families with endless entertainment and activities on the resort grounds for any age. The beach at this hotel is a beautiful stretch of soft sand. The location of this resort is further into the Nusa Dua peninsula so a bit more of a drive/walk to sites to see in the area.
Ulu Segara Luxury Suites & Villas showcase a mix of traditional Balinese and ultra-luxury modern decor and architecture featuring rooms ranging from ocean-view suites to 3-bedroom villas with a private pool. Its location in Southern Nusa Dua makes it Central to different regions of Bali you may want to visit.
Bali Tropic Resort & Spa (pictured above) is an affordable traditional Balinese-style resort owned and operated locally with that resort flair and comfort you may be looking for. Walking distance to many Nusa Dua attractions and restaurants while sitting on a quiet, low-key beach.
NOTE: I stayed here for a week. The wifi is horrendous, unfortunately. So unless you are prepared to unplug or get a SIM card, I recommend avoiding Bali Tropic Resort & Spa ☹️
BONUS: The St. Regis Bali Resort is the most expensive on this list (starting at $600+ a night) but is a private resort oasis with some of the most pristine beaches in the area, luxurious accommodations, complimentary airport transfers, and ultimate destination for a relaxed beach vacation with a partner.
Where to Eat in Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is far from short of culinary options that fit anyone’s cuisine preferences and palate. Here are some must-visit places to eat and drink in Nusa Dua.
KORAL: BALI’S FIRST AQUARIUM RESTAURANTS | As the name suggests, this is Bali’s first aquarium restaurant where you dine surrounded by beautiful and plentiful aquarium tanks. Not only is this a unique experience but the food exceeds expectations. To visit yourself, be sure to book your reservation well in advance and be prepared for a high price tag.
📍Location: Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
URBAN SEASIDE | My favorite cafe along the beach that I returned to countless times. Delicious coffees, smoothies, and select Balinese and Western dishes in a comfortable, quiet setting overlooking Samuh Beach. (Right photo above).
📍Location: Jl. Pratama Jl. Segara Samuh, Lingkungan banjar, celuk, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
SAMUH BEACH HOUSE | A shack on Sumah Beach serving cocktails, mocktails, juices, and small dishes ranging from salads to sandwiches. There is no indoor seating, instead, grab a swinging seat at a table or ocean-front lounge chair. Immaculate, laid-back vibes! (Left photo above).
📍Location: Tanjung, Benoa, South Kuta, Bali, 80361, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
ALLSPICE DINING & OCEAN TERRACE | Ocean-front luxury restaurant serving seafood and Japanese fusion. This restaurant is located at the stunning 5-star The Royal Santrian Luxury Beach Villas so expect a higher price tag but in return impeccable views, food, and drinks.
📍Location: Tanjung Nusa Dua, Jl. Pratama, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
MANARI BEACH HOUSE | Located at the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort is Manari Beach House with poolside and indoor restaurant seating serving a range of cuisines. Note: the portions are massive.
📍Location: Lot N5 ITDC Tourism Complex, Jl. Nusa Dua, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
RAJA BALI NUSA DUA | Balinese restaurant away from the coast serving all your favorite Balinese dishes in a tasting style. Raja is unique in that they offer free transfers to and from your hotel making access to their restaurant easy and hassle-free no matter where you are staying.
📍Location: Jl. Nusa Dua No.62, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
WARUNG BULE & SUSY | A warung with authentic Balinese dishes, kind staff, fewer crowds, and a great price point for an area that is notoriously “expensive.”
📍Location: Jl. Terompong Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan No.4, Benoa, Denpasar Selatan, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
SUKUN RESTAURANT NUSA DUA | Contemporary Balinese restaurant with beautiful plating presentation and live music at night. Located at Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua.
📍Location: Jl. Pratama No.87X, Tj. Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
UDUPI - BALI | The best Indian food in Nusa Dua! Whether you are seeking vegetarian or meat-based dishes, Udupi has it. High-quality and authentic food.
📍Location: Jl. Pratama Raya Lingk. Celuk No.6, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
ROBY PIZZA ITALIANA | Wanting to indulge in pizza for a night? Roby Pizza is a great, highly-rated place in Nusa Dua to do just that. Authentic Italian pizza with an excellent selection of bases and toppings.
📍Location: Jl. Pratama No.49A, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Bali, 80361, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
MAMA KRISNA COFFEE & KITCHEN | A popular spot for a good cup of coffee. You can also find smoothie bowls, Balinese dishes, and Western favorites on the menu.
📍Location: Amnaya Resort, Jl. Pratama No.87, Tanjung, Benoa, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps
Best Things to Do in Nusa Dua
Attend a Cooking Class
One of the most fun and unique ways to integrate yourself and learn about a new culture to you is to attend a cooking class. The Balinese cuisine is spicy, fresh, and quite delicious. Common dishes you may make in a cooking class and want to try while in Bali is nasi campur, lawar, corn fritters, satay, and sambal matah. Here are a couple cooking classes in Nusa Dua.
Have a Beach Day
Of course, Nusa Dua is famous for the beautiful, expansive beaches lining the peninsula. There are a number of beaches to visit in Nusa Dua and I highly recommend you do! A boardwalk/walking path along the coast connects some of these beaches making for a beautiful walk and easy access. Here are some of the local beaches to add to your list.
Browse the Museum Pasifika Bali
Museum Pasifika Bali is a good size art museum in Nusa Dua filled with Pacific-Asia artwork ranging from sculptures to paintings. Visiting a local art museum is a great way to learn about the culture and artists that have contributed to the history of this region of the world.
Visit Peninsula Island & Waterblow
My favorite thing I explored in Nusa Dua was Peninsula Island. There are several natural and manmade attractions worth seeking here located along the Nusa Dua coast. All of the below are free to visit except Waterblow.
Peninsula Island/Garden of Hope: (top-left photo above) Peninsula Island is exactly what is sounds like. A little island-like peninsula jutting out into the ocean with gardens, a walking path around the perimeter with breathtaking views, monuments, and attractions listed below.
Waterblow: (top-right photo above) The main attractions of Peninsula Island! Waterblow is a natural wonder where waves crash into reef and carved out volcanic rock occasionally resulting in a giant spout of water shooting into the air. A true spectacle to see. I recommend visiting during high tide for the best chance of seeing the waterblow in action. It costs 25k IDR/person (~$1.60 USD).
Pura Bias Tugel: (bottom-left photo above) Located off a discreet path leading to Suryodaya Beach you will find Pura Bias Tugel, a Hindu temple. The temple overlooks the beach and surrounding rocky cliffs. A beautiful place to get some pictures!
Suryodaya Beach: (bottom-right photo above) A secret little beach on Peninsula Island that you must visit while here is Suryodaya Beach. It is in a small but lovely, calm cove. Across the way you will see surfers and the South-Eastern coast of Bali continue.
See a Kecak Dance
Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese dance and music performance telling the ancient story of the Ramayana. The performers chant (chak) in a large circle while a demonstration of the battle from the Ramanyana occurs. Performers run around and through fire creating an enchanting show and must-see cultural tradition. (Pictures above from a show in Ubud). You can see a Kecak Dance in Nusa Dua at:
Kecak and Barong Dance The Nusa Dua (at Peninsula Island)
Hotels and resorts may show the performance for their guests (or other traditional Balinese shows)
Kecak Dance Melasti Beach (at Melasti Beach ~30 minute drive from Nusa Dua)
Kecak Uluwatu (at Uluwatu temple ~42 minute drive from Nusa Dua)
Have a Spa Day
The perfect addition to your relaxing tropical vacation is to have a day spent getting pampered at a spa with a Balinese massage. Most hotels and resorts around Nusa Dua will have their own spa. If yours doesn’t, check out the following spas around Nusa Dua!
Thrilling Water Sports
Being located on the water, Nusa Dua is filled with agencies and suppliers offering water sports for adrenaline junkies. Water sports could include jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, jetpacks and more! Most hotels and resorts will offer some degree of water sports you can book through them. You can also walk along the boardwalk and find agencies all along the coast. Alternatively, book directly with an agency you can refer to reviews for beforehand to ease your mind before hitting the water.
Take a Day Trip from Nusa Dua
There is so much more to see of Southern Bali than just Nusa Dua! I highly recommend hiring a driver to take you around to some worthwhile destinations, all under an hour away from Nusa Dua, for a day trip of exploring. Here are some ideas.
Malasti Beach: A popular beach for sunset and also the Southernmost point of Bali island
Turtle Conservation and Education Center: Non-profit center you can visit to learn about sea turtle conservation and help release sea turtles
Pandawa Beach Road Viewpoint: Just go google the photos of this incredible road carved out of cliffs
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: (Left photo above) Home to one of the tallest statues in the world and featuring numerous other Hindu statues and events
Nyang Nyang Beach: A quiet, serene beach unlike many in Bali lying at the foothills of green hills
Pantai Nunggalan: White sand beach with remnants of a shipwreck that is popular to take pictures on (but getting here takes some effort)
Uluwatu Temple: A stunning Hindu temple perched on the top of cliffs with ocean views
Suluban Beach: (right photo above) A beach in Uluwatu surrounded by limestone cliffs and popular for surfers
Kuta: Popular ocean-side city for tourists filled with cafes, coffee shops, local boutiques, and long stretches of sandy beaches
Tips for Visiting Nusa Dua
As with the rest of Bali/Indonesia, do not drink tap water. Most hotels supply your room with bottled water. If not, you can order from restaurants or go to nearby convenience stores to grab some!
You can get a eSIM card ahead of your arrival in Bali using the app Airalo. Get $3 off your first eSIM card with my referral code, ANNA5384
Bring and wear reef-safe sunscreen. Especially if you are getting into the ocean!
The word “Pantai” means beach! You will see this word a lot being on an island so it’s helpful to know.
The convenience stores in the resorts selling toiletries, sunscreen, etc, are at least double to triple the cost of the convenience stores outside of your resort/hotel. I highly recommend walking to your nearby Circle K or local shop to grab anything extra you may need!
Get out of your resort to explore more of the area!
There are ATMs located around Nusa Dua and in some resorts/hotels. Have some local currency (Indonesian Rupiah) on you if you are exploring outside of hotel beaches and restaurants. Taxis hailed on the streets will require cash as well as some small local establishments. Otherwise, most everywhere takes cards.
Nusa Dua is in the red zone for tsunamis. Don’t let this deter you from visiting! The likelihood of a tsunami during your visit is very low. Because of its unique location on a peninsula though, exiting the area is tricky. If this is something you want peace of mind with, I recommend booking your stay with a tsunami-ready hotel and familiarizing yourself with hotel protocol should one occur. A tsunami-ready hotel will include high floors (3 and higher) and a clear meeting point/exit plan for guests.
On the mention of tsunamis - it is common for tsunami alarm tests to be run. Do not let this worry you. If you are unsure what is going on and whether the alarms are legit or not, calmly ask your hotel staff or locals around you for reassurance.
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