Mesmerized by the turquoise skies of Nusa Penida

If you've fallen for Bali (Indonesia), chances are you'll also fall in love with Nusa Penida, just over an hour's boat ride from Bali. People come here to cherish the memory of the azure sea and sky, carrying with them the promise to return one day.

Enthralled by the azure heavens of Nusa Penida Island

The dawn breaks gently over the Sanur harbor – it seems later than in Vietnam. The high-speed boat takes me from the main Bali island to the smaller Nusa Penida island, just over an hour's ferry ride.

Fearing we wouldn't have enough time to explore this 'must-visit' island if we stayed in Bali, we caught the earliest ferry, hoping for two full days to marvel at the beauty not overly touched by tourism on the Nusa Penida Island.

Stay in Nusa Penida Island for 2 days if you can; you'll want to 'eat – pray – love' here, just like in Bali.

On this island, everything comes at a bargain. Tickets to explore the rocky cliffs and coastal edges are just around 5,000-10,000 IDR (approximately 8,000 to nearly 20,000 VND). The dining options are not abundant; you'll easily spot the eateries bustling with locals. Every meal, I indulge in Nasi Gareng – a flavorful fried rice reminiscent of Vietnam, affordable and perfect for the adventurous travelers.

As the afternoon sun starts to descend, I ride towards Broken Beach and Angel Billabong – not far from Kelingking. The rocky terrain and cliffs, eroded by the relentless sea, remind me of the disc-shaped rocks in Phu Yen, Vietnam – a stunning sight despite the fierce waves.

For those less interested in photography, simply stretch out on the dry grass and gaze at the bay or watch the rays gracefully swim. That day, I spotted a ray, and a local friend exclaimed, “Lucky to see a ray in the evening, as they usually gather in the morning, or you'd have to take a diving tour to spot them.”

If you have the morning on Nusa Penida, set out around 6 AM, heading towards the East coast, passing through quaint villages. Here, the sea on one side, houses on the other – undoubtedly the most beautiful coastal route I've traversed, with the sparkling sunset illuminating palm trees and shadows.

I reached Diamond Beach by 8 AM, a beach splendid in its own right; inviting for a run, a photo shoot, or anything your heart desires. Tall rock formations rise from the shore, a long stretch of white sandy beach embraced by towering cliffs, occasionally adorned with graceful seagulls circling above the waves. Spellbound by Diamond Beach, I just want to capture every moment before heading back.

Though I've never been to the likes of Coron or Boracay in the Philippines, Diamond Beach is undoubtedly the most beautiful beach I've ever set foot on in my life.

Travelers arrive at Nusa Penida with dreams of an endless blue sea and lush forests. I am no exception, seeking the best experiences of my life. The departing ship not only carries baggage but also a heavy heart, filled with memories and a promise to return to the serene Nusa Penida, surrounded by the vastness of the sea and sky.

Source: Minh Duc/Tuoi Tre

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Reference: Travel guide Mytour