Broken Beach
I remember the first time I visit Broken Beach:
I do get it why the locals named it Pasih Uug (which is Broken Beach in the Balinese language). This little cove at the western part of Nusa Penida has been ‘broken’ by mother nature over the centuries.
This is crazy:
Using a drone, you could admire this broken landscape. As if the whole area collapsed to form a cove. A little hole was formed (probably due to waves crashing into its wall), which allow waters to flow in and out of the bay.
In this article I will share everything you need to know before visiting Broken Beach.
The local folklore told me that the Broken Beach area used to be a village.
One day, an enormous snake passed through the village. Without hesitation, the villagers quickly captured, butchered and devoured the snake.
On the same night, an old beggar arrived at the village. He was the owner of the snake.
The old beggar knew that the villagers had killed his snake. But he politely asked the villagers about his snake.
Everyone lied and said they had no idea of its whereabout.
To cut the story short, the beggar pulled out a magic stick and lunged it into the ground. If any of the villagers were telling the truth, they will be able to pull the stick off the ground.
After countless failed attempts, the old beggar pulled the magic stick. There was a huge earthquake and the whole village collapse leaving no traces of existence. Just a huge hole like the one in Broken Beach now.
Things to do in Broken Beach :
1. Capture the Most Amazing Selfies
Here is something we can both agree on:
Broken Beach landscape is out of this world, probably mimicking the sci-fi scene of Themyscira, the birthplace of Wonder Woman.
For that reason, Broken Beach has getting increasing publicity from Instagrammers around the world who took selfies around the area.
One of the most iconic spot is the edge facing the huge arch opening:
Isn’t it amazing!
2. Watch the famous Manta Rays
You probably know:
There are lots of manta rays in Nusa Penida. But do you know where to find one?
You can actually meet some Manta Rays just two minutes walk away from Broken Beach.
Head towards the Angels Billabong area. Halfway through you will find an archway of trees. Head up through it over a hill. When you arrive on the edge, (if you are lucky) you will be able to admire a few manta rays that hang out below.
Once you are done with Broken Beach, you should probably give Angel’s Billabong a visit. It’s only 500 meters away from Broken Beach.
You will be left in awe with Angel’s Billabong beauty. It’s literally a huge natural infinity pool at the edge of the Ocean.
Things NOT recommended to do in Broken Beach:
1. Swimming and Cliff Jumping
The turquoise-colored bay in Broken Beach is very inviting for swimming. For some adrenaline-seeker, cliff jumping from the top of Broken Beach might sound amazing.
But, here is the kicker:
Currently, there is no way for you to climb up back up. The only way is to swim towards the Angel’s Billabong and climb up from there.
It gets worse:
The current could be very strong sometimes. Beginner swimmer will find it hard to swim against the current.
2. Throwing Litter and Damaging the Nature
It’s probably common sense, but unfortunately there are lots of irresponsible travellers who left their litters around the area.
Please don’t be one
How to Get to Broken Beach?
As you probably know:
Broken Beach is located at the western side of Nusa Penida. You will have to get a fast boat from Sanur Beach to Nusa Penida.
Cost of Speed Boat is Rp. 150.000 (one-way) and Rp. 300.000 (for round trip).
Once you arrive, you could choose to either rent a scooter or a car. If you have never ride a scooter before, then don’t ever try riding in Nusa Penida. The roads are small and badly damaged, even experienced rider found it hard to ride.
Broken Beach is 20 km away from the harbour. Eventhough Google Map show that you could reach within one hour, you probably won’t. My last ride took me 2 hours to reach Broken Beach.
If you want a more comfortable trip to Nusa Penida, the solution is simple:
Join LiburanBali Nusa Penida Trip.
It’s all inclusive, that’s mean you will be picked up from the hotel and once you finish your Nusa Penida trip, you will be dropped back to your hotel.
The price starts from $45 (for 6 people). If you want a trip with 2 people only, it will cost you a little bit higher: $63 per person.
Tips when visiting Broken Beach
1. Be Extra Careful when you Ride
Eventhough Nusa Penida has gained popularity, the local government has not improved the road infrastructure.
The roads are small and damaged. As mentioned above, please do not attempt to ride a scooter if you have never ride one in your life.
2. Book a Scooter in advance
If you still want to ride a scooter. Then you should book one early. You will probably not get one if you book one on the spot. You will even get better price if you book early.
The price of scooter will vary between IDR 70.000 to IDR 90.000 depending on the holiday season.
3. Rise & Come early
When visiting Broken Beach, you should start early. When you come early in the morning, you will find that you will be the only one there.
You will get better shots for your Instagram!
4. Avoid the High Season
The high season: New Years, Christmas and Eid Mubarak are the worst time to visit Nusa Penida in general.
It’s just too crowded and you won’t be able to enjoy the scenery.
5. Don’t miss visiting Angel’s Billabong
Another highlight of Nusa Penida is located 500 meters away from Broken Beach. There’s just no reason you should skip Angel’s Billabong.
What do you think about Angel's Billabong?
Would you be interested to visit Broken Beach on your next visit to Bali? Or have you been to Broken Beach before? Share your thoughts below!
