Kelingking Beach is one of the most famous spot of Nusa Penida, often featured in advertisements for Bali and Indonesia. Its unique rock formations look like the backbone of a dinosaur and it’s even nicknamed T-Rex Bay on Google Maps. From the top of the cliff, visitors may even spot Manta rays.
Tourists gather at the esplanade for breathtaking views and drone photography. The popularity of Kelingking Beach has greatly contributed to the tourist growth of Nusa Penida island, particularly through social media. Interestingly, “Kelingking” also means pinky finger in Indonesian, but the reason behind it requires a little imagination.
Kelingking Beach was voted one of the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world in 2024 by The World’s 50 Best Beaches.
“Kelingking Beach was voted one of the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world in 2024 by The World’s 50 Best Beaches.”
The star attraction of Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida is the breathtaking viewpoint atop the cliff. While the coastline boasts magnificent cliffs, this one is truly exceptional! A selfie with the T-Rex is a must, but be prepared to share the spotlight with other Instagrammers. As of January 2018, over 13,000 photos had been posted with #Kelingking and over 25,000 with #kelingkingbeach. By September 2020, we had reached a total of over 400,000 photos for both hashtags. Now we’re at almost 600,000!
But you might manage to take a photo that stands out from the 600,000 already snapped. For example, you could climb a tree (the dead tree I climbed for a photo in 2018 has sadly disappeared now…) or make use of one of the platforms specially built for pictures! Locals are incredibly creative, building bamboo observation decks that offer unique vantage points. You’ll also notice more and more couples accompanied by professional photographers, often equipped with drones, capturing stunning videos and photos.
I recommend heading up the cliff a bit to the right (facing the sea) to escape the crowds and capture more peaceful, striking shots without the hustle..
After descending, you’ll be greeted by a stunning beach. While the allure of swimming may be irresistible, be wary of the powerful waves and currents that can carry you out to sea. Sadly, Kelingking Beach has experienced multiple drowning incidents, making the warnings imperative.
However, don’t let these precautions dampen your enthusiasm – the trip to the beach is well worth the effort.
Kelingking Beach : do you really deserve it ?
Kelingking Beach is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque beaches in Nusa Penida island. And in my opinion, the most stunning in Bali under the “wild beach” category. Even if you are not inclined to descend to the beach, take a stroll along the narrow path that meanders down the ridge line for a few meters. It’s a quieter spot to admire the panoramic views and click better photographs.
I have a piece of advice for you – take your pictures before descending the trail, as climbing back up might leave you less photogenic. The initial part of the trail, up to the first turn, is relatively easy and gives you a fair idea of the entire trek. You can then decide here if you have the grit to hike down to the beach. Or otherwise head to other accessible beaches like Crystal Bay or Atuh Beach, especially if you are with kids.
Some time ago a fire destroyed the vegetation and the elaborate network of ropes and wooden poles that facilitated the descent. However, the trail to the beach has been reconstructed and is much safer now. So, don’t abandon the trek halfway, as the climb up is more manageable than the climb down. The incline is towards you, making it more secure and paradoxically less strenuous.
