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Best Time to Visit Nusa Penida: Weather and Crowds
Nusa Penida is often called “the Golden Egg of Bali” because of its beauty and authentic charm. Yet, like any place on Earth, it has its specific climatic conditions, which can both turn your visit into a magic fairy tale or totally spoil all the best impressions about the island.
That’s why, before you plan your trip to Nusa Penida, let’s learn more about local weather, tourist seasons, and tips to help you better accommodate and enjoy the days you spend there.
Local Climate at a Glance: What Is Essential to Learn About Nusa Penida
First, let’s briefly overview the island's climate to create a clear picture of local weather and its specifics.
- Nusa Penida is located in a tropical belt, with the coordinates 8°44′0″S 115°32′0″E. It is 12 kilometers southeast of Bali, and thus, its climate is quite similar to that of Bali, but not 100% the same.
- Like all tropical areas, Nusa Penida has two major seasons: dry, when precipitation levels are low, and wet, when heavy rains and storms are regular. There is no winter in its traditional sense, and the changes mostly concern precipitation activity. The dry season in Nusa Penida typically lasts from April-May to October, while the wet season continues during late fall (November) to Spring (typically, till the end of March).
- The average annual temperature on the island is quite stable. Daytime temperatures may fluctuate between +29 and +35 °C (84-95°F), and nighttime temperatures are about +25-30 °C (77-86°F). So, its weather is consistently warm all year long.
- Yet, one of the main troubles tourists from other regions face in Nusa Penida is its high humidity that reaches, on average, 90%. The good news is that it is lower than in Bali. The bad news is that it is still troublesome for people with health issues related to humidity and heat.
- What makes Nusa Penida a desired tourist destination is its water temperature. On average, it doesn’t drop lower than 26 °C, so it is a true godsend for surfers, divers, snorkelers, and those who love to swim.
- As for the altitude, the maximum altitude in Nusa Penida is 524 meters above sea level. Yet the island's landscape is hilly, so be ready for a slight tiredness after walking its trails.
So, with these facts, you can create a brief impression about what you can expect in Nusa Penida. Yet, it is necessary to detail its seasonal specifics.
Wet Season on Nusa Penida
From November to March, Nusa Penida experiences its wet season, also called the rainy season. There are no extreme temperature fluctuations in Nusa Penida, and the temperature typically remains high and stable, though the wet season is also considered winter there. At once, during these months, water temperatures can be higher than in summer, so high humidity is somewhat compensated for by the warmer sea.
The main feature of this season is regular heavy rains. They can occur unexpectedly, and often even if it is sunny in the morning, heavy rain starts in the afternoon.
As usual, the wet season in Nusa Penida is a low season for tourism. Several reasons explain that fact:
- During the wet season, humidity is at its peak, and this brings discomfort to tourists even on sunny days.
- Heavy rains also contribute to the decrease in tourists, as during them, there is nothing to do on the island except spend time indoors.
- Due to heavy rains, the coastal waters surrounding Nusa Penida lose their clarity and transparency. The visibility becomes low, and that’s why snorkelers and divers avoid visiting the island during that time.
- One more specific climate peculiarity defines the low popularity of the island during the wet season. Lots of visitors come there to observe the unique underwater life. Specifically, one of the local attractions is the mola-mola migration. The sun fish (mola-mola) comes to Nusa Penida’s shores when tides bring cold water, and this occurs only during July, August, and September. That’s why, if your primary wish was to see mola-mola, the wet season is the worst time for it because at that time, water temperature is at its highest levels.
Some Tips for Travelers Coming to Nusa Penida in the Wet Season
The wet season in Nusa Penida is not a disaster, however. If you have to come there during it, here are some tips to make your trip more pleasant.
- As the temperature and humidity are high, pack several changes of clothes with you. It is better to choose lightweight, breathable clothes.
- Do not forget waterproof garments and bags for your belongings.
- Sunscreen, mosquito protection sprays, and a hat are a must for your visit.
- Remember that morning hours during the wet season are typically more sunny, so if you want to hike, spend time on the beach, or go on an excursion, plan your activities during morning hours, and afternoon or evening time reserve for your rest.
- After all, if you want to enjoy seclusion and silence, the wet season is the best time for that. Just keep in mind that the rainiest months are January and February, so avoid coming there in those months.
The wet season in Nusa Penida is not a trial, but it brings some limitations to tourist attractions, and at this time, the island is less crowded.
Dry Season on Nusa Penida
From April to October, Nusa Penida has its high season. The temperature remains high while precipitation levels decrease. Most sunny days on the island are during the dry season. At once, you should remember that the dry season brings cooler tides and thus, water temperature decreases a bit. For beach lovers, it is not particularly important yet; if you prefer open-water dives, just keep in mind that some sites may amaze you with low temperatures that sometimes drop to +16 °C.
At the same time, the dry season is more comfortable for people who are sensitive to high humidity. That’s why if you plan to visit the island with kids, seniors, or people with health issues, the dry season is better for this. One more benefit of the dry season is water clarity. Although Nusa Penida is famous for its turquoise, crystal-clear water, during the dry season, its visibility is at its peak. Besides, during this period, you can watch the maximum underwater biodiversity, including fabulous mola-mola, manta ray, dolphins, and octopuses.
Some Tips for Travelers Coming to Nusa Penida in the Dry Season
When you arrive in Nusa Penida during its dry season, some tips can help you enjoy your time there.
- As sun radiation is intense during the dry season, please do not forget to use sunscreen regularly, and wear lightweight breathable clothes that cover arms and legs.
- Be aware of local currents when swimming or diving. They are often unpredictable because Nusa Penida is located in a dynamic oceanographic zone. Before you start your water activity, please review the cautions.
- Be ready for more tourists coming at that time. Dry season attracts thousands of people to Nusa Penida, especially divers, snorkelers, and surfers.
With its warm climate, extensive biodiversity, and unique coastline and beaches, Nusa Penida is one of the best places on Earth during its dry season.
Water Peculiarities You Should Learn
Although the water temperature is high enough year-round in Nusa Penida, specific conditions sometimes make local coastal waters inaccessible. Strong changing currents are dangerous for inexperienced divers and snorkelers, especially downward flows. Besides, some spots can be cooler than others. For example, if you come to dive in Mangrove in July and August, you can be negatively surprised by its cold water.
Yet, there is one more peculiarity related to local coastal uniqueness. These are natural pools created by nature. Tembeling Beach’s two natural pools are among the most popular ones. There is a perfect place for kids and people who prefer swimming in calm, warm water or simply relaxing.
How to Avoid Overcrowding During Your Visit
At last, let’s address the most tremendous question about visiting Nusa Penida. How can you avoid crowds and feel maximum comfort during your visit? First, if you are not a dedicated diving and snorkeling enthusiast, you can enjoy the island’s beauty during low season, especially during December, when tourist flow is low and crowds are rare.
Then, we recommend that you plan your trip in advance and add to it some sites that are not extremely popular among tourists. For example, instead of coming to overcrowded Kelingking Cliff, you can visit no less spectacular Paluang Cliff. Select fabulous Smoke Beach and Korawa Beach for first visits instead of Kelingking or Crystal Bay.
At last, for the best comfort, you can plan your trip on your own yacht. Fortune Yachts Bali is your reliable helper in this. Your private deluxe yacht momentarily discards such issues as transportation to the island on an overcrowded speedboat or accommodation in a hotel with lots of tourists.
Nusa Penida pleases visitors with the best features of a tropical climate, and although it has wet and dry seasons, if you plan your visit thoroughly, it will turn into an unforgettable happy time on this island.