Kelingking Beach – famous T-Rex Beach in Bali!

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Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida - everything you need to know before visiting Bali's famous T-Rex Beach

Kelingking Beach is one of the most famous spots in Bali, and it’s most known for its coastline that resembles a T-Rex head. This spot has incredible viewpoints, the most unique coastline and the bluest blue water. It’s so beautiful that we had to pinch ourselves a few times to believe what we were seeing! Kelingking Beach is certainly a must-do on Nusa Penida island.

Here’s everything you need to know before you go!

Where is Kelingking Beach?

Kelingking Beach is on the west coast of Nusa Penida Island, which is an hour off the coast of Bali Indonesia.

Overview of Kelingking Beach

AddressBunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771
Entrance
fee
10,000 IDR
Opening Hours24 hours a day
Best time to visitLate afternoon or sunset
Hike length1 hour each way
Hike DifficultyHard (but optional)

What to do in Kelingking Beach?

Sitting on the edge of the coastline overlooking the T-Rex shaped rock at Kelingking Beach
Looking onto the T-Rex head

There are plenty of things to do while visiting Kelingking Beach. First and foremost the main attraction is seeing the T-Rex cliffs for yourself. The head is on the left side of the beach, the body is where the main viewing points are and the tail is the coastline that trails off to the right.

Warungs (restaurants) near the coastline
A few warungs (restaurants) at Kelingking

Besides taking in the unbelievable views, you can also enjoy a coconut at one of the warungs on site or even hike down to the pristine white beach if you’re feeling adventurous. Additionally, you can go for a nice trek along the coastline to find your own little spot to enjoy and, of course, take the perfect Instagram shot.

Kelingking Beach Hike

Hiking down the steps at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida overlooking the T-Rex coastline

While it is possible to hike down to the beach, it is not for everyone. The trek down can be pretty treacherous and takes around an hour each way. The path is rocky, slippery and steep, with only a quasi-stable bamboo rail, so definitely take your time going down. Also make sure to wear proper tennis shoes and bring plenty of water if you plan to attempt this hike!

>> Another great beach to hike down to in Nusa Penida is Diamond Beach!

Can you swim at Kelingking Beach?

The pristine white beach and bright blue sand at Kelingking
Kelingking Beach

Yes, if the sea conditions are good you can swim in this gorgeous blue water. However, proceed with caution if it is high tide or if the sea seems rough since there is no lifeguard on duty.

>> Don’t miss the famous Bali Treehouse while you’re in Nusa Penida!

Kelingking Beach Instagram Spots

Sitting on the edge at the best Kelingking Beach Instagram spot overlooking the dinosaur head
Instagram photo spot away from crowds

The best Instagram spots at Kelingking Beach are found when you go in the opposite direction of the crowd. While most of the crowd turns left to go towards the stairs down to the beach, you’ll find the best viewpoints when you turn right.

Dirt spot that's best for photos
Dirt spot for photos

If you go on a short 5 minute trek up the coastline to the right of the T-Rex head, then you’ll find a few dirt spots like this (above). Here you will encounter far fewer crowds (if any) and you can get the perfect shot overlooking the coastline while everyone else fights over spots on the main path.

GPS coordinates for this spot: -8.750064, 115.473462

Tip: Since the photo angle is difficult to capture with a tripod, it’s best to ask someone to help you take the photo here. Also, it should go without saying but BE CAREFUL sitting too close to the edge.

>> Check out the photography gear we bring with us!

Aerial view of the T-Rex coastline
Best place to fly drone at Kelingking

If you keep trekking a little further to this spot you will find a large open area where you can take photos, fly a drone, etc. without any crowds around.

>> Looking to up your photography game? Then check out our online photography course!

Kelingking Beach Entrance Fee

It costs 10,000 IDR for entrance to Kelingking beach and another 5,000 IDR for parking. While both of these fees are cash only, they should be included in your fare if you’ve hired a driver.

Kelingking Beach Opening Hours

Kelingking Beach is open 24 hours a day, though it’s best to visit during the daylight hours.

Best time to visit Kelingking Beach

The moss-covered dinosaur coastline  at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali

Sunset or generally late in the afternoon is the best time to visit Kelingking Beach. Because this spot is on the west side of the island, it offers amazing sunset views. Later in the afternoon is also less busy because most of the day trip crowd has already headed back to Bali.

How to get to Kelingking Beach

Because Kelingking is on Nusa Penida, from Bali you first need to take a fast-boat transfer to the island. From the island’s main port, Toya Pakeh Harbour, it is then a 45 minute drive to Kelingking. The easiest way to get around the island is hiring a private driver for the day since the roads are horrible and driving yourself can be dangerous.

What to bring

  • Camera
  • Suncreen
  • Water
  • Cash
  • Optional: Tennis shoes, swimsuit and towel (if you plan to hike down to the beach)

Where to park

You can park in the lot here for 5,000 IDR per vehicle. Note, though, that if you’ve hired a driver this fee should be included.

Is Kelingking Beach worth it?

Kelingking Beach is absolutely worth visiting! While you’ve likely seen many photos of it, it’s one of those places that the reality is five times more beautiful. Whether or not you want to hike down to the beach, this spot is a must-visit in Nusa Penida.

Other nearby places to see

The gorgeous Broken Beach, iconic Angel’s Billabong natural infinity pool and Crystal Bay are all also on the west coast of Nusa Penida Island.

You can certainly visit all four of these spots in one day of your Nusa Penida 2-day Itinerary. You can then visit the rest of the must-see places like Diamond Beach and the famous Bali Tree House in Nusa Penida on the next day!

Where to stay in Nusa Penida

We absolutely recommend staying at The Dagan Bungalow on your visit to Nusa Penida since it’s centrally located and the owners are amazing! The rooms are also super clean and there is a beautiful pool to keep you cool in the Bali heat.

Nusa Penida Highlight Video

Enjoy your time at Kelingking Beach!

Kylie & Scott

(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

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Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida - everything you need to know before visiting Bali's famous T-Rex Beach
Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida Bali - must-know tips before visiting Bali's famous T-Rex Beach
Kelingking Beach - must-know tips before visiting the famous T-Rex Beach on Nusa Penida Island

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