Want to escape from the chaos of Bali? The Nusa Islands should DEFINITELY be on your radar. Just off the Balinese mainland, these islands offer a supremely laid-back alternative to the bustle of Bali and its upscale resorts.
The less developed islands are a chance to truly unwind and live your best beach bum life on a remote paradise. But with hostels few and far between compared to its Balinese counterpart, hunting for a hostel can often feel like a mission.
Fear not – that’s where I come in. I’ve done the hard work for you and curated my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. I’ve even chucked in a couple of budget stays too if you’re travelling with a partner, pal, or just want to escape the dorm life for a lil bit!
‘Cos the sooner you sort a hostel the sooner you can get to doing the stuff that matters – chilling by a beach with a Bintang in hand.
Are you ready? Let’s get this hostel hunt started.
- Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- The 5 Best Hostels in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- More Epic Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida Hostels
- FAQ about Hostels in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
- What to Pack for your Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida Hostel
- Final Thoughts on Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida’s Hostels
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- Best Overall Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida – Lembongan Hostel
- Best Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida for Solo Travelers – The Penida Project
- Best Cheap Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida – The Moon Hostel Penida
- Best Party Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida – Lushy Hostel Nusa Penida
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida – Nyuh Gading Home Stay
Photo: @taya.travels
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The 5 Best Hostels in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring these stunning islands ASAP.
Photo: @amandaadraper
1. Lembongan Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- Dorm (mixed): From $9/night
- Address: Jalan Pantai Lebaoh, 80771 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Just steps away from Dream Beach and a quick stroll to Mushroom and Sandy Bay Beach (must-dos on your Bali itinerary) – this Nusa Lembongan hostel is a paradise for beach lovers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Location
- Clean and Modern Amenities
- Balinese-styled Design
This place is pure Balinese beauty, with that classic design that gives everything a touch of luxury. The dorm beds come with individual curtains for privacy, power sockets to keep your devices juiced, and reading lamps for those late-night chill sessions. The family running the hostel here is warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home from the moment you step in.
It’s a social spot with restaurants just a five-minute walk away, and they’ve got you covered with trips and scooter rentals too. Breakfast is on the house with toast, jam, and fresh fruits, plus coffee and tea available all day. It’s basic, but when it’s free, you won’t hear any complaints from me!
2. The Penida Project – Best Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $11/night
- Address: Jl. Panaonan Pendem, 80771 Nusa Penida, Indonesia
This place is pure vibes. Super social, with daily events and a tight-knit family feel that makes it hard to say goodbye. The staff are absolute legends, going above and beyond, always bringing good energy and recommendations for hidden gems. The social scene is on point – you can dive in as much or as little as you want, which is perfect for recharging those social batteries.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super Social
- Free Yoga
- Basketball Court
The dorm rooms are pod-style, with comfy bedding and spotless bathrooms. The mattresses are a dream, and the hostel dogs give this place a homey feel that’s hard to beat. Roll out of bed and jump into the free daily yoga sessions, or enjoy movie nights, Taco Tuesdays, and pool parties lined up throughout the week. There’s always something happening here.
The location is a bit further out compared to other spots on the island, so having a scooter is essential for getting around here. And since a scooter is needed to explore Nusa Penida anyway, this shouldn’t be an issue for those comfortable on two wheels.
3. The Moon Hostel Penida – Best Cheap Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- Dorm (mixed): From $7/night
- Address: Batununggul, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 40771, Indonesia
The Moon Hostel Penida is one of the best deals on the island, giving you serious bang for your buck. The location is spot on – you’re just a ten-minute walk from the harbour, so no need to shell out for a taxi. Plus, you’ve got a ton of great restaurants and cafes right on your doorstep. The amenities are clean and modern, and the whole place ooooozes chill vibes – exactly what you need after the craziness of Bali.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Location
- Chill Vibes
- Tours Offered
The dorm rooms are seriously impressive, with good-sized beds and comfy mattresses, with each one having its own curtain, power outlet, and light. The rooms are super spacious and spotless, with separate showers and toilets. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and catch up on some sleep. Every dorm even has its own private balcony, making it the ideal spot to soak in the sunsets. Grab a beer and head up there to socialise with other travellers backpacking Nusa Penida if ya fancy too.
It’s definitely not the most social hostel but you definitely get some privacy and freedom that a lot of other hostels don’t offer. The staff are super friendly and helpful, and with free coffee and water refills, you really can’t beat the value for money here.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey4. Lushy Hostel Nusa Penida – Best Party Hostel in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- Dorm (mixed): From $12/night
- Address: Ped, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Look, I get it – Nusa Penida isn’t exactly Bali when it comes to party vibes. But if you’re after a spot with a buzzing atmosphere where you can knock back a few Bintangs with fellow travellers, this Nusa Penida hostel is a solid pick. It’s in an awesome location right on the beach and boasts some UNREAL sunsets (seriously, some of the best I saw when backpacking Indonesia.)
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Cosy Dorm Rooms
- Great Location
- Daily Tours Offered
If you’re looking for a place for some peace and quiet, this is not the hostel for you. It’s got a real social atmosphere where you can kick it back in the pool and sink some Pina Coladas all day if you’re not up for exploring. They have daily happy hours and events every night to mingle which definitely makes it one of the most social hostels on the island.
If you do want to get out and about though, they set up some great daily tours where you can see all the best sights in Bali like Diamond Beach and Kelingking Beach for you beach lovers. The dorm rooms themselves are great value as you get a big space in the pod-style beds to chuck your stuff in and unpack a lil bit with a shelf and reading light in there too.
5. Nyuh Gading Home Stay – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- Dorm (mixed): From $12/night
- Address: Banjar Kelod Jungutbatu, 80771 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Simple, chilled, and run by a super lovely family, this Nusa Lembongan hostel is the ultimate hangout, blending an outdoor swimming pool with classic Balinese vibes that make it feel like your own tropical oasis.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill Vibes
- Free Wi-Fi
- Communal Kitchen
The vibe here is laid-back and quiet, making it perfect for digital nomads in Bali who need to hunker down and get some work done. There are plenty of communal spaces where you can set up a makeshift office, including some with that sweet, sweet air con – a lifesaver in the sweltering Asian heat. The Wi-Fi is reliable too, so no worries about those Zoom calls dropping out or your uploads stalling.
This hostel is modern and stylish, adding a bit of polish to your island stay. Sure, it might be a little pricier than some other spots, but you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. Think comfy mattresses that guarantee a good night’s sleep, handy drying racks for your beach gear, and a range of tours to explore Lembongan Island. The food is cheap, it’s close to Song Lambung Beach and Dream Beach and the environment is super friendly, making it easy to connect with other backpackers.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida Hostels
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida below. I’ve even added a couple of budget stays for good measure too!
6. Good Cheer Hostel Lembongan
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Address: Jalan Jungutbatu, 80771 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Good Cheer Hostel Lembongan has a large pool with a wet bar, so you don’t even need to leave the water to grab a drink. Dangerous stuff I tell ya. Throw in two terraces with bean bags, a restaurant, and other sweet amenities, and you’re set.
The location is spot-on, close to Dream Beach and the staff here make it super easy to book trips – think dreamy white sand beaches and snorkelling with manta rays if you hit the right season. The dorm beds are big and comfy, perfect for crashing after a day of adventure. Plus, some dorms even have double beds, so you’ll be living it up here.
7. Dream Beach Hostel Lembongan
- Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
- Address: Jalan Raya Dream Beach Lembongan Island Nusa Penida Bali
The warmth of the staff, the cleanliness of all of the facilities and the location make Dream Beach Hostel Lembongan one of the best Nusa Lembongan hostels. The location is spot on, walking distance to different beaches and loads of cafes and restaurants too. They even provide a free breakfast, and I’m a sucker for a free brekky.
Dream Beach Hostel Lembongan has a great social vibe, especially around the pool. They also have some really cute dogs and the hosts will help you organise any day trips that you’d like. The rooms are cleaned daily and the beds are super comfy with everything you need too. The breakfast is one of the best you’ll have in an Indonenisann hostel, such a good variety!
8. Uma Hostel Nusa Lembongan
- Dorm (mixed): From $9/night
- Address: Song Lambung Beach Nusa Lembongan, Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Tucked away in the quieter part of the island, this little gem is perfect for those backpacking Nusa Lembongan who need a break from the Bali madness. You can rent a bike from the hosts though so the location isn’t too much of an issue. The hosts are so kind and will go above and beyond for you, they’ll even pick you up and drop you off at the port.
With just four snug 4-bed dorms, Uma Hostel Nusa Lembongan keeps it cosy and intimate. The rooms are spotless, with a cold shower to wake you up and a bed that’s just right for crashing after a day of Lembongan Island adventures. The AC does its job when it counts, though the room heats up once the sun’s out – ideal for those early risers. Towels are provided too, so all you need to bring is your chill.
9. Nusa Penida Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $13/night
- Address: Jl. Banjar Anyar, Sebunibus, 80771 Nusa Penida, Indonesia
If you’ve been working hard or you just fancy a little bit of paradise while you get on with some remote working, then this is easily one of the best places Nusa Penida hostels for digital nomads. This small boutique hostel is where it’s AT when it comes to that.
Owned by a very happy family and located in a quiet corner of this Bali island, you’ll be able to get some work done easily here. But the best part about it is how the hosts want to show you what Bali was like 30 years ago, which makes a change from a lot of other backpacker places here.
10. Suba Homestay
- Dorm (mixed): From $9/night
- Address: Mushroom Bay, 80771 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
For guaranteed fun times, I recommend Suba Homestay for a solid Nusa Lembongan hostel. Sure, there’s not a load of party happening at the hostel itself, but it’s within walking distance to tons of beaches, restaurants and bars.
The beds were really comfy and it’s got that peace and quiet you might be looking for to live your best beach bum life. The dorm has everything you need – plugs, lockers, the works! The place is spotless and there is also a pool to cool down in the heat. The owner at this place makes all the difference – he’s super friendly and helps to make a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
11. Walet’s Paradise
- Private Room: From $20/night
- Address: Jl. Mushroom Beach, Lembongan, Bali, indonesia
Literally, just a 1 min walk from Mushroom Beach, the greatly named Walet’s Paradise (is that because it’s cheap?) is one of the best budget Nusa Lembongan hostels. The staff here can sort out a load of different trips and travel options to make life easy for you. There’s also free private parking if you’ve got a scooter to zip about on the island.
They’ll also give you things like plug adaptors and help you get a decent deal on renting a scooter. The setting of this place is pretty romantic, with views of the sea and a pool to use – plus the rooms on offer here are cheap, clean and cosy. Definitely a solid budget option.
12. Naradas Homestay
- Private Room: From $19/night
- Address: Mushroom Bay Beach, 80277 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Just minutes away from the best beaches in Bali, this budget Nusa Lembongan hostel is great value for money if being near a beach is your thing. It’s also pretty beautiful: the hotel itself is surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
The onsite restaurant serves up cheap Balinese food, which combined with the room rates, easily makes this one of the best budget stays in Nusa Lembongan. The garden here is the star of the show – it’s the perfect place to kick it back and unwind. The free breakfast also helps us Broke Backpackers on a budget for sure.
13. Breeze Villa
- Private Room: From $32/night
- Address: Selegimpak Bay Beach, 80771 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Breeze Villa is the perfect budget escape for nature lovers who want to stay close to the sea. This place oozes charm with its outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers, palm trees, and lush gardens. The vibe here is all about that countryside tranquillity, paired with the kind of traditional Balinese hospitality you won’t easily find elsewhere on Nusa Lembongan island.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, offering fantastic views that amplify the laid-back atmosphere. The on-site restaurant serves up authentic Balinese cuisine, giving you the chance to try out tasty local dishes without even leaving the villa.
14. Sunset Villa & Cafe Lembongan
- Private Room: From $41/night
- Address: Jalan Sandy Bay Beach Lembongan, 80771 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Sunset Villa & Cafe Lembongan sits in a stunning, slightly remote location, tucked away from the crowds on a peaceful cliffside. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset from the mellow bar and restaurant, with nothing but ocean views in front of you. For those craving a bit more action or some retail therapy, Sandy Bay Beach’s lively beach club is just a ten-minute walk away – close enough to stroll over, but far enough to keep the club vibes from disturbing your peace.
The rooms here are all about luxury, featuring dreamy four-poster beds draped in crisp white curtains and linens. The views are equally impressive, overlooking either the pool or the lush garden. The restaurant serves up seriously tasty food with the ocean as your backdrop. Pure bliss all around.
15. Laguna Reef Hut Lembongan
- Private Room: From $34/night
- Address: Laguna Beach, Banjar Kelod, 80361 Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Laguna Reef Hut features quaint thatched huts (how did you guess) that have air-con and private bathrooms and nice lil’ terraces where you can watch the sunset and stuff like that. It’s a bit of a splurge at one of the pricier properties on this guide, but split between your partner or a pal it actually works out to be the same as a hostel!
And the luxury doesn’t stop there. The restaurant here overlooks the sea, which is perfect for sunset drinks and a little bit of tasty local food for dinner. Hire a car from this top hostel in Nusa Lembongan and explore for yourself or get a shuttle bus. They also offer great tours and can sort diving for you too which is a must when on the island.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQ about Hostels in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
Here are some questions backpackers ask about Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida hostels.
What to Pack for your Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida?
The average price of Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida hostels starts from $7-$13. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What’s the best party hostel in Nusa Lembongan?
Good Cheer Hostel Lembongan is the place to stay if you’re looking for fun times in Nusa Lembongan. Chill out by the pool, grab a beer from the wet bar and soak up that island paradise life baby!
What are the best places in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida for couples?
Pange Hostel is well designed with a beachy Balinese aesthetic, plus there are loads of restaurants and stuff nearby to go out for some uuuuuber romantic meals and beach trips.
Final Thoughts on Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida’s Hostels
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida were SUCH a breath of fresh air after the craziness of Bali. They were some of my favourite islands in Indonesia and, hands down, have the most insane beaches I’ve seen ever, not just in the country. Honestly, Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach are worth a trip to these islands in their own right and should NOT be skipped on your Indo itinerary.
I really hope these islands remain somewhat hidden gems compared to their bigger Bali brother so they can keep the tranquil vibe that makes them so magical.
If you’re still undecided on where to stay then I definitely would go for The Penida Project. So few hostels have that family vibe, but The Penida Project nails it. Super nice amenities and daily events add to what makes this place so cool too.
I hope this guide has sorted you out – these islands are a magical place and the sooner you book that hostel the sooner you get to experience that magic!
Happy travels! And hey, if you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot on the islands.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Indonesia for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Bali covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Bali if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Bali before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
