Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach
A "jewel of a bay" with white sand and towering rock formations. A stunning beach reached by a cliffside staircase.
Located on the east coast of Nusa Penida, Diamond Beach has become famous in recent years after access was created. It is truly a jewel of a beach. Its name comes from the sharp, pointed rock formations in the sea that resemble diamonds. The view from the clifftop is breathtaking, captivating visitors with its landscape of turquoise water, white sand, and iconic rock pillars. To get down to this stunning beach, one must carefully descend a steep staircase carved by hand into the sheer cliff face. The journey is thrilling, but at the bottom, a quiet paradise of untouched nature awaits. In contrast to the adjacent Atuh Beach, there are no 'warungs' (eateries) here yet, offering a more private and wild atmosphere.
Natural Beauty Carved by Nature
Diamond Beach's breathtaking scenery was created over tens of thousands of years as the limestone island of Nusa Penida was eroded by waves and wind. The iconic pointed rocks, in particular, are 'sea stacks,' harder sections of rock that remained while the surrounding softer rock was worn away. From the clifftop viewpoint, you can clearly see the ocean's changing gradients of color based on the angle of the sun, as well as the beautiful strata in the cliff face, which tell the story of this landmass once being on the ocean floor. It is a place where you can feel the dynamic activity of the earth, like a living geological textbook.
The Access: A Thrilling Cliff Staircase
Accessing this beach is an adventure in itself. While the walk from the parking lot to the viewpoint is relatively easy, the staircase from there down to the beach is literally carved out of the cliff. In many places, the only handrail is a single rope, and it is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. You must wear non-slip shoes (like sneakers) and keep both hands free by using a backpack. The climb back up is particularly strenuous, so it's crucial to bring plenty of water and plan accordingly.
Enjoyment and Safety Precautions
Even just admiring the view from the clifftop is well worth the visit. If you do descend to the beach, enjoy the feeling of the fine sand. However, this beach faces the open ocean, the waves are very strong, and the currents are fast, making swimming extremely dangerous. Do not enter the water casually; limit yourself to playing at the water's edge. There is nothing to block the sun, so be sure to take full precautions with hats, sunscreen, and other protection.
Highlights (What to Check!)
The best photo spot for a panoramic view of the beach is partway down the cliff staircase. From above, you can see the beautiful patterns created by the stretch of sand reaching into the sea and the white surf crashing on the shore. A swing has also been set up on the beach, allowing you to 'swing out' toward the sea, which has become a popular photo op (may require a fee). It is located over one hill from the neighboring Atuh Beach. If you plan to visit both, make sure you have enough time and energy.
