Nusa Lembongan is one of those places that messes with your expectations – in a good way. It’s this tiny island off Bali's southeast coast, just a 30-minute boat ride from Sanur. Think crystal-clear water, chill beach bars, no traffic lights, and that sweet spot between backpacker vibes and boutique luxury. But because the island's growing fast, not all the online info keeps up. I learned this the hard way.

So here’s what I’ve gathered after hopping between bungalows, villas, and beach huts on three separate trips – with different budgets each time. Whether you're coming solo, bringing the fam, or planning a cheeky couples getaway, I’ve got the lowdown that’ll save you money and headaches.

This is where most of the fast boats from Bali drop you off. Picture a long sandy strip lined with beachfront cafés, warungs, dive shops, and scooter rental spots. It’s the closest thing Nusa Lembongan has to a “main town,” though don’t expect any big buildings or chain hotels – thank god.

I stayed here twice. Once at a mid-range spot with a plunge pool and once at a beachfront guesthouse with zero AC but the best banana pancakes I’ve ever had. If you're into diving, snorkeling trips, or just lazy mornings with a coconut in hand, this area’s perfect.

Search terms like “beachfront hotels in Jungut Batu” or “Nusa Lembongan hotels near boat drop-off” usually pull up solid options here.

If you book a hotel on the beach, double-check if it’s actually on the beach. Some listings stretch the truth. Read recent reviews – trust me.

Read also: Batubulan Village

Alright, if you're the kind of traveler who likes things a bit tidier and more laid-back, Mushroom Bay is your jam. It's got that cozy, enclosed bay feel, and there are more upscale hotels, private villas, and fancy sunset spots here. Plus, it's not nearly as hectic as Jungut Batu.

We splurged on a cliffside villa here for a weekend (anniversary trip), and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. The infinity pool overlooked the bay, and every morning I watched boats come and go with a kopi Bali in hand. The stairs down to the beach were brutal on the knees, but worth it.

Look for search terms like “luxury hotels Mushroom Bay” or “cliffside villas Nusa Lembongan.” That’s where the gems live.

These spots are more remote, and if you're not confident on a scooter, they can be a little tricky to reach. But boy, the pay-off. Think dramatic cliffs, big waves, and boutique stays with fewer crowds.

Hotels here are more about the experience – you’re not going to find 24-hour room service or big buffets. But you will find outdoor showers, hammocks under palm trees, and the kind of silence that makes city folks twitchy (at first).

Great for couples who want alone time. Also fab if you’re working remotely and don’t need to be super connected. Some places here do have dodgy WiFi, though – fair warning.

Honestly, Nusa Lembongan’s budget scene is still pretty solid. A dorm bed runs around $8-15, and private rooms can be had for $20-30 if you're not picky. You'll usually get a fan, cold shower, and possibly a free banana pancake breakfast (they love those here).

One of my faves was a homestay near Jungut Batu – clean, family-run, and the grandma made sambal that lit up your soul. No pool, but they let me use their kitchen, and the family invited me to a temple ceremony. Try searching “budget homestay Nusa Lembongan” or “cheap guesthouses Lembongan” to find places like this.

This is where things get interesting. At this price point, you’ll find some real steals – bungalows with plunge pools, ocean views, even some with breakfast delivered to your patio.

We stayed at one that had an open-air bathroom and a daybed with mosquito netting. Felt bougie but didn’t destroy the wallet. Also, this range includes a lot of the newer eco-resorts popping up. Solar panels, bamboo everything, compost toilets – the whole bit.

If you're trying to balance comfort and budget, use terms like “mid-range hotels Nusa Lembongan” or “eco-friendly hotels near Mushroom Bay.”