If you're only visiting Penida Island for a few days, then Temperance Beach is probably not on your to-do list. The most famous attractions on the island are usually the ones that tourists routinely visit. Everyone visits Angel's Billabong, Broken Beach, Kelingking Beach Then there's Crystal Cove. Or, if you're visiting the East Coast's Diamond Beach, Attu Beach, Thousand Islands Lookout and Rumah Pohon Tree House.
Does any of this sound familiar? Well, I'm here to tell you that while these are undoubtedly amazing attractions that are not to be missed, there really is a lot more to see in Nusa Penida.
Although the island is on the cusp of mass tourism, you'll still have the chance to explore some of the more secretive sights in a relatively peaceful setting.
Tembeling Beach and its natural pools are special because they don't even look like part of the island of Penida. It's like entering a different world and finding yourself in a dense forest leading to a dreamy beach and almost man-made swimming pools.
Don't know where to stay? You can find it hereThe best hotels in Penida Island.
How to get to Tembeling Beach
Tembeling Beach is located on what you might consider the west coast of Penida Island. Most visitors split their visit into two separate day trips; one for the east coast of the island and one for the west coast. This is useful because the infrastructure on the island is very poor and even short distances can take several hours to travel. Most of the more geographically close places are difficult to visit in one day as there are no connecting roads.
Are you planning a trip to Penida Island?it's hereCheck out our 3-day itinerary.
Car or motorcycle?
Penida is known for its bad roads and unfortunately apps like gojek don't work on the island. Even if you are an experienced motorcyclist, I wouldn't recommend renting one here. The roads are steep, mostly gravel, and the local drivers drive roughly with no regard for the safety of motorcycle tourists.
Tourists usually overestimate their abilities and end up either pushing their bikes uphill in the heat or having to be picked up by their accommodation.
Driving here can be especially tricky if you're carrying a passenger on a bicycle, as you'll have to travel at high speeds to get up the hill.
If you're not very confident on a scooter, then do yourself a favor and get a driver. You'll spend a lot of time getting from place to place on this island, and you'll have a much better experience if you're sitting in an air-conditioned van rather than getting sunburned on a bike.
You can regain the freedom to explore by bike on the next island you visit.
Hired drivers
Many people choose to explore Penida Island by car. Many locals make a living by providing cabs and day trips. You can hire a driver for 10 hours for about IDR 500,000 (about €32), including parking and gas. During this time, the driver will take you wherever you want to go, within reason of course. Be sure to tell them about your trip in advance and they will let you know what is realistic.
You can also ask for your accommodation in Penida Island, however, you will have a hard time bargaining.
Make sure you don't overpay, and tip your driver at the end of the day if they've done a good job. Paying for lunch is also a habit.
Let me save you time and energy when you plan your trip!
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Accommodation? Agoda or Booking.com
Where is the best place to book flights? Skyscanner
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How to Find Beaches and Natural Pools
Unfortunately, it's a bit difficult to get to Tembeling Beach. It's impossible to get there by car, which means you'll have to walk for about 30 minutes or go by motorcycle.
This is the actual location of the beach and will show you the closest places you can get to by car.
At the parking lot, you will be greeted by locals who will tell you not to walk to the beach and that it will take a long time. They will provide you with a scooter to take you down the hill for about Rp 50,000 (about €3.20). It is up to you if you are willing to pay this fee. If you negotiate, you may be able to reduce the price.
The walk down is actually quite nice as it is mostly downhill and in the shade. If you don't want to walk up again, you can always take a scooter. The walk takes about 30 minutes each way, with the ascent taking a little longer.
Entry to the beach and pool is free, if you are asked to pay an entrance fee it is a scam.
Marlowe.
Many blogs tell horror stories about the road to Tembeling Beach. It's more of a narrow path than a road, but it's definitely passable on a scooter. In my opinion, if you are confident in scooter, you can drive your own car too. The roads in Penida Island are in poor condition.
Some parts are quite steep and may give you trouble, but other than that, it should be fine. There isn't a lot of traffic so you can go at your own pace. Be careful of loose gravel or slippery areas when it rains.
TEMBELING FOREST
As you walk down to the beach, you'll find yourself in an environment unlike any other on Penida. The steep rocky walls of the canyon are thickly forested, and you can hear the sound of the river somewhere below.
Tembeling Beach is not only special because of its natural swimming pool, but also because of the beautiful forest that surrounds it. Especially during the rainy season, this forest is mysterious and beautiful.
If you are adventurous and want to explore, there are smaller trails that lead into the forest. Be careful not to get lost and look out for steep cliffs.
TEMBELING Natural Pool
At the end of the trail you will find a small temple and a taxi stand where you can rent a motorcycle to take you back. Although donations are voluntary, there is also a donation box.
To get to the beach and natural pool you have to take some specific steps, but walking is quick and easy.
You will now reach the first larger natural pool. It's deep, so you can cliff jump (from a reasonable height). But be careful, this is not a place where you want to hurt yourself.
There is also a smaller man-made hot tub in a small cave above the larger pool. It is not usually open to visitors, but is considered a spiritual place by the locals.
As you continue along the path, you will reach the second swimming pool located next to the beach. It's an amazing photo spot, perfect for relaxing and escaping the heat.
The pools are all very clean and the water is cool and clear. Be respectful when swimming here as this place does have spiritual significance.
You can find bathrooms on the beach, although don't expect them to be very clean. However they are available and you will have a place to change if needed.
Penida Island Tembering Beach
The beach is not very big but beautiful. Swimming is possible, but be careful of strong currents. If you go into the water, make sure the tide is out and don't go over where you can stand.
The ocean of Penida Island is wild and dangerous. Don't take any chances and remember that the chances of getting help at this beach are very slim. Stick to the pool, it's very safe and probably a better experience.
Secret Beach
There is a second, smaller "beach" close to Tembeling. As you walk down, you will see a small cave on your right with hundreds of small rocks. If you go through this cave (be careful not to disturb any rocks) you will find yourself in a small bay.
There is almost no sand here and it is definitely not safe to swim, but you shouldn't miss this place. The limestone cliffs are spectacular and the view is unique.
Fly a drone on the beach of Penida Island Tembering
You can fly a drone at Tembeling Beach, but the area is heavily wooded, so finding takeoff and landing points will be challenging. If you are a confident drone pilot, it is possible.
Bathroom and food
Basic bathrooms are available on the beach. There is usually a lady selling snacks and drinks, although cup noodles are the only popular choice.
How long should you stay?
This is a great place to spend a few hours. Depending on how enthusiastic you are about swimming, I would recommend spending 1-2 hours at the beach and pool. If you include walking time, you can expect the whole Tembeling trip to take at least 3 hours, if not more.
What to see after visiting Penida's Temembeling Beach
Tembeling Beach is considered to be located on the west side of the island, and therefore it is best associated with the Kelingking Beach, Banah Cliff Point, Angel's Billabong and Broken Beach are combined.
Why Penida's Tembering Beach Should Be On Your Must-See List
Tembeling Beach may not be a mainstream tourist attraction yet, but it's close enough. While you can enjoy the pool and beach early in the morning, they do get more crowded in the midday and afternoon.