Nusa Lembongan, Bali
Nusa Lembongan, Bali
By Amy — Director, Island Traders & Co-Owner, Pantai Palms
There are places in the world that simply do something to you. Nusa Lembongan is one of them. I've travelled to more than 55 countries, and this small Balinese island remains one of my favourite places on earth. Time slows down here. Magic happens whenever I am here. And once you arrive, you'll understand exactly why.
The island has a way of making time feel different.
I'm Amy — 'Mimi' to some. I'm the Director of the Island Traders brand (we have four island stores in Bali) and I also co-own a small island stay on Nusa Lembongan with my sister called Pantai Palms.
I've been visiting Lembongan for ten years and have always had a special connection with the island. It is where I feel the most calm, but also where I feel the most productive and motivated. Time really slows down and magic happens whenever I am here.
I first brought my sister in 2021 and she fell in love with it too — so we decided to invest in a place here together. We took our time (pelan pelan) renovating, and eventually opened Pantai Palms. We've poured our hearts into it, and have tried to create a home-away-from-home for everyone who stays.
One of the Rare Places Left in Bali
Nusa Lembongan is one of the rare places left in Bali where you are surrounded by local villages, so you can witness the Balinese culture all over the island. The hotels and stays are scattered within the local villages, making it a truly special experience.
The best time to visit is April through to October, when you are guaranteed more sunshine and less rain. I'd avoid August though — the island is at its busiest. And a word of advice from someone who has been coming here for years: wake up early and wander the Jungutbatu village streets. That's when you see the island come alive — locals praying, putting out their offerings, climbing the coconut trees, heading to the market, setting up their businesses for the day. There's nothing like it.
Nusa Lembongan — one of the rare places left in Bali where village life, island magic, and real Balinese culture still shape every day.
Nila's Warung — The One I Almost Didn't Share
Nila's Warung, for homemade spring rolls and the coldest cocos on the best swimming beach. Order your lunch and sit under the big tree on the beach. That's it. That's the spot.
And for a truly only-here experience: swimming with the mantas and riding around on golf buggies. You can do those things in other destinations, but there's something special about experiencing it all while on Lembongan. The best thing about this island is simply immersing yourself in Balinese island life.
Nila's Warung — Amy’s favorite spot for spring rolls, cold coconuts, and the best beach seat under the big tree.
"It is one of the rare places left in Bali where you are surrounded by local villages — so you can witness the Balinese culture all over the island. It's a truly special experience."— Amy on Nusa Lembongan
Where to Eat, Drink & Stay
Lembongan doesn't do pretension. It does soul. Every meal feels like it was meant to be eaten barefoot, with the ocean somewhere nearby.
Breakfast & Brunch
The General. Or for a cheap and cheerful local-family-run spot, Mega Cottage right on the beach.
Coffee
The General or Jungle Bakery are my go-tos. Both deliver in very different ways.
Long Lazy Lunch
Nila's Warung (order your lunch and sit under the big tree on the beach) or The Beach Shack — ocean swim, sunbake, eat, drink margis, repeat.
People Watching
White Corner. Always something happening, always the right energy.
Cocktails & Sundowners
Coco Chilli Margs at The Beach Shack, or under the big tree at La Bianca. Both are non-negotiable.
Best Dinner
Curry Traders. Every time, without exception.
Date Night
Sunset at Mola Mola on the beach, followed by dinner at Curry Traders. A perfect evening.
Best Place to Stay
Pantai Palms (always and forever). We also love Castaway on Mushroom Bay. For groups, one of the big beachfront villas on Tamarind Bay.
Amy’s beaded pieces — playful handmade bags, pouches, and little treasures made for beach days, sunset drinks, and carrying a piece of Nusa Lembongan with you.
For Pampering, Shopping & the Things Most People Miss
For a proper pamper day, Spring Spa is the one. And on a rainy day, it's either Spring Spa or nails at Umi — both will sort you out beautifully.
For shopping, head to Island Traders. It's my store and I'm biased, but honestly — it's the best boutique on the island. Always. When I'm here, shopping at Island Traders is the one thing I always do.
And for a cultural experience that most people rush past: wake up early and walk the Jungutbatu hill. It's a hard climb, but the view is beautiful. On a clear day you can see Mt Agung saying hello. That's a Lembongan morning done properly.
Island Trader — Amy’s own little hidden gem in Nusa Lembongan, filled with effortless resort pieces, seaside treasures, and the kind of finds you end up taking home with you.
The Pieces She'd Wear Here
The island's energy is special. It's a powerful place for manifesting — and the right jewellery should feel like it belongs here. Amy's picks for Lembongan.
Jewellery made to be worn where the light is warm, the water is clear, and every moment feels worth holding onto.
Explore the Collection