The hype
Travelers adore the pool and the 'fairytale' bamboo aesthetic but consistently complain about the tiny breakfast portions.
La Royale Nusa Penida
$25-45/ night
Book this if You want a photogenic 'jungle glamping' experience on Nusa Penida without the $300 price tag.
Why People Love It
- Stunning bamboo architecture that looks 5-star on Instagram
- Peaceful location away from the chaotic harbor traffic
- Wayan and the staff treat you like long-lost family
Quick Take: It’s a budget bamboo camp where you trade soundproof walls for jungle vibes and the occasional spider roommate.
Reviewed by @oliviamanginitravel_: Staying in this bamboo villa was a dream. I spent my days lounging in the garden and nights watching movies on the huge projector screen right from bed. The outdoor bathroom is a total vibe—showering under the palm trees was my favorite part. Highly recommend for couples!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'jungle' setting is literal—expect ants in the bathroom and spiders in the corners, no matter how clean it is.
- You're comfortable driving a scooter on rough terrain
- You want that 'Bali bamboo villa' photo for cheap
- You don't mind waking up to nature sounds at 6 AM
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily and diligent. They do a great job sweeping the jungle out of your room.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean, but expect open-air elements. Grout is generally good, but water stains from hard water are common.
- Maintenance: Bamboo structures show wear quickly. You might find a loose floorboard or a tricky door latch.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and white, though they can feel slightly damp due to the high island humidity.
- Odors & scents: Smells like fresh rain and vegetation. No chemical smells, but occasional burning trash wafts from neighbors (island-wide issue).
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Roosters (relentless at dawn)
- Geckos (loud chirping)
- Neighbor conversations
Before you book
Good to know
- Rent a scooter directly from the hotel (approx. 70k-100k IDR/day) to avoid harbor scams
- There is no mineral water provided in some rooms—buy a large jug at a mart before checking in
- Payment is often cash-only for extras like scooter rental or beer
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs (essential for bamboo rooms)
- Mosquito repellent (the jungle is alive)
- Headlamp (paths can be dark at night)
Room Genie
Best picks
- One-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool — worth the upgrade for the privacy and solid walls
- Bamboo House — for the aesthetic, but bring earplugs
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Tents if you are sensitive to heat or noise—they are essentially camping
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi Wayan, we are excited to stay! Could we please request a unit furthest from the main road/reception for maximum quiet? We are light sleepers.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there hot water?
Yes, but pressure can be temperamental and the tank is small. Don't expect long, steaming showers.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but it's very basic (eggs, toast, fruit). Some booking sites list it as an expensive add-on, so double-check your specific rate.
How do I get there from the harbor?
The hotel offers a pickup service (often for a fee). It's highly recommended as the location in Sakti is about 15-20 minutes from the main harbor and hard to find.
Is there AC?
Yes, the rooms have AC, and it generally works well, though it fights a losing battle in the uninsulated bamboo tents during midday heat.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Not within easy walking distance. You will need a scooter to reach the main strip of warungs or Amok Sunset.
Is the pool private?
There is a shared main pool which is lovely and clean. Only the specific 'Private Pool Villa' has its own dip pool.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk to Amok Sunset for drinks—it's one of the few spots nearby with a pool and view that rivals the expensive beach clubs.
- ✨
The road to Gamat Bay is terrible, but the snorkeling there is better than Crystal Bay. Park at the top and walk down if you're not a pro rider.
- ✨
Ask the staff to organize your ferry tickets back to Bali; they often get better rates than the harbor touts.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'garden view' often means 'looking at a bush 2 feet away'.
💡Ants are a constant battle; leave one crumb out and they will swarm.
💡The lighting in the bamboo rooms is very dim—romantic, but impossible to read by.
💡You might hear the hum of generators if the island power grid fluctuates (which it does often).
💡The staff (especially Wayan) will literally go to the pharmacy for you if you get 'Bali Belly'—service is 5-star even if the amenities aren't.
Local Playbook
Map
See where La Royale Nusa Penida is located and what's nearby.