Kusamba Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Kusamba is located approximately 45 minutes east of Denpasar, making it easily accessible by road transport from most major tourist areas in Bali. From Ubud, the journey takes around 1 hour, while travelers from Kuta or Seminyak should allow 1.5 hours by car or motorbike. The main coastal road connecting eastern Bali passes directly through Kusamba, with clear signage marking the village. Public bemos (minivans) serve the area from Klungkung, though hiring a private driver offers the most convenient option. Parking is available near the beach area, though spaces can be limited during local ceremonies or fishing days.

Tucked along Bali's eastern shoreline, Kusamba offers travelers a glimpse into authentic Balinese coastal life away from the island's tourist hubs. This small fishing village maintains time-honored traditions, particularly its centuries-old sea salt production that continues to this day. With black sand beaches, colorful jukung fishing boats, and a laid-back atmosphere, Kusamba provides a refreshing maritime experience that connects visitors to Bali's deep relationship with the sea.

Kusamba enjoys Bali's tropical climate, with the dry season (April to October) offering the most reliable weather for exploring the coastal village and salt production. May through September provides clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for witnessing the salt farmers at work in the early morning hours. The wet season (November to March) brings occasional downpours that can temporarily halt salt production, though these months offer fewer visitors and a more intimate experience. Ferry services to nearby islands maintain consistent schedules year-round, though sea conditions are calmest during the dry season. Consider timing your visit to coincide with local ceremonies at nearby Goa Lawah temple for an enriched cultural experience.

Kusamba serves as a convenient jumping-off point for exploring eastern Bali and beyond via ferry connections. Nusa Penida, with its dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, is accessible via a 45-minute ferry journey from nearby Padangbai port. The tranquil island of Nusa Lembongan, famous for snorkeling and laid-back beach life, can be reached in under an hour by fast boat. For more adventurous travelers, longer ferry journeys connect to Lombok (approximately 1.5 hours), gateway to the stunning Gili Islands with their car-free paradise atmosphere. The scenic ferry routes from eastern Bali offer spectacular views of volcanic landscapes and the opportunity to spot dolphins in the Badung Strait.

Witnessing traditional sea salt production is Kusamba's signature experience, where salt farmers wade into the shallows with wooden buckets at sunrise, following techniques passed down through generations. The nearby Goa Lawah (Bat Cave) Temple, one of Bali's most important sea temples, lies just minutes from Kusamba and houses thousands of fruit bats in its sacred cave. Seafood enthusiasts should sample the day's catch at local warungs, where grilled fish served with sambal matah (Balinese spicy shallot relish) offers authentic flavors of the region. The black sand beaches provide a peaceful setting for morning walks, where you'll see fishermen preparing their colorful jukung boats for the day's expedition. In the nearby market, look for handcrafted salt products and local spices that make meaningful souvenirs.

The sea salt harvested in Kusamba is considered some of the finest in Indonesia, prized by chefs for its mineral-rich composition and subtle flavor profile that comes from the unique volcanic sand. During the Dutch colonial period, Kusamba served as an important trading port, with historical records showing it was once busier than Kuta or Sanur for maritime commerce. The distinctive black sand beaches result from centuries of volcanic activity from nearby Mount Agung, creating a striking contrast with the white salt crystals drying in the sun. Local legend claims the waters near Kusamba have healing properties, with many Balinese traveling here specifically to collect salt for traditional medicine and ceremonial purposes.