The Glass Elevator Kelingking Beach project in Nusa Penida has officially been halted by the Bali government. And honestly, nature lovers across Bali breathed a huge sigh of relief! 😮💨
If you’ve ever stood on the T-Rex cliff at Kelingking, you know this already:
Some places are too spectacular to be drilled into and turned into a theme park ride.
Here’s why Bali said a strong “no thanks” to risky tourism development.
Governor I Wayan Koster announced the construction shutdown after discovering multiple violations, including lack of permits, construction on protected land, and harmful coastal development impacts.
His message was loud and clear: Nusa Penida must prioritize cultural values, spiritual landscapes, and environmental protection.
Bali’s beauty is not for sale. It must be respected.
The Glass Elevator Kelingking Beach structure would have dramatically changed the iconic view. Tourists visit Nusa Penida to soak in raw nature, not concrete elevators attached to sacred cliffs.
Locals called it:
Hard to argue with that.
Most visitors enjoy the famous viewpoint overlooking Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida.
The path down to the sand is incredibly steep and it challenge even experienced hikers, so many people prefer to take photos from above. Swimming is also not allowed due to strong currents and high sudden waves, making the viewpoint the safest and most popular way to experience this iconic spot. Adding easy access = more people heading into danger.
Tourists already ignore warning signs. And the beach is not a beginner’s playground.
Keeping Kelingking wild protects both nature and visitors.
Nusa Penida’s shoreline is sensitive. Drilling into cliffs for tourism infrastructure can:
This project would have taken more from the island than it ever gave back.
Balinese leaders listened to the people. This is a major win for:
✔ Traditional values
✔ Long-term tourism
✔ Marine conservation
✔ Community inclusion
Governor Koster has instructed development to be fully dismantled within six months and the area restored soon after (translation: don’t mess with Bali’s rules).
“Enjoy Bali wisely. Don’t build access that leads tourists to disaster.”
💥 Mic drop.
At Penida Colada, we believe in a better vision for tourism in Nusa Penida:
💙 One that protects our ocean
🌱 One that respects our ancestors
🐠 One that keeps nature thriving
We support ocean conservation daily through:
We’re proud to stand with those who care for this island.
Read here for more info: Wayan’s Home Reef: 7 Powerful Ways Penida Colada Help Restores Nusa Penida’s Coral Gardens and how you can too!
Just because we don’t need a glass elevator doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore Nusa Penida. It means:
Then come celebrate a beautiful day with us at Penida Colada Beach Bar & Restaurant
(oceanfront views included, no cliff drilling necessary).
Read: 5 Steps to Mindful Travel: Unlock Joyful Adventures in Nusa Penida
