“There are now guardrails at the Devil’s Tear tourist attraction to prevent [people from falling off the cliffs],” the photo caption said. 

“At this time, many tourist attractions in Nusa Penida are equipped with signs meant to caution visitors, with red flags put up on dangerous spots to prevent accidents.” 

Over the years, tourists have either died or gone missing after being swept away by huge waves while standing near the edge of the famous cove. In August, a Chinese tourist died after doing so, reportedly as she was taking a selfie. 

The Devil’s Tear has grown increasingly popular, and many tourists come eager to take a photo or video with the waves smashing spectacularly against the cove as their background. However, the waves can and often do get violent, resulting in tourists either getting injured or swept away.

I Komang Reka Sanjaya, who heads the Nusa Penida sub-district police, told Coconuts Bali that they have only finished the first phase of the guardrails, and will put up more in the coming weeks.

“We have finished [the first phase], and they are put up in the most dangerous spots,” Sanjaya said.

I Nengah Sukasta, who heads the Klungkung Tourism Agency, previously said that the guardrails don’t fully guarantee tourists’ safety while visiting the Devil’s Tear, emphasizing the need to be careful at all times. He also said that tour guides must continue briefing their guests about the possible dangers of the spot. 

“Tourists must still put their safety first by not going to dangerous spots, such as taking photos too close to the edge. Safety and comfort is a collective responsibility and we must always remind each other,” Sukasta said.