v3.4.0.3
DEI Document - shares
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2016
Apr. 30, 2016
Document Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name NuStar Energy L.P.  
Entity Central Index Key 0001110805  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2016  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2016  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1  
Trading Symbol ns  
Amendment Flag false  
Entity Partnership Units Outstanding   77,886,078