v3.5.0.2
NET INCOME PER UNIT Table (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2015
Jun. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]        
Net income attributable to NuStar Energy L.P. $ 52,517 $ 54,325 $ 109,918 $ 182,224
Less: Distributions to general partner (including incentive distribution rights) 12,766 12,766 25,532 25,532
Less: Distributions to limited partner 85,285 85,285 170,570 170,570
Less: DERs to restricted units 657 0 1,319 0
Distributions in excess of earnings (46,191) (43,726) (87,503) (13,878)
Net income attributable to limited partner units:        
Distributions to limited partner 85,285 85,285 170,570 170,570
Allocation of distributions in excess of earnings (45,267) (42,851) (85,752) (13,600)
Total $ 40,018 $ 42,434 $ 84,818 $ 156,970
Basic weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 77,886,219 77,886,078 77,886,148 77,886,078
Diluted units outstanding:        
Basic weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 77,886,219 77,886,078 77,886,148 77,886,078
Effect of dilutive participating securities 53,060 0 57,554 0
Diluted weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 77,939,279 77,886,078 77,943,702 77,886,078
Basic net income per unit applicable to limited partners $ 0.52 $ 0.54 $ 1.09 $ 2.01
Diluted net income per unit applicable to limited partners $ 0.52 $ 0.54 $ 1.09 $ 2.01