v3.5.0.2
NET INCOME PER UNIT Table (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2016
Sep. 30, 2015
Sep. 30, 2016
Sep. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]        
Net income attributable to NuStar Energy L.P. $ 51,141 $ 65,016 $ 161,059 $ 247,240
Less: Distributions to general partner (including incentive distribution rights) 12,866 12,766 38,398 38,298
Less: Distributions to limited partner 85,943 85,285 256,513 255,855
Less: DERs to restricted units 650 0 1,969 0
Distributions in excess of earnings (48,318) (33,035) (135,821) (46,913)
Net income attributable to limited partner units:        
Distributions to limited partner 85,943 85,285 256,513 255,855
Allocation of distributions in excess of earnings (47,351) (32,374) (133,103) (45,974)
Total $ 38,592 $ 52,911 $ 123,410 $ 209,881
Basic weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 78,031,053 77,886,078 77,934,802 77,886,078
Diluted units outstanding:        
Basic weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 78,031,053 77,886,078 77,934,802 77,886,078
Effect of dilutive participating securities 31,836 0 46,497 0
Diluted weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 78,062,889 77,886,078 77,981,299 77,886,078
Basic net income per unit applicable to limited partners $ 0.49 $ 0.68 $ 1.58 $ 2.69
Diluted net income per unit applicable to limited partners $ 0.49 $ 0.68 $ 1.58 $ 2.69