Snorkeling in Bali – A dream come true
Have you ever wanted to see manta rays in their natural habitat, nibbling on some plankton, while tropical fish swim around them and a beautiful coral reef is waiting to be explored? Then having Bali as snorkel spot on your list is the way to go! Bali is home to some of the most amazing snorkeling sites and has lots to offer when it comes to diverse marine life, clear waters and beautiful scenery.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing all the amazing snorkeling spots Bali has to offer, as well as explaining what you can expect from them, what safety hazards may occur and how you can get to the snorkeling site. Let’s dive (ha!) right in!
Why you should go snorkeling in Bali
While Bali is mostly known for its stunning sandy beaches, great surf, lush landscapes and unique temples, it is also a World-class snorkeling and diving spot, with amazing and diverse tropical marine life.
When it comes to snorkeling, Bali has it all:
- Amazing marine life, with beautiful corals, tropical fish and occasional sightings of larger species like sea turtles and manta rays.
- Clear waters, providing an immersive snorkeling experience.
- Lots of varied locations, including famous sites like Tulamben’s shipwreck, Manta point in Nusa Penida or the Blue Lagoon in Padang Bai.
- Accessible sites – it is pretty easy to get to most snorkeling spots
- Affordable options, as there is a range of snorkeling tours and rentals that cater to different budget ranges.
Bali Snorkeling Spots
Menjangan island
The snorkel and dive spots around Menjangan Island are simply incredible and deserve a spot high up on this list! North Bali National Park is home to some of the best-preserved marine life in Bali and the visibility here often extends up to 30 meters, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant underwater world with great clarity. You’ll be blown away!
What to expect?
- Vibrant coral reefs: The whole island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs with a rich diversity in coral species.
- Amazing marine life: Expect to see a variety of tropical fish, like Parrotfishes, clownfishes, triggerfishes and even reef sharks. If you are lucky, you might be able to spot a few sea turtles as well.
Safety information
- Although the snorkeling sites around Menjangan Island are generally calm and shallow, some areas might experience strong currents.
- While the marine life at Menjangan island is mostly friendly, you might still encounter animals like jellyfish or sea urchins that you should be careful of.
How to get to Menjangan island?
It is easy to get to the snorkelling sites on Menjangan Island. Many tours offer trips that include transportation by boat, equipment rental, and a local guide.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida (next to Nusa Lembongan) is one of the best places for snorkeling and is well-known for its amazing underwater experiences. It’s located southeast of Bali and offers some of the best snorkelling in the region. Here are the most popular spots for snorkeling in Nusa Penida.
Manta Point
What to expect?
- Marine life: As the name implies, Manta point is famous for its regular Manta ray sightings. They often come here to feed on plankton, which is why you might get the opportunity to observe them up close. Besides the majestic manta rays, you might also see some sea turtles, reef sharks and a diversity of fishes.
- The water is nice and deep, making it very popular for divers, though it is also visited by snorkelers.
Safety information
- There can be strong currents at Manta Point, so it is important to that you are confident in your swimming and snorkeling abilities. When you go snorkeling, make sure you go out with a qualified guide.
- Manta Point is a popular spot, so there will be some boat traffic which poses a risk when you are snorkeling near the surface.
How to get to Manta Point?
You’ll need to arrange a boat trip from one of the main ports on the island. Most visitors take a boat trip that also includes Manta Bay, as it’s difficult to reach the site on your own without local knowledge and equipment.
Manta Bay
What to expect?
- Just like Manta Point, Manta bay is renowned for its high chances of seeing manta rays. But you can’t only see Manta rays! Expect to also see other marine life such as sea turtles, reef sharks and different types of fishes.
- The bay is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. The views from the boat or the shore are amazing, with rugged coastlines and lush greenery adding to the appeal.
- In comparison to Manta Point, Manta Bay has calmer waters and thus is more accessible for snorkeling.
Safety information
- Strong currents can occur, which make swimming and snorkeling hard. Make sure to check current conditions and follow your guide’s advice.
- As Manta Bay is a popular spot, so be aware of other boats, especially when going in and out of the water.
How to get to Manta Bay?
Most visitors get to Manta Bay by boat, which you can arrange through tour operators in Nusa Penida. The boat ride can be a bit of an adventure, with the possibility of choppy waters, so it’s a good idea to check the sea conditions and prepare accordingly.
Crystal bay
What to expect?
- Mola Mola (Oceanic sunfish): During the right season, which is typically between July and October, you have the chance to see Mola Mola. It is not guaranteed, though it is definitely a highlight if you do see some!
- Beautiful and vibrant coral reefs: The soft corals are typically colorful and healthy, offering great underwater scenery.
- Marine life: Besides Mola Mola, you can encounter a variety of fish species, including parrotfish, clownfish and butterflyfish. Additionally, there is a chance to see rays, turtles and some smaller sharks as well.
Safety information
- Despite its reputation for calmer waters, Crystal Bay can occasionally experience strong currents, especially during certain tides or weather conditions.
- Be aware of the boat traffic at this popular and often busy spot.
How to get to Crystal Bay?
To snorkel at crystal bay, you don’t necessarily need a guided tour. You can get there by renting a scooter, hiring a private driver, or using local taxis. However, booking a tour can be convenient if you want a guided experience, equipment, and transportation included.
Gamat Bay
What to expect?
- Coral reefs: Gamat Bay is well-known for its vibrant and diverse coral reefs, which are often less crowded than those at other popular snorkeling spots.
- Diversity of fish species: There’s a good chance you’ll see a range of colorful fish, including things like angelfish, parrotfish and clownfish. The area is also known for having some bigger species like reef sharks and rays from time to time.
Safety information
- Gamat Bay can experience strong currents, which can make snorkeling challenging and potentially dangerous.
- Be cautious around sea urchins, jellyfish, and any other potentially dangerous marine animals. Avoid touching or disturbing wildlife and coral.
How to get to Gamat Bay?
If you’re already on Nusa Penida, you can get to Gamat Bay by renting a scooter, hiring a private driver, or using local taxis. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from the main ports, depending on where you start. You could also take a boat tour that includes Gamat Bay as a snorkelling spot, which can be a convenient way to get around and get some guidance.
Amed
Amed is a gorgeous coastal village in Bali that’s known for its laid-back vibe and stunning underwater scenery. It’s a top spot for snorkelling thanks to its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and loads of marine life, including reef fish and sometimes even larger species like turtles and rays. The calm, shallow waters make Amed perfect for snorkellers of all levels – really a hidden gem!
Here are the best spots for snorkeling in Amed
Jemeluk Bay
What to expect?
At Jemeluk Bay, you’ll see some amazing coral reefs and lots of different fish, including clownfish, parrotfish and angelfish. The bay is also known for seeing turtles and rays from time to time.
Safety information
- Touching coral can cause cuts or scratches. It’s best to avoid touching or standing on coral reefs, as they can be sharp and delicate.
- Marine life: Be careful of jellyfish and urchins
How to get to Jemeluk Bay?
Once in Amed, you can rent a scooter, car, or hire a driver to reach the bay. Local signage and maps will help guide you.
Japanese shipwreck point
What to expect?
- The site features a sunken Japanese WWII shipwreck, now covered with vibrant coral and attracting diverse marine life, including fish, reef sharks, and occasionally turtles.
- Aside from the shipwreck, you’ll get to see an amazing variety of vibrant coral and marine life, which makes for a truly distinctive and visually stunning underwater experience.
Safety information
- The shipwreck can have sharp and dangerous parts. Keep a healthy distance to avoid injury.
- Water conditions can vary, and strong currents or reduced visibility might occur. Always check current conditions before entering the water.
How to get to Japanese shipwreck point?
To get to the Japanese shipwreck point, simply rent a scooter or hire a local driver. Follow local signs, google maps, or ask for directions to the site.
Padang Bai
Padang Bai is a beautiful coastal town in Bali. It’s a great place to snorkel and dive, with easy access to nearby islands. These are the best snorkeling spots in the area:
Blue Lagoon
What to expect?
- A picturesque setting with a beautiful blue-hued lagoon, perfect for a relaxing underwater experience.
- Clear and calm waters with colorful coral reefs and diverse fish species, including parrotfish, clownfish, and sometimes even rays.
Safety information
Currents: While generally calm, water conditions can change. Check current conditions before snorkeling and be aware of any potential strong currents.
How to get to Blue Lagoon?
It is quite easy to get to Blue Lagoon, there is no need to get a boat! Simply rent a scooter or car, get a grab/gojek or hire a driver.
Tanjung Jepun
What to expect?
Vibrant coral reefs with a variety of fish species, including clownfish, parrotfish, and sometimes rays and turtles.
Safety information
Be cautious of potential currents and marine life like jellyfish and sea urchins
How to get to Tanjung Jepun?
It is quite easy to get to Tanjung Jepun, there is no need to get a boat! Simply rent a scooter or car, get a grab/gojek or hire a driver.
Tulamben
What to expect?
- USAT Liberty Wreck: Explore the famous WWII shipwreck covered in vibrant coral and teeming with marine life.
- Marine life: Encounter a variety of fish species, including clownfish, parrotfish, and sometimes even reef sharks, moray eels and turtles
Safety information
The shipwreck can have sharp and dangerous parts. Keep a healthy distance to avoid injury.
How to get to Tulamben?
It is quite easy to get to Tulamben, there is no need to get a boat! Simply rent a scooter or car, get a grab/gojek or hire a driver.
My favorite snorkeling experience in Indonesia
Bali is incredible for snorkelling, but I had my best snorkeling experience yet in the Komodo National Park! My boyfriend and I went on an amazing Komodo Island tour from Lombok to Labuan Bajo, and on the first day we stopped to snorkel with whale sharks! It was an absolutely incredible experience swimming with these huge creatures, just a few centimetres away! There were six whale sharks in total, accompanied by several smaller fish and jellyfish. I will forever treasure this memory. We really had the best time! If you have some time to spare, definitely consider visiting the Komodo National Park as well!
Where did you have your best snorkeling trip ever? Are you planning on coming to Bali for snorkelling? I’d absolutely love to hear your stories and maybe even get some inspiration! Please feel free to leave a comment down below.
Do you need any more inspiration for your time in Bali? Check out my 7-Day Bali itinerary!
Want to see more of Indonesia? I have a 14-Day Java Itinerary up on my blog as well!
