Bali’s underwater world is a wonderful scenery that you shouldn’t miss. There are several spots that have clear turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, making snorkeling in Bali safe and truly unforgettable for both beginners and experts.
This article will guide you to the best place to see underwater scenery in Bali, covering everything from beginner-friendly lagoons to exotic marine sanctuaries.
Here are the 6 best snorkeling destinations in Bali you shouldn’t miss on your next island adventure.
Best Spots for Snorkeling in Bali
If you are looking for the best snorkeling experiences in Bali, here are the spots that you should’t miss to get the best experience of activities in Bali. We also gathered some information about how to get there because most of them are located outside of popular tourist spots on this island.
1. Nusa Penida
Snorkeling with Manta Rays is the most popular activity in Bali, especially for those who want to visit Nusa Penida. This islet has crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and diverse marine life, including the nearly extinct Manta Ray.
The main snorkeling points are Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, and Manta Bay, where you can often spot manta rays gliding gracefully through the ocean. To get there, you should take a 45-minute fast boat ride from Sanur Harbor making this spot truly Bali’s hidden gem.
However, the waves in those spots are quite big because this islet is located in the Indian Ocean. That’s why snorkeling here should always be guided by an experienced diver, or you can join Nusa Penida tours that include boat transfers and equipment, which is a safer option for beginners.
Budget: USD 150–200 including fast boat round trip, shuttle from hotel to harbor, shuttle from harbor to snorkeling point, equipment rental, and guide.
2. Blue Lagoon, Padang Bai
Located in Padang Bai, Karangasem (approximately two hours from Ngurah Rai International Airport), this snorkeling destination in Bali is a must-visit for beginners. The lagoon has calm and shallow waters with visibility up to 20 meters, making it a favorite among families and first-timers.
The lagoon is home to schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and even occasional reef sharks among the corals. Since there is minimal public transport, you can hire a private driver or book a shuttle from the airport.
The best time to visit this spot is in the morning around 09.00–11.00 AM or in the afternoon from 15.00–17.30 PM. You might need to stay in a hotel or homestay nearby to get the best experience of snorkeling in Bali.
Budget: USD 50–60 including gear rental, guide, and boat from the coast to snorkeling spots.
3. Menjangan Island, Bali Barat National Park
This secluded islet located between Bali and Java Island is home to endemic deer called Menjangan, with minimal human exploration. Beyond its natural surroundings, it is also considered the best snorkeling spot in Bali due to its pristine water and spectacular coral walls featuring gorgonian fans, sponges, and colorful fish.
Visibility can reach up to 50 meters, making it a paradise for underwater photographers and often called the Maldives in Bali. Situated in the protected Bali Barat National Park, it takes around four hours to reach from the southern area of the island of God.
It’s better to rent a private car and book a hotel because you need at least one night’s stay to get the best experience, as the journey to Western coast takes several hours. Despite the long travel time, the experience is truly worth it especially for honeymooners in Bali that look for a secluded place.
Budget: A typical full-day snorkeling tour costs USD 70–100 including park entrance, boat transport, and gear. Please note this is not inclusive of a private driver and hotel stay.
4. Amed
Amed is one of Bali’s most famous coastal villages, located on the northeast coast. Known for its black volcanic sand and thriving coral gardens, Amed is a peaceful place to unwind and explore marine life at your own pace.
The good news is, you don’t need to rent a boat to reach the coral spots because, along the coastal area, you can see colorful coral reefs, clownfish, and sometimes turtles just a few meters from the shore.
Snorkeling here is free if you bring your own gear, and for those who don’t have gear, equipment rental is available for around USD 8–10. This option is really safe, even though Amed is also known for being home to jellyfish, but they are rare near the shoreline and generally harmless.
Budget: Usually under USD 10, but prices can be higher if you rent a boat to go further from the shoreline.
5. Tulamben
Around a 40-minute drive north of Amed, you will find the world-famous snorkeling and diving spot that is perfect for enjoying the underwater scenery. Tulamben is renowned for its USAT Liberty Shipwreck, one of the best snorkel sites in Bali for both beginners and advanced adventurers.
The wreck is located just 30 meters offshore, covered in soft corals, and home to countless fish species. You can easily access it from the beach, and the calm water makes it safe for snorkeling.
Many underwater photographers on this island love taking pictures of these spots. The water is relatively calm with a clear blue color, making it a must-visit on your Bali snorkeling tours.
Budget: Equipment rental and a local guide usually cost USD 20–40, depending on your package.
6. Candidasa
This charming seaside village has one of the most relaxed coasts with lush surroundings. The water is clear and calm, home to abundant coral gardens and preserved fish species, making it perfect for travelers looking to escape crowds.
Its location is not too far from the airport, about a one-hour drive. However, you still need to hire a private car or shuttle because there is no public transport to this place.
After arriving in the Candidasa area, you can take a short boat ride to nearby islands like Gili Tepekong and Gili Mimpang for a chance to see larger marine animals like reef sharks and turtles. The visibility is up to 30 meters, perfect for beginners or first timers.
Budget: Guided snorkeling tours range between USD 40–60 per person including equipment rental.
The Best Time to Snorkel in Bali
The best time for your snorkeling Bali adventure is during the dry season (April to October), when the sea is calm and visibility is excellent. During this period, you’ll enjoy bright sunshine and gentle waves, making it ideal for underwater photography.
While snorkeling is possible year-round, it’s best to avoid the rainy season in Bali (November to March) due to stronger currents and reduced visibility. It can also be quite dangerous to snorkel in certain spots like Nusa Penida during this time.
Tips for Snorkeling in Bali
- Choose the right spot for your skill level, for example, Amed and Blue Lagoon for first-timers, and Nusa Penida for experienced snorkelers.
- Use eco-friendly sunscreen, this helps protect coral reefs by avoiding harmful chemicals found in regular sunscreens.
- Bring some cash in Rupiah, which is currency that is used in Bali. Many local snorkeling operators don’t accept cards for gear rental or small entrance fees.
- Go early in the morning, you’ll get calmer waters, better light for photos, and fewer crowds.
- Join a guided tour, Bali snorkeling tours provide safety, local expertise, and easy access to top snorkeling sites.
Conclusion: Snorkeling Adventures in Bali
Snorkeling in Bali, Indonesia, is an unforgettable experience that reveals the island’s breathtaking underwater world, from vibrant coral reefs to manta rays and shipwrecks. With many snorkeling points, this beautiful island could cater both beginners and professionals.
For a complete and comfortable island experience, stay with Ini Vie Hospitality, one of Bali’s leading boutique hotel providers. Ini Vie’s properties offer ideal access to both the sea and the mountains, making every romantic or adventure-filled exploration in Bali truly exceptional.
