Nusa Penida Snorkeling Tour – Departure From Bali

Nusa Penida Snorkeling Tour – Departure From Bali

This full-day adventure takes you from Seminyak to the breathtaking island of Nusa Penida, where you’ll snorkel with manta rays, explore vibrant coral reefs, and marvel at some of Bali’s most iconic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach. Priced at $140 per person, the tour lasts about 8 to 10 hours, with the convenience of private door-to-door transfers from select Bali locations, making it an easy and stress-free way to see some of the island’s most spectacular sights.

What we love about this experience is the chance to snorkel at Gamat Bay, famous for its colorful marine life, and Manta Bay, where the chance of spotting the graceful manta rays is a big highlight. The inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of Balinese cuisine, and the scenic stops at Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong are perfect for photos and soaking in the view.

One potential consideration is the sea conditions—the tour mentions rough waves at times, which might cause seasickness for some. Travelers prone to seasickness should consider this when booking.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who are keen on marine life and iconic coastal scenery, and who are comfortable with a full day of activity. If you love snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and a bit of a thrill, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this trip.

Key Points

• Diverse snorkeling experience with visits to Gamat Bay, Manta Bay, and Crystal Bay.
• Sightseeing highlights include Kelingking Beach, Angels Billabong, and Broken Beach.
• All-inclusive amenities such as snorkeling gear, boat, professional guide, and lunch.
• Private transfers from Bali add convenience and comfort.
• Timing starts early at 6:30 am, ensuring full day of exploration.
• Family-friendly with a minimum age of 5 years, but be mindful of sea conditions.

Exploring Nusa Penida: A Practical, Honest Review

When we think about Bali, the island’s lush rice terraces and vibrant nightlife often steal the spotlight. But for those seeking a more rugged, natural escape, Nusa Penida offers some truly memorable moments—especially if you love marine environments and dramatic coastal landscapes. This snorkeling tour from Bali strikes a nice balance between underwater adventure and sightseeing, making it a well-rounded day trip.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting early at 6:30 am, we appreciated the prompt pickup service from various Bali locations—hotels and villas in Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Denpasar, and Sanur. This wide coverage means most travelers don’t have to worry about complicated transportation arrangements. Instead, you’ll start the day relaxed, knowing transport is handled.

Gamat Bay is the first snorkeling stop, and it’s a treat. The water is teeming with colors and movement—a truly lively underwater scene filled with schools of fish and vibrant coral. The bay looks unassuming from above, but beneath the surface, it’s a different story. You’ll get about 30 minutes to enjoy this nature’s aquarium.

Next is Manta Bay, where the legendary manta rays often glide gracefully through the water. The coral manta, the second-largest manta species, is known for its large brain and friendly nature—and it’s a safe, exhilarating experience to swim alongside them, especially since they are quite accustomed to human interaction. The 30-minute snorkeling here is a highlight for many.

Crystal Bay offers another fantastic snorkeling spot, often filled with sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations. If you visit between July and October, you might even catch a glimpse of the mola-mola (ocean sunfish), although that is not guaranteed. The bay’s popularity means it can get crowded during peak mola-mola season, but its marine diversity still makes it worth the visit.

Aside from snorkel stops, the tour includes scenic sightseeing at Kelingking Beach—famous for its jaw-dropping cliff views and otherworldly shape. The viewpoint is accessible via a sturdy platform with bamboo fences, offering photo-worthy vistas. For the adventurous, there’s an option to tackle the steep, rocky descent to the beach itself during low tide, but be prepared for a challenging climb back up. It’s often quiet there, giving you some private time with the stunning scenery.

Broken Beach (Pasih Uug) is next, with its arch-shaped rock formation that makes for a dramatic backdrop. It’s also a popular spot for panoramic photos and spotting manta silhouettes near the surface. Nearby, Angel’s Billabong offers a natural rock lagoon, where during low tide you can swim in crystal-clear tide pools—a unique and refreshing experience.

The Guide and Amenities

Throughout the day, you’ll be accompanied by a professional snorkeling guide, which is reassuring whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler. The snorkeling gear—including masks, fins, and life jackets—is provided, ensuring you don’t need to rent or bring your own. The private transport with air-conditioning keeps you comfortable as you hop between locations, which is especially appreciated after a morning in the sun.

The lunch is a set menu at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic Balinese cuisine—a nice break from the day’s activities. All entrance and parking fees are included, so there are no surprise costs.

What Travelers Say

From the reviews, we see this trip is quite popular, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One reviewer mentioned, “Ngurah really took care of us,” highlighting the importance of a good guide. Another pointed out the photo opportunities, noting Nusa Penida’s Instagram-worthy spots, though they also observed that over-tourism has put a strain on the island’s infrastructure.

The concern about rough seas and seasickness is worth noting—some travelers experienced discomfort if waves were high. If seasickness is a concern for you, consider bringing medication or planning accordingly.

The Value of the Tour

At $140, this tour offers a comprehensive package: transportation, snorkeling gear, guide, entrance fees, and lunch. When considering the cost, think about the convenience and the variety of experiences packed into one day. Instead of piecing together different activities and transport, you get a well-organized, all-in-one trip that maximizes your time and effort.

The private transfers from Bali make it a hassle-free experience—no need to worry about navigating crowded roads or public boats. The small group size (or exclusive nature) of this tour enhances the experience, giving it a more personalized feel, especially with the attention of your guide.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits travelers who are active and curious—those eager to see Bali’s marine life and iconic cliffs in one package. It’s ideal for families with kids over 5, snorkelers, and lovers of stunning panoramic views. If you’re comfortable with a full day of activity and don’t mind some potentially rough seas, this is a fantastic way to explore Nusa Penida without the hassle of self-planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the minimum age for participation is 5 years old, making it suitable for families. Just consider your child’s comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunscreen, a camera, and a change of clothes. It’s also wise to wear comfortable, casual attire suitable for sightseeing and snorkeling.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a vegetarian lunch option can be arranged—just inform the tour provider when booking.

How long are the snorkeling stops?
Each snorkeling location lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the underwater sights comfortably.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I swim at all the scenic viewpoints?
Most viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong are designed for photos and sightseeing. Swimming is usually possible at low tide, especially in Angel’s Billabong.

Final Thoughts

This Nusa Penida snorkeling tour is a well-rounded choice for those wanting to experience Bali’s marine wonders and iconic coastal scenery in one day. The inclusion of multiple snorkeling spots, scenic viewpoints, and cultural highlights makes it a strong value, especially given the convenience of private transfers and all necessary gear included.

It’s particularly appealing for travelers who love marine life—spotting manta rays and turtles adds a special touch to the trip. The scenic stops are a bonus, offering unforgettable views that are perfect for sharing with friends or family.

While sea conditions can sometimes be challenging, most travelers find the experience rewarding and well-organized. The knowledgeable guides and thoughtfully curated itinerary help make this tour a memorable and manageable way to explore Nusa Penida’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure, stunning sights, and authentic experiences, this tour deserves your consideration. It’s perfect for those who cherish natural beauty and want a comprehensive taste of Bali’s doorstep—Nusa Penida.