Nusa Penida has become a must-visit destination for scuba divers eager to see Bali’s most impressive underwater residents. Known for its vibrant coral reefs and the chance to swim alongside majestic manta rays, it offers a range of experiences suitable for all levels. We particularly like the Diving with Manta Ray at Nusa Penida tour because it guarantees sightings of these gentle giants, making it a memorable highlight. Whether you’re a novice or a certified diver, Nusa Penida’s waters promise a spectacular underwater show. If you’re curious about trying scuba for the first time, the Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program is a fantastic way to dip your toes into the underwater world without diving certification.
Nusa Penida is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, spectacular reefs, and the opportunity for close encounters with sea life that simply aren’t available elsewhere in Bali. With options that cater to beginners, certified divers, and those specifically interested in manta rays, this list covers the best ways to explore the underwater scenery. Read on to discover which experience is right for your level of confidence, interest, and budget.
1. Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program – for Non-Certified Divers
For those who want to experience breathing underwater without the hassle of certification, the Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program offers everything needed in just four hours. It’s perfect if you’re curious about the underwater world but don’t want to commit to a full certification course right away. The program begins with a thorough safety briefing, followed by a practice session in a purpose-built pool to learn basic skills—like breathing through a regulator and clearing water from your mask. Once comfortable, you’ll head out to the Indian Ocean with a qualified instructor to explore coral formations and tropical fish. All necessary gear is included, making this a hassle-free intro to scuba.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on safety and comfort — no more than two divers per instructor in the open water, which means plenty of personal attention. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 35 reviews, many of which mention how easy and enjoyable the experience was. It’s an ideal choice for first-timers or those unsure about committing to a certification. The cost is $120 per person, and at around 4 hours, it offers good value for a memorable introduction to the underwater world.
Bottom Line: This is the best choice if you want a safe, guided, hands-on experience that won’t require a lot of time or money but will give you a genuine taste of what scuba diving is all about.
2. Diving with Manta Ray at Nusa Penida
At number 2 on our list, Diving with Manta Ray at Nusa Penida is an experience that truly defines what makes Nusa Penida special. This tour centers on visiting one of the top dive sites in Indonesia — Manta Point — where a resident population of manta rays glides effortlessly through the water year-round. For about four hours, you’ll explore coral reefs teeming with marine life, with the chance to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.
The tour is tailored for certified divers, with all essential gear included. The site’s reputation for manta sightings is well-earned, and many guests describe the experience as “breathtaking.” The tour is rated 5.0/5 based on six reviews, highlighting how consistently reliable the sightings are. The unique opportunity to witness manta rays in their natural habitat makes this a must-do for marine life enthusiasts. The price is $120, and the experience is about four hours long.
Bottom Line: If you are a certified diver craving a guaranteed manta encounter, this tour offers unmatched value and unforgettable moments.
3. Diving in Nusa Penida
For approximately four and a half hours, the Diving in Nusa Penida tour offers a broader underwater adventure. It’s perfect for those keen to explore the region’s diverse reefs and encounter marine giants like manta rays — which are known to frequent the area. The tour emphasizes the chance to meet these majestic creatures, who are harmless, gentle filter feeders belonging to the shark family. The beauty of the coral reefs, combined with sightings of manta rays, makes this experience stand out.
While the price is slightly higher at $158.60 per person, the extra 30 minutes allows for more diving and exploration. This tour suits divers with some experience or those looking for a more comprehensive experience. Many reviews mention the “sense of awe” at swimming among these large, graceful animals. Plus, the emphasis on marine conservation and respectful viewing makes for a meaningful dive.
Bottom Line: If you want a longer, richer dive experience with the possibility of seeing manta rays, this tour offers great value and a well-rounded underwater adventure.
4. Certified Scuba Dive with Manta Rays (Open Water Diver minimum)
The Certified Scuba Dive with Manta Rays is ideal for those already holding an open water certification and eager for a guaranteed manta ray sighting. It’s a four-hour experience that combines the thrill of underwater exploration with the chance to encounter these impressive rays. The tour’s primary focus is on manta sightings, which are almost certain in this area — Nusa Penida’s waters are among the few in the world where this is almost guaranteed.
Rated 4.0/5 from 12 reviews, this experience is praised for its stunning encounters, with many divers remarking on how close they got to the manta rays. The price is $106.99, making it competitive given the high likelihood of seeing manta rays. The tour is tailored for certified divers with good buoyancy skills and comfort in open water, and it’s recommended for those wanting a straightforward, high-probability manta experience.
Bottom Line: For certified divers wanting a guaranteed manta encounter, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable underwater experience.
5. Try Scuba Diving for Beginners with manta rays (Non-Certified)
Last but not least, Try Scuba Diving for Beginners with manta rays is a four-hour experience designed specifically for newcomers. For $125.91, you’ll enjoy a short introductory session that combines safety training, pool practice, and a guided open water session focused on spotting manta rays. Like the other manta tours, it’s noteworthy for its high chance of sightings, thanks to Nusa Penida’s established populations.
Rated 4.0/5 based on eight reviews, many say it “exceeded expectations” and offered an unforgettable first experience with marine life. It’s ideal for non-certified divers or those with limited time wanting the thrill of seeing manta rays without diving certification. The tour balances safety, education, and adventure perfectly.
Bottom Line: If you’re a beginner eager to see manta rays, this tour provides a safe, manageable introduction to both scuba and these incredible creatures.
How to Choose the Best Nusa Penida Diving Experience for You
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, experience level, and what you hope to see. If you’re new to scuba, the Try Scuba Program offers a safe, short trial. Certified divers seeking guaranteed manta sightings should consider the Manta Ray Dive. For those wanting a longer, more comprehensive experience, the Diving in Nusa Penida tour balances reef exploration with the chance to see marine giants.
Factors such as cost, time commitment, and your comfort level should influence your choice. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (May to September), when these tours tend to fill up fast. Consider also your fitness level — some dives require prior experience, while others are suitable for beginners.
Final Thoughts
Nusa Penida’s diving experiences cover everything from introductory try dives to certified manta ray encounters. The Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program and Try Scuba for Beginners are perfect for first-timers, while seasoned divers will appreciate the Certified Manta Ray Dive for its high likelihood of sightings. For a broader exploration, Diving in Nusa Penida offers a longer adventure with excellent opportunities for marine encounters.
Whatever your experience level or interests, Nusa Penida promises unforgettable underwater moments. To ensure you don’t miss out, book your preferred tour early, especially during peak months. Dive into this beautiful corner of Bali’s waters, and prepare for memories that will last a lifetime.