Blow Lagoon Bali Snorkeling and see Bali Bats Cave Temple

Experience Bali’s Underwater Wonders and Cultural Gems with This Private Tour

If you’re looking for a way to explore Bali beyond its crowded beaches, this Blue Lagoon Bali Snorkeling and Bat Cave Temple tour offers a delightful combination of marine adventure and spiritual discovery. For around $60 a person, you get roughly 8 hours of personalized attention, including door-to-door private transfers, your own snorkeling boat, all gear, and a guide to help you spot the best marine life. Starting from Kuta or Ubud, this tour focuses on making Bali’s underwater world accessible and memorable.

What we love about this experience is the easy accessibility of Blue Lagoon, which is one of the most straightforward snorkeling spots from the south of Bali. The fact that your private driver takes care of the logistics means less hassle and more time enjoying the water. Add to that the chance to visit Pura Goa Lawah, the Bats Cave Temple, and you get a balanced mix of natural beauty and local culture.

One thing to consider: while the trip promises visits to both Blue Lagoon and the Bat Cave temple, some travelers have experienced disappointments when parts of the day don’t go as planned. For example, in one review, the Bat Cave was closed without alternative options offered, which slightly marred the overall experience. So, flexibility and a sense of adventure are key.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value smaller groups, personalized guides, and a combination of water and cultural activities. It suits those who want a relaxed pace, aren’t opposed to some unpredictability, and appreciate the value of having everything organized in advance.

Key Points

• Accessible snorkeling at Blue Lagoon makes this tour ideal for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
• Private transfers ensure comfort and flexibility, saving you time and hassle.
• The guided tour includes professional photos, allowing you to capture memorable marine moments.
• Visit to Pura Goa Lawah offers insight into Bali’s spiritual life, inhabited by thousands of bats.
• All gear and lunch are included, making this a convenient, all-in-one experience.
• Be aware that the Bat Cave may sometimes be closed, and no alternative is always offered.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Starting with the Logistics

The tour begins with a private pickup from your hotel or villa, which is a significant plus, especially if you’re staying in Ubud or south Bali. The transfer usually takes about an hour, giving you time to relax and chat with your guide—who, based on reviews, tends to be knowledgeable and friendly. The private nature means your group is the only one on the vehicle, avoiding the often crowded group tours.

Once at the Blue Lagoon near Padang Bai, you’ll meet your snorkeling guide. They’ll explain equipment, safety tips, and show you how to snorkel if you’re new to the activity. All gear—mask, fins, snorkel—is included, which simplifies planning and packing for your trip.

Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon

The main highlight is the snorkeling session, lasting about two hours. We loved the way the reef is easily accessible, with white sands and vibrant coral. The waters are shallow enough for beginners but also rewarding for seasoned snorkelers. You may see angelfish, clownfish, pufferfish, turtles, and other tropical marine life.

One of the tour’s best features is the guide’s skill in spotting marine creatures and taking photos, which you can buy afterward. Several reviews highlight how helpful and patient guides are, ensuring everyone comfortably enjoys the water.

The Downside: Unpredictability

A notable drawback, mentioned by Perrine in her review, is that the Bat Cave was closed when she visited, and no alternative was proposed. While this can happen, it emphasizes the importance of flexibility and understanding that such visits depend on local conditions or schedules. It’s wise to check in advance or prepare for the possibility of missing out on certain sights.

Lunch and Cultural Exploration

After snorkeling, you’ll have time to shower, change, and enjoy a simple Indonesian meal. The included lunch is a practical way to refuel after your aquatic adventure. Then, your driver takes you to Pura Goa Lawah, a local Hindu temple famous for its bat population. Walking into this cave temple, you’ll see thousands of bats hanging from the ceiling, providing a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s spiritual life.

While some travelers praise the temple’s atmosphere, others note that access might sometimes be restricted, or the temple might be closed, contingent on local schedules or religious events.

Final Transfer and Return

After the cultural stop, your driver will bring you back to your accommodation, wrapping up a full day that combines sea, sand, and spiritual sights. The private arrangement means you set your own pace, and the journey is smooth with minimal waiting.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an easy, organized day of snorkeling and cultural exploration without the hassle of self-planning. It’s perfect for those who appreciate personalized service—thanks to private transfers—and want to avoid large tour groups. The inclusion of photos and a lunch adds value, especially for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive Bali day trip.

However, if you’re particularly interested in the Bat Cave and want guaranteed access, it’s worth noting that sometimes the temple might be closed, and no alternative options will be offered. Flexibility and patience are helpful traits here.

Overall, if you value cost-effective, well-organized outings that combine natural beauty with cultural insights, this tour delivers well.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

1. Pickup and Transfer

Your day starts with a private vehicle pickup from your hotel or villa—whether in Ubud or southern Bali. The comfortable car ensures a smooth start, and you’ll likely be chatting with your guide about the day ahead.

2. Travel to Blue Lagoon

The drive to Padang Bai takes about an hour, depending on your location. Along the way, you can enjoy Bali’s scenic countryside and perhaps get some tips from your guide about local sights and customs.

3. Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon

Once there, you’ll get all the snorkeling gear and a brief instruction session. The traditional boat transfer to Blue Lagoon is part of the charm, offering a chance to appreciate Bali’s coastal views. Expect to spend about two hours exploring the reef, swimming alongside angelfish, clownfish, and maybe even a turtle.

The reef is lively, and the waters are generally calm, making it suitable for families and less experienced snorkelers. The guide often takes photos, which is a nice touch because it captures those vibrant underwater moments you might miss.

4. Post-Snorkeling Refresh and Lunch

After your underwater adventure, you’ll have time to shower and change at nearby facilities. The included Indonesian lunch is typically simple but flavorful—think rice, vegetables, and perhaps some local seafood. It’s a good way to relax and chat about your morning.

5. Cultural Visit to Goa Lawah

Next, your driver takes you to Pura Goa Lawah, the Bat Cave Temple. Walking into the cave, you’ll witness thousands of bats, and learn about their significance in Balinese religious practices. The temple’s atmosphere is both lively and spiritual, adding a different flavor to your day.

Keep in mind, the visit depends on local schedules; sometimes the temple may be temporarily closed or less accessible.

6. Return Journey

Finally, your driver will return you back to your hotel or villa, concluding a well-rounded day. The private transfer means no waiting around, and you’ll finish the day feeling satisfied—whether with the underwater sights, cultural insights, or simply the convenience.

FAQs

Is the snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, all snorkel gear is provided as part of the tour.

How long is the snorkeling session?
The snorkeling lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the tour price?
The tour costs around $60 per person, which includes transportation, snorkeling, lunch, and admission fees.

What if the Bat Cave temple is closed?
Sometimes the temple might be closed or inaccessible without prior notice, and no alternative site is typically offered.

Can beginners participate in snorkeling?
Absolutely. The guide provides instructions, and the reef is accessible for all levels.

Are transfers private?
Yes, the transportation is private, from your hotel to Blue Lagoon and then to the Bat Cave.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments.

Are the photos taken by guides available for purchase?
Yes, guides often take photos during snorkeling, which you can buy afterward.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple Indonesian lunch is included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced blend of Bali’s marine and cultural attractions, wrapped in the comfort of private transfers and guided expertise. It’s perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, hassle-free day with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and discovery.

While some may find that scheduled visits like the Bat Cave can sometimes be unavailable, the overall experience remains enriching, especially for those eager to explore Bali’s underwater world and local spiritual sites.

In terms of value, the tour’s inclusion of all equipment, lunch, and entry fees makes it a good deal, especially considering the personalized service. It’s a solid choice for anyone who enjoys small-group adventures with a focus on authentic Bali experiences.

If your priorities include comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of nature and culture, this tour will serve you well. Just keep a flexible attitude about the temple visit, and you’ll enjoy a rewarding day exploring Bali’s vibrant life beneath and above the surface.

Note: Always check current schedules and weather conditions closer to your trip, as these can influence the availability of the Bat Cave visit.