Nusa Lembongan Snorkeling with Manta Bay & Island Tour from Bali

Nusa Lembongan Snorkeling with Manta Bay & Island Tour from Bali: An Authentic Underwater Adventure

If you’re looking to combine stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and a taste of Bali’s island charm, this 12-13 hour guided tour from Ubud offers a fantastic day out. For just $100 per person, you’ll visit some of the most scenic spots around Nusa Lembongan, including Manta Bay, Dream Beach, and Devil’s Tears. You’ll be picked up from your hotel, hop on a fast boat, and spend the day snorkeling, sightseeing, and soaking in breathtaking views.

What we especially love about this experience is the chance to see manta rays in their natural habitat—an unforgettable moment—and the opportunity to explore multiple snorkeling sites that suit all levels, including families and beginners. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, hotel pickup, and underwater photos makes it a straightforward, well-organized day.

One thing to keep in mind is that early mornings at Manta Bay can get crowded, so if you prefer a quieter experience, going early is a good idea. This tour suits anyone eager to explore Bali’s underwater world without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s particularly ideal for families, snorkeling enthusiasts, or travelers wanting a mix of adventure and scenic sightseeing.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Includes hotel pickup, lunch, snorkeling gear, and underwater photos.
• Multiple Highlights: Visit Manta Bay, Dream Beach, Devil’s Tears, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with guides ensuring safety and fun.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Almost guaranteed sightings of manta rays and a variety of tropical fish.
• Short on Flexibility: Non-refundable booking, so good weather is a must.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience and safety.

An In-Depth Look at the Nusa Lembongan Snorkeling Tour

How the Day Unfolds

This tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups at 6:45 am, making the most of the day’s sunlight. From Ubud, the journey begins with a 45-minute fast boat ride across the waters—an exciting start that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The boat’s a straightforward way to reach Nusa Lembongan without the fuss of ferries or multiple transfers, and the trip itself offers stunning views of Bali’s southeastern coast.

The first stop is Sanur Beach, the bustling gateway to the Nusa Islands. While just a quick stop with no admission fee, it’s a reminder of Bali’s vibrant maritime culture. From here, you’ll board the boat that will carry you to the island.

Exploring Nusa Lembongan

Once ashore at Toya Pakeh Harbour, the real fun begins. You’ll start your whole day of snorkeling at three main locations—Manta Bay, Gamat Bay, and Toyapakeh—each with its own character and underwater treasures.

Manta Bay: The Pinnacle of the Day

This is the real star of the show. Manta rays are the highlight here, and guides claim that you can almost always see them when conditions are right. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness these graceful giants gliding through the water—an experience that leaves many with lasting memories. Besides manta rays, expect to see pelagics like nurse sharks, big tuna, and tiger mackerel, as well as octopus and lionfish in the sheltered areas.

One reviewer shared, “You can almost always see manta rays here,” and another said, “Great snorkeling with a chance to see large marine life—truly a bucket-list moment.” Since mornings are the best time for sightings, arriving early maximizes your chances.

Gamat Bay and Toyapakeh: Vibrant Coral Gardens

After Manta Bay, the tour visits Gamat Bay, renowned for its beautiful coral reefs and abundant fish—a true underwater spectacle. The currents here add a little thrill, but the reef’s clarity makes it worth exploring.

Next is Toyapakeh, a large coral plateau protected from strong currents, perfect for longer snorkeling sessions. It’s famed for its vivid coral formations and extensive underwater landscape. As one traveler noted, “Very colorful coral and an extensive reef make for a lively snorkeling experience.”

Scenery on Land and Cliff Views

Not just about the water, the tour also includes stops at iconic land-based sights. Dream Beach offers soft sand, calm waters, and a perfect spot to relax after snorkeling. The surrounding high cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, perfect for photos.

Panorama Point offers sweeping views of the sea and mountains, giving you a chance to appreciate the island’s lush landscape. Then, Devil’s Tears provides a powerful visual spectacle as waves crash against the rugged coastline—most visitors find the spray and natural arch absolutely mesmerizing.

Why We Like This Tour

One of the biggest perks is its comprehensive itinerary—covering both underwater marvels and land-based scenic spots in a single day. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and safe. The inclusion of underwater photos is also a thoughtful touch, letting you relive your trip later.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers great value, it does have a non-refundable policy, so if weather turns bad, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The group size is limited to 28, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, bring sunscreen, and be prepared for some physical activity—snorkeling requires a moderate level of fitness.

The Value for Money

For around $100, this experience is quite comprehensive. It includes hotel pickup, return fast boat tickets, lunch, snorkeling gear, and underwater photos—a package that covers almost everything you need for a memorable day. Considering the cost of separate activities or transportation, it’s a very reasonable price for such a full day of adventure.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers with a love for marine life and scenic landscapes. Families with children comfortable in water will find it manageable, and snorkeling beginners will appreciate the guides’ assistance. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Bali’s underwater world and island views, it’s hard to beat.

However, those who prefer very flexible schedules or are sensitive to weather changes should note the non-refundable policy and the need for good weather conditions. Also, early mornings mean an early start, so early risers will enjoy the best chances to see manta rays without crowds.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, return fast boat tickets, retribution fees, a welcome drink, towel, snorkeling gear, lunch, underwater photos, and a guide for snorkeling.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from Ubud, Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua BTDC/ITDC. Out-of-area pickups cost IDR 250,000 per car one way.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting around 6:45 am.

Can beginners participate in snorkeling?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and welcomes beginners. Guides assist with safety and fun, making it suitable for those new to snorkeling.

What are the main snorkeling spots?
Manta Bay, Gamat Bay, and Toyapakeh are the primary sites, each offering different underwater scenery and marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera or phone, and comfortable clothes for snorkeling and land stops.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for all ages, as long as participants are comfortable in the water and physically capable of moderate activity.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled; you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 28 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

In The Sum Up, this Nusa Lembongan snorkeling tour offers an excellent way to discover Bali’s rich marine life, stunning coastlines, and panoramic viewpoints. It combines the thrill of snorkeling with scenic stops, all wrapped up in a well-organized, value-packed package. Perfect for families, snorkeling newcomers, or anyone eager to experience Bali’s natural beauty without the fuss of planning. Do keep in mind the early start and weather dependency, but if you’re up for an adventure, this tour is likely to deliver more than a few memorable moments.