Swim With Manta Rays and Day Tour to Lembongan from Bali

Experience the Best of Nusa Lembongan: Snorkeling, Landmarks, and Local Culture

If you’re craving a full day of adventure, this Swim With Manta Rays and Day Tour to Lembongan from Bali offers an ideal escape. For around $82, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 8 hours exploring some of Bali’s most captivating marine spots and scenic land attractions. The tour starts with a comfortable pickup from your Bali hotel, followed by a fast boat ride across the clear waters, leading you to a day packed with snorkeling, sightseeing, and cultural insights.

What we really like about this tour is its balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. The chance to see manta rays in their natural habitat at Manta Bay is unforgettable, especially for those who love marine wildlife. Plus, the visit to Devil’s Tear and Dream Beach provides some of the most stunning coastal views Bali and Lembongan have to offer. The tour format is well-paced—allowing plenty of time at each stop—so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.

A potential drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, which is fantastic for seeing a lot, but it might mean little downtime or flexibility if you prefer a slower pace. Also, while the tour includes most major snorkeling sites, sightings of manta rays depend on environmental conditions—so patience is a virtue. This trip is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and want a comprehensive taste of Lembongan’s natural beauty and local charm.

This experience suits those who value authentic marine encounters, enjoy scenic coastal views, and want a well-organized day without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines snorkeling at three key sites with scenic land visits.
• Marine Wildlife Focus: Offers a good chance to see manta rays, sea turtles, and tropical fishes.
• Expert Guides & Safety: Guides provide safety equipment and snorkeling instruction, even for non-swimmers.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes pickup and drop-off from multiple Bali locations, making logistics easier.
• Cultural & Scenic Stops: Features Devil’s Tear, Dream Beach, and a seaweed farm for cultural insights and stunning views.
• Value for Money: At $81.95, it offers a full day of adventure with all necessary gear included.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Starting Point & Transport

The tour kicks off from Sanur Port, a lively and picturesque harbor known for its views of two lighthouses and the promise of adventure. From there, you’ll take a quick 15-minute boat ride on a fast boat to Nusa Lembongan. The boat crossing is smooth, and the timing (departing at 09:15 am, returning around 4 pm) is well-suited for those who want a full day but not an overly long one.

Most travelers appreciate the convenience of the included pickup service—it covers areas like Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, and Sanur. Those staying outside these zones will need to pay a small extra fee, which is a fair trade for the ease of door-to-door service. The tour is capped at around 40 guests, meaning you’ll get a more intimate experience compared to larger groups.

Snorkeling Highlights

The core of this tour is its three snorkeling stops, each offering different underwater sights.

• Toyapakeh Wall Bay: Known for its crystal-clear waters, this cove is where you’ll likely see vibrant marine life and enjoy the visibility that makes snorkeling so rewarding. The site is free for snorkeling, and guides are on hand to ensure everyone gets comfortable in the water.

• Mangrove Point: A shallow reef perfect for beginners or those wanting a more relaxed experience. You’ll see a variety of coral fishes and beautiful formations. The guides’ knowledge about the marine environment adds depth to this stop—both figuratively and literally.

• Manta Bay: The star of the trip for many. Here, there’s a good chance to see manta rays gliding gracefully in warm waters. One reviewer vividly described the encounter: “I saw Manta Ray clearly in warm water. It was much bigger than expected…they swam slowly seemed showing off.” However, it’s important to remember that sightings are not guaranteed, as these gentle giants are in their natural habitat and can be elusive.

The tour includes snorkeling gear—masks, fins, life vests, and rings—so that even non-swimmers can enjoy the underwater world safely. The guides’ instruction and safety focus make this suitable for a wide range of abilities.

Land & Scenic Stops

After the underwater adventures, the land visits offer a change of pace and insight into Lembongan’s natural and cultural environment.

• Devil’s Tear: One of the most dramatic coastal spots, where crashing waves spray water high into the air against rugged rocks. The views here are spectacular—perfect for photos and enjoying the raw power of nature.

• Dream Beach: With its white sands and turquoise waters, this beach is a favorite among travelers. The sunset here is stunning, and it’s an ideal spot to relax and soak in the scenery.

• Seaweed Farms: An interesting cultural experience, where you learn about traditional seaweed harvesting—a vital livelihood for locals. It’s a unique chance to see how the islanders sustain their community and get some insights into everyday life.

• Village Tour: The trip also includes a drive through the island’s villages, giving a glimpse of local life away from the tourist spots. The guides often share stories and background, making it a more meaningful visit.

Practical Details & Amenities

The tour is well-equipped with welcome drinks, towels, lockers, and a beachside lunch—adding comfort and convenience to the day. Insurance coverage is included, which provides peace of mind. They also offer snorkeling photos and videos, so you can relive the moments afterward.

The entire experience is designed to be accessible—non-swimmers can participate thanks to safety equipment and guidance. The moderate physical fitness level required makes it suitable for most travelers, as long as you’re comfortable on boats and in water.

Cost & Value

At around $82 per person, this tour provides a lot of value. It covers transportation, gear, meals, and multiple activities, which would be hard to organize independently. The inclusion of waterfront lunch and photos adds to the overall experience. For those seeking a full day of marine adventure combined with scenic sightseeing, the price is reasonable.

Authenticity & Authentic Experiences

According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and friendly—making the experience both fun and educational. One guest noted: “We loved the way guides explained the marine environment and pointed out different fish and coral.” This adds a layer of depth beyond just sightseeing; you truly get a sense of connection with the environment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s especially suited for those interested in marine life and scenic coastal views. If you’re a snorkeler eager to see manta rays and vibrant fish, you’ll find the snorkeling stops rewarding. Also, those curious about Balinese island life will appreciate the cultural stops like the seaweed farms.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or a focus solely on beaches, this might feel a bit packed. Still, with the experienced guides and well-organized logistics, most will find the day fulfilling.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Bali to Nusa Lembongan offers a balanced mix of snorkeling, scenic land stops, and cultural insights. It’s an excellent choice for adventurous travelers who want to maximize their island experience. The chance to see manta rays in the wild is a highlight, but even if the rays aren’t spotted, the varied stops provide plenty of memorable moments—from dramatic wave crashes at Devil’s Tear to peaceful walks on Dream Beach. The included gear, land excursions, and helpful guides make it a good value.

It’s a well-rounded journey that captures both the natural beauty and local character of Nusa Lembongan, perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Bali’s neighboring island. Whether you’re snorkeling for the marine life, exploring the coastline, or simply soaking in the views, this tour promises a full, engaging day.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off are offered from several areas including Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, and Sanur. Additional charges apply for locations outside these zones.

What if I don’t see manta rays?
Sightings depend on environmental conditions, so there’s no guarantee. However, the tour includes three snorkeling sites with high chances, and guides do their best to help you spot them.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Absolutely. Non-swimmers can snorkel with provided safety equipment and guided instruction, making the underwater experience accessible to everyone.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Sanur Harbor to Nusa Lembongan takes about 15 minutes, offering a comfortable crossing with scenic views.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes all transportation, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, lunch, guide, insurance, and photos/videos of your snorkeling adventure.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, if you stay outside the designated pickup zones, an extra fee (around IDR 400,000) applies for transport. Also, a small fee is charged for certain areas if staying in Ubud or Uluwatu.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable in water and able to participate in snorkeling. Guides provide safety equipment and instructions suitable for all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, cash or credit card for personal expenses, and a change of clothes for after snorkeling.

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience Nusa Lembongan’s natural beauty, marine wonders, and local culture—all in one well-organized, enjoyable day. It’s a good choice for those eager to see Bali’s marine life up close while also soaking in stunning coastal scenery.