I’ve explored Bali’s underwater worlds at these 9 otherworldly snorkeling spots! Here’s what I discovered during my adventures!
As a kid, I always dreamed of swimming alongside colorful fish like those in Finding Nemo. The thought of a magical, vibrant unseen world right beneath the water is nothing short of amazing!
And honestly, I’ve always preferred the company of sea creatures over sunbathers anyway.
After snorkeling in numerous spots, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best. Ready to discover Bali’s top 9 snorkeling havens? Let’s (for lack of a better word) dive right in!
1. Menjangan Island
Address: Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Menjangan Island, tucked away in the northwest corner of Bali, is part of West Bali National Park, Indonesia’s oldest national park. The island is about 39 square kilometers but has pristine coral reefs and clear waters.
If you’re into snorkeling or diving, you’ll find yourself gliding through the water, surrounded by fish and coral gardens. There are fantastic spots like Pos Dua, where the visibility is crystal clear, and so many colorful fish are zipping around.
And if you venture over to Mangrove Point, you’ll find an incredible ecosystem where the roots of the mangrove trees create a haven for baby fish and other marine critters. You might even spot turtles, reef sharks, and pygmy seahorses.
| Pro tip: Consider hiring a private driver for the day. This not only allows you to explore the island at your own pace but also gives you access to lesser-known spots that larger tours might miss. |
2. Nusa Penida
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Address: Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Nusa Penida is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem off the coast of Bali. If you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, this island is a must-visit. The waters here are crystal-clear, and the coral reefs are teeming with life.
Manta Point is hands down the highlight—you won’t believe how spectacular swimming right next to those incredible manta rays is! Then there’s Crystal Bay, which has this serene vibe. The water is calm; you can explore vibrant corals and colorful fish.
If you’re in the mood for adventure, Wall Point is exciting with its coral channels full of fish. Then, there’s Turtle Point, where you can encounter the ocean’s gentle giants.
| Pro tip: Opt for a private snorkeling tour instead of joining a group tour. This way, you can spend more time at each spot—allowing you to truly soak in the beauty of the underwater world without feeling rushed. |
3. Amed Beach
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Address: Bali, Indonesia
Amed is a small fishing village on Bali’s northeastern coast. It is a hidden gem! It used to be a quiet community, but now it’s a cool spot for anyone who loves exploring underwater magic.
One of the highlights has to be Jemeluk Bay. Have you heard about the underwater temple there? It’s only about 50 meters from the shore. It’s like a bustling underwater neighborhood for colorful fish, including angelfish and blue-spotted rays.
Then there’s Lipah Beach, where you can find gorgeous coral gardens. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of adventure, you have to check out the Japanese Shipwreck Point. It’s like diving into history; you get to see all the diverse marine life.
| Pro tip: Plan your snorkeling adventures around high tide for the best experience—this way, you can glide effortlessly over the reefs without worrying about damaging them or encountering underwater obstacles. |
4. Pemuteran
Address: Pemuteran, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81155, Indonesia
Pemuteran is a charming little coastal village in Bali that stole my heart. It’s one of those places that feels like a hidden gem. The waters there are some of the clearest I’ve ever seen, making it a snorkeling and diving paradise.
The Biorock Project is an incredible initiative that includes coral reef nurseries worldwide. It was initiated because they built sunken structures along a 300-meter stretch of coastline.
And speaking of snorkeling, Menjangan Island is a must-visit! I still remember watching the turtles glide by. Then there’s the underwater temple garden, or Taman Pura—oh man, it felt like stepping into a scene straight out of Atlantis with its submerged statues.
| Pro tip: Engage with the local Biorock Project by sponsoring your piece of coral. This enhances your snorkeling experience and contributes directly to marine conservation efforts. |
5. Blue Lagoon
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Address: FGC7+38M, Padangbai, Manggis, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80871, Indonesia
The moment you step onto the soft white sands of Blue Lagoon Beach, you feel like you’ve stumbled upon paradise. The place is so beautiful, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral gardens that call out to snorkelers like us.
So, here’s the scoop: Blue Lagoon is right near Padang Bai, famous for its incredible underwater landscapes and colorful marine life. Who wouldn’t want to see clownfish, angelfish, and maybe even a sea turtle gracefully swimming by?
At Blue Lagoon, you’ll be surrounded by all sorts of creatures, and if you venture over to Tanjung Jepun, get ready to meet pufferfish and moray eels among the coral gardens.
| Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll also have the chance to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the ocean—a perfect way to start your day before diving into the vibrant underwater world that awaits you at Blue Lagoon. |
6. Crystal Bay
– Media credit: 360bali
Website: https://infopenida.com/
Address: Unnamed Road, Sakti, Kec. Nusa Penida, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Contact details: +6285238852836
Crystal Bay is on the northwest coast of Nusa Penida, just a quick boat ride from Bali. Picture this: crystal-clear waters stretching out before you, vibrant marine life all around, and it’s a top-notch snorkeling destination.
As you step onto the 200-meter stretch of soft, white-grey sand, you’re greeted by these stunning rocky outcrops. Here’s the kicker: it’s one of the rare spots in the world where you can spot the Mola Mola, or oceanic sunfish, especially from July to October.
The area around that little rocky island in the middle of the bay is alive with marine biodiversity. You dive down and are immediately surrounded by colorful coral reefs with tropical fish and sea turtles.
If you venture to the left side of the bay, it’s where the coral is most vibrant and diverse. And for those feeling a little adventurous, swim about 30 yards from the beach, and suddenly, you’re in deeper waters, surrounded by so much marine life.
| Pro tip: Remember to bring cash! While snorkeling gear is available for rent at local beach shacks for around 50,000 to 150,000 IDR per set, many places only accept cash. |
7. Tulamben Beach
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Address: Karangasem, Tulamben, Kec. Kubu, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia
Tulamben Beach is a little fishing village. The name “Tulamben” comes from the Balinese word “Batulambih,” which means “many stones. It is a volcanic rock beach born from the eruptions of Mount Agung, which gives it such a unique vibe.
What put Tulamben on the map, though, is the USAT Liberty wreck. Imagine a World War II transport ship that was torpedoed in 1942 and lies just offshore. This wreck has become a mecca for divers, attracting up to 100 daily during peak season.
The USAT Liberty wreck is the show’s star, sitting in shallow waters ranging from about 4 to 29 meters deep. You’ll find over 100 species of reef fish hanging out there. Seriously, the colors of the coral gardens and the diverse marine life are breathtaking.
There are other fantastic spots, like the Drop-Off, where you might glimpse turtles or even reef sharks. Don’t miss the underwater temple; it sits around 15 meters down and adds a cool cultural twist to your snorkeling adventure.
| Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning to catch the best snorkeling conditions. Plus, you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Agung—an unforgettable way to start your day! |
8. Nusa Lembongan
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Address: Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Nusa Lembongan was all about seaweed farming, but now it’s transformed into a popular hotspot for tourists, and it still manages to keep that laid-back charm that makes you feel right at home.
It’s small, just around 8 square kilometers, so exploring on foot or renting a scooter is seriously a breeze. Plus, being so close to Nusa Penida is a big bonus if you’re up for some marine adventures.
Now, if you’re into snorkeling, you’re in for a treat. Nusa Lembongan has some of the best spots in Bali! One of my favorites has to be Mangrove Point. The currents are gentle, the coral gardens are vibrant, and it’s filled with tropical fish.
Don’t get me started on Manta Point—swimming alongside those majestic manta rays is an experience you can’t pass up. Trust me, the underwater landscapes are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the mangrove tours offered around Mangrove Point. These tours not only provide an opportunity to snorkel but also allow you to explore the serene mangrove forests by kayak or boat. |
9. Padang Bai
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Address: Padangbai, Manggis, Karangasem Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Padang Bai is a charming little fishing village on the eastern coast that many tourists overlook while hurrying to catch ferries to the Nusa Islands. Honestly, that’s part of its charm—it’s not all commercialized, and you can soak in the laid-back vibe.
The harbor is picturesque, and what’s awesome is that it gives you access to some of the best snorkeling spots around. It also has a rich history; it used to be a key port for trade and transportation.
If you venture just a bit further by boat, you’ll reach Bias Tuggal, which is another fantastic snorkeling spot. The reefs there are bursting with color, and you might spot some octopuses or moray eels weaving through the corals.
If you’re up for more adventure, Jepun is the place to go. It’s slightly deeper and a little more challenging but exhilarating; you might even spot reef sharks or barracudas!
| Pro tip: Bring your underwater camera if you have one. While many places offer rentals, capturing your snorkeling adventures at Blue Lagoon or Bias Tuggal with your gear can lead to more personal and memorable photos. |