What you can find in this article:
Introduction
Bali has been on my list of Travel places since forever – Shivangi. It’s just too beautiful of a place to not visit! Kinga has already been to Bali, you can read her Bali Itinerary Blog here
I mean it is literally called The Island of Gods. So, here’s me manifesting a trip to Bali in the next few months as I write this Bali Snorkeling Guide for you and myself too! You must be wondering if I haven’t been there, then how can I write about it. Don’t worry, I’ll take Kinga’s insights plus how do you plan before going anywhere? Research!! I’m doing your research so you can keep coming back here.
Now, without further do, let’s get into this blog. We’ll talk about the Best Places and Best Spots in Bali for Snorkeling. P.S. Do not forget to take a look at Kinga’s Tips throughout the blog. They are gold!
Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Bali offers an unforgettable experience with its diverse marine life and picturesque underwater world. Whether you are a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, Bali’s snorkeling spots are sure to impress. Let’s dive into some of the best snorkeling sites in Bali and explore what makes them so special, including prices and other details.
BEST SPOTS IN BALI
1. Manta Point and Manta Bay
Location: Nusa Penida Island
Details: Manta Point and Manta Bay are famous for their majestic manta rays. Snorkelers have the incredible opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Best Time: During the dry season, from April to October, when the waters are calm and visibility is at its best.
Prices:
– Snorkeling Tour from Bali: $50-$100 per person, including boat transfer, equipment, and guide.
– Snorkeling Tour on Nusa Penida: $25-$40 per person.
2. Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay
Location: Nusa Penida Island
Details: Crystal Bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, with vibrant coral gardens and diverse tropical marine life. Gamat Bay offers an equally spectacular snorkeling experience with its soft corals and colorful fish.
Best Time: April to October
Prices:
– Snorkeling Tour from Bali: $50-$100 per person.
– Snorkeling Tour on Nusa Penida: $25-$40 per person.
3. Blue Lagoon Beach and Padang Bai
Location: East coast of Bali
Details: Padang Bai is home to Blue Lagoon Beach, a hidden gem with calm waters and a rich underwater world. The shallow reef is teeming with vibrant coral reefs and a plethora of marine life.
Best Time: April to October
Prices:
– Snorkeling Gear Rental: $5-$10 per day.
– Guided Snorkeling Tour: $20-$30 per person.
4. Amed Beach and Jemeluk Bay
Location: Eastern Bali
Details: Amed Beach, with its volcanic black sands, is a favorite spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. Jemeluk Bay offers an excellent snorkeling adventure with shallow waters and colorful fish, plus the intriguing Japanese shipwreck nearby.
Best Time: April to October
Prices:
– Snorkeling Gear Rental: $5-$10 per day.
– Guided Snorkeling Tour: $25-$35 per person.
5. Nusa Lembongan and Mangrove Point
Location: Nusa Lembongan Island
Details: Nusa Lembongan is a top destination for snorkeling. Mangrove Point features vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, with calm waters and excellent visibility.
Best Time: April to October
Prices:
– Snorkeling Tour from Bali: $50-$100 per person.
– Snorkeling Tour on Nusa Lembongan: $25-$40 per person.
6. Menjangan Island
Location: Northwest Bali, part of the West Bali National Park
Details: Menjangan Island is known for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. The clear waters and vibrant coral gardens provide an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Best Time: April to October
Prices:
– Snorkeling Tour: $35-$50 per person, including boat transport, equipment, and guide.
– Park Entrance Fee: $20 per person.
Tips for a Great Snorkeling Experience in Bali
Best Time to go Snorkeling in Bali: The dry season (April to October) offers the best conditions for snorkeling, with calm waters and excellent visibility.
Safety: Always snorkel with a buddy and be aware of strong currents, especially around the Nusa Islands.
Equipment: Renting snorkeling gear is easy and affordable at most snorkeling sites. Check with a local dive center or tour operator for the best equipment rental options.
Environmental Care: Protect the coral reefs by avoiding contact and not stepping on them. Enjoy the vibrant coral gardens and marine life responsibly.
Responsible Snorkeling Practices
1. Do Not Touch: Avoid touching corals and marine life to prevent damage and stress.
2. Maintain Buoyancy: Practice good buoyancy control to avoid accidental contact with the reef.
3. Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose sunscreens that do not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
4. Follow Local Guidelines: Adhere to rules set by local authorities and marine parks to ensure sustainable snorkeling practices.
Accommodation in Bali for Snorkelers
Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts. Here’s a detailed look at accommodation choices near the best snorkeling spots:
Menjangan Island Area
1. The Menjangan: A luxurious resort within the West Bali National Park offering eco-friendly accommodation.
- Features: Beachfront villas, jungle lodges, a spa, and guided snorkeling tours.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking a luxury nature retreat with easy access to Menjangan Island snorkeling.
2. Mimpi Resort Menjangan: A boutique resort with natural hot springs and Balinese-style cottages.
- Features: Swimming pool, diving center, and direct access to the park’s snorkeling sites.
- Ideal For: Those wanting comfort and convenient access to Menjangan Island.
3. Bali Barat Bungalows: Budget-friendly bungalows located near the national park.
- Features: Basic amenities, gardens, and proximity to local snorkeling tours.
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers seeking close proximity to Menjangan Island.
Tulamben
1. Mimpi Resort Tulamben: An upscale resort located near the USAT Liberty shipwreck.
- Features: Oceanfront rooms, a dive center, and a spa.
- Ideal For: Divers and snorkelers looking for comfort and direct access to the shipwreck.
2. Tulamben Wreck Divers Resort: Mid-range accommodation with a focus on diving and snorkeling.
- Features: Dive center, swimming pool, and guided snorkeling trips.
- Ideal For: Dive enthusiasts and snorkelers who want a dedicated dive resort experience.
3. Liberty Dive Resort: Affordable resort offering dive packages and comfortable rooms.
- Features: Swimming pool, restaurant, and easy access to the Liberty wreck.
- Ideal For: Budget travelers and snorkelers looking for value-for-money accommodation.
Amed
1. The Griya Villas and Spa: Luxurious villas with private pools and panoramic ocean views.
- Features: Spa, restaurant, and close proximity to Amed’s snorkeling spots.
- Ideal For: Couples and families seeking luxury and privacy.
2. Blue Moon Villas: Mid-range hotel with stunning ocean views and easy beach access.
- Features: Multiple swimming pools, restaurant, and snorkeling gear rental.
- Ideal For: Travelers wanting comfortable accommodation with great views and snorkeling opportunities.
3. Divers Cafe Amed: Budget-friendly accommodation with a focus on diving and snorkeling.
- Features: Simple rooms, dive center, and beachfront location.
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious snorkelers and divers.
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida
Penida Island is an island in Indonesia. It is not really a part of Bali, but, many people visit this island for their snorkeling experience.
1. Indiana Kenanga Boutique Hotel & Spa: Luxury beachfront resort on Nusa Lembongan.
- Features: Private villas, spa, restaurant, and easy access to snorkeling spots.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking high-end accommodation with direct beach access.
2. Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa: Upscale resort with stunning views and luxury amenities.
- Features: Infinity pools, spa, and proximity to popular snorkeling sites.
- Ideal For: Couples and families looking for a luxurious island retreat.
3. Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida: Mid-range hotel with modern amenities and ocean views.
- Features: Swimming pool, restaurant, and shuttle services to snorkeling spots.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking comfortable and modern accommodation on Nusa Penida.
4. Coconut Beach Resort Lembongan: Affordable beachfront resort with traditional Balinese design.
- Features: Swimming pool, beachfront restaurant, and snorkeling tours.
- Ideal For: Budget travelers wanting beachfront accommodation with easy access to snorkeling.
Best Time to Snorkel
- Dry Season: April to October. The seas are calmer, visibility is higher, and there is less rainfall.
- Wet Season: November to March. Rain can affect visibility and water conditions, but snorkeling is still possible, especially in more protected areas.
Marine Life
- Common Sightings: Parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, butterflyfish, and many more colorful reef fish.
- Special Sightings: Manta rays, mola mola (sunfish), reef sharks, sea turtles, and the occasional dolphin.
Accommodation Amenities to Look For
Proximity to Snorkeling Sites: Choose accommodation that offers easy access to popular snorkeling spots, either through direct beach access or nearby transportation options.
Diving and Snorkeling Centers: Resorts and hotels with on-site dive centers can provide convenient rental gear, guided tours, and snorkeling information.
Comfort and Convenience: Look for amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and spas for relaxation after a day of snorkeling.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Many accommodations in Bali are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, such as reducing plastic use, supporting local conservation efforts, and offering sustainable tourism options.
Booking Tips
Advance Booking: Popular snorkeling spots can have limited accommodation options, so it’s wise to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (June to August and December to January).
Package Deals: Look for package deals that include accommodation, meals, and snorkeling or diving tours for added convenience and savings.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com to ensure the accommodation meets your expectations and standards.
If this is your first time visiting Bali, then these are some things you should keep in mind for the Best Bali Experience:
1. Visa Requirements:
Tourist Visa: Many nationalities can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days. Check the latest visa policies for your country before you travel.
Kinga’s Tip: Visa on arrival in this case (around 30USD) – for a European
Extension: If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for a visa extension or a tourist visa on arrival (VoA), which can be extended once.
2. Health Precautions:
Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus vaccines are commonly recommended.
Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and cancellations.
Mosquito Protection: Bring mosquito repellent and consider taking anti-malarial medication if you plan to visit rural areas.
3. Money and Budgeting:
Currency: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Familiarize yourself with the exchange rates.
Cash and ATMs: ATMs are widely available in tourist areas. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and for transportation. However, in shops with fixed prices, it’s not practiced.
Packing Essentials
1. Clothing:
Light and Breathable: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate.
Modest Attire: When visiting temples and rural areas, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Swimwear: Bring swimwear for beaches and pools, but be respectful and cover up when not at the beach.
2. Footwear:
Comfortable Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring.
Water Shoes: Useful for rocky beaches and snorkeling.
3. Other Essentials:
Sunscreen: High SPF, reef-safe sunscreen to protect from strong UV rays.
Adapter: Bali uses Type C and F plugs (230V, 50Hz). Bring an adapter if necessary.
Reusable Water Bottle: Helps reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated.
Cultural Etiquette
1. Respect Local Customs:
Temple Visits: Wear a sarong and sash (usually provided at the entrance) when visiting temples. Remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
Kinga’s Tip: They often rent them so have some cash on you.
Right Hand Only: Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left hand is considered impolite.
2. Greetings:
Saying “Hello”: Use “Selamat” (followed by the appropriate time of day) to greet people respectfully.
Smiling: Balinese people are generally friendly and smiling is a common form of greeting.
Transportation
1. Getting Around:
Taxis: Use reputable taxi services like Blue Bird, or use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek.
Scooter Rentals: Renting a scooter is popular but ensure you have an international driving permit (IDP) and wear a helmet.
Private Drivers: Hiring a private driver for the day can be convenient for exploring multiple sites.
Kinga’s Tips:
- Gojek is known for scooter rides. Also for food – Grab and Gojek
- Grab is Southeast Asia’s leading superapp. It provides everyday services like Deliveries, Mobility, Financial Services, and More.
- Speaking from my experience you don’t need the driving license (they don’t ask for it at the rental place, just for your passport), in fact my international driving license didn’t allow me to drive a scooter anyway (the category didn’t). However you do have to wear a helmet as usually that’s why the police would stop you.
2. Traffic:
Congestion: Traffic can be heavy, especially in popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. Allow extra time for travel.
Kinga’s Tip: Scooter is the way to go! Because you can easily drive in between the vehicles, cars would take forever in this instance.
Safety Tips
1. Water Safety:
Drinking Water: Avoid tap water. Drink bottled or filtered water.
Swimming: Be cautious of strong currents and swim in designated safe areas.
Kinga’s Tip: Most places provide drinkable water (talking about hotels, guest houses and homestays)
2. Personal Safety:
Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Use a money belt or secure bag. (Also watch out for monkeys, they like to steal food and things)
Scams: Be aware of common scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced services and misleading currency exchanges.
3. Health and Emergency:
Emergency Numbers: Know the local emergency numbers (e.g., 112 for general emergencies).
Hospitals: Familiarize yourself with the location of nearby hospitals and clinics, particularly if you have health concerns.
Kinga’s Tip: Don’t forget to have an insurance
Local Cuisine
1. Food and Drink:
Try Local Dishes: Enjoy Balinese cuisine like Nasi Goreng, Satay, and Babi Guling.
Street Food: It can be safe and delicious, but choose vendors with good hygiene practices.
2. Dietary Restrictions:
Vegetarian/Vegan: Many restaurants cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. “Tidak makan daging” means “I don’t eat meat” in Indonesian.
Kinga’s Tip: Specify you don’t eat chicken either (some people in SEA might still give you chicken) + they offer tofu and/or tempeh in almost all of the options so you’re all set anyway! 🙂
Environmental Responsibility
1. Sustainable Tourism:
Eco-Friendly Practices: Support businesses that practice sustainability, such as reducing plastic use and promoting eco-tours.
Waste Management: Dispose of waste properly and participate in beach clean-ups if possible.
Communication
1. Language:
Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic Indonesian phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, but less so in rural parts.
Kinga’s Tip: On more remote islands (ex. Nusa Penida) it’s good to know some basics (numbers, thank you, please, etc.) in Indonesian as you might encounter a language barrier. If it’s a tourist spot then they speak some English though!
2. SIM Cards:
Local SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card for internet access and local calls. Providers like Telkomsel offer good coverage.
Kinga’s Tip: Also an e-sim is a possibility – Revolut offers them, Airalo as well (just the internet)
Conclusion
Bali is an ideal place for people who love the sea. If you want to try any water sport, Bali is a good option for that as well. Snorkeling in Bali and experiencing Bali’s blue lagoons will make you wanting for more. You’d wanna pack your bags and keep coming back every year. The beauty of Bali is unnmatchable. The crystal clear waters and sandy beaches make Bali an ideal location for tourists!
Planning a trip to Bali? Read our Bali Itinerary Blog here
Let us know if we missed something and you’d want us to write about! Hope you have a wonderful trip in Bali!
Author: Shivangi
Edit: Kinga
