Best Places to Snorkel in Bali: A First Timer's Guide
Do you long to discover the hidden undersea paradise?
Want to swim among brightly coloured fishes while observing beautiful coral reefs and even a shipwreck?
Well, it's time to take out your snorkelling gear because Bali is calling!
Besides its scintillating beaches, Bali harbours an incredible world beneath the waters, teeming with marine life.
We all have our favourites, but as a whole, these are the best places to snorkel in Bali:
Top 11 Locations in Bali for Snorkelling
Wreck Of the USAT Liberty, Tulamben
If you love history, then this one is for you. The Tulamben Liberty Shipwreck in Bali is one of the best places for snorkelling.
The sunken American cruiser USAT Liberty lies here, measuring 120 metres and just 3 metres below the water surface.
During World War II, the ship was torpedoed while carrying railroad parts across the Lombok Strait.
Now the wreck is covered in beautiful corals, and you can spot stingrays, octopus, tigerfish, garden eel and much more here.
The Coral Garden, Tulamben
Just opposite the Liberty shipwreck in Tulamben lies another beautiful spot for snorkelling, The Coral Garden.
This underwater garden is a highlight for all kinds of snorkelers, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro as the currents are mild to moderate.
Here, you can enjoy watching angelfish, parrotfish, clownfish, eels, octopus, squids, barracuda, and maybe trevally.
Blue Lagoon Padangbai
With its crystal clear calm waters and the abundance of marine life it supports, the Blue Lagoon is a world-famous spot for snorkelling.
Whether you're a seasoned diver or just a beginner, you should include Padang Bai's Blue Lagoon in your itinerary in Bali.
Here, you can spot cowfish, cuttlefish, moray eels and many more.
Manta Point, Nusa Penida
Bali's Manta Point in Nusa Penida is a wonder you can't miss.
Come face-to-face with the "gentle giants", the reef Manta rays.
What's cool is that you can see manta rays all around the year, and if you are lucky, you may even see sharks, eagle rays, and marble rays too.
Watch them in awe as they rise up the shallower waters, where they allow the small reef fishes to clean them from parasites.
It's an incredible, unique spectacle of nature's harmony.
Mangrove Point, Nusa Penida
Fancy an aquatic adventure? Head to Mangrove Point, Nusa Penida.
It's one of the best places to snorkel in Bali, with milder currents than other spots in Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
Plus, it's a fantastic place to watch fish in their natural habitat and find Nemo!
Pos Dua, Menjangan Island
Pos Dua boasts crystal-clear waters while offering impressive visibility up to 40 metres, making it a breathtaking underwater paradise.
Here, immerse yourself in an array of vibrant corals, soak in the peaceful tranquillity, and relish a unique experience away from the busy tourist spots.
The Coral Garden, Menjangan Island
Located on the northwest side of Menjangan Island lies yet another coral garden.
It's often considered to be the best snorkelling spot globally, suitable for people of all skill levels.
Spend time here submerged in the beautiful waters of Bali for an unforgettable experience.
Lipah Bay, Amed
Snorkelling in Amed, Bali, is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers!
Explore the serene bay with its clear waters and black sand, home to magnificent hard and soft coral reefs.
As you dive, you'll discover a fascinating relic of World War II: the sunken Japanese patrol boat in Lipah Bay.
Explore this underwater treasure and make it an unforgettable part of your Bali adventure.
Biorock Reefs, Pemuteran
Located in a quaint fishing village in northeastern Bali, Pemuteran Bay is simply a stunning natural attraction.
Don't miss the world's largest bio-rock artificial reef, where Mother Nature's marine architects create structures that provide homes for corals, clams, oysters, and other marine life.
The best part? Snorkel up close to sea turtles, reef sharks, and maybe even lucky encounters with whale sharks!
Jemeluk Bay, Amed
New to snorkelling? Jemeluk Bay in Amed is Bali's top pick!
This beautiful beach offers picturesque views and vibrant marine life, like batfish and green Chromis, making it one of the best places to snorkel in Bali.
Book whichever Bali tour you choose early to dive into the colourful underwater world here - you won't regret it.
A magical snorkelling adventure in Jemeluk Bay awaits!
Gili Trawangan, Lombok
You've got to visit Gili Trawangan, a beloved tourist spot among the three Gili's with its well-developed infrastructure.
If you're a turtle enthusiast, this is the best place to snorkel in Bali!
With its vibrant atmosphere and crystal-clear waters, Gili Trawangan offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to dive into turquoise waters.
Beyond Snorkelling: Make the Best Out of Your Bali Trip
Catamaran Cruise
Take the 64-foot luxury sailing catamaran Aristocat, from Bali to Nusa Lembongan for a memorable trip. The boat leaves Benoa Harbour at 9 am, and it takes two hours to go to Nusa Lembongan. You'll be whisked away to the luxurious Bali Hai Resort & Beach Club as soon as you land.
Beach Club Cruise
For relaxation and fun, book the Beach Club Cruise. The ship departs Benoa Harbour at 9:15 am and sails to the Hai Tide Beach Resort on the island of Nusa Lembongan. You'll get to spend five hours exploring Mushroom Bay's natural beauty once you get there.
2-Day Island Tour: Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan
Explore Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan with three distinct snorkelling stops. After a delicious lunch, take a kayak trip to the mangrove forests and an island tour. Panoramic Point, Devil's Tear, and Dream Beach are must-see landmarks on this tour.
Wrapping Up: Bali's Best Snorkelling Spots
In Bali, you're spoiled for choice with incredible snorkelling spots like Blue Lagoon, Menjangan Island, and Nusa Penida.
It's no wonder Bali is a hotspot for travellers!
Don't wait - grab your gear and swim through the island's beauty today. There's no better way to discover Bali's diverse marine life and make memories that'll last a lifetime.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the key distinctions when comparing snorkelling with scuba diving?
Snorkelling entails swimming on the water's surface using a mask and breathing tube.In contrast, scuba diving involves underwater exploration with a breathing device.
When is the best time to visit Bali for snorkelling?
April to September is ideal for snorkelling in Bali.
When is the ideal time for snorkelling during the day?
Snorkelling is best done in the morning at most Bali snorkelling spots because the water is calmer, and the breezes are more predictable.
Is nighttime snorkelling a good idea?
At night, you'll spot unique animals and see more vibrant coral colours. Snorkelling is cooler then, with calmer waters and fewer people. Plus, it's a better time to spot manta rays too.
Do I need to bring any snorkeling gear for the snorkeling tour sessions?
No, if you are booking a snorkelling session like in Blue Lagoon or Nusa Lembongan, then you don't need to bring anything except for some sunscreen and a towel! The required gear will be provided to you there.