Snorkelling Bali – Find Best Spots Gili and Nusa Penida Islands
Guest Post written by Rima Putri
Snorkelling Bali – Best Spots at Gili Island and Nusa Penida
Snorkelling in Bali is a must-do tourist activity when you are in Bali. Do you want to try it while you are on holiday in Bali? Continue reading the following information to find out the best snorkelling spots in Bali, price information, and other tourist recommendations that will make your holiday even more memorable.
Are Bali and Nusa Penida on The Same island?
Bali and Nusa Penida are different islands; if you want to visit Nusa Penida, you have to cross by boat, which takes approximately 40 – 50 minutes. You can book a vessel to take you to Nusa Penida from Bali if you want to go there.
For information on ship departures from Sanur, please read the complete details here:
Departure: The port of Sanur
Operational hours: 07:30 am, 09:00 am and 3:00 pm
Departure from Nusa Penida to Sanur: 07:30 am, 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm
Things to remember:
- Maximum three years old do not need to pay for tickets (free)
- Pills against motion sickness
- Hat, long-sleeve shirt
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Drinking water
- Passport photo for boarding (Foreigner), ID Card – KTP (local)
Where are The Best Snorkelling Spots in Nusa Penida?
Exploring the natural beauty of Indonesia is an endless journey. Once you arrive in Bali, take the time to explore Nusa Penida and discover the mesmerizing underwater beauty that awaits you.
The most recommended places for sea lovers include Manta Bay, Crystal Bay Beach, Buddha Temple, Gamat Bay, Wall Point, and Jetty Point. Read further for more information on these highly recommended destinations.
Manta Bay
Manta rays are found in the western part of Nusa Penida Island, where you can encounter various sizes of these majestic creatures, ranging from small to up to 1 meter. It’s an impressive sight. Consider snorkelling to witness the beauty of stingrays or manta fish against the backdrop of the azure sea.
Crystal Bay Beach
Crystal Bay Beach, also known as Penida Beach, boasts crystal-clear waters. Divers can explore coral reefs and vibrant sea fish. Take your time to savour the sensation of snorkelling at Crystal Bay Beach.
Buddha Temple
Buddha Temple is a unique snorkelling spot in Nusa Penida. Divers and snorkelers can marvel at the underwater Buddha statue deliberately placed to attract tourists. One of the statues is a replica of the original Borobudur Temple in Jogjakarta.
Gamat BAY
Gamat Bay, situated in the western part of Nusa Penida near Toya Pakeh, features clear waters. Highly recommended for snorkelers, this location offers the opportunity to admire various coral reefs.
Wall Point
Wall Point is suitable for beginners, providing a shallow current for those learning to snorkel.
Jetty Point
Located on the coral cliffs of Nusa Penida, Jetty Point offers a diverse marine life experience. This spot is highly recommended for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Is Gili Islands good for snorkelling?
Absolutely! Snorkelling on Gili Island is a must when visiting Bali. Despite not being on Bali Island, you can quickly reach Gili Island. It has recently become a major highlight, offering tranquillity away from the bustling tourist crowds on Bali Island. We’ll summarize the best snorkelling spots on Gili Island.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel from Bali to Gili Island?
Before you order tickets, carefully consider your travel budget and accommodation options for your holiday in Indonesia. We will provide detailed information about ticket prices and other relevant details
Ticket Price:
IDR650,000/ Pax (Adult)
IDR350,000/ Pax (kid)
How to pay: You can pay with VISA, Master Card, or PayPal, and you can pay at Alfamart or by cash.
What to bring
- Passport photo for boarding
- Face mask (not mandatory)
- Hand sanitizer
- Nausea medication
- Hat or long sleeve shirt
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Drinking water
Keep in Mind
- Children aged under five years (free)
- children aged 5 – 10 years are charged a child rate
- and the rest are assigned an adult fee.
Are There Boats Every Day From Bali to Gili?
Planning to travel from Bali to Gili Island is available every day, with scheduled departures from Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Lombok. Departures from Padang Bay Harbour are at 09:00 and 10:30.
Information on departures from Gili Trawangan is available at 11:00 and 12:30, from Gili Air at 11:30 and 13:10, and from Lombok (Bangsal) at 12:00 and 13:45.
Boats depart from Gili Trawangan at 11:00 and 12:30, from Gili Air at 11:30 and 13:10, and from Lombok (Bangsal) at 12:00 and 13:45.
Can I go snorkelling in Bali?
After returning to the new normal or the end of the pandemic, Bali remains a tourist destination that attracts thousands of visitors annually. Known for its rich culture, history, islands, and other tourist attractions, Bali is a holiday destination for both short and extended vacations.
Indonesia is a maritime country with various natural riches; of course, sea lovers will enjoy water tourism and activities such as snorkelling. Before we delve into the next paragraph, take notes for comprehensive information when you plan to engage in water tourism in Bali.
Are all beaches in Bali suitable for snorkelling? The answer is yes, but it depends on which part of Bali you choose for snorkelling. The following provides complete information on the best spots for snorkelling in Bali.
Menjangan Bali
Menjangan Island is situated in the eastern part of West Bali National Park and offers two prime spots for snorkelling.
One location is near the beach pier, where you can discover various colours of coral reefs. The second spot is close to a cliff, not far away. You don’t need to rent a boat; as you swim toward the middle, you will encounter more types of fish. On Menjangan Island, you have the option to stay overnight, rent a boat, and visit the temple.
Ticket price: IDR 5,000
Boat ticket price: IDR 300,000 – 400,000.
Bali Aquatic Watersport
Bali Aquatic Watersport is situated in Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua, Bali. The place offers facilities such as a banana boat, parasailing, jet ski, flyfish, doughnut, ocean walk, snorkelling, flyboard, and Turtle Island.
Ticket Price: Starting from IDR 300,000 to 400,000.
Amed
Amed, located in the East Bali part of Bali, is one of the tourist attractions in Karangasem, Bali. This location is very suitable for snorkelling and enjoying underwater views.
Apart from having underwater beauty, you will also be able to see coral reefs that are still maintained; you can find other facilities in several hotels that provide accommodation, restaurants, and various types of facilities.
Final Thoughts on Snorkelling Bali
Whatever you want to do in Bali for snorkelling is easy, and you can find it in several places. There’s no need to be afraid if this is your first time trying snorkelling; you will see how beautiful the marine life and tranquillity are.
You can also visit various places in Bali, such as Ubud, where you can engage in pottery-making activities. Additionally, explore the best beach clubs in Bali.
If you have other information or are already packing for a holiday in Bali, share this article with your friends and partners to ensure the best time in Bali.
About Rima – Author:
Rima is a girl who loves to travel. Since she was young, Rima went on road trips exploring Indonesia with her family and getting fascinated by the new places she visited.
Rima tried different foods and met people from other cultures. Now, Rima puts her passion to write as a blogger for Subburn blog. Rima wants to share her travel stories to inspire others to travel around and explore the world.
To Rima, the world is best experienced with an open and welcoming spirit.