Snorkeling Nusa Penida – Discover Bali’s Best Underwater & Island Adventures
If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape filled with turquoise water, colorful reefs, and majestic manta rays, then snorkeling Nusa Penida should be at the top of your Bali bucket list. This small island, located just 45 minutes from Sanur, offers some of the best marine experiences in Indonesia.
Nusa Penida’s underwater world is home to crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and incredible marine biodiversity. But that’s not all — the island also boasts stunning cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints that make it a perfect full-day or overnight destination.
With our Nusa Penida Snorkeling & Tour Packages, you can combine the thrill of snorkeling with island sightseeing — all in one convenient and private trip.
Why Choose Snorkeling in Nusa Penida?
Unlike the crowded beaches of Bali, Nusa Penida remains a pristine paradise with a peaceful atmosphere. It’s part of the Nusa Islands trio (along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan) but offers the most spectacular underwater visibility.
What makes snorkeling Nusa Penida so special?
- Crystal-clear waters with visibility up to 20 meters
- Vibrant coral reefs filled with clownfish, angelfish, and turtles
- Gentle manta rays gliding near the surface
- Sunny weather perfect for snorkeling almost year-round
- Easy access from Bali with private boat and driver options
This island is not only for experienced snorkelers — beginners can safely enjoy it too, guided by friendly local instructors.
Top Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida
1. Manta Bay – The Home of Giant Rays
Manta Bay is the highlight of every snorkeling trip. Here, you can swim alongside giant manta rays that are often seen near the surface. The calm current and shallow reef make it suitable even for beginners, while the sight of these gentle creatures will stay in your memory forever.
Best time to visit: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM for higher manta visibility.
2. Crystal Bay – Clear Water and Coral Beauty
True to its name, Crystal Bay is famous for its crystal-clear water and colorful coral reefs. It’s also one of the safest places to snorkel because the waves are gentle. Schools of tropical fish often swim close to shore, making it easy to enjoy even for first-timers.
3. Gamat Bay – Hidden Gem for Serious Snorkelers
Located between Toyapakeh and Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay offers deeper waters with diverse coral formations. The current is a bit stronger here, so it’s best to go with a guide. The reward? Stunning coral walls and occasional turtle sightings.
4. Wall Point – The Beginner-Friendly Spot
Wall Point is near Toyapakeh Harbour and is often the first stop for snorkeling tours. The coral walls here are shallow, colorful, and full of marine life — including Nemo (clownfish)! Perfect for families or anyone new to snorkeling.
5. Toyapakeh Point – The Colorful Coral Garden
Toyapakeh is known as one of the richest coral ecosystems in Nusa Penida. It offers an amazing underwater landscape with dense corals and hundreds of fish species. Many Nusa Penida snorkeling trips include this site in their itinerary.
What’s Included in a Nusa Penida Snorkeling Trip
When you book with Private Driver Bali, your snorkeling package will include everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable day.
Included:
- Fast boat return ticket (Sanur – Nusa Penida – Sanur)
- Private car and local driver on the island
- Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket)
- Boat to snorkeling points
- Mineral water
- Local snorkeling guide
- Entrance fees
Optional Add-ons:
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- GoPro camera rental
- Island sightseeing (Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong)
Best Time to Visit Nusa Penida for Snorkeling
The best time to go snorkeling in Nusa Penida is during Bali’s dry season — from April to October. During these months, the sea is calmer and visibility is perfect for underwater photos.
Morning trips (between 8 AM – 11 AM) are ideal for spotting manta rays and avoiding crowds.
Safety Tips for Snorkeling in Nusa Penida
- Always wear your life jacket and follow your guide’s instructions.
- Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Stay close to your guide or boat — some areas have strong currents.
- Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture memories!
How to Get to Nusa Penida
You can reach Nusa Penida easily from Sanur Harbour, Bali. The fast boat takes around 45 minutes. Once you arrive, your private driver will pick you up and take you to the snorkeling sites or sightseeing destinations.
If you’re staying in Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud, our team provides hotel pickup and drop-off service, making your day trip completely hassle-free.
Combine Snorkeling with a Nusa Penida Tour
For travelers who want the complete island experience, we recommend combining your snorkeling activity with a land tour. Here are the most popular options:
West Nusa Penida Tour
- Kelingking Beach
- Broken Beach
- Angel’s Billabong
- Paluang Cliff
East Nusa Penida Tour
- Diamond Beach
- Atuh Cliff
- Tree House Molenteng
- Teletubbies Hill
This combination lets you enjoy the best of both worlds — underwater adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
Why Book with Private Driver Bali?
Choosing a private driver in Bali ensures a seamless experience from start to finish. You don’t need to worry about transport, ferry tickets, or local coordination — everything is handled for you.
