Discover the Best Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan

When it comes to exploring Bali’s hidden gems, few places are as breathtaking as Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. Just a short boat ride away from Bali, these neighboring islands are home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan offer unforgettable underwater experiences that every snorkeler should add to their bucket list. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, the waters around these islands offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best snorkeling spots in Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, and what makes them so special.

Why Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan Are Snorkeling Paradises

Both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are blessed with clear, warm waters that are teeming with marine life. What sets these islands apart is the combination of crystal-clear visibility, healthy coral reefs, and diverse marine species. Snorkeling in these areas offers an opportunity to see tropical fish, vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, and, for the lucky few, manta rays and sunfish (Mola Mola).

Moreover, these islands remain relatively untouched by mass tourism, which means you’ll often have the stunning underwater views to yourself. Let’s dive into the top snorkeling spots on each island.

Top Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida, the larger of the two islands, is known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes above the water, but it’s what’s beneath the surface that draws snorkelers from around the world. Here are some of the best spots to explore.

1. Manta Bay

Manta Bay is undoubtedly one of the most famous snorkeling spots on Nusa Penida. This is where snorkelers can encounter the majestic manta rays that glide effortlessly through the water. Manta Bay is situated on the island’s southwestern coast, and it’s one of the best places in Bali to snorkel with these graceful creatures.

Manta rays, which have a wingspan of up to 7 meters, are commonly seen in this area due to the strong currents and the presence of plankton in the water. Snorkelers are often able to get up close to these magnificent creatures as they swim near the surface, making for a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling experience.

Things to do:

• Snorkel with manta rays in their natural habitat.
• Observe other marine life such as schools of fish and reef sharks.
• Capture amazing underwater photos of the manta rays.

2. Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Nusa Penida, and for good reason. This picturesque bay, with its calm, clear water, is perfect for snorkelers of all levels. The water is so clear that visibility can often reach up to 20 meters, making it ideal for underwater exploration.

The bay is home to vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and the occasional sea turtle. It’s also a great place to relax and enjoy the sun, with beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs and island scenery. While snorkeling here, you'll get to see a wide variety of marine life, including angel fish, butterfly fish, and parrotfish.

Things to do:

• Snorkel among the colorful coral reefs.
• Swim with sea turtles that frequent the area.
• Enjoy the tranquil, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

3. Toyapakeh Wall Bay

Toyapakeh Wall Bay is another gem located on the northern coast of Nusa Penida. It is known for its vibrant coral reefs and steep underwater walls. The bay’s depth and rich marine biodiversity make it one of the top spots for more experienced snorkelers and divers.

The underwater wall at Toyapakeh is teeming with marine life, including large schools of fish, vibrant coral, and even the occasional reef shark. The clarity of the water here allows snorkelers to get a great view of the reef, making it a popular spot for underwater photography.

Things to do:

• Explore the colorful coral walls.
• See an abundance of fish, including clownfish, wrasse, and snapper.
• Take underwater photos of the vibrant marine life.

4. Gamat Bay

If you're looking for a quieter, less crowded snorkeling spot, Gamat Bay is a perfect choice. Located on the northeastern side of Nusa Penida, Gamat Bay offers an excellent opportunity to explore its pristine coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine species.

The waters in Gamat Bay are typically calm, with great visibility and a rich diversity of marine life, including giant trevallies, snapper, and schools of tropical fish. If you're lucky, you might also spot a sea turtle or two!

Things to do:

• Snorkel in calm, clear waters with vibrant coral reefs.
• Encounter a variety of fish and sea creatures.
• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.

Top Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan, located just a short boat ride from Nusa Penida, is a smaller, quieter island. Despite its size, Nusa Lembongan is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in Bali. Here are the top spots to explore on Nusa Lembongan.

5. Mangrove Point

Mangrove Point is one of Nusa Lembongan’s most famous snorkeling spots. Located in the northern part of the island, this area is known for its calm, shallow waters and vibrant underwater life. The mangroves that line the coast create a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of fish and marine creatures.

Snorkeling here is peaceful and relaxing, with crystal-clear water and an abundance of colorful reef fish, sea anemones, and even the occasional sea turtle. It’s an ideal spot for beginner snorkelers or those who want to enjoy a more laid-back underwater experience.

Things to do:

• Snorkel in shallow waters among mangroves and coral gardens.
• Swim with schools of small fish and discover hidden marine creatures.
• Enjoy the peaceful and calm environment.

6. Blue Corner

Blue Corner is a hidden gem for snorkelers visiting Nusa Lembongan. Located on the southern part of the island, this spot is known for its diverse marine life and crystal-clear water. It’s a favorite among snorkelers who want to see a variety of fish species, including jacks, tuna, and even the occasional manta ray.

The underwater landscape at Blue Corner is also diverse, with coral gardens, rocky outcrops, and small caves that shelter a variety of marine life. The strong currents in the area can make for an exciting adventure, but it’s best suited for intermediate to experienced snorkelers.

Things to do:

• Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish species.
• Spot larger marine creatures like jacks and tuna.
• Enjoy the beauty of the underwater landscape with caves and rocky formations.

7. Toyapakeh Bay (Nusa Lembongan)

Not to be confused with Toyapakeh Wall Bay on Nusa Penida, Toyapakeh Bay on Nusa Lembongan is another popular spot for snorkeling. The bay is located on the western side of the island, with calm, clear waters and a thriving coral reef system.

The shallow waters make it ideal for snorkelers of all levels, with an abundance of fish and healthy coral. You’ll encounter colorful parrotfish, butterflyfish, and wrasse, as well as larger fish like groupers and barracuda. The water is often calm, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing snorkel.

Things to do:

• Snorkel in shallow waters with clear visibility.
• Spot a variety of tropical fish and marine life.
• Relax and enjoy the calm waters of the bay.

Conclusion

Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are true snorkeling paradises, offering some of the best underwater experiences in Bali. Whether you're looking to swim with manta rays in Manta Bay, explore vibrant coral reefs in Crystal Bay, or enjoy the serene mangrove ecosystem at Mangrove Point, these islands have something to offer every snorkeler.

With clear, warm waters, an abundance of marine life, and untouched coral reefs, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are the perfect destinations for those wanting to explore Bali’s underwater world. So, book your snorkeling day trip with Suntrip Lembongan and discover the best of Bali’s snorkeling spots today!