Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan: Everything You Need to Know
When people think of Bali, they often picture iconic rice terraces, sacred temples, or party beaches in Seminyak. But tucked just a 30-minute boat ride away from the southeast coast lies Nusa Lembongan—a serene island paradise that offers something entirely different. Among the many activities that lure travelers to this quieter escape, snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan ranks as one of the most magical.
With crystal-clear water, thriving coral gardens, and gentle currents, the waters surrounding Nusa Lembongan are ideal for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. Add to that the opportunity to snorkel with manta rays or spot sea turtles gliding by, and you have an adventure that easily rivals the best snorkeling spots in Southeast Asia.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the best snorkeling spots to what to expect on a guided tour.
Why Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan Is a Must
Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan combines beauty, accessibility, and biodiversity. Unlike many other snorkeling destinations that require long drives or difficult access, most snorkeling points around Lembongan are just a short boat ride away. The island's proximity to Nusa Penida, its bigger and wilder neighbor, also means you get access to world-class snorkeling sites without leaving the comfort of your Lembongan stay.
These waters are part of the Coral Triangle, known globally for its incredible biodiversity. Snorkelers can expect to see everything from clownfish darting between anemones to vibrant coral walls teeming with schools of reef fish. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot larger marine creatures such as manta rays, reef sharks, or the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish).
Top Snorkeling Spots Around Nusa Lembongan
1. Mangrove Point
Located on the northeastern coast of Nusa Lembongan, Mangrove Point is one of the most beginner-friendly snorkeling locations on the island. The name comes from the nearby mangrove forest, and the calmness of the surrounding waters makes this an ideal spot for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone looking for a laid-back experience.
The area is rich with healthy coral gardens, sea grass beds, and an impressive array of colorful reef fish. Visibility is usually excellent, and because of its shallow nature, you don’t have to dive deep to experience the magic.
What you can see:
- Clownfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish
- Table coral, staghorn coral
- Calm sandy bottom with occasional sightings of blue-spotted stingrays
Best time to go: Morning or midday, when the sun lights up the coral below.
2. Toyapakeh Bay
Shared with Nusa Penida, Toyapakeh Bay is known for its deeper waters, vibrant coral walls, and schools of pelagic fish. While currents can be stronger here, experienced snorkelers will love the diversity of marine life and the visibility, which can reach up to 30 meters on a good day.
This site is perfect for those who want to experience a more dramatic underwater environment. Think drop-offs, soft corals clinging to rocky formations, and fish life that changes with depth. It’s also a popular area for freedivers and scuba divers, so don’t be surprised if you see bubbles rising from the deep.
What you can see:
- Schools of fusiliers, jackfish, and barracuda
- Soft coral, sponges, and sea fans
- Occasionally turtles and reef sharks
Tips: Check conditions ahead of time. Some days are better than others depending on the tide.
3. Crystal Bay
Located just off the coast of Nusa Penida but easily accessible from Lembongan by boat, Crystal Bay is perhaps the most picturesque snorkeling site in the area. The bay gets its name from the incredibly clear visibility of the water, often allowing you to see marine life from the surface before even diving in.
Crystal Bay is famous for its resident sea turtles, and if you're visiting during the right season (usually July to October), it’s also one of the best places to spot Mola Mola—the world’s largest bony fish.
What you can see:
- Turtles, angelfish, and Napoleon wrasse
- Coral bommies and hard coral fields
- Mola Mola (sunfish) if you’re very lucky
Tips: Best in the dry season with calm sea conditions. Go early to avoid crowds.
4. Manta Bay / Manta Point
No list would be complete without mentioning the chance to snorkel with manta rays. These gentle giants can be found year-round near Manta Bay or Manta Point, both off the coast of Nusa Penida. Manta Bay is closer and easier to access, while Manta Point is farther but has a higher chance of sightings.
Manta rays can have a wingspan of up to 5–7 meters and swim gracefully near the surface, making them ideal to observe while snorkeling. Watching them glide through the water is nothing short of mesmerizing, and for many travelers, it’s the highlight of their Bali trip.
What you can see:
- Reef mantas (harmless to humans)
- Plankton blooms attracting large marine life
- Stunning underwater landscapes
Important note: Sightings are not guaranteed, but most tours will adjust routes depending on real-time conditions.
What’s Included in a Suntrip Lembongan Snorkeling Trip?
When booking your snorkeling experience with Suntrip Lembongan, you’re not just getting a boat ride—you’re signing up for a full-service ocean adventure. Here’s what’s typically included in our tours:
- Snorkeling equipment: High-quality mask, snorkel, fins, and life vest
- Snorkeling boat & experienced guide
- Underwater photos and videos captured with GoPro
- Free hotel pick-up and drop-off within Nusa Lembongan
- Towels, fresh water showers, and secure lockers
- Optional beachside lunch for longer trips
Our guides are local, knowledgeable, and trained in ocean safety. They know the best times and spots to snorkel, and they’re always on hand to help first-timers get comfortable in the water.
When’s the Best Time to Snorkel in Nusa Lembongan?
The best snorkeling conditions typically occur during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, you can expect:
- Calm seas and minimal swell
- Excellent visibility (up to 30 meters in some spots)
- Warm water temperatures (27–29°C)
- Higher chances of spotting Manta Rays and Mola Mola
That said, Nusa Lembongan is beautiful year-round. Even during the wet season (November–March), morning trips often enjoy calm seas before the afternoon showers roll in.
Pro tips:
- Early morning trips offer the calmest water and best light for underwater visibility.
- Avoid full moon and new moon days if you’re sensitive to strong currents.
What to Bring for Your Snorkeling Trip
While most equipment is provided, here are a few essentials you should bring:
- Swimwear: Wear it under your clothes so you’re ready to jump in.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the coral reefs.
- Waterproof camera: Optional—your guide may already be capturing GoPro footage.
- Dry clothes & towel: You’ll want to change into something comfy after the trip.
- Cash: For drinks, tips, or small purchases near the beach.
Why Choose Suntrip Lembongan?
At Suntrip Lembongan, we’re not just offering tours—we’re sharing our home with you. As locals who know every tide, reef, and current in the area, we’re passionate about delivering the best snorkeling experiences with safety, fun, and environmental responsibility in mind.
We’ve helped thousands of guests discover the wonders beneath the waves, from first-time snorkelers to seasoned marine life enthusiasts. Whether you join us for a half-day trip or a full-day island adventure, our mission is simple: to make it your best day in Bali.
Conclusion
Whether you’re floating above a vibrant coral garden, locking eyes with a sea turtle, or witnessing a graceful manta ray sweep past, snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan delivers memories that last a lifetime.
With calm waters, world-class sites, and expert local guides, it’s an ocean experience you simply shouldn’t miss. So, if your Bali itinerary is already packed—make room. Because the underwater world of Nusa Lembongan is waiting, and it’s more magical than you imagined.
Ready to dive in?
Book your snorkeling trip today with Suntrip Lembongan and let the adventure begin.
