You may know Bali for its gems above ground: gorgeous beaches, picturesque temples, hand-carved rice terraces, and pumping nightlife. But some of its best sights can actually be found underwater. Colorful fish, corals, and even shipwrecks are just waiting to be discovered—and the easiest way to see them is by snorkeling.
Can’t wait to swim alongside fish and turtles? Without further ado, here are the 10 most picturesque Bali snorkeling spots for an unforgettable experience:
1. Nusa Dua
Get up close with fish of all shapes and sizes like these sergeant majors when you go snorkelling. Credit: diananvt_127
If you want to relax and pamper yourself, Nusa Dua is exactly what the doctor ordered. Boasting over 20 resorts, it’s an ideal place to forget all your worries. On top of all that, snorkeling in Nusa Dua is also an incredible experience, thanks to thousands of vivid fish that live underwater. New to snorkeling? No problem. It’s a nice place to start for beginners and kids because of the calm waters in its reefs.
2. Menjangan Island
It’s not just corals and fish! You’ll spot turtles too under the sea. Credit: westbaliexplorer
Menjangan Island is a 3-hour boat trip away from Bali but it’s more than worth the journey. This hidden gem is one of the best Bali snorkeling and diving spots because of the smaller crowds and the amazing scenery. Find yourself surrounded by massive coral reefs, incredible clear waters, and colorful fish when you go snorkeling in Menjangan.
After snorkeling, you can maximize your time on the island with our helpful 4-day Bali itinerary.
3. Amed
See a Japanese shipwreck under the sea at Amed. Credit: samsulrois
Before you even go underwater, Amed is already a showstopper: its sand is black, providing a nice contrast with the green trees behind and the blue water in front. Then, once you start your Amed snorkeling experience you’ll see a Japanese shipwreck from WWII just 12 meters below the surface. Once you’re done exploring the ship, move on to the coral reef not far away, before capping it all with a visit to an IG-worthy temple.
4. Crystal Bay
It’s not just a good snorkelling spot! Crystal Bay is also an IG-worthy beach. Credit : travelinghawks
Worried about sudden weather changes? Crystal Bay is the place to be. Nestled between Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, the bay enjoys tranquil waters year-round, making it an ideal snorkeling destination. Blessed with 200 meters of white sand, it’s also a good option if you want to swim or dive during your trip. Take your trip to the next level by diving at Crystal Bay with a PADI-certified instructor and get to see the corals and marine life up close!
5. Tulamben Beach
After seeing fish and a Japanese ship, it’s time to view an American cargo ship underwater. Credit:ika_hi
For experienced divers, a trip to Tulamben Beach is at the top of the list of Bali things to do for a reason: it’s hiding an American ship from WWII below its surface. Since it's 30 metres deep, it’s only possible to really explore the entire shipwreck with a scuba dive but you can still see the upper part of the boat while snorkeling.
6. Blue Lagoon
Remember to keep your distance from turtles to avoid scaring them. Credit:nicoyukky
Are you new to snorkeling? Head over to Blue Lagoon, where the water isn’t just crystal clear but also serene. Not to mention the vibrant coral reef near the surface, making it the perfect snorkeling spot in Bali for beginners. Afterward, you can chill by the shore and take in the sandy, white beach and the surrounding palm trees for the ultimate tropical view.
7. Nusa Penida
Bali’s water temperature is between 27°C and 30°C all year long so it’s a nice destination no matter the season. Credit: charlotte_bories
Located 30 minutes away from mainland Bali (by fast boat), Nusa Penida is well worth the trip. As the biggest of the three Nusa islands, it boasts a diverse collection of marine life, from striped fish and manta rays to even sea turtles! The best part about snorkeling in Nusa Penida is the wide array of sights. Discover funky corals and all kinds of animals at Banana Beach, Ceningan View, Manta Bay, and Wall Bay.
8. Pemuteran Beach
Make the most out of the clear waters of Pemuteran Beach. Credit: arvol.j
If you’re up for something different, look no further than Pemuteran Beach, where you’ll find the world’s largest Biorock artificial reef project. Set your eyes on sunken bikes and relics that have now turned into homes of fish and corals. Plus, the reef is in the shallow part so it’s a great option for first-timers snorkeling in Bali.
Whether you’re a perennial Bali visitor or a total newbie, you can discover the island’s best secrets with our handy guide.
9. Padang Bai
You don’t need to be an expert diver to join in on the fun!
Just five minutes away from Blue Lagoon, you’ll find Padang Bai. Thanks to serene waters and shallow reefs, it’s another ideal snorkeling spot. But, if you want to delve even deeper and go on a Padang Bai dive, you’ll find unique aquatic creatures you’ll rarely see in other places like candy crabs, blue ring octopus, shaggy frogfish, and more.
10. Nusa Lembongan
Head to Nusa Lembongan to spot some manta rays during your snorkelling adventure. Credit: alexgillett
Ever wanted to swim side by side with manta rays? Make your dream come true by snorkeling at Nusa Lembongan. Go snorkeling on Bali’s dreamy island for an unforgettable underwater experience. Take the plunge and marvel at the different corals, fish, and manta rays of Crystal Bay, Manta Bay, and Toyapakeh Wall Penida. Just remember to maintain your distance from the aquatic creatures!
