Bali and its neighboring islands offer plenty of places to appreciate the underwater beauty of Indonesia. If you have never dived underwater in southern countries, you should definitely try it. The local underwater world and its inhabitants are significantly amazing. If the idea of swimming in a coral forest with tropical fish, giant manta rays, and turtles appeals to you, then snorkeling in Bali should take an important place on your list of things to do on the island.
Before choosing your diving spot, you should consider that it's best to try snorkeling during the dry season. During the rainy season, you risk murky water with poor visibility, not the best weather, and tours may be canceled due to bad weather. In general, reefs and the underwater world look best when illuminated by the bright Balinese sun. This, of course, is not a mandatory condition, and everything can go well even in not the best weather. In any case, snorkeling is possible in any season.
Locations in Bali
Not all beaches are equally suitable for snorkeling. Some have strong currents, others large waves and no corals. Popular beaches like Kuta and Seminyak, many beaches in Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua are not very suitable for exploring the underwater world. Not all of them have coral reefs or they are difficult to access, and without them, there won't be active underwater life, not to mention that corals are beautiful formations themselves. No, it doesn't mean you won't find anything at all underwater, but the best snorkeling spots are on the eastern and northeastern parts of the island. Famous beaches like Blue Lagoon, Manta Bay, and Crystal Bay are located quite far from the main tourist areas, which is a good thing because this means the marine life hasn't been scared away and the reefs haven't been damaged.
The Wreck of USAT Liberty in Tulamben
USAT Liberty is an American ship that was sunk by a Japanese submarine during World War II. As a result, it was beached, and in 1963, due to a volcanic eruption, the ship was taken by the sea. It is one of the most amazing features of the underwater world in Bali and is truly interesting to explore. Despite the ship being located at a depth of 30 meters, its top part is not very deep. Just five meters from the surface. Corals and marine life have long made the ship their home and perceive it as another rock in the sea.
Coral Garden, Tulamben
Located nearby the American ship. Corals grow here both on rocks and artificial objects. Their variety and quantity are quite diverse; you'll see both soft and hard corals, as well as a large number of various fish. You might see damselfish, clown fish, barracudas, and many others.
There is also an underwater temple, which I'm sure you'll want to explore too.
However, this place is somewhat further from the shore, so it will take quite a bit of time to get there.
Amed Beach: Sunken Japanese Ship
Apparently, the Americans paid back by having their turn in sinking a Japanese patrol boat. Now it has become another interesting snorkeling spot, but you need to know how to dive to reach it. Its top part is at a depth of 6 meters, and the hull is 12 meters underwater. In calm water with good visibility, you can view it well from the surface.
Lipah Beach, Amed
A good spot in Amed for snorkeling right from the shore, with many corals and a very beautiful seabed. If you swim further from the shore, you can find several large underwater rocks covered with corals and inhabited by various tropical fish. Some of them are quite large. You can spot a turtle on the left side. Fins, mask, and snorkel can be rented right on the beach.
Biorock
Beautiful snorkeling surrounded by a variety of fish and corals of different shapes. The site's highlight is the artificial structures where corals grow. The Biorock project aims to restore corals and marine fauna in the area. The location has its own website with a detailed description of the idea.
Blue Lagoon
A beach not far from the departure point for ferries and boats to the Gili and Lombok islands. Beautiful reefs, fish, turtles, moray eels, and other inhabitants await you. Naturally, a beautiful ocean is included.
Virgin Beach
Located near the previous spot. You only need to swim 5-10 meters from the beach to see beautiful reefs. They are full of fish, and you might even see turtles. It's a great place for swimming and snorkeling.
Nusa Penida Island, Snorkeling with Mantas
Usually, this is a half-day or full-day tour. You will be able to snorkel in several bays and locations. The main one, of course, is Manta Bay. The ocean there is usually quite restless, but you can see these huge majestic fish. Plus, you'll be provided with life jackets. Naturally, you'll need to plan a trip to the nearby island for this spectacle.
Remember, snorkeling can be done in many places; underwater, you can always find something interesting, even if it's not listed in our guide. However, don't forget about safety; the ocean is a powerful and unpredictable force. If you're not confident in your abilities, wear a life jacket, be aware of the currents, and if you're a beginner diver, stay close to the shore and avoid swimming in areas without lifeguards. Frequently lift your head above water to check your position relative to the shore. Choose a large landmark on the beach and regularly check your location in relation to it. Exercise caution and common sense, and the ocean will reveal its beauty to you.
Menjangan Island
The island is located near Bali, to the west, close to the port of Gilimanuk. To reach it from the tourist areas is quite an effort, taking about 4 hours on the road. The name of the island in Balinese means 'deer'. And indeed, wild deer inhabit the area, and the island itself is part of a national park. To get to the island, you'll need to take a boat from the Labuan port. Snorkeling costs usually start from 750,000 per person, but with a large group, the price can be reduced. Visits are cheaper on weekdays and more expensive on weekends, since the fee includes the National Park entrance fee per person – 200,000 on weekdays and 300,000 on weekends for foreigners. A half-day snorkeling tour lasts from 3-4 hours, while a full day one takes 6-8 hours.
It's one of the best places for snorkeling in Bali. Coral reefs around the island start at shallow depths, making it perfect for snorkeling. The underwater world is in perfect condition here, with tropical fish of different sizes and colors swimming among the corals. At the bottom, you'll see all kinds of shellfish and starfish.
Gili Islands and Underwater Statues
Gili is a great place for snorkeling right from the shore. You can easily take a mask and fins, ride a bike, and dive into any attractive spot to explore the underwater world. However, be aware of the currents, which can be quite strong. If you're unsure of your swimming skills, stay close to the shore. The most famous spot on Gili is the underwater statues, exploring these sculptures adds a unique element to your snorkeling experience, making this place a must-visit.
Usually, this is a half-day or full-day tour. You will be able to snorkel in several bays and locations. The main one, of course, is Manta Bay. The ocean there is usually quite restless, but you can see these huge majestic fish. Plus, you'll be provided with life jackets. Naturally, you'll need to plan a trip to the nearby island for this spectacle.
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