Nusa Penida day trip: boat, 4 snorkeling, Manta rays & Land tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Bali’s iconic Nusa Penida but only have a day to spare, a well-organized tour like this one promises a whirlwind of marine adventure and breathtaking scenery. From fast boat transfers to intimate snorkeling with manta rays, and striking land vistas, this trip packs a punch.

What really makes this tour stand out for us are three things: the chance to see manta rays up close, the small-group vibe that keeps things personal, and the seamless mix of water and land activities. Plus, travelers rave about the guides’ knowledge and the quality of the underwater photos. On the other hand, a potential consideration is the early start—7:30am meeting time might not work for late risers.

This experience suits those who love marine life, quick but thorough explorations, and prefer a structured day that takes the hassle out of planning. It’s ideal for first-timers, adventurers, or anyone wanting a snapshot of Nusa Penida’s highlights without spending days on the island.

Key Points

• Efficient Full-Day Experience: Combines boat, snorkeling, and land tours for maximum coverage.
• Marine Life Encounters: Swim with manta rays, turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
• Small Group & Personal Attention: Groups capped at 13, with options for private tours.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Lunch, snorkeling gear, photos, and transfers are included.
• Value for Money: At around $96, it’s a comprehensive adventure considering the boat, guides, and activities.
• Expert Guides & Safety: Guides are praised for their attentiveness and professionalism, making the snorkeling safe and fun.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Your Day

Pickup and Early Start

Your day kicks off early, with a meeting point at Seagrass by the beach in Sanur at 7:30am. The tour includes the option to hire a private driver, starting from 150,000 IDR per way, which many guests found convenient for hassle-free transfers. Be prepared for a 1-hour boat ride on a private, speedboat. The boat is not just fast but well-maintained, ensuring smooth sailing across the water.

Snorkeling with Manta Rays at Manta Point

Your first stop is Manta Point, which is often the highlight for many travelers. The water visibility here is consistently praised for being outstanding, as Rafael noted, “You don’t miss a thing even if you don’t scuba dive.” It’s a rare chance to see these majestic giants swim just beneath you. The guides, like Fernando and Coral, are experienced and ensure everyone feels safe, even if it’s their first time snorkeling.

Some reviews mention water conditions can vary, so flexibility is key. If the water is rough, guides will adapt but the chance to see manta rays remains high. Expect about 50 minutes at this spot, with all admission fees included.

Snorkeling at Secret Bay

Next up is Secret Bay, a marine lover’s paradise with a stunning coral garden. It’s a calmer spot for snorkeling and perfect for relaxing while exploring colorful reefs and abundant fish life. Guests have called it a “wonderful coral garden,” and many mention they enjoyed just chilling on the boat after exploring.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes, and the experience is enhanced by the guides’ underwater photography skills, capturing the vibrant scenes for you to relive later. No additional fee here, making it a very good value.

Wall Bay and Turtle Spotting

Your third snorkeling adventure is at Wall Bay, known for its vibrant corals and diverse fish populations. If luck is on your side, you might spot a turtle or two, as many reviewers did, with one mentioning, “If you get lucky, you can spot turtles!” this spot offers great underwater visuals and is perfect for snapping photos. Again, about 30 minutes here, with free access to snorkel gear.

Lunch with a View

Midday, you’re taken to a cozy restaurant on Nusa Penida with stunning scenery and an infinity pool. The included lunch is more than just a meal—guests rave about the location, describing it as scenic and relaxing. It’s a chance to recharge before the afternoon’s land-based exploration. The restaurant’s ambiance and the quality of the food impress guests, making it a memorable part of the day.

Kelingking Cliff & Scenic Land Views

Post-lunch, you’ll visit the iconic Kelingking Beach viewpoint. Using a private car, you’ll walk around the cliff, marvelling at the jaw-dropping views that have become Bali’s postcard favorite. Reviewers mention the walk is manageable and the photo ops are endless—one even called it the “most iconic cliff in Bali.”

This stop provides a great combination of natural beauty and Instagram-worthy moments, with about 30 minutes allocated for exploring and photos.

Snorkeling at Nusa Lembongan

Your final snorkeling stop is near Nusa Lembongan, specifically in front of the mangrove forest. The water here is clear, and the coral reefs are long and vibrant, offering an abundance of fish and corals. Many guests describe it as the perfect finish to a day of marine exploration.

Return to Sanur

The trip wraps up with a 45-minute boat ride back to Sanur, where private car services can drop you off at your hotel or villa (starting at 150,000 IDR). Guests appreciate the smooth logistics and the opportunity to relax after a full day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the price point of $96 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive package that includes all major elements: boat rides, snorkeling gear, multiple snorkeling sites, land excursions, a delicious lunch, and professional guides. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the guides and the safety measures, which enhance the overall experience.

The inclusion of underwater photos and videos captured with GoPro adds a layer of value, giving you lasting memories without extra cost. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized attention, making the trip more comfortable and engaging.

The Experience’s Best Aspects

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews mention guides like Fernando, Coral, Curly, and Vincent as attentive, fun, and safety-conscious. They’re key to making the day enjoyable and stress-free.

Marine Encounters: The possibility of seeing manta rays, turtles, and a vibrant marine ecosystem is what we love about this tour. Many reviewers highlight their awe at swimming alongside these gentle giants.

Scenic Land Visits: The land portion, especially Kelingking Cliff and the restaurant view, offers breathtaking scenery and fantastic photo opportunities.

Well-Organized & Smooth Logistics: From pickup to drop-off, the tour runs seamlessly. Guests frequently mention how well everything is coordinated, allowing them to focus on enjoying the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full-day adventure packed with marine life, scenic views, and cultural highlights. It suits first-timers in Bali, family groups, or adventurers eager to tick off snorkeling with manta rays. Its small-group format and the option of private tours make it suitable for those seeking more personalized service.

However, a commitment to an early start and some walking/hiking is needed, so travelers with mobility challenges or late risers might want to consider different options.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive? The meeting point is at 7:30 am, so early risers will get the full experience without rushing.

Is snorkeling gear provided? Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included, and guides assist if you’re new to snorkeling.

Can I upgrade to a private tour? Yes, you can opt for a private experience, which many guests found more personalized and flexible.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long are the snorkeling stops? The longest is Manta Point at about 50 minutes, with other spots around 30 minutes each.

Is lunch vegetarian or special diet options available? The tour includes a general lunch, but specific dietary requests are not mentioned—consider asking ahead.

What about the land transportation? A private vehicle during land stops is included, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

Are children allowed? The tour isn’t recommended for children under 6 years old or for travelers over 70, due to physical activity.

How many people are in each group? The maximum group size is 13 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Nusa Penida day trip offers an excellent balance of marine adventure and scenic exploration — all in a well-organized package. The chance to snorkel with manta rays, combined with stunning land vistas like Kelingking Cliff, makes for a memorable day that’s hard to beat value-wise.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see some of Bali’s most iconic sights and marine life, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group environments, professional guides, and capturing lasting memories through underwater photos.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler eager to tick off Bali’s top highlights, this experience will leave you with unforgettable moments and fantastic stories to tell.

Remember: Early booking is recommended since this popular tour averages bookings 21 days in advance. Pack your sense of adventure, your camera, and your sunscreen – the waters and views of Nusa Penida await!