Daily West Nusa Penida Island and Snorkeling Tour with Lunch from Bali

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with breathtaking views, colorful marine life, and authentic local experiences, the Daily West Nusa Penida Island and Snorkeling Tour might just be your perfect Bali adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, plenty of detailed accounts and official descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience: the stunning underwater encounters with manta rays and vibrant fish, the chance to explore iconic spots like Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach, and the convenience of hotel pickup and private island tours.

The only thing to consider is that it’s a long day — around 11 hours from start to finish — so it’s best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy packed schedules and are comfortable with boat rides and some narrow roads. This tour is ideal for those craving both marine adventure and scenic land exploration, particularly if you’re eager to see the highlights of Nusa Penida efficiently in one day.

Key Points

• Inclusive Value: Combines snorkeling, island sightseeing, and lunch at an accessible price.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, fast boat ride, snorkeling gear, and lunch included.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to visit local fishing and farming areas.
• Limited Mobility: Not ideal for travelers under 12 or over 58, or those prone to seasickness.
• Scenic Highlights: Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and manta ray encounters.
• Weather Considerations: Best during dry season; subject to weather changes affecting schedule.

A Closer Look at the Tour’s Itinerary and What It Means for You

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your Bali hotel around 6:30 am. The bus takes you to Sanur Harbor, where you’ll board a public fast boat to Nusa Penida. This part of the journey is straightforward, but it’s worth noting that boat schedules are weather-dependent, so slight delays or schedule changes might occur if waves pick up.

Crossing to Nusa Penida: A Smooth Start

The boat ride itself is a quick 30- to 45-minute trip, offering a chance to enjoy ocean views and maybe spot some dolphins if luck is on your side. Travelers often mention the boat as comfortable enough, with most feeling secure despite some minor waves. For those prone to seasickness, this could be a consideration, as the tour notes that the trip isn’t recommended for seasick travelers.

Snorkeling at Gamat Bay, Manta Bay, and Wall Bay

Once on the island, the adventure shifts to snorkeling in some of the most famous spots. The tour includes use of snorkeling equipment and shared boats, ensuring everyone gets a good view of the underwater world.

Gamat Bay is typically the first stop, known for its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs. Next is Manta Bay, where the chance to see majestic manta rays is what makes this tour especially popular. Several reviews praise the experience, with one noting, “seeing rays glide beneath the boat was unforgettable.”

Wall Bay offers another underwater landscape, often with an array of tropical fish and rays that delight snorkelers. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, and the stops are generally well-organized, allowing enough time to enjoy the aquatic sights without feeling rushed.

Lunch Break and Local Flavors

Midday, you’ll pause for a lunch at a local restaurant, included in the tour price. The meal is often described as simple but satisfying, with traditional Balinese dishes and drinks. This gives you a much-needed fuel boost and a chance to relax before heading to the land-based sightseeing.

Exploring Landmarks: Kelingking and Broken Beach

Post-lunch, the tour moves inland to visit Kelingking Beach, widely considered the island’s most iconic viewpoint. You’ll likely get a chance to snap photos of the dramatic cliffs and white sandy beach below, though the steep trek down is optional and not included in the standard tour.

Next is Broken Beach, a stunning natural archway and marine park that makes for fantastic photos. As one reviewer mentions, “the views from Broken Beach are breathtaking, and it’s a great spot to appreciate the island’s natural artistry.” The tour focuses on photo-worthy spots without requiring extensive walking, making it suitable for most travelers.

Return Journey and Boat Ride Back to Bali

After a full day of adventure, the group returns to Nusa Penida harbor, where a fast boat takes you back to Sanur. The return trip is usually smooth, but weather conditions can cause delays, so flexibility is advised. The driver then transfers you back to your hotel in Bali, completing the approximately 11-hour day.

What We Think About the Value

At $109 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck, considering the included transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transport options.

However, with a packed schedule and some long boat rides, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and water activities. The tour’s focus on key highlights ensures that you see the best without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Wear appropriate clothing: Swimsuits or shorts and sandals are recommended; avoid shoes that are difficult to take off.
• Bring sunscreen and water: The island can be hot, especially in dry season, and staying hydrated is essential.
• Seasickness: Those prone to motion sickness might want to consider medication, as boat rides can be choppy.
• Age Restrictions: Not recommended for children under 12 or travelers over 58, likely due to physical activity and boat ride comfort.
• Weather dependence: Schedule can shift with weather, so flexibility is key.
• Limited facilities on the island: ATM and supermarkets are sparse, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling mix of marine adventure and land-based scenery, making it a great option for travelers wanting a comprehensive Nusa Penida experience in one day. The snorkeling with manta rays is a standout feature, complemented by visits to some of the island’s most breathtaking land formations.

The inclusion of hotel transfers, lunch, and snorkeling gear makes it a convenient choice that balances value and adventure. It’s best suited for energetic, curious travelers who enjoy a full schedule and are comfortable on boats and uneven terrain.

For those seeking a well-organized, authentic taste of Nusa Penida without the hassle of independent planning, this trip delivers a memorable day of discovery and fun.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided for areas like Jimbaran, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Sanur.

How long is the boat ride? The public fast boat ride from Bali to Nusa Penida takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

What is included in the tour? The tour includes snorkeling equipment, boat rides, entrance fees, lunch, and a private tour of key land spots on the island.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for travelers under 12 or over 58, mainly due to the physical nature of some activities and boat rides.

What should I bring? Wear a swimsuit or shorts, sandals, and sunscreen. Bring water and some cash for optional extras or facilities.

Can I see manta rays? Yes, Manta Bay is famous for its manta rays, and many travelers enjoy snorkeling alongside these graceful creatures.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced blend of snorkeling, scenic vistas, and authentic island visits, all at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers who want to see Nusa Penida’s highlights in one day, making it a memorable addition to your Bali trip.