Bali: Swim with Manta Rays in Penida, Optional Lunch & Kayak

If you’re dreaming of floating alongside gentle manta rays, discovering spectacular coral reefs, and exploring islands that offer a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour is a strong contender. Though it’s a full-day outing, the combination of marine encounters, scenic views, and optional activities makes it a fantastic way to spend a day outside Bali’s busy streets.

What we really love about this experience is the opportunity to see such majestic creatures in their natural habitat, the chance to visit multiple snorkel sites, and the relaxing break with lunch overlooking mangroves. On the flip side, keep in mind that water conditions can be unpredictable, meaning sightings of manta rays are not guaranteed. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy marine life, are comfortable in the water, and love a mix of adventure and downtime.

Key Points

• Focus on Marine Encounters: Snorkel with manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
• Multiple Locations: Experience three different snorkeling spots around Nusa Penida.
• Relaxing & Active Options: Enjoy a buffet lunch, kayaking, or a massage post-snorkel.
• Comfortable Transport: Large ferry and well-organized transfers reduce travel fatigue.
• Weather-Dependent: Sightings depend on ocean conditions, so flexibility is necessary.
• Suitable for Non-Swimmers: Optional shallow water snorkeling and guided support make it accessible for many.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Adventure on the Nusa Islands

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances stunning underwater wildlife encounters with scenic island exploration. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive day out, blending snorkeling, natural beauty, and a touch of relaxation. The journey begins with a convenient pickup option, which is especially helpful if you prefer to skip the hassle of logistics. Alternatively, you can meet directly at the ferry office, making it flexible for different travel plans.

The ferry ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is smooth and less bumpy than typical smaller boats, thanks to the large aluminum vessel used. This aspect alone helps ease travel anxiety, especially for those prone to seasickness. The boat cruise takes roughly 40 minutes, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views en route.

Starting Your Day: Welcome & Preparation

Upon arrival on Nusa Lembongan, guests are greeted with a refreshing drink and a light snack at the base. This warm welcome sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The tour’s first highlight is the snorkeling around some of the most impressive spots in Nusa Penida, known for its less-developed, pristine coastlines. The boat then whisks you off to Manta Bay or Manta Point, where the chance to see fully grown manta rays—some with wingspans up to five meters—is a real thrill.

Snorkeling with Manta Rays

This part of the day is the centerpiece for many travelers. The waters here are plankton-rich, drawing these gentle giants close to the surface. The guides are diligent about safety, closely monitoring ocean conditions to ensure it’s safe to swim with the rays at a shallow depth (less than 1.5 meters). If weather or sea conditions aren’t ideal, the schedule is adjusted to keep everyone safe and still offer a meaningful experience.

From reviews, it’s clear that seeing manta rays isn’t always guaranteed, but the effort put into finding them is evident. Several guests have shared that guides like Wayan Ana went above and beyond, sometimes trying a second snorkeling spot if the initial one was quiet. One guest from the US described their experience as “magical,” noting how attentive the guides were to both safety and maximizing their chances of seeing the rays.

Exploring Other Snorkel Sites

Beyond mantas, the tour also hits Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay—two stunning locations teeming with marine life. Expect to see an array of vividly colored fish and coral reefs that make the water look like a giant aquarium. Reviewers have highlighted how vibrant and lively these sites are, even when manta rays aren’t present.

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A Delicious Break: Lunch Overlooking Mangroves

After a morning of snorkeling, the tour pauses at Mesari Beach Restaurant for a buffet lunch. The setting is idyllic—overlooking the mangrove forest, where you can enjoy authentic Indonesian dishes. Many guests appreciate the quality of the food, describing it as tasty and plentiful, offering the perfect fuel for the afternoon activities.

The restaurant’s location adds a scenic touch, with views of calm waters and lush greenery. It’s a great opportunity to relax, socialize, and reflect on the morning’s adventures before heading back out.

Afternoon Activities: Kayaking, Paddleboarding, or Massage

Post-lunch, the tour offers a choice: explore the mangrove waterways by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or unwind with a 30-minute massage at Karuna Island Spa.

Guests who opt for kayaking or paddleboarding rave about how peaceful and scenic it is to glide through the mangroves. One reviewer noted that the waterways are “calming” and filled with starfish, offering a gentle, natural experience after the morning’s excitement.

For those seeking a more relaxing finish, the massage option is perfect. It’s a nice way to unwind muscles tired from swimming, and many travelers find it adds a luxurious touch to the day.

Transportation and Duration

The entire day typically lasts between 6 to 9.5 hours, depending on the chosen options and the pace of the group. The use of a large ferry from Bali minimizes the seasickness issue common with smaller boats. Transfers from select Bali hotels are either included or available as an add-on, making logistics straightforward.

The itinerary is well-structured, with enough buffer time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. Guests appreciate the flexibility, especially when weather impacts snorkeling plans—a common concern in open ocean environments.

Safety and Practicality

Safety is a priority throughout, with guides closely monitoring ocean conditions and adjusting plans as needed. The snorkeling spots are shallow, making it accessible even for those who aren’t expert swimmers, provided they are comfortable in the water.

The tour also emphasizes that sightings of manta rays are not guaranteed, and weather can influence the experience. Guests have noted that guides like Wayang are attentive and enthusiastic, doing their best to maximize chances of seeing manta rays, turtles, and colorful fish.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of multiple snorkeling sites, lunch, optional kayaking or massage, and transfers, many find this tour quite reasonable in price. The experience blends adventure, scenery, and relaxation, making it a comprehensive day out. Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides, which adds value beyond just the activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love marine life and are comfortable in the water. It suits those looking for a full-day adventure that combines active snorkeling, scenic exploration, and relaxed downtime. The flexible options for lunch, kayaking, or massage cater to different preferences, making this a customizable day out.

However, it’s important to note that it’s less suitable for young children under 10, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or health issues, as noted in the tour restrictions. Also, those prone to seasickness should consider how they handle ocean travel.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling tour around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan offers a compelling mix of marine encounters, scenic beauty, and leisure activities. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to see manta rays, explore vibrant reefs, and enjoy some downtime in paradise. The organized logistics, professional guides, and beautiful locations, combined with the flexibility of options, make it a strong choice for a memorable day in Bali’s surroundings.

While manta ray sightings are not guaranteed, the effort and care taken by guides like Wayan Ana and others make for a truly engaging experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious beginner, you’ll leave with plenty of stories, photos, and perhaps the thrill of spotting a graceful manta in its element.

This tour balances adventure with comfort and delivers good value, especially for those keen to explore Bali’s underwater world without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s best for active travelers who appreciate natural beauty, gentle water encounters, and a well-organized day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is optional and available from selected areas in Bali, or you can meet directly at the ferry office. Pickup times are usually scheduled 10 minutes before the designated start.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The ferry from Bali to Nusa Lembongan generally takes around 40 minutes, making for a smoother experience compared to smaller boats.

Can I see manta rays on this tour?
Sightings depend on ocean conditions. Guides closely monitor the water and may adjust plans if conditions aren’t ideal. While manta rays are the highlight, they are not guaranteed.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and cash. It’s also recommended to have a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, as snorkeling is done in shallow waters (less than 1.5 meters), and guides support all participants, but comfort in water is still advised.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts between 6 to 9.5 hours, depending on options and group pace.

Will I get lunch?
Yes, a buffet lunch overlooking the mangroves is included, offering authentic Indonesian dishes.

Can I do kayaking or get a massage?
Both options are available after lunch. Many guests enjoy the peaceful paddle through mangrove waterways or a relaxing massage at Karuna Island Spa.

What is the group size?
Small groups are available, which enhances the personal attention and overall experience.

Is this a good value?
Given the multiple snorkeling locations, lunch, optional activities, and organized transfers, most guests find it offers good value for a memorable full-day adventure.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, nature-filled day perfect for those eager to see marine life in a relaxed setting. It’s a wonderful choice for adventure lovers and water enthusiasts who want a detailed, authentic experience of Bali’s underwater treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: