Nusa Penida Island Beach Tour With Snorkeling – Departure From Bali Island

Travelers craving a mix of vibrant underwater life and dramatic island scenery will find this Nusa Penida Beach & Snorkeling Tour a compelling choice. Offered by Bali Sky Tour, this full-day adventure takes you from Bali’s popular southern coast to one of Indonesia’s most stunning islands, with plenty of opportunities to see manta rays, turtles, and spectacular coastal vistas.

What we love about this trip is its well-rounded itinerary—covering famous snorkeling spots like Gamat Bay and Manta Bay, along with iconic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong. The included transportation and equipment make it accessible and stress-free, especially for first-timers. Plus, the guides’ local knowledge shines through, providing insights that elevate the experience.

A possible consideration is the crowd factor, especially at popular sites like Crystal Bay during mola-mola season or peak times. If you prefer quieter, more intimate encounters, plan accordingly or consider less busy hours.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive day of snorkeling, sightseeing, and photography—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to explore Nusa Penida’s highlights without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch.
• Expert guides who enhance the visit with local insights.
• Diverse stops offering underwater encounters, scenic viewpoints, and unique formations.
• Group size is optimal for comfort, with only your party participating.
• Timing from early morning ensures maximum daylight for sightseeing.
• Value for money considering the extensive itinerary and included amenities.

This full-day escapade offers a balance of adventure and sightseeing, designed to give you a taste of Nusa Penida’s best without the need to arrange your own transfers or worry about logistics. Here’s a detailed walkthrough based on the tour’s itinerary, along with insights from past travelers.

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

The tour starts early at 6:30 am, with hotel pickup from key areas across Bali such as Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud, Sanur, Jimbaran Bay, and Nusa Dua. This flexibility is a big plus, saving you the hassle of organizing transport. The group size remains comfortable thanks to private air-conditioned cars, which ensure a smooth and relaxed journey to the port, and comfortable speedboat rides to Nusa Penida.

As several reviews highlight, the timeliness and professionalism of the drivers really set the tone for the day. One reviewer even described their drivers as “brilliant” and “friendly,” which adds a warm touch to the overall experience.

The Speedboat Ride: Quick and Comfortable

Travel from Bali to Nusa Penida is via shared speedboat, included in the price. The boat’s capacity is around 30 passengers, which some might find busy but still manageable, especially when compared to larger, overcrowded options. Expect about a 30-minute ride with scenic views of the ocean, making it a quick way to reach the island.

A recurring comment from travelers is how much they appreciated the efficiency of this transfer, saving hours compared to ferry options. It’s worth noting that, during peak season, boats can get crowded, so early booking is advisable.

Gamat Bay: Vibrant Underwater World

Your first snorkeling stop is Gamat Bay, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Underwater critters and colorful coral formations make this spot a visual feast. The shallow, sandy seabed combined with thriving coral mounds offers both beginner-friendly snorkeling and plenty to see for seasoned underwater explorers.

One reviewer raved that “Gamat Bay is an amazing snorkeling site,” emphasizing the diversity of fish and coral. The admission tickets included mean you can just focus on enjoying the water, without extra costs or worries.

Manta Bay: Snorkeling with Gentle Giants

Next is Manta Bay, famous for coral mantas (Manta Alfredi). These graceful creatures are often curious and approachable, making this a highlight for many. The bay provides a safe environment to swim alongside these gentle rays, which are harmless despite their long tails.

A reviewer described Manta Bay as the best place to interact with manta rays — “they are very happy to interact with humans,” which adds a special thrill to your snorkeling session. The guides’ local knowledge enhances your chances of spotting these majestic creatures, and their expertise ensures safety and comfort.

Crystal Bay: Turtles, Fish, and Crowds

Crystal Bay is a classic snorkeling destination, often crowded but worth it for the chance to see sea turtles, brightly colored fish, and coral gardens. Many guests appreciate the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to relax after the more active spots.

It’s also a prime spot during the mola-mola season (July-October), when ocean sunfish appear, though sightings are not guaranteed. Some travelers noted that during busy periods, the experience can be less intimate, but others still enjoyed the vibrant underwater scene.

Kelingking Beach: Iconic Clifftop Views

No visit to Nusa Penida is complete without a glimpse of Kelingking Beach, famous for its dramatic cliff formations resembling a dinosaur’s head. The tour stops at a dedicated viewing platform with bamboo fences for safety and great photo ops.

While the trek down to the beach itself is challenging—requiring a low tide and some rock scrambling—many appreciate the views from above. One reviewer mentioned that “you can enjoy the sweeping views from the platform,” which provide fantastic photo opportunities without the strenuous climb.

Pasih Uug (Broken Beach): Nature’s Sculpted Masterpiece

Adjacent to Broken Beach, you’ll see the hilly arch-shaped rock formation that makes this spot a favorite for photography and panoramic viewing. The waves crashing below, combined with the unique geology, make it a standout.

Some guests have had the chance to spot mantas near the surface—an added bonus. The site’s rugged beauty is complemented by the presence of long-tailed macaques that roam the area, adding a touch of wildlife to your visit.

Angel’s Billabong: Natural Lagoon and Rock Pools

Finally, Angel’s Billabong presents a crystal-clear lagoon, formed naturally from limestone. During low tide, visitors can descend into the rock pools for a refreshing dip. The scenery is stunning, with turquoise waters contrasting against white limestone.

One reviewer called Angel’s Billabong “a must-see,” noting that the scenic seascape makes for excellent photo moments. It’s one of those rare spots where you can enjoy both the view and a quick swim.

The Food and Overall Experience

A set menu lunch at a local restaurant provides a chance to refuel and relax, with options for vegetarians available upon request. Past travelers appreciated the quality and organization of the meal, which offers good value considering how much ground the tour covers.

Throughout the day, the guides’ local insights and friendliness shine through. One reviewer described their guide Sudaya as “very easygoing and fun,” adding that “he is also a very creative photo and videographer,” which is perfect if you want memorable pictures.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• The tour begins early at 6:30 am, so planning your night before is recommended.
• The total duration is approximately 9 to 11 hours**, giving ample time to explore without rushing.
• The group size is kept manageable with private transport, but expect shared boats and snorkeling gear.
• Remember to bring sunscreen, a camera, and a change of clothes, especially since many sites involve walking or light climbing.
• The minimum age is 5 years, and the maximum is 60—so it’s suited for families, but more strenuous activities like treks down to the beaches are optional.
• The tour is weather-dependent, with cancellations or rescheduling possible in poor conditions.

This Nusa Penida Beach & Snorkeling Tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of one of Bali’s most stunning islands. It balances adventure with scenic sightseeing, making it perfect for those who want to make the most of their day without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

If you love snorkeling, stunning viewpoints, and a day packed with memorable moments, this tour delivers. Its professional guides, included gear, and well-organized itinerary ensure you get great value, especially if you’re eager to see manta rays and turtles up close.

However, if you prefer a quieter, less crowded experience or have mobility limitations, the busy spots and sometimes tight boat capacity might be less ideal. Still, many reviewers find that the stunning scenery and marine encounters outweigh these minor inconveniences.

In essence, this experience is best suited for adventure-loving travelers who want a full, hassle-free day exploring Nusa Penida’s wonders with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, return speedboat transfer, snorkeling equipment, a professional guide, all entrance tickets, and a set menu lunch.

From which areas do they offer pickup?
Pickup is available from several Bali regions, including Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran Bay, Sanur, Kuta, Ubud, and surrounding areas.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, starting early in the morning at 6:30 am.

What snorkeling spots are included?
You’ll visit Gamat Bay, Manta Bay, and Crystal Bay, each offering different underwater experiences with marine life, coral reefs, and manta rays.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling is accessible for most, as equipment is provided and guides assist. However, confident swimmers will enjoy it most.

Can I see manta rays?
Yes, Manta Bay is famous for manta rays, and many travelers have reported successful sightings, making it a highlight of the trip.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if advised at the time of booking.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, camera, change of clothes, and perhaps a waterproof bag for valuables. Tides and weather can affect some sites’ accessibility.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of scenery, marine life, and cultural sites, making it a well-rounded day for anyone eager to explore Nusa Penida’s natural beauty with expert guidance and comfort.