With its clear, calm waters and vibrant marine life, snorkelling in Bali offers an immersive and often moving experience for marine enthusiasts. The dry season, which runs from May to October, is the best time for snorkelling due to the favourable weather conditions and the active underwater ecosystem.
The best snorkelling spots in Bali are locations renowned for their pristine waters, rich biodiversity, and captivating underwater scenery. These spots often boast clear visibility, allowing snorkellers to marvel at colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Deciding where to snorkel in Bali depends heavily on your skill level. For beginner snorkellers, the Blue Lagoon in Padangbai is the perfect starting point. Its crystal-clear, calm waters and shallow coral reefs provide a safe and mesmerising underwater environment for first-timers. For more advanced snorkellers, locations like Nusa Penida are incredible destinations with incredible marine life to witness like Manta Rays.
With a range of snorkelling equipment available for hire from local shops and beachside vendors, and guided tours providing all the necessary gear, exploring Bali's underwater world has never been easier.
The best 8 spots for snorkelling in Bali are listed below.
- Amed: This tranquil area in East Bali is renowned for its colourful coral reefs and warm waters. Amed is ideal for both beginner and experienced snorkelers, offering stable water temperatures and abundant marine life.
- Nusa Penida: Known for its clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, Nusa Penida offers spectacular snorkelling spots like Manta Point and Crystal Bay, ideal for encountering sea turtles and manta rays.
- Menjangan Island: Part of the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is celebrated for its pristine waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a perfect location for peaceful snorkelling.
- Padangbai: The coastal town of Padangbai provides easy access to famous snorkelling spots like Blue Lagoon, known for its abundant sea life, and suitability for all skill levels.
- Tulamben: Famous for the USAT Liberty Shipwreck, Tulamben offers unique underwater explorations right off the shore, surrounded by a diverse array of marine species and coral gardens.
- Nusa Lembongan: Part of a group of three islands, Nusa Lembongan is popular for family-friendly snorkelling with its calm waters, and opportunities to spot manta rays and sea turtles.
- Candi Dasa: Though more subdued compared to other snorkelling destinations, Candi Dasa serves as a gateway to nearby underwater spots.
- Gili Islands: Comprising Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, these islands are favoured for their crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and the chance to snorkel alongside sea turtles.
Amed is a long stretch of fishing villages in East Bali running from the village of Culik about 14 km eastwards. It's a quiet, secluded place, away from busy tourist spots, ideal for those who want to get a real taste of Bali life.
Amed is a popular spot for snorkelling because of its colourful coral reefs and the warmth of its waters. One of the best things about Amed is that the water temperature remains fairly stable throughout the year, fluctuating between 28-29°C. Moreover, the village is filled with spots where to rent gear for snorkelling, including specialised dive shops. Many beachside homestays and restaurants in the area offer snorkelling equipment for rent, including snorkels, masks and fins. For those interested in a short snorkelling session, renting gear and wetsuits directly from beach vendors is a convenient option.
The underwater world in Amed showcases a wide array of sea life, including small creatures such as nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, harlequin shrimp, frogfish, and candy crabs. Larger marine species found in Amed include moray eels, hawksbill and green sea turtles, and leafy scorpionfish.
For those coming from South Bali or Ngurah Rai International Airport, the best way to get there is by hiring a private car or taxi. The trip takes about two hours and forty-five minutes, and it’s a scenic ride that’s very much a part of the whole experience. The best time to visit Amed for snorkelling is during the dry season, which runs from May to October when the weather is sunny and there's little rain. On the downside, some visitors find Amed too quiet, and the food options are not as good as in more touristic areas of Bali.
Top 3 Best Spots for Snorkelling in Amed:
- Jemeluk Bay: Jemeluk Bay is a tiny bay known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life that includes green chromis and bright yellow damselfish. The view over Jemeluk’s little bay with the imposing Mount Agung in the background is one of the most iconic images of Bali.
- USAT Liberty Shipwreck: The USAT Liberty, an American Army transport ship, was hit by a torpedo from the Japanese submarine I-66 in January 1942. Today, it is a snorkelling spot that allows you to explore the sunken remains of the ship and the sea life that has made the wreckage its home
- Amed Beach: Located between the small villages of Purwakerti and Abang, Amed Beach is an excellent spot for beginners. The calm waters here are home to a variety of fish and coral species, perfect for an easy snorkelling adventure.
2.Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a small tropical island located about 12 km southeast of Bali, close to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. The island's waters are a haven for snorkellers, with a whole array of wonderful marine life to discover, from sea turtles and manta rays, to sunfish and a colourful array of reef fish.
The waters of Nusa Penida have a clear visibility of 10 to 20 metres during the sunny dry season, which makes it even easier to enjoy its marine life. Snorkellers are treated to scenes of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species in this amazing snorkelling location. The waters around Nusa Penida host 296 coral species and 576 types of reef fish according to the Coral Triangle Center (CTC). The CTC is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving marine life and health in the area. While coral conditions vary, most areas around the island maintain healthy reefs.
To reach Nusa Penida, visitors typically take a speedboat from Sanur Beach on the main island of Bali, arriving in less than an hour. The journey from Kasumba takes about 30 minutes. Once in Nusa Penida, operators like Bali Snorkelling offer comprehensive snorkelling tours which allow visitors to explore four iconic snorkelling spots around Nusa Penida. These packages include round-trip hotel transfers, a professional guide, snorkelling equipment, and meals at an oceanfront beach club
Although snorkelling is a year-round activity in Nusa Penida, the optimal period spans from May to October, coinciding with the dry season and excellent underwater clarity. On the negative side, snorkellers should note that the currents in Nusa Penida are known to shift unpredictably from time to time.
Top 3 Best Spots for Snorkelling in Nusa Penida
- Manta Point: Manta Point is the top spot for easy snorkelling in Nusa Penida, famous for the opportunity to swim alongside manta rays, which have wingspans of up to 4 metres. Manta Point also offers the chance to see baby eagle rays and even bamboo or nurse sharks.
- Crystal Bay: Crystal Bay boasts stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, set against a picturesque beach backdrop. The water is exceptionally clear, often allowing visibility up to 30 metres. Here, snorkellers get to enjoy the company of turtles, octopuses, and a vibrant array of tropical fish.
- SD Point: SD Point is known for its extensive coral reefs that teem with fish, pelagic life, and frequent turtle sightings. Located on Nusa Penida's north coast, SD Point is famous for its drift snorkelling experience. The waters are so gentle that they effortlessly carry you across the stunning underwater scenery, often called a "lazy dive."
3.Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island, situated roughly 10 km northwest of Bali's mainland, is part of the West Bali National Park Conservation Area. This secluded and pristine area is a favourite among snorkellers thanks to the authorities’ commitment to preserving its stunning underwater environments.
The tranquillity of Menjangan Island and the clarity of its waters make snorkelling a must-do activity here, offering a peaceful escape and a close-up view of Indonesia's marine life. Menjangan's waters are teeming with diverse animal species, including mandarin fish, pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, moray eels, various types of rays, batfish, and both white-tip and black-tip reef sharks, not to mention the unique and fascinating frogfish.
For snorkelling gear and tours, visitors check out local providers such as Blue Corner Dive Menjangan and Menjangan Dynasty Dive Center, which offer everything from equipment rental to guided snorkel trips. These establishments ensure that both beginners and experienced snorkellers enjoy the beauty beneath the waves safely and comfortably. However, it’s advisable to book your tour at least 48 hours in advance
To get to Menjangan, snorkellers generally take a boat from Labuhan Lalang port on the northern coast of Bali, with the journey taking about 30 minutes. The ideal time to snorkel in Menjangan is from April to November, coinciding with the southeast monsoon. During this time, the waters are usually exceptionally clear, sometimes offering visibility exceeding 50 metres, especially from October to November. Nonetheless, the island's sheltered position allows for snorkelling throughout the year with varying visibility. On the downside, the beaches on Menjangan Island are rocky and not suited for traditional swimming.
Top 3 Best Snorkelling Spots in Menjangan Island
- POS 1: This spot is characterised by its exotic coral formations and a diverse marine ecosystem. POS 1 features crevices and fissures along the reef and a notable expanse of fan coral near the drop-off, which descends beyond 40 metres. Animal species found at POS 1 include groupers, bigeyes, a variety of sea anemones, clownfish, and sergeant major fish.
- Bat Caves: The Bat Caves area on Menjangan Island combines fascinating cave environments with reef-top marine life. Home to small bats along the waterline of Menjangan’s eastern wall, the underwater scene of Bat Caves thrives with schools of fish such as tuna, jack pompano, and fusiliers, and sometimes features a resident barracuda.
- Coral Gardens: Renowned for its gentle drop-offs compared to other south-coast locations, Coral Gardens are populated with burrowing species like blind shrimp and gobies. This is also the perfect place to spot a rich array of reef fish, nudibranchs, big-eyed trevally, titan triggerfish, and numerous clownfish gliding amidst anemones.
4. Padangbai
Padangbai is a small coastal town in eastern Bali, Indonesia. It is primarily known as the gateway to Lembar on Lombok, The Gilis, and other islands in the Lesser Sunda island chain. The town is surrounded by stunning beaches great for snorkelling and offers direct access to the surrounding islands.
Padangbai stands out for its exceptional snorkelling conditions, featuring an underwater world of diverse coral reefs, tropical marine life, and larger fish species. It's particularly noted for being one of the best spots in Bali to snorkel with turtles. The clear waters, and abundant sea life including octopuses, and white-tip reef sharks, make it an ideal destination for underwater exploration. Padangbai is also a great spot to find camouflage fish, and sea snakes, among other breathtaking marine species.
Situated 54 km east of Denpasar, Padangbai is approximately a one- to one-and-a-half-hour drive from the tourist regions of Kuta and Legian. Snorkelling activities in this area are usually arranged by traditional boat operators, who provide short, comfortable, and family-friendly trips to the snorkelling sites. The best season for snorkelling in Padangbai extends from May to October, which corresponds with Bali’s dry season. While the dry season used to be April to October in Bali, that has now changed due to climatic factors according to experts from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and BMKG, which is Indonesia’s weather agency. The advantage of snorkelling during the dry season months is that visitors enjoy calmer seas and improved visibility.
When it comes to disadvantages, Padangbai sometimes presents challenges such as scams and crowding, particularly around the fast boat services to the Gili Islands. Despite this, stepping away from the port area reveals a peaceful town with lovely beaches and great spots for snorkelling within a short walk.
Top 3 Best Snorkelling Spots in Padang Bai:
- Blue Lagoon: Blue Lagoon is a small bay on the outskirts of Padangbai. This spot is the highlight of snorkelling in Padangbai, known for its serene bay accessible from the shore or by boat. At Blue Lagoon, snorkellers enjoy clear views of the vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including daily sightings of turtles.
- Tanjung Jepun: Known locally as Jepun, this area is just to the left of Blue Lagoon Bay. Tanjung Jepun is prized for its beautiful underwater wall starting from shallow depths, ideal for beginners. Plus, the area offers snorkellers the chance to observe lionfish, lobsters, parrotfish, clownfish, and moray eels up close.
- White Sand Beach: White Sand Beach offers an excellent snorkelling experience, known for its beginner-friendly conditions. Secluded from touristic areas, this beach serves as a peaceful alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon. White Sand Beach is also great for nature lovers, as they will get to appreciate a rich variety of both hard and soft corals, alongside vibrant marine life that includes turtles and parrotfish.
Tulamben is a small fishing village on the northeast coast of Bali. It is among the most popular dive and snorkel sites on Bali since the wreck of the Liberty, a US Army Transport ship torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942 lies just offshore. During high season, up to hundreds of divers and snorkellers explore the wreck and Tulamben's amazing coral reef each day.
Snorkelling locations in Tulamben are conveniently accessible right from the shore, which eliminates the need for a boat. Unlike the golden sands typical of southern Bali, Tulamben boasts unique volcanic sand and rocky beaches, offering snorkellers a diverse experience on the island. When it comes to marine life, the reef created by the shipwreck is a thriving habitat for diverse species, including sea turtles, nudibranchs, and octopuses. Enveloped in both hard and soft corals, the wreck attracts thousands of fish, ranging from vibrant schools of tropical fish to eels and various shark species.
The best way to get to Tulamben for snorkelling is by hiring a private car, especially if you're coming from places like Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud. Usually, it takes 2 up to 4 hours to go to Tulamben depending on the traffic jam and your starting point. Once in the area, Tulamben offers unique snorkelling tours that include exploring the fascinating USAT Liberty Shipwreck and the vibrant Coral Garden. These tours provide a comprehensive package covering hotel transfers, professional snorkelling guidance, and all necessary equipment.
The ideal time for snorkelling in Tulamben is from May to October. During these months, visitors enjoy clearer and calmer waters, making their snorkelling adventure much more pleasant. On the downside, Tulamben only has two main snorkelling spots, as opposed to other areas like Nusa Penida which offers a more comprehensive snorkelling experience.
Top 2 Best Snorkelling Spots in Tulamben:
- USAT Liberty Shipwreck: Situated just off the coast, the USAT Liberty Shipwreck is perfect for both snorkellers and history lovers. The remains of this impressive ship have transformed into an artificial reef, bustling with marine life including a vast array of fish. The unique sighting of Black Tip Reef Sharks, typically found on Bali's east coast, adds to the allure of this amazing snorkelling spot.
- Coral Garden: Coral Garden offers an intriguing underwater adventure with artificial structures that include statues, souvenirs and other fun items. Despite its name suggesting a purely botanical underwater scene, Coral Garden surprises visitors with its human-made underwater displays. It’s a perfect spot for snorkellers looking to explore beyond the usual marine environments.
6. Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is a small island off the southeast coast of Bali. Fast becoming one of Bali's most popular snorkelling areas, Nusa Lembongan is part of a group of three islands known as the Nusa Islands.
Nusa Lembongan's distinct geography is a favourite spot for snorkellers who love to travel with their families. With its mix of coral and sandy beaches and its flat terrain, Nusa Lembongan is a treat both for ocean explorers and their companions. Nusa Lembongan is particularly renowned for snorkelling due to its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life. The snorkelling sites, such as Mangrove Point, offer calm water conditions, high visibility, and a chance to see a diverse range of underwater species, including pufferfish, scorpionfish, blue-spotted stingrays, sea turtles, and even manta rays.
The best time to visit Nusa Lembongan for snorkelling is from May to October when the weather is dry. Typically, to reach Nusa Lembongan from Bali, travellers take a small public boat from Sanur Beach or opt for faster boat services from Benoa Harbour. These journeys usually last under an hour. Snorkelling tours in Nusa Lembongan, such as the Manta Nusa Lembongan Tour, offer an immersive underwater adventure including visits to renowned spots like Mangrove Point and Lembongan Bay. These tours typically include encounters with sea turtles and manta rays and come with professional guides, snorkelling equipment, and sometimes additional amenities like lunch and transportation.
As for tips, bear in mind that Nusa Lembongan tends to be pricier than Bali. This is due to all goods being transported to the island by local ferries and manually unloaded on the beaches. Therefore, expect to find higher prices compared to Bali, and be aware that bargaining with locals is not always as effective as on the main island.
Top 3 Best Snorkelling Spots in Nusa Lembongan
- Lembongan Bay: Located on Lembongan Island, Lembongan Bay is just a 20-minute journey from the mainland. The bay's sandy bottom, interspersed with coral bommies, is a haven for marine species such as frogfish, moray eels, lobsters, and schools of damselfish, providing a vibrant underwater scene for visitors.
- Blue Corner: Geared towards advanced snorkellers and divers, Blue Corner is situated on the northwest of Nusa Lembongan and features depths exceeding 30 metres. Known for its challenging conditions, including strong currents, Blue Corner offers the chance to observe spectacular pelagic life such as Mola Mola and schools of bullrays.
- Mangrove: Also known as Jack's Point or Mangrove, this site is located on the north side of Lembongan Island, a mere 10-minute trip from the mainland. Perfect both for snorkellers and marine life lovers, Mangrove features a gentle coral slope that resembles a vast underwater aquarium, teeming with a variety of species such as scorpionfish and blue-spotted stingrays.
7. Candi Dasa
Candi Dasa, also known as Candidasa, is a coastal town on Bali's eastern shore that sits next to the Candi Dasa Lagoon. The community revolves around Jalan Raya Candidasa, the main street, which offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, and stores.
Candi Dasa is a great stop for snorkelling lovers, with some of the best reefs located just a few minutes along its coasts. Candi Dasa is located within the Coral Triangle, an area known for containing over 75% of the world's coral species and more than 3,000 fish species. While Candi Dasa itself is more famed for its picturesque landscapes rather than specific snorkelling sites, nearby locations like Amed and Tulamben are well-known for their underwater experiences.
Candidasa is located 60 to 80 minutes away from Sanur via the east coast route and is conveniently accessed from Ubud as well. Travelling directly from the airport, the journey typically lasts around 90 minutes. Guests at beachfront hotels in Candi Dasa get to enjoy snorkelling just outside their accommodations, thanks to the coral reefs present along much of the shoreline. Most of the snorkelling activity concentrates around the seawall, but caution is advised during low tide when the water becomes very shallow. To experience an enhanced snorkelling experience, you need to venture out by boat. Snorkelling gear is available for rent from several hotels and local boatmen in the smaller bays. Additionally, affordable snorkelling sets are available for purchase at numerous shops along Jalan Raya Candi Dasa.
When it comes to visiting Candi Dasa for water-based activities like snorkelling, the period from May through September is considered ideal. This time of the year offers drier weather, lower humidity, and better visibility.
Top 3 Snorkelling Spots Near Candi Dasa
- Gili Tepekong: Located an hour by car plus a 20-minute boat ride away from Candu Dasa, this compact island is renowned for its dramatic reef slopes and vertical walls, making it a captivating spot for seasoned snorkellers. At Gili Tepekong, snorkellers encounter large schools of barracudas and turtles, with the seasonal chance to spot the majestic mola mola, which are oceanic sunfish.
- Blue Lagoon: Situated on the edge of Padangbai, the serene Blue Lagoon is a snorkelling paradise just a 45-minute boat journey away from Candidasa. With a shallow depth of around 1.5 metres, beginner snorkellers swim effortlessly amongst the myriad of bright fish. Among other species, the bay's crystal-clear waters host turtles and the iconic clownfish, often referred to as "Nemo" fish.
- Pantai Bias Putih (Virgin Beach): Just a 20-minute drive from Candidasa lies the secluded Virgin Beach. This spot is known for its white sand and clear sea water, offering an environment that’s great both for snorkelling and relaxation. Despite being an often overlooked spot, Virgin Beach provides a serene snorkelling experience with soft sandy bottoms and calm, crystalline waters near the shore.
8. Gili Islands
Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are known together as the Gili Islands, situated just off Lombok's northwest coast in Indonesia. The Gili Islands are known for their bright blue waters and sandy beaches, making them a prime spot for vacations.
Gili Meno and Gili Air are especially popular for snorkellers due to the natural diversity of their waters and their accessibility. Gili Meno, the best ‘Gili’ overall for snorkelling, features accessible reefs from the shore, and abundant marine life like reef fish, moray eels, and sea turtles. In addition, Gili Meno is home to unique attractions such as the Nest underwater sculpture and the Bounty Wreck. Gili Air is appreciated for its calm atmosphere. Despite some coral damage, the reefs in Gili Air still offer a chance to observe various reef fish and turtles in shallow waters near the island.
To get to the Gili Islands, most travellers start their journey from Bali, opting for a fast boat service, which takes about 90 minutes. These services depart from either Padang Bai, located in East Bali, or Serangan, which is near Sanur. Another option is to fly from Bali to Lombok, but this is not typically a favoured option, especially for Australian visitors who have just arrived on international flights to Bali. Domestic flights within Bali are typically affordable but the small planes put some travellers off.
On the Gili Islands, snorkelling shop sites are readily available where visitors buy or rent gear, and there's the option to book tours like those from Gili Snorkelling Tour. These tours typically offer both private and group experiences. The private tours are tailored for those seeking a more personalised snorkelling journey, available in two or four-hour sessions, covering multiple spots. The group tours are ideal for unaccompanied travellers who want to socialise.
For those planning their trip to the Gili Islands purely around snorkelling, the best time to visit is from May to October, when there’s plenty of sunlight and the water's visibility is at its best.
Top 3 Best Snorkelling Spots in the Gili Islands
- Turtle Point (Gili Trawangan): Turtle Point is the premier snorkelling location for observing sea turtles. Located on the amazing Gili Trawangan island, this spot features a sandy expanse leading into a seagrass-filled lagoon and coral reefs in waters about 3-4 metres deep. Ideal snorkelling conditions are during high tide to avoid the rocky hazards of low tide.
- Underwater Statue Park (Gili Meno): Gili Meno's standout snorkelling destination is the Underwater Statue Park. This attraction is home to the "Nest" installation by renowned sculptor Jason DeCaires. The installation consists of a circle of 48 life-size human figures that symbolise the circle of life.
- Turtle Beach (Gili Air): Turtle Beach is one of the island’s most frequented snorkelling spots for turtle sightings. Snorkellers typically enter the water at Turtle Beach Hotel, heading east towards the prime turtle feeding zones. With several entry points along the coast, this area provides straightforward access to the reef, offering both beginner and experienced snorkellers a memorable underwater adventure with the sea turtles.
When is the best month to snorkel in Bali?
September is typically the ideal month for snorkelling in Bali due to consistent weather conditions and active marine life like manta rays, turtles, and tropical fish. During September, the sea is calm, making it easier for snorkellers to spot mantas and various marine creatures. The beaches are less crowded in September and prices are much lower during this time. The best time of year to visit Bali for snorkelling overall is anywhere from May to September. During this period, the ocean is clear and calm, allowing optimal visibility.
What is the best place to snorkel in Bali for beginners?
The best place to snorkel in Bali for beginners is Blue Lagoon, in Padangbai. In this spot, the water isn’t just crystal clear but also serene. Plus, the coral reef in Blue Lagoon is very near the surface, which means snorkellers don’t need to dive deep to appreciate the reef. The clarity, serenity, and shallowness of its waters make Blue Lagoon one of the best places for beginner snorkellers.
What are the best hidden spots to snorkel in Bali?
The best hidden spots to snorkel in Bali include Pantai Bias Putih (Virgin Beach), near Candi Dasa, and Pasir Putih Beach, in Karangasem. Pantai Bias Putih is a hidden gem due to its location just 20 minutes from Candidasa. This virgin beach offers a secluded atmosphere with white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a peaceful snorkelling session. Pasir Putih Beach, on the other hand, is a tranquil beach in east Bali, known for its white sand and peaceful environment.
Where do I get Bali snorkelling equipment?
In most cases, you won’t need to hire specialist snorkelling gear when in Bali. Many snorkelling locations have local merchants who rent snorkelling equipment for a relatively cheap price. That being said, Bali is home to a range of specialised diving and snorkelling shops if you want to go fully professional on your snorkelling trip. These shops, such as Blue Corner Dive, are found in popular diving areas like Menjagan, Amed, and Sanur and offer high-quality, well-maintained equipment ensuring a safe and enjoyable snorkelling experience.
One of the great things about Bali is that it's possible to snorkel straight from the beaches in some places, such as Gili Trawangan Island. Typically, you will find local vendors along the shoreline who rent out snorkelling equipment by the hour or day. This convenient option allows you to explore the underwater world with ease and at your own pace.
Another option for snorkelling in Bali that saves you from forking out for equipment is signing up for a tour with operators such as Bali Snorkelling. The advantage of booking one of these tours is that all the necessary equipment is included in the package. This way, you enjoy guided snorkelling adventures without the hassle of carrying your gear. Typically, a Bali snorkelling tour costs less than 600,000 IDR (∼$60 AUD) per person.
Where can I snorkel with turtles in Bali?
The best place to snorkel with turtles in Bali is Turtle Point on Gili Trawangan, one of the three Gili Islands. Turtle Point, which is located just north of Wilson’s retreat, is home to two types of turtles, the Green Turtle and Hawksbill Turtle. While both look similar, snorkellers are often able to tell the difference from their flippers. The Green Turtle has one claw on his flipper while Hawksbill Turtles have two. All you have to do is jump in the sea and you'll have a good chance of spotting these turtles and snorkelling near them.
Is it safe to snorkel in Bali?
Yes, snorkelling in Bali is generally considered safe, particularly due to the many spots from Bali proper to Nusa Penida that cater to beginners. These locations, which offer beginner snorkelling areas such as Blue Lagoon, offer shallow, crystalline waters, and spots accessible directly from the beach. Additionally, there are numerous tours available in Bali that provide professional snorkelling guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is it better to snorkel or dive in Bali?
Whether it's better to snorkel or dive in Bali depends on your preferences, comfort level in the water, and what you hope to experience. Snorkelling is generally easier and safer, though as a certified diver there is more of Bali’s marine life to explore.
Snorkelling in Bali is typically a fantastic experience, even if you prefer to stay closer to the surface. In places like Gili Trawangan, it's even possible to snorkel directly offshore and witness incredible marine animals like turtles.
That being said, diving allows you to explore deeper parts of the ocean than snorkelling. With scuba diving, you descend to greater depths, sometimes reaching 30 metres or more depending on your certification level. However, diving in Bali requires you to become certified, which is something you can do during your stay. Popular dive sites in Bali include Tulamben (famous for the USS Liberty shipwreck), Nusa Penida (known for Mola mola sightings), and the Gili Islands.