Swim with Manta Rays: Snorkeling Day Trip from Bali

If you’re dreaming of gliding alongside majestic manta rays and exploring Bali’s underwater wonders, this snorkeling day trip from Kuta might just be your perfect match. Offering a combination of marine adventure, island sightseeing, and cultural flavor, it promises a full day of discovery—whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel to the moment you relax back at your accommodation, this tour packs in quite a bit.

One of the highlights we love about this experience is the chance to see manta rays in their natural habitat—a rare and magical encounter that keeps many coming back. The tour also offers stunning views of Bali’s waters and a taste of local culture with a traditional Indonesian lunch. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that manta sightings are not guaranteed since these are wild creatures, and environmental factors can influence their presence.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers, water lovers, and families looking for a blend of marine life, natural beauty, and island exploration—especially those eager to experience Bali’s aquatic side without diving deep into technical waters.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Encounters: Opportunities to swim with manta rays, turtles, and colorful fish in their natural environment.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Includes transport, snorkel gear, a traditional Indonesian lunch, and multiple snorkeling stops.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views at Crystal Bay, Mangrove Forest, and the surrounding waters.
• Flexible for Non-Swimmers: Snorkel gear and guides make it accessible even for beginners.
• Full Day Adventure: Around 7-8 hours of activities, perfect for a day trip.
• Environmental Variability: Manta ray sightings depend on weather and natural conditions.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Start: Sanur Harbor and Transfer to Nusa Lembongan

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your hotel in Kuta, followed by a transfer to Sanur Harbor. Here, you’ll check in around 7:45 am and wait comfortably in the designated zone while the boat prepares for departure. The boat ride to Nusa Lembongan is about 30 minutes, giving you a scenic preview of Bali’s shoreline.

Arrival at Jungut Batu Beach

Once you arrive at the port, the journey continues with a brief 10-minute boat ride to Jungut Batu Beach. You’ll notice straight away that the boats dock directly on the beach—be prepared to get your feet wet. This immediate connection to the water sets the tone for the day ahead.

Manta Bay: The Main Attraction

The star of the trip is Manta Bay, famous for frequent manta ray encounters. The guides will take you snorkeling here, where the giant rays often glide past gracefully, attracted by the plankton and nutrients in the area. According to reviews, Manta Bay can get crowded, so having a life jacket can be reassuring for less confident swimmers. While sightings are highly probable, the guides remind visitors that nature is unpredictable, and there’s no guarantee of spotting a manta every time.

Crystal Bay: Vibrant Marine Life and Scenic Cliffs

Next, you’ll head to Crystal Bay, renowned for crystal-clear waters and beautiful cliffs. Expect to see small fish darting around coral mounds—a haven for marine biodiversity. The water is calm and inviting, perfect for relaxing or snapping photos of the vibrant undersea landscape. Reviewers appreciated this spot for its pristine environment, which feels untouched by human hands.

Toya Pakeh Wall: Encounter Deep-Sea Creatures

The third snorkeling location is Toya Pakeh Wall, famous for crabs, Moray Eels, and Octopus hiding in cracks. You might also spot schools of Sweetlips, Red Tooth Trigger Fish, and Batfish. More excitingly, there’s a chance—albeit a rare one—to see Reef Sharks, Barracuda, and even Mola Mola. Some lucky travelers have even seen oceanic manta rays passing through the deep channels, adding a thrill to the day.

Mangrove Forest Kayaking

After snorkeling, you’ll take a traditional boat to the Mangrove Point, where spectacular mangrove roots and wildlife create a picturesque scene. Kayaking through the forest provides a peaceful contrast to the lively underwater stops, letting you appreciate Bali’s lush ecosystem from a different angle. Many reviewers find this part of the tour relaxing and photogenic.

Return to Nusa Lembongan and Back to Bali

The day winds down with a boat ride back to Jungut Batu Beach, where the ferry awaits to transfer you to Sanur. The return trip offers more scenic views and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. Once back at Sanur Harbor, a driver will escort you back to your hotel, completing a full-day adventure.

The Experience: What You’ll Love and What to Consider

What we love about this tour is the balance of marine encounters and island exploration. The guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe and informed. The snorkel gear is provided, so there’s no need to rent equipment separately, which adds to the convenience. The inclusion of a traditional Indonesian lunch offers a tasty break and a glimpse into local flavors—something many reviewers praise for its quality.

The views during the boat rides are genuinely breathtaking, with high-speed transfers between locations giving an adrenaline rush and a good chance to unwind against Bali’s stunning seascapes. According to a review, “the boat ride out was stunning,” and the entire day flows smoothly, thanks to well-organized logistics.

A drawback to keep in mind is that since manta rays are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed. One reviewer expressed disappointment, mentioning they couldn’t reach the manta spot at all. Weather conditions and manta activity vary, so patience and a bit of luck are necessary to witness these graceful creatures.

Another consideration is the crowd factor, especially at Manta Bay. It can get busy, so arriving early or being comfortable with shared snorkeling spaces is advisable. If you’re not an experienced swimmer, don’t worry—guides and safety equipment make the experience accessible, and many reviews confirmed non-swimmers can enjoy the tour comfortably.

The Real Value of This Tour

At just under $68 per person, this all-inclusive experience offers significant value. It combines marine wildlife, scenic beauty, and culture, all in one day. The inclusion of multiple snorkeling stops, lunch, and transportation makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure. The small group size (limited to 70) ensures a more personalized experience, and the group discounts provide additional savings for families or friends.

While the price might seem high compared to simple snorkeling excursions, the variety of activities and the chance to see manta rays in their habitat elevate this tour above basic snorkeling trips. Many reviewers mention how well-organized the day is, with some praising the knowledgeable guides who keep everyone engaged and safe.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for water enthusiasts eager to see manta rays and explore Bali’s marine biodiversity. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy adventure and scenic boat rides. Non-swimmers are also welcome, thanks to the provided safety gear and guides. If you’re looking for an all-in-one day trip that combines snorkeling, island scenery, and cultural flavor, this tour ticks all boxes.

However, if you’re not comfortable in open water or prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider your comfort level, as the boat rides and snorkeling involve some movement. Also, travelers should be aware that manta sightings are not guaranteed, and weather conditions can impact the experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those seeking an authentic and varied Bali adventure, this snorkeling day trip offers excellent value. The chance to see manta rays, explore colorful coral reefs, and kayak through mangroves makes it a well-rounded experience. The guides’ attentiveness and the quality of included amenities—such as lunch and snorkel gear—add to its appeal.

While it may not guarantee manta sightings every time, the likelihood of encountering these gentle giants combined with the stunning scenery makes it a worthwhile investment for lovers of the sea. The tour suits active travelers who want to make the most of their day on Bali’s waters and are open to a mix of adventure and relaxation.

This trip is recommended for water lovers of all levels, those eager to discover Bali’s underwater world, and anyone wanting a full day of island exploration packed with natural beauty and marine excitement.

FAQ

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes, non-swimmers can snorkel with guidance and safety equipment, and the guides are experienced in assisting less confident swimmers.

Are the manta rays guaranteed to be seen?
Sightings depend on environmental conditions, so while the chance is high, it’s not guaranteed.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a camera, and cash or credit card for personal expenses.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including transfers, snorkeling, island exploration, and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour caters to all ages, with guides ensuring safety and enjoyment for everyone.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 70 travelers, which helps maintain a more personalized experience.

Is there transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with transfer to and from Sanur Harbor.

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

How much does the tour cost?
The price is approximately $67.95 per person, inclusive of all activities, lunch, and transportation.

This snorkeling trip from Bali offers an engaging blend of marine adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor. Whether spotting manta rays or paddling through mangrove roots, it promises a memorable day in paradise—ideal for those who want to see Bali from its waters.