Top 9 Snorkeling Spots For Exploring Bali’s Underwater Worlds

Bali’s underwater domain offers a breathtaking alternative to its famous temples and rice terraces. You’ll find vibrant coral gardens, historic shipwrecks, and marine sanctuaries teeming with colorful fish just beneath the surface. From the black sand beaches of Amed to the conservation success story of Pemuteran, each snorkeling spot reveals a different facet of the island’s marine ecosystem. Grab your mask and fins—these nine underwater wonderlands will show you why Bali’s beauty extends well beyond its shores.

Key Points

• Amed offers black volcanic beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and underwater temples, with exceptional marine life at Jemeluk and Lipah Beach.
• Tulamben’s USAT Liberty Shipwreck hosts over 400 fish species and is accessible to both beginner and experienced snorkelers.
• Menjangan Island features pristine reefs with 110+ coral species and diverse marine life within West Bali National Park.
• Pemuteran’s Biorock artificial reefs accelerate coral growth and have transformed depleted areas into thriving underwater ecosystems.
• Crystal Bay and Manta Point on Nusa Penida provide opportunities to see manta rays, sea turtles, and seasonal Mola Mola.

Amed: Black Sand Beaches and WWII Shipwreck

Nestled along Bali’s northeastern coastline, Amed stretches for about 14 kilometers through the Abang District of Karangasem Regency. This area’s unique black sand beaches, formed from volcanic rock ground by the sea, offer a striking contrast to typical white sand shores.

You’ll find excellent snorkeling at Jemeluk and Lipah Beach, where colorful marine life thrives among coral reefs. The Japanese Shipwreck Beach, about 20 minutes along the coast, is a must-visit spot where you can explore a sunken vessel near the shoreline. Jemeluk Beach is especially notable for its crystal-clear water and underwater temple surrounded by vibrant marine life.

After swimming, grab a drink at the beachside bar or head to Sunset Point for breathtaking views of Mount Agung. Traditional jukungs (fishing boats) line the shores, adding local charm to your underwater adventure in these clear, fish-filled waters. Amed’s reputation as one of Bali’s treasures for underwater beauty makes it an essential destination for both novice and experienced snorkelers.

Tulamben: The Liberty Shipwreck and Vibrant Coral Gardens

Just a short drive from Amed lies Tulamben, home to Bali’s most famous underwater attraction: the USAT Liberty Shipwreck. This 130-meter vessel, torpedoed in 1942 and later pushed into the sea by Mount Agung’s 1963 eruption, now rests in depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters.

Experience Tulamben’s underwater marvel – the USAT Liberty Shipwreck, a WWII relic now transformed into Bali’s premier marine sanctuary.

You’ll want to arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. The wreck’s accessible depth makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The site is home to over 400 fish species, including colorful reef fish and occasional visits from mola mola and eagle rays.

Beyond the Liberty, Tulamben’s vibrant coral gardens showcase colorful fan and brain corals teeming with marine life.

Local dive operators offer guided tours and equipment rentals with solid safety protocols. For visitors looking to explore more of Bali, Tulamben offers a refreshing contrast to Nusa Dua’s luxury found on the island’s southern shores.

After exploring underwater, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, plus delicious local Balinese cuisine to refuel your adventures.

Menjangan Island: Pristine Reefs of West Bali National Park

Located off Bali’s northwest coast, Menjangan Island stands as a jewel in West Bali National Park’s crown, offering some of the most pristine snorkeling conditions on the island. You’ll find exceptionally clear waters revealing more than 110 coral species and a kaleidoscope of marine life.

The protected waters house everything from tiny seahorses to graceful hawksbill turtles. The surrounding marine ecosystems include spectacular coral reefs and extensive seagrass beds that support the rich biodiversity. While Ubud may be Bali’s cultural heart, Menjangan Island represents its marine soul with unparalleled underwater scenery. Seagrass beds and diverse coral families create perfect homes for parrotfish, angelfish, and occasionally reef sharks.

To visit, you’ll need national park permits and a boat ride from the mainland. Trips launch from Pemuteran and Lovina. Remember that this is a conservation area—your responsible tourism helps preserve these underwater wonders for generations to come.

Jemeluk Bay: a Beginner’s Paradise With Rich Marine Life

While Menjangan Island offers pristine reefs in the northwest, Jemeluk Bay in East Bali’s Amed region provides a completely different snorkeling experience. With easy currents and exceptional visibility averaging 17 meters, you’ll find this spot perfect if you’re just starting out.

Experience East Bali’s gentle underwater paradise, where clear waters welcome beginners to a colorful marine world.

Wade in from shore or hop on a short boat ride to explore the bay’s recovering coral gardens, which have bounced back impressively since the damage in the 1980s.

You’ll swim alongside colorful butterflyfish, parrotfish, and angelfish, with lucky spotters catching glimpses of ghost pipefish or mimic octopus.

The bay maintains a consistently warm water temperature of 28-29°C year-round, making it comfortable for snorkelers wearing just rash guards and shorts.

Don’t miss the artificial reefs that attract unique species like wasp fish. Amed’s best spots feature stunning underwater landscapes that rival many of Bali’s more popular tourist destinations. After your underwater adventure, you’ll appreciate the nearby restaurants and accommodations that make Jemeluk a convenient, family-friendly destination.

Crystal Bay: Tranquil Waters and Diverse Underwater Ecosystems

Hidden away on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida, Crystal Bay lives up to its name with water so clear you’ll feel like you’re floating in air rather than ocean. The newly paved roads make getting here a breeze compared to other spots on the island.

You’ll find a white-sand beach perfect for relaxing after swimming alongside sea turtles, angelfish, and vibrant coral gardens. Early mornings offer the calmest waters and best visibility (5-15 meters). Many visitors consider Crystal Bay a perfect alternative to the more crowded beaches found on neighboring Bali.

Stay cautious, though. Don’t venture beyond the mooring buoys, avoid the right side during low tide, and steer clear of the central rock area where currents get tricky. During your visit, you might be fortunate enough to witness Mola Mola sightings between July and October when these massive ocean sunfish rise from the depths.

Rent gear from beach warungs and consider pairing your visit with a boat trip to nearby Manta Bay for a full-day adventure.

Manta Point: Swimming Alongside Majestic Manta Rays

Just off the southwestern edge of Nusa Penida sits Manta Point, possibly Bali’s most exhilarating underwater experience. This world-renowned site offers you the chance to swim alongside magnificent manta rays in their natural habitat.

Accessible via boat from Sanur, Manta Point welcomes snorkelers of all skill levels. The water depth ranges from 14-20 meters with excellent visibility, making it perfect for underwater photography.

While you’re primarily here for the mantas, you’ll also encounter diverse marine life against a sandy sea floor. The site is relatively close to Crystal Bay which has precise coordinates that enthusiasts can use for navigation.

Most visitors join guided tours that monitor safety conditions and promote responsible tourism practices. As part of Nusa Penida’s marine protected area, your visit supports vital conservation efforts.

The emotional connection you’ll feel watching these graceful giants glide through the water is simply unforgettable. Many travelers consider this a bucket-list experience similar to visiting the famous Komodo Island with its unique wildlife attractions.

Pemuteran: Conservation Success and Thriving Reefs

Tucked away on Bali’s northern coast, Pemuteran stands as one of the island’s most remarkable conservation success stories. You’ll find over 70 Biorock artificial reefs here, where electrical currents stimulate coral growth and create vibrant marine habitats.

When you snorkel these waters, you’re witnessing the results of community-led protection that’s doubled fish biomass and restored once-damaged ecosystems. Local efforts have transformed this area from a victim of destructive fishing to an underwater paradise. Biorock structures make corals grow 3-5 times faster than they would in natural conditions.

The shallow, calm waters make Pemuteran perfect for snorkelers of all levels. Your tourism dollars directly support ongoing conservation, funding local schools and environmental education. Unlike the busier Sanur coastline, Pemuteran offers a more tranquil snorkeling experience away from crowds.

Don’t miss the chance to spot diverse marine life while contributing to a project that’s earned global recognition for sustainable coastal management.

Blu Lagoon: Clear Waters and Colorful Marine Biodiversity

Nestled along Bali’s eastern coastline, Blue Lagoon lives up to its name with water so clear you’ll feel like you’re swimming in liquid crystal. Just 1.5 km from Padangbai Port, this 60-meter stretch of white sand beach is surrounded by lush hills that create a secluded paradise.

You’ll spot Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, and vibrant nudibranchs among the healthy corals. The site also hosts fascinating marine creatures like blue ribbon eels, octopuses, and cuttlefish. With visibility reaching 20 meters, it’s a snorkeler’s dream come true. Visit during high tide for the best experience, preferably in the dry season (April-October).

After your underwater adventure, enjoy the nearby Bloo Lagoon Eco Village’s amenities – from yoga to traditional spa treatments. Many visitors enhance their relaxation with a Balinese massage to soothe muscles after a day of snorkeling. The entire area remains calm year-round, making it perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Padang Bai: Calm Coves and Accessible Underwater Adventures

While Blue Lagoon steals much of the spotlight, Padang Bai itself offers some of Bali’s most accessible underwater adventures just a five-minute boat ride away. This small coastal village boasts sheltered bays with minimal currents – perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels.

You’ll find colorful coral gardens teeming with clownfish, parrotfish and anemones right off the shore. The shallow reefs make surface snorkeling easy, while occasional octopus, moray eels and trumpetfish add excitement to your underwater exploration.

For beginners, Padang Bai’s sandy-bottom areas provide ideal practice grounds. Morning sessions offer the best visibility, and local boat operators can quickly transfer you to nearby sites. Adventurous travelers can enhance their experience with try scuba diving packages that showcase Padang Bai’s deeper underwater treasures. Many visitors combine their underwater explorations with thrilling activities available throughout Bali’s adventure tourism scene. With equipment rentals available beachside, you can easily pair your snorkeling adventure with visits to the nearby Bias Tugal and Temple areas.

Last Words

Bali’s underwater treasures are waiting just beneath the surface for you. With over 2,200 species of reef fish in Indonesian waters, you’ll never run out of colorful critters to spot. Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned snorkeler, these nine spots offer something special. Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen and underwater camera—you’ll want to remember these moments forever!