Lembongan Snorkeling at Manta Point Crystal Bay and Mangrove

This snorkeling tour in Nusa Lembongan offers a compact yet unforgettable glimpse into Bali’s underwater treasures. Priced at just over $26 per person, it packs in three different sites—each with its own appeal—and promises the chance to swim alongside majestic manta rays, explore vibrant coral reefs, and witness diverse marine life in beautifully preserved mangrove forests. It’s a popular experience, often booked about 27 days in advance, which shows how well-loved and highly rated it is.

What makes this experience stand out? For many, the star attraction is swimming with manta rays at Manta Point, a rare opportunity that turns a simple snorkel into a surreal encounter. The tour also offers a chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Crystal Bay, famous for its visibility and tropical fish, and to explore the biodiverse mangroves of Nusa Lembongan, which host a lively array of marine creatures among vibrant corals.

A quick heads-up: hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point in Jungutbatu. Also, while the tour is suitable for most travelers, those who prefer a more flexible schedule or multiple stops might find the three-and-a-half-hour window a bit tight — but the value and quality of the sites more than compensate.

This snorkeling trip is perfect for those looking for a short but impactful marine adventure, especially if you’re eager to experience the magic of manta rays or explore Bali’s underwater biodiversity without breaking the bank or spending hours at sea. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours, appreciate safety, and want to maximize their underwater time with professional guides.

Key Points

• Unique combination of sites: Swim with manta rays, explore Crystal Bay, and visit Mangrove Point—all in one trip.
• Affordable value: At around $26, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck, including snorkel gear and GoPro photos.
• Small group experience: Max 22 travelers ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, with guides likely offering personalized attention.
• Professional guides and safety: The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience smooth and safe.
• Stunning underwater scenery: Clear waters and vibrant marine life make each snorkeling spot a visual feast.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

Starting Out: The Meeting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 8:00 AM from a conveniently located spot in Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida. While the exact address might seem simple—a set of coordinates—most travelers find it straightforward to meet there. Since no hotel transfers are included, you’ll want to organize your own transport, whether by scooter, taxi, or hotel shuttle, for an early start that maximizes your day.

The three-and-a-half-hour duration, including safety briefings and transfers between sites, feels just right for a morning adventure—giving you plenty of time afterward to relax or explore the island further.

Manta Point: The Iconic Encounter

The first stop is Manta Point, and this is where the magic happens. Swimmers and snorkelers are guided to an area where manta rays often glide gracefully beneath the surface. This experience isn’t just about seeing manta rays—it’s about swimming alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Guides, like the professional team praised in reviews, are familiar with manta behaviors and ensure you keep a respectful distance while maximizing viewing chances. One reviewer described their experience as “an absolutely surreal experience,” emphasizing how majestic and unforgettable it was to watch these massive creatures in crystal-clear water.

Keep in mind that manta rays are wild animals, so sightings depend on luck and weather conditions, but the guides’ expertise increases your chances. They also handle all the snorkel gear, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe in the water.

Crystal Bay: The Vibrant Underwater Playground

Next, the tour heads over to Crystal Bay, famed for its translucent waters and rich marine biodiversity. Here, snorkelers will encounter a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, colorful coral formations, and peaceful surroundings—perfect for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers.

The bay’s visibility and calm waters make it ideal for relaxing, floating, and snapping photos. Reviewers mention how stunning the underwater scenery is, with one noting that the waters were “crystal clear,” offering fantastic views of coral and fish. You can expect to see a variety of species, from small reef fish to larger tropical ones that dart among the corals.

Mangrove Point: The Biodiversity Hotspot

The final stop is Mangrove Point, a lesser-known but highly rewarding area. Its well-preserved mangrove forests serve as nurseries for many marine species and create a rich, complex underwater landscape. The coral reefs here are vibrant, providing a habitat for colorful fish and other marine creatures.

This site is often appreciated for its diverse marine life and the opportunity to see different types of coral and fish compared to the previous stops. The mangroves also add an element of natural tranquility—an experience reviewers say “felt like stepping into a different world,” thanks to the lush surroundings and lively underwater ecosystem.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment—masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets—so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer your personal gear. The photos and videos taken with GoPro are a thoughtful inclusion, capturing your underwater moments without extra cost.

A towel and guide are also included, ensuring comfort and safety throughout. However, lunch and hotel transfers are not part of the package, so plan accordingly. We recommend bringing some water, sunscreen, and a hat for the boat and waiting time.

The Experience and Guides

Guides like Ramadana, who received high praise, are key to making the tour enjoyable and safe. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable and professional the guides are, especially at spotting manta rays and explaining marine life. This level of expertise transforms what could be a rushed or superficial trip into an educational and memorable outing.

The small group size, capped at 22 travelers, ensures a more personalized experience. This setup allows guides to give more attention, answer questions, and help less experienced snorkelers get comfortable.

Authentic Highlights from Reviews

One reviewer expressed that swimming with manta rays was “a surreal experience,” highlighting how majestic and graceful these creatures are. The crystal-clear waters also made the experience more vivid, allowing for excellent underwater visibility. The professionalism of the guides and their familiarity with the marine environment added a layer of reassurance, especially for those new to snorkeling.

Another traveler appreciated the well-organized nature of the trip, noting that the sites were “stunning” and the entire trip felt like a “dream.” These comments underscore that, although it’s a short tour, it delivers genuine, memorable moments.

Cost and Value

At just over $26, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of snorkel gear, photos, and guided supervision. Compared to more expensive tours offering fewer sites or longer durations, this experience strikes a good balance—it’s not overly lengthy but covers key highlights with quality.

While no lunch or hotel pickup is included, the affordability combined with the quality sites makes this a sensible choice for those wanting a cost-effective yet enriching snorkeling experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who want to maximize marine encounters in a half-day. It suits snorkelers of all levels, especially those eager to see manta rays in their natural environment. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a guided experience that ensures safety and educational insights.

However, those with limited mobility or seeking a more leisurely pace with multiple stops might find the tight schedule a bit rushed. It’s best for travelers comfortable in water and eager for a focused, high-quality snorkeling trip.

Final Thoughts

This Nusa Lembongan snorkeling tour strikes a fine balance between affordability, adventure, and authenticity. The chance to swim with manta rays, explore vibrant coral reefs, and visit mangrove ecosystems makes it a well-rounded choice for marine enthusiasts. The professional guides, excellent site conditions, and inclusive photos add to its appeal.

While it doesn’t include hotel transfers or lunch, the overall value and the breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a short, impactful marine adventure with a good chance of seeing iconic sea creatures in their natural habitat.

If you’re after a memorable, guided snorkeling experience that showcases Bali’s marine diversity and the chance to see manta rays, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s best for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, value good snorkeling gear, and want to avoid overly long or complicated excursions. It’s also a smart choice for those on a budget who still want quality and stunning underwater scenes.

Is transport to the meeting point included?
No, hotel transfer is not included. You’ll need to organize your own transportation to the starting location in Jungutbatu, Nusa Penida.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 AM, giving you a full morning of snorkeling and exploration.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including all site visits, safety briefings, and transfers between stops.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and guides help ensure everyone is comfortable, especially with the provided snorkel gear.

What is included in the tour?
All snorkeling equipment, photos and videos via GoPro, a towel, and a guide are included. Lunch and hotel transfers are not.

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

This snorkeling experience in Nusa Lembongan provides a fantastic way to see Bali’s marine life without overextending your schedule or budget. It’s a well-organized, authentic dive into the underwater world, perfect for those who relish guided adventures and unforgettable encounters with the ocean’s gentle giants.