From Bali: Nusa Penida Day Tour & Snorkeling

This review takes a close look at the popular Nusa Penida day tour from Bali, a full 12-hour experience blending snorkeling at four underwater locations with visits to some of the island’s most famous landmarks. While many travelers are drawn to Nusa Penida for its stunning scenery and vibrant marine life, it’s worth considering how well-organized the tour is and what kind of experience you can expect.

What we love about this tour are two things in particular: first, the opportunity to see multiple scenic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Angel Billabong in a single day, and second, the quality of snorkeling gear and underwater photos provided. On the flip side, a possible drawback is that snorkeling is shared with other groups—so if you’re hoping for total exclusivity, this might not be your trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an active, full-day adventure combining nature, wildlife, and iconic sights with a reasonable price point. If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-effort experience, this might not be the right fit. But for those eager to pack in a lot of authentic Bali and Nusa Penida highlights in one go, this tour offers a practical and engaging option.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines snorkeling at four different locations with sightseeing of popular viewpoints.
• Value for Money: At $89 per person, it includes transportation, all entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and underwater photos.
• Good for Photographers & Nature Lovers: Expect plenty of stunning vistas and underwater images.
• Group Dynamics: Snorkeling is shared with others and weather can influence snorkeling spots.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Involves early starts and lots of walking and water activities.
• Not Suitable for Everyone: Pregnant women and those with back problems should consider their comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Full-Day Tour

Starting Early and Traveling Efficiently
The day kicks off with hotel pickups around 6:00-7:00 am, depending on your location in Bali. Expect to be on the move pretty early, but that’s the price of seeing Nusa Penida’s best in a single day. The fast boat ride from Bali’s Sanur Harbor to Nusa Penida takes about 45 minutes, offering scenic views of Bali’s coastline and the open sea. The shared boat is included in the price, and you’ll be traveling with other travelers heading to the island’s highlights.

A Mix of Water and Land Activities
Once on Nusa Penida, your driver and guide will be your eyes and ears for the day. The first part involves visiting three snorkeling spots, such as Manta Bay, Gamat Bay, and Crystal Bay, or alternative sites depending on weather conditions. According to reviews, many travelers appreciated the well-organized safety gear: snorkel, mask, fins, and life jackets are all provided, along with a GoPro underwater camera to capture your underwater moments.

Snorkeling Highlights
While snorkeling with manta rays isn’t always guaranteed—because it depends on nature and luck—the experience of swimming in these crystal-clear waters among vibrant marine life seems to impress most. One reviewer noted, “despite bad weather, the guides made the most of the situation…we still got some beautiful scenery,” showing how adaptable the guides are.

Lunch and Scenic Landmarks
After a morning of splashing around, there’s a break for lunch at a local restaurant. While it’s at your personal expense, the food is often noted as tasty and authentic, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors.

Post-lunch, the tour moves to the west coast of Nusa Penida, where you’ll stand atop the world-famous Kelingking Beach viewpoint—an Instagram favorite that’s just as stunning in real life. Expect to walk a bit to get the best photo angles, but the panoramic views of white sandy beaches and rugged cliffs are well worth the effort.

Next are stops at Angel Billabong, a natural infinity pool and rock formation, and Broken Beach, a unique archway carved by the sea that offers fantastic photo opportunities. These spots are easily accessible from the main roads, and the guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and hospitality.

Returning to Bali
The day wraps up with the return journey around 4:30 pm, including a boat ride back to Bali and drop-offs at your hotel. Expect to be tired but fulfilled after a packed day of natural beauty and marine adventure.

The Value in Detail

At $89, this tour provides a lot of value, especially considering it covers transportation, boat transfers, all entrance fees, snorkeling equipment, and underwater photography. The inclusion of GoPro footage is a bonus that many travelers cherish—imagine having professional-quality underwater videos of your snorkeling experience without extra effort.

However, food isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for a meal—something simple but flavorful from the local restaurants. The timing is tight but efficient, allowing you to see the key highlights without feeling rushed.

Group size and shared activities are typical in tours like this. You’ll be snorkeling with other groups, which can enhance camaraderie but might reduce privacy. Still, the guides are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge, making it easier to feel comfortable, even if things don’t go exactly as planned (weather can always change the snorkeling spots).

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

The reviews reveal a consistent pattern of positive experiences centered around knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized logistics. One traveler raved, “We lived an amazing day thanks to the guide Ode,” highlighting how much a passionate guide can elevate the experience. Another reviewer praised the effort made despite bad weather, mentioning that guides “made the most of the situation,” which shows their flexibility and dedication.

Many visitors appreciate the authenticity of the stops—not just the typical tourist spots, but places where they could genuinely enjoy Bali’s natural beauty. The local hospitality, especially during transfers and lunch, also gets high marks.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sun protection: a hat, sunscreen, and a towel are essentials.
• Be prepared for early mornings—the tour starts bright and early.
• Wear comfortable shoes—some walking is involved at viewpoints.
• Bring extra cash for meals or personal souvenirs.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as snorkeling quality depends on sea conditions.
• Contact via WhatsApp after booking if you need clarification or specific instructions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Should You Book This Tour?

If you’re eager for a comprehensive day of spectacular scenery, marine life, and cultural landmarks, then this tour offers good value and organization. It’s well-suited for active travelers who don’t mind early starts and a busy schedule. Families with kids who are comfortable with water activities could enjoy this as well.

However, if you’re a super-precise diver or prefer private, exclusive experiences, this might feel a little crowded or rushed. Also, those with mobility issues or who are pregnant should consider their comfort with walking and water activities.

The Sum Up

This Nusa Penida day tour from Bali is a solid choice for travelers wanting an all-in-one adventure. Its combination of snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and local flavor makes for a memorable day. The quality of guides and equipment ensures you’re well looked after, while the sights—like Kelingking Cliff and Angel Billabong—offer some of Bali’s most iconic views.

While it’s not a private or exclusive experience, the organized nature and value for money make it a smart pick for those who want to explore Nusa Penida without fuss. It’s especially perfect for adventurers craving action and picture-perfect scenery in a single day.

If you’re ok with a group setting and weather-dependent activities, you’ll find this tour a practical, engaging way to see some of Bali’s most breathtaking settings and underwater life, all at a fair price.

FAQs

Is snorkeling with manta rays guaranteed?
No, seeing manta rays depends on sea conditions and luck. The tour offers the chance, but it’s not guaranteed.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, boat tickets, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, and underwater photos are included. Food and drinks are not.

How long is the boat ride from Bali?
About 45 minutes from Sanur Harbour to Nusa Penida.

Can solo travelers join?
Yes, but there’s an additional fee of 700k IDR.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Pregnant women and people with back problems are advised to consider their comfort before booking.

What should I bring?
Sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and personal essentials.

Is there a lunch break?
Yes, at a local restaurant, but it’s at your own expense.

How is the group size?
It’s a shared tour, so expect to be with other travelers during snorkeling and land visits.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might change slightly; guides will adapt to weather conditions to maximize your experience.

How do I contact the tour provider?
It’s recommended to contact via WhatsApp after booking for any specific questions or instructions.

This tour strikes a practical balance—offering memorable sights, marine encounters, and authentic local flavor at a reasonable price. Perfect for adventurous souls who want to make the most of their day in Bali’s stunning Nusa Penida.

You can check availability for your dates here: