Lembongan Island: Enjoy snorkeling.See a manta ray?/Day trip

Planning a day trip from Bali to Lembongan Island offers an exciting mix of snorkeling, nature exploration, and tropical scenery. This particular tour, priced at around $102 per person, promises a full day filled with vibrant marine life, picturesque vistas, and a chance to encounter manta rays—a rare thrill for snorkelers. It’s an experience tailored for those wanting a quick escape from Bali’s busy beaches, craving authentic underwater encounters, or simply eager to photograph some stunning tropical landscapes.

What we love about this trip is how it balances adventure with comfort—round-trip transfers, a high-speed ferry, and included meals make it a practical option for travelers who value convenience. The mangrove forest exploration adds a peaceful dimension to the day, offering a glimpse into eco-systems that are often overlooked. The potential sighting of manta rays adds an element of unpredictability and excitement, especially for snorkelers who love the possibility of a close encounter with these gentle giants.

One consideration worth noting is the tour’s duration of about 10 hours. While this makes for a full and satisfying day, it also means early mornings and some tight scheduling. If you prefer leisurely, unhurried days on your trip, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those who want a taste of Bali’s nearby marine paradise with maximum variety, this trip hits the mark.

If you’re looking for a balanced, value-packed, and adventurous day that introduces you to the natural beauty of Bali’s surrounding waters and islands, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially suitable for first-timers, snorkelers eager for a multi-spot experience, or travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive escape from the mainland.

Key Points

• Snorkeling in transparent, emerald waters offers a chance to see vibrant tropical fish and coral formations.
• High-speed ferry travel makes the trip quick and smooth, with just a 30-minute voyage from Bali to Lembongan.
• Mangrove forest exploration provides a peaceful, natural setting away from the busy beaches.
• The potential to swim with manta rays adds a memorable highlight—though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
• All-in-one package includes transfers, snorkeling, mangrove tour, and lunch for optimal convenience.
• Timing and flexibility are key: early pickups and a full-day schedule suit active travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

This tour starts with hotel pickups from several popular Bali locations: Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua. Pickup times are early—around 7:00 AM in Ubud and slightly later in the southern resorts—so a good breakfast is advisable to start your day. Once you’re collected, you’ll transfer by car, with durations ranging from 30 minutes to an hour depending on your pickup point. This smooth transfer process helps set the tone for a hassle-free day.

The highlight of the journey is the high-speed ferry ride from Sanur port to Lembongan Island. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll be cruising over crystal-clear waters surrounded by coral reefs—an experience worth the early start alone. The ferry itself is comfortable and designed for quick, scenic crossings, so you won’t feel cramped or overly tired.

Once on Lembongan, the tour shifts to boat-based activities. The first stop is at Mangrove Point, where you can explore the eerie, yet beautiful, mangrove forest. We loved the way this peaceful environment offers a contrast to the lively underwater scenes, with roots twisting in the water and birds calling overhead. Reviewers have called it “mysterious” and “serene,” a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Next up is Crystal Bay, famous for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The snorkeling here is exceptional, with vibrant coral and “cute fish” that make each moment underwater feel like swimming in an aquarium. One reviewer mentioned how “the water was so transparent, you could see fish and coral without any trouble,” emphasizing the visual feast awaiting snorkelers.

The third snorkeling spot is Manta Bay, where the elusive manta rays are often spotted. While sightings depend on luck, many guests report unforgettable encounters. “If you’re lucky,” as one reviewer noted, “you might even swim with manta rays!” Even if you don’t see them, the sheer possibility raises the excitement.

After a couple of hours snorkeling, the group reconvenes on the island for a local Indonesian lunch—a hearty meal that’s included in the package. It’s a good opportunity to relax, refuel, and swap stories about underwater sightings.

Post-lunch, the tour explores the mangrove forest in more detail. It’s an easy activity, often done by boat or kayak, and offers a tranquil break from the underwater scenes. Reviewers have found it “peaceful and fascinating,” noting that it’s a nice change of scenery to see Bali’s eco-systems close-up.

Return logistics involve a boat back to Sanur, followed by the transfer to your hotel. The entire day is structured to maximize sights and experiences while keeping travel time efficient.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Timing: The tour’s inclusion of round-trip car transfers is a major convenience; you won’t have to worry about navigating or booking separate rides. Pickup times are early, so plan your day accordingly—especially if you’re coming from Ubud or northern resorts. The ferry ride is just 30 minutes, but the overall schedule makes for a full 10-hour day.

Cost and Value: At $102, the price includes transfers, ferry, snorkeling at three spots, mangrove tour, and lunch. For a full day of varied activities in a tropical paradise, this represents good value—especially considering the convenience of all-in-one booking and the inclusion of meals and transport.

Group Size and Guides: The tour is led by live guides speaking English and Indonesian, which helps in understanding the itinerary and safety instructions. While the group size isn’t specified, tours like this typically run with a comfortable number of participants—small enough to feel personal but big enough to keep the energy lively.

What’s Not Included: Be aware that meals and drinks outside the provided lunch are separate, so budget extra if you want snacks or beverages during the day.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is ideal for those who love marine activities and want a convenient, all-in-one day trip. It balances adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it perfect for first-time visitors or anyone seeking a snapshot of Bali’s nearby islands.

It’s particularly well-suited for snorkelers eager to explore multiple reefs, and those curious about mangrove ecosystems. The potential sighting of manta rays adds a sense of rarity and excitement, while the included lunch and transfers make the day seamless, especially for travelers who dislike the hassle of organizing logistics independently.

However, it’s important to remember that a full 10-hour schedule might be tiring for some—early mornings, boat rides, and active snorkeling mean you’ll want to be prepared physically and mentally for a busy day.

The Sum Up

This Lembongan Island day trip offers a well-rounded and value-rich experience for travelers eager to see Bali’s marine and natural wonders without staying overnight. The combination of snorkeling at three different spots, mangrove forest exploration, and a chance to see manta rays makes it an engaging choice. The included lunch and transfers streamline the day, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

If you’re someone who appreciates vivid underwater scenery, enjoys eco-friendly environments like mangroves, or just wants a reliable way to explore Bali’s nearby islands, this tour delivers. It might be on the longer side for those seeking a relaxed pace, but for adventure lovers, that’s part of the appeal.

This trip offers a taste of Bali’s vibrant underwater life and lush landscapes—a memorable day at an accessible price.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel round-trip car transfers, round-trip high-speed ferry tickets, snorkeling at three different spots, a mangrove tour, and lunch.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup times vary based on your location: in Ubud around 7:00-7:30 AM, and in Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua around 7:30-8:45 AM. Exact times are advised after booking.

How long is the ferry ride?
The high-speed ferry from Sanur to Lembongan is approximately 30 minutes.

Will I see manta rays?
There’s a good chance, but sightings depend on weather and luck. Many guests report seeing manta rays at Manta Bay, making it a highlight of the trip.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, most snorkeling spots are accessible for beginners, with calm waters and beautiful coral for easy viewing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, water, and possibly a waterproof camera. Snorkel gear is often provided, but check if it’s included or bring your own.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Indonesian lunch is part of the package, offering a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors after snorkeling.

If you’re after an active, scenic, and well-organized day trip that offers both underwater and terrestrial sights, this Lembongan Island tour is a solid choice. It captures the essence of Bali’s natural beauty in a single day, making it perfect for those wanting a rich experience without the hassle of overnight stays.

You can check availability for your dates here: