Manta Point Snorkeling & West Nusa Penida Island Day Tour

If you’re eyeing an unforgettable day in Bali’s nearby island paradise, the Manta Point Snorkeling & West Nusa Penida Island Day Tour offers an exciting blend of marine life encounters and breathtaking scenic views. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what to expect, making it a top choice for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.

What really draws us in? First, the chance to snorkel with giant manta rays, which feels like a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Second, the opportunity to explore iconic spots like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong—famous for their jaw-dropping landscapes. Third, the flexible, guided approach with knowledgeable locals ensures visitors can enjoy each stop comfortably and safely.

That said, one consideration is the boating part of the trip—if you’re prone to motion sickness, this might be a tougher day for you. The tour involves multiple boat rides and long drives, so it’s best suited for those who appreciate a full-day adventure. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural highlights, all packed into one memorable day.

Good To Know

• Marine Encounters: Guaranteed manta ray sightings at Manta Point, with over 99% success according to reviews.
• Scenic Highlights: Iconic spots like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach offer stunning photo opportunities.
• Value for Money: At around $45.87 per person, the tour includes snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and transport—covering a lot for the price.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Adit and Putu receive praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and local knowledge.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, towels, lockers, and even underwater photos ensure a smooth experience.
• Group Size & Booking: Small group tours (max 15 travelers) foster a more personalized vibe, and booking in advance (about 3 weeks ahead) is recommended.

An Introduction to the Experience

This full-day tour promises a balanced mix of marine adventure and scenic sightseeing, starting early from your Bali or Nusa Penida accommodation. The main draw is the chance to swim alongside manta rays at Manta Point, a spot renowned for its high likelihood of manta sightings—testament to the area being their natural habitat. It’s a chance to witness these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the water, often within arm’s reach, which many reviewers describe as breathtaking.

Beyond the underwater encounter, the tour takes you to some of Nusa Penida’s most celebrated viewpoints and beaches. Think Kelingking Beach, crowned as the most Instagrammable beach in 2021, with its dramatic cliffside and T-Rex-like shape. Then there’s Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool carved into volcanic rock, and Broken Beach, a cove with an archway that lets ocean waves flow in, creating a surreal, postcard-perfect scene.

While the trip is packed with highlights, it also involves several boat rides and driving, which might be tiring for some. Still, the guides’ friendly attitude and local insights make this a worthwhile, authentic experience, especially for those eager to see Bali’s nearby islands in a single day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Manta Point Snorkeling

This is the main event. Once you’re picked up and taken to the boat, your guide will assist with equipment—mask, fins, life jackets, and towels are all included. As one reviewer describes, “The mantas are huge! We had to get to the harbor, then take a water taxi for about an hour to the island. Once there, a 45-minute drive and an hour on the boat, but it was worth it.” Expect around 20 minutes of snorkeling in the area with the best chance to spot manta rays, which is often described as a magical experience.

Gamat Bay

Next stop is Gamat Bay, renowned for its vibrant coral and abundant fish. The plateau about 8 meters deep makes it ideal for snorkeling, and you might also spot turtles here. Many say it’s one of the most beautiful spots on the island, offering a peaceful yet colorful underwater landscape. One review notes, “The bay is a plateau with lots of colorful fish and coral. We often saw turtles as well.”

Kelingking Beach

After the underwater adventures, the tour shifts to land with a visit to Kelingking Beach. This is a quick stop (about an hour), so bring your camera to capture the iconic cliff formation. As one reviewer points out, “It’s filled with unique landscapes, enchanting its visitors to take as many pictures as possible.” Just be prepared for some steep walks if you decide to hike down to the beach itself.

Angel’s Billabong & Broken Beach

The afternoon includes visits to Angel’s Billabong, a crystal-clear natural infinity pool, and Broken Beach, famous for its archway that forms a natural bridge over the ocean. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking beauty of these spots, with one quoting, “The view at Angel’s Billabong is breathtaking, and Broken Beach’s archway is surreal.” Both stops last about 30 minutes, giving enough time to soak in the scenery and snap photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Snorkeling at Manta Point

The main draw is the guaranteed manta encounter. Reviews from travelers like DawnJones mention seeing multiple mantas, “We swam for about 20 minutes and saw many manta rays.” The high success rate, combined with the chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, makes this experience truly special.

Expert and Friendly Guides

Guides like Adit and Putu receive numerous compliments for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to take photos. One reviewer says, “Adit brought everything to life and was a pleasure to spend the day with.” Their local insights and helpful attitude significantly enhance the overall experience.

Scenic Landmarks

The stops at Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach are not only for their beauty but also for the photo opportunities they present. Many travelers find these spots worth the trip just for the views and Instagram-worthy shots.

Comfort and Convenience

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, underwater photos, lockers, and showers means you can focus on enjoying yourself without logistical worries. One reviewer appreciated the “great ride” and the ease of finding enjoyable spots.

The Value of the Tour

For around $45.87, this tour covers a lot—snorkeling gear, entrance fees, transportation, and guided commentary. Considering the cost of private excursions or separate activities, this package provides excellent value. The reviews emphasize how guides like Adit and Putu make the day memorable, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a personal adventure. The inclusion of underwater documentation and access to lockers adds a layer of comfort that justifies the reasonable price.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Book early—most travelers book about three weeks in advance to secure their spot.
• Bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness, as the boat rides can be long and choppy.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat for the land stops, since you’ll be exposed to the sun.
• Capture underwater moments with the GoPro provided or bring your own waterproof camera.
• Prepare for some walking—the cliffs and beaches involve steep paths and uneven terrain.
• Lunch isn’t included, so consider bringing snacks or eating before the tour.
• Expect a maximum of 15 travelers—small groups mean more personalized attention.
• Weather considerations: Tours are weather-dependent; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Summary: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value wildlife encounters and want to see Bali’s natural beauty without crazy extra costs. It suits those eager to swim with manta rays and capture iconic photos of Nusa Penida’s breathtaking landscapes. If you love guided tours with knowledgeable locals and aren’t overly bothered by boat rides, you’ll find this full-day adventure worthwhile.

However, it might be less suitable for those with severe seasickness or limited mobility, given the boat rides and steep paths. Those expecting a relaxing, laid-back day might find the full schedule a bit tiring but still rewarding.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), air-conditioned transport, snorkeling gear (mask, fins, life jackets), towels, lockers, shower access, underwater photos, all entrance fees, and insurance.

How long is the snorkeling at Manta Point?
You’ll spend about 1 hour snorkeling at Manta Point, with a high chance of seeing manta rays, often described as a magical experience.

Are the beaches and viewpoints crowded?
While Kelingking Beach can be popular and crowded, the tour guides manage timing to help visitors enjoy each spot. Some reviews note the spots can get busy, especially during peak times.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
No, snorkel gear is provided, including masks, fins, and life jackets.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but non-swimmers should be comfortable in shallow water and wear life jackets. Kids should be supervised closely.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and hats, wear comfortable clothing, and consider bringing a waterproof camera. Also, pack any personal medication if needed.

Will I see manta rays every time?
While the tour boasts over a 99% chance of manta sightings, nature can be unpredictable, and sightings are not guaranteed but highly likely.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
Most reviews suggest good experiences in dry seasons, but the tour can run year-round, weather permitting.

How long does the entire trip last?
Approximately 8 hours, from pickup in Bali to drop-off back at your accommodation or the harbor.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

The Manta Point Snorkeling & West Nusa Penida Island Day Tour offers an engaging blend of marine wildlife, scenic vistas, and cultural highlights that make it a compelling day trip. Its affordability, inclusive features, and enthusiastic guides provide excellent value, especially for those eager to capture iconic Bali views and swim with gentle giants.

While it involves some boat rides and a busy schedule, the chance to see manta rays in their natural habitat and experience some of Indonesia’s most famous landscapes makes this tour a strong choice for adventurous travelers. Perfect for nature lovers, Instagram enthusiasts, and anyone craving a memorable, picture-worthy day on Nusa Penida.