Nusa Penida: Snorkeling with Manta Rays and Island Tour

If you’re dreaming of a mix of underwater wonder and breathtaking island landscapes, a tour of Nusa Penida might just be your perfect adventure. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the rave reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it offers a balanced blend of marine excitement and iconic sightseeing.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to swim with manta rays at Manta Point—a magical experience for snorkelers. Second, the visit to well-known must-see beaches and viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong, which are picture-perfect. Lastly, the expert guides and smooth logistics make it a hassle-free day that delivers genuine value.

A potential consideration? The tour involves a full day of activities, including snorkeling, sightseeing, and some walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in water and on their feet. For travelers craving both marine life encounters and scenic photo ops, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for those who love guided experiences that pack in variety without feeling rushed.

Good To Know

• Underwater encounters: Swim with manta rays and explore vibrant coral reefs at Gamat Bay.
• Iconic sights: Visit Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach for unforgettable views.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Nusa Penida streamline your planning.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Aska enhance the experience with local insights.
• All equipment included: Snorkeling gear and instructions are provided, making it accessible.
• Flexible timing: Ranges from 4 to 9 hours, so you can choose a shorter or longer day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Booking and What to Expect

This Nusa Penida tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive day out. Booking is flexible—reservations can be made with the option to pay later, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is offered in English, which makes it accessible for most travelers. Expect to be picked up from your hotel in Nusa Penida, making the whole process seamless.

The duration varies between 4 to 9 hours depending on your chosen start time and pace, but most tours include roughly 2 hours of snorkeling, sightseeing, and some free time to soak in the views.

Morning: Snorkeling at Manta Point and Gamat Bay

The day begins with a hotel pickup, followed by a scenic drive to the snorkeling spots. The first stop is Manta Point—a highlight for many. As one reviewer noted, the guides emphasize that manta rays are wild animals, so sightings can’t be guaranteed. Fortunately, many guests, including Allison from the US, report seeing them during their trip. Expect approximately 40 minutes of snorkeling at Manta Point, where you can marvel at these gentle giants gliding past.

Following Manta Point, the tour heads to Gamat Bay, a vibrant coral reef area teeming with colorful fish. Here, you’ll enjoy about 20 minutes exploring and swimming among the marine life. The clarity of the water and the abundance of tropical fish make it a visual feast. Reviewers mention how the gear was provided and instructions were clear, making it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers.

Midday: Lunch and Scenic Sightseeing

After working up an appetite, most tours include a lunch break—often at a local spot recommended by guides like Aska. Guests praise the food as delicious, adding a satisfying pause in the day’s activity. This is a great chance to relax, chat with your group, and prepare for the afternoon sightseeing.

Post-lunch, the tour shifts to the island’s iconic viewpoints and beaches. The first stop is Angel’s Billabong, where you’ll snap photos of the natural infinity pool and enjoy some guided visits. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore, take pictures, and soak in the scenery.

Next, the group visits Broken Beach (also called Pasih Uug Beach), an impressive natural archway that looks like a scene from a fantasy film. Here, you’ll also have about 30 minutes for photos and walks, with guides sharing insights about the geological formations.

Afternoon: Kelingking Beach and Final Exploration

Depending on time, your guide might take you to Kelingking Beach, famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff and stunning views. While swimming here isn’t part of the standard itinerary, the viewpoint alone is worth the visit. Some guides and reviews mention that these spots are also great for brief walks and photos, making it perfect for travelers seeking a quick but memorable stop.

By the end of the day, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel or your preferred location, feeling satisfied with a full day of adventure.

When considering the value of this snorkeling and island tour, it’s clear that it offers a lot for the price. The inclusion of all snorkeling gear, the expert guidance, and the well-planned itinerary save you the hassle of organizing transport and activities independently. Plus, the chance to see manta rays—a bucket-list marine experience—is a core highlight.

The tour’s flexibility, with options to skip longer durations or customize your day, makes it adaptable. The group size tends to be small to medium, creating a more personal experience, and the guides, like Aska, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of marine life, scenic viewpoints, and cultural highlights will find this tour suits their interests perfectly. It’s also great for those who appreciate guided experiences that combine logistics, local insights, and memorable photo spots in one package.

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Practical Tips

• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat—the sun can be strong, especially during snorkeling.
• Wear comfortable water shoes if you plan to explore the beaches or walk around the viewpoints.
• Bring a change of clothes for after snorkeling; the tour involves getting in and out of the water.
• Prepare for a full day—the activities include some walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.

This trip is a fantastic option for adventurous travelers who want a mix of marine life and island scenery without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. It’s suitable for non-swimmers with some water confidence, as gear and instructions are provided.

However, it’s less ideal for children under 10, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness, as the water activities and boat rides can be challenging. Travelers looking for a relaxed beach day might prefer a less active excursion, but for those eager to pack their day with diverse experiences, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Those who value guidance and local insights will appreciate guides like Aska, whose friendly demeanor and knowledge elevate the experience beyond just snorkeling and sightseeing.

This Nusa Penida snorkeling and island tour offers a well-rounded day packed with marine encounters, iconic vistas, and local charm. The opportunity to swim with manta rays, combined with visits to famous beaches and viewpoints, makes it a versatile choice for many travelers. The inclusion of hotel pickup, all gear, and professional guiding ensures you’re well taken care of, making it easy to focus on enjoying your day.

If you’re after a memorable adventure that balances underwater magic with scenic beauty, this tour delivers on both fronts. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided, hassle-free experience that maximizes their time on the island.

For travelers who love authentic, well-organized excursions that offer genuine moments of awe and photo-worthy vistas, this Nusa Penida tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to see the best of the island’s natural wonders with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

What is included in the tour?
Snorkeling gear and instructions are provided, along with hotel pickup and drop-off in Nusa Penida. Lunch and bottled water are typically included as well.

How long is the snorkeling?
The snorkeling at Manta Point lasts about 40 minutes, and at Gamat Bay around 20 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the marine life.

Can I see manta rays?
While sightings can’t be guaranteed since they are wild animals, many guests, including those in reviews, report seeing manta rays during their trip.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Wearing water shoes is also recommended for exploring beaches and viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 or for travelers with back problems or seasickness. Participants should feel comfortable in water.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
The tour primarily focuses on snorkeling and sightseeing. If you prefer less water activity, you might want to check alternative tours or discuss options with the provider.

How flexible is the timing?
The tour duration varies from 4 to 9 hours, allowing you to choose a shorter or longer experience depending on your preference.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This excursion offers a compelling way to experience the highlights of Nusa Penida in a single day—combining marine adventures with iconic landscapes. Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to see manta rays or a fan of scenic vistas, this tour makes it all accessible and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby