The Best Beaches in Bali for Snorkelling

Bali is a beautiful island paradise located in Indonesia, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture. If you’re a fan of snorkelling, you’re in luck! Bali is home to some of the best beach snorkelling spots in the world, with a wide range of marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. In this article, we’ll explore the best beaches in Bali for snorkelling, and what makes each one unique.

But first, let’s take a moment to talk about snorkelling and its benefits. Snorkelling is a great way to explore the underwater world without the need for complicated equipment or certification. It’s an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels, and it’s a great way to get some exercise while on vacation. Snorkelling is also an opportunity to connect with nature and see a world that is often hidden from view.

Now, let’s dive into the top beaches in Bali for snorkelling:

Top view of Amed beach and volcano Agung at sunset. Bali, Indonesia
Top view of Amed beach and volcano Agung at sunset. Bali, Indonesia

Amed Beach

Located in the northeast of Bali, Amed Beach is a hidden gem that is perfect for snorkelling. The beach is known for its calm waters and stunning coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The water visibility is excellent, and you can expect to see a wide range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The best time to visit Amed Beach is between April and October, when the water is at its clearest.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a small island located southeast of Bali and is home to some of the best snorkelling spots in the region. Crystal Bay, located on the west coast of the island, is a popular spot for snorkelling due to its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Manta Point, located on the south coast of the island, is another great spot to see large manta rays up close. The best time to visit Nusa Penida is between July and September, when the water is calm and the visibility is at its best.

Woman with fins and snorkel diving under water
Snorkelling in Bali

Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island is a small island located off the northwest coast of Bali and is part of the West Bali National Park. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. The water visibility is excellent, and you can expect to see a wide range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The best time to visit Menjangan Island is between May and October, when the water is calm and the visibility is at its best.

Padang Bai

Padang Bai is a small fishing village located on the east coast of Bali and is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. The Blue Lagoon, located just off the beach, is a great spot to see a wide range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The water visibility is excellent, and the currents are usually calm, making it an ideal spot for beginners. The best time to visit Padang Bai is between April and November, when the water is at its clearest.

Marak Island, a tropical island near Padang in West Sumatra, Indonesia, Asia
Padang Bai

Tulamben

Tulamben is a small village located on the northeast coast of Bali and is known for its beautiful black sand beach and stunning coral reefs. The USAT Liberty shipwreck, located just off the shore, is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving and is home to a wide range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The water visibility is excellent, and the currents are usually calm, making it an ideal spot for beginners. The best time to visit Tulamben is between April and November, when the water is at its clearest.

Blue Lagoon Beach

Located on the east coast of Bali, Blue Lagoon Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach that is perfect for snorkelling. The water is calm and crystal clear, with excellent visibility, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The beach is also home to a wide variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The best time to visit Blue Lagoon Beach is between April and November, when the water is at its clearest.

Pink Anemonefish off the East Coast of Bali
Pink Anemonefish off the East Coast of Bali

Crystal Bay Beach

Crystal Bay Beach is located on the west coast of Nusa Penida and is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs, making it a great spot to see a wide range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays. The best time to visit Crystal Bay Beach is between April and November, when the water is at its clearest.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a small island located off the northwest coast of Lombok, which is easily accessible from Bali. The island is home to some of the best snorkelling spots in the region, with crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs. You can expect to see a wide range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The best time to visit Gili Trawangan is between April and November, when the water is at its clearest.

The people are snorkeling near the famous place on Gili Meno Island, Indonesia. Aerial view.
The people are snorkeling near the famous place on Gili Meno Island, Indonesia. Aerial view.

Sanur Beach

Sanur Beach is located on the east coast of Bali and is a popular spot for snorkelling due to its calm waters and excellent visibility. The beach is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The best time to visit Sanur Beach is between April and November, when the water is at its clearest.

Bali is a great destination for snorkelling enthusiasts, with a wide range of beaches that offer excellent snorkelling opportunities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, you’ll find plenty of spots to explore and discover the amazing underwater world of Bali. Just remember to check the weather and water conditions before you go, and always snorkel responsibly to protect the marine life and environment. Happy snorkelling!

About the author

An adventurer and theme park enthusiast at heart, Mark specialises in family travel content creation, and is a passionate and award-winning travel writer and videographer.