Bali Nusa Penida: Private Snorkeling & West Island Tour

Summary

Kelingking cliffs, turquoise lagoons and a private snorkeling boat in Bali’s wildest corner

You’ll ride a fast boat from Bali to Nusa Penida with pickup included, see Kelingking Beach from above, walk along Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach cliffs, then snorkel by private boat at Manta Bay and two other spots—with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment when our driver slows down and points—just with his chin—toward the edge of the cliffs at Kelingking Beach. I’m clutching my water bottle (it’s already warm) and trying to take it all in: that wild curve of rock, green on top, plunging into turquoise. Locals call it the “little finger,” but honestly, it looks more like a dinosaur from above. Our guide grins and offers to take our photo; he knows exactly where to stand for that angle. There are other people here, mostly quiet, just staring out. The wind smells salty and sharp. I didn’t expect to feel so small looking at a beach.

We bounce along rough roads—windows down—and then Angel’s Billabong opens up below us: a lagoon so clear you can see every ripple on the rocks underneath. The story goes that angels used to bathe here (I tried asking how you’d know if you saw one; our guide just laughed). Sometimes you can go down to the water, sometimes not—depends how wild the sea is feeling that day. Broken Beach is next, with its weird archway carved by some ancient landslide. You can’t swim there but watching the waves crash through that hole is strangely soothing. I kept thinking about how old everything must be.

After lunch (spicy chicken, sweet tea—simple but perfect), we climb onto a small boat for the private snorkeling part of this Nusa Penida tour. The captain says something about luck as we head for Manta Bay. Everyone’s scanning the water for those giant shadows—sometimes they show up, sometimes not. Today we spot one gliding below us; it looks impossibly calm. I get a mouthful of saltwater trying to follow it (not graceful). Gamat Bay is next: corals everywhere, tiny fish darting past my mask. At Wall Point there’s just this silence underwater except for my own bubbles and flashes of color everywhere—honestly, I lost track of time.

I still think about that first glimpse from above Kelingking, or that cold shock slipping into the bay after lunch. It’s not always perfect—the weather changes fast out here—but maybe that’s why it sticks with me so much.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nusa Penida sightseeing and snorkeling

• Visit Kelingking Beach viewpoint
• Explore Angel Billabong lagoon
• See Broken Beach natural arch
• Travel to Manta Bay by boat
• Snorkel at Manta Bay
• Boat to Gamat Bay
• Snorkel at Gamat Bay
• Boat to Wall Bay
• Snorkel at Wall Bay

Top questions

How long does the Bali Nusa Penida day trip take?

The tour lasts one full day including transfers from Bali to Nusa Penida by fast boat and all activities.

Is lunch included in the Bali Nusa Penida snorkeling tour?

Yes, Indonesian food is included for lunch during your day trip.

Can you guarantee seeing manta rays while snorkeling?

No, seeing manta rays depends on weather and season—they live in the wild so sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Are hotel pickups provided for this Nusa Penida tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Bali is included as part of the package.

What snorkeling equipment is provided?

You’ll get fins, mask, life jacket—all equipment needed for snorkeling is included.

How many snorkeling spots are visited?

You’ll snorkel at three main spots: Manta Bay, Gamat Bay, and Wall Point—or alternatives if weather changes.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

How much time do you spend at each snorkeling site?

About 15–20 minutes per spot depending on conditions and safety advice from your instructor.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Bali and return transfers by fast boat to Nusa Penida Island; sightseeing by private car with an English-speaking driver-guide; entry fees; mineral water; Indonesian lunch; plus all taxes and use of private snorkeling boat with professional instructor and full equipment before heading back in the evening.