Snorkelling in Bali: Top Spots, Tours & Aerial Adventures

Bali is a snorkeller’s paradise, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich diversity of marine life. From the calm, turtle-filled waters of Blue Lagoon to the thrilling encounters with manta rays at Nusa Penida, Bali has something for everyone — beginners, non-swimmers, and seasoned snorkellers alike. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly shallow bays, hidden coves, or the best snorkelling spots in Bali for underwater photography, the island promises unforgettable experiences.

What makes it even more special? Many of Bali’s top snorkelling destinations can be reached via helicopter transfers, providing breathtaking aerial views of turquoise waters, dramatic coastlines, and remote reefs. Our snorkelling tours in Bali with helicopter access turn a regular day trip into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, combining the thrill of flight with the serenity of the ocean below.

Why Bali Is Perfect for Snorkelling

Bali sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions on the planet. Its warm, clear waters, sheltered bays, and abundant coral reefs make it ideal for snorkelling. Here, you can spot turtles gliding through shallow lagoons, schools of tropical fish in vibrant coral gardens, and the occasional reef shark patrolling the deeper areas.

The island is perfect for snorkellers of all levels. Beginners and non-swimmers can enjoy calm, shallow spots such as Blue Lagoon or Amed, while more adventurous snorkellers can explore Nusa Penida or Menjangan Island for dramatic reefs and encounters with manta rays. With options across the north, south, and east coasts, Bali offers some of the best snorkelling in Bali, combining easy access, stunning scenery, and unforgettable marine experiences.

How Helicopter Transfers Enhance Your Snorkelling Experience

Reaching Bali’s most stunning snorkelling spots can sometimes mean long drives or boat trips. With helicopter transfers, the journey becomes part of the adventure. Soaring above Bali’s turquoise waters, lush coastlines, and volcanic landscapes offers breathtaking views before you even hit the ocean.

Helicopter access allows snorkellers to reach remote and less crowded locations, like Nusa Penida or Secret Bay, quickly and comfortably. This not only saves time but also maximises your underwater exploration. Our snorkelling tours in Bali combined with aerial transfers turn ordinary trips into extraordinary experiences, creating unforgettable memories both above and below the water.

How to Choose the Best Snorkelling Spot in Bali

With so many snorkelling locations across Bali, choosing the right spot can be overwhelming. Start by considering your experience level and comfort in the water. Beginners and non-swimmers should focus on calm, shallow areas like Blue Lagoon or Amed, where gentle waves and clear visibility create a safe and enjoyable environment.

For more experienced snorkellers, sites like Nusa Penida, Menjangan Island, and Secret Bay offer dramatic coral walls, abundant marine life, and encounters with manta rays. Other factors to consider include water clarity, tides, currents, and the type of marine creatures you want to see. Accessibility is also key — many remote locations can be reached more efficiently via helicopter transfers, ensuring you spend less time travelling and more time exploring Bali’s incredible underwater world.

Top Snorkelling Spots in Bali

Blue Lagoon, Padangbai

Blue Lagoon is a calm, shallow bay ideal for beginners and non-swimmers. The coral gardens are vibrant, and turtles often glide through the clear waters.

Practical Info

• Depth: 1–10 meters
  
• Best time to snorkel: April to October
  
• Accessibility: Shore dive; also reachable via helicopter transfer
  
• Tips: Bring fins and a reef-safe sunscreen; morning visits have the best visibility
  
  

Nusa Penida (Crystal Bay, Manta Bay, GT Bay)

Nusa Penida offers dramatic underwater landscapes, including coral walls, reefs, and cleaning stations for manta rays. Best suited for confident snorkellers due to currents.

Practical Info

• Depth: 5–20 meters
  
• Best time to snorkel: April to October
  
• Accessibility: Boat or helicopter transfer for quick, scenic access
  
• Tips: Go with a guide; consider a life jacket if currents are strong
  
  

Menjangan Island

Part of Bali Barat National Park, Menjangan Island features pristine reefs, abundant fish, and turtles. Calm waters make it suitable for most snorkellers.

Practical Info

• Depth: 2–15 meters
  
• Best time to snorkel: April to November
  
• Accessibility: Boat or helicopter transfer
  
• Tips: Morning dives offer clearer visibility; take underwater photography gear
  
  

Amed

Amed is known for gentle currents, coral gardens, and wrecks. Perfect for beginners and those who prefer shallow, safe waters.

Practical Info

• Depth: 1–12 meters
  
• Best time to snorkel: April to October
  
• Accessibility: Shore dive or helicopter transfer
  
• Tips: Ideal for family trips and non-swimmers; bring a mask and snorkel
  
  

Padang Bai (Secret Bay)

A secluded bay with calm waters, colorful reefs, and diverse marine life. Less crowded and great for beginners.

Practical Info

• Depth: 1–10 meters
  
• Best time to snorkel: Year-round
  
• Accessibility: Boat or helicopter transfer
  
• Tips: Best in the morning; excellent for underwater photography
  
  

Secret Bay, Gilimanuk

A hidden gem offering shallow, quiet waters, perfect for those new to snorkelling or wanting a peaceful experience.

Practical Info

• Depth: 1–8 meters
  
• Best time to snorkel: April to September
  
• Accessibility: Shore dive; helicopter transfers available
  
• Tips: Bring a lightweight floatation device if needed; ideal for non-swimmers

Snorkelling in South Bali

South Bali offers a variety of snorkelling options, combining easy access with stunning marine life. Popular spots include Nusa Dua, Jimbaran Bay, and Uluwatu, where calm lagoons, vibrant coral gardens, and clear waters make it ideal for both beginners and more experienced snorkellers.

These locations are perfect for short day trips, offering family-friendly conditions and opportunities for underwater photography. For those seeking a truly unique experience, many of these sites are accessible via helicopter transfers, allowing snorkellers to skip traffic, enjoy aerial views of Bali’s dramatic coastline, and reach remote reefs quickly. Whether you’re after shallow bays for a relaxed snorkel or more adventurous reefs in South Bali, these sites provide some of the best places in Bali for snorkelling.

Snorkelling Tours in Bali

Bali offers a wide variety of snorkelling tours to suit every type of traveller. Half-day or full-day trips cover calm beginner-friendly sites like Blue Lagoon or Amed, while multi-day tours combine Nusa Penida, Menjangan Island, and secret bays for more adventurous snorkellers.

Many tours now include helicopter transfers, providing quick and scenic access to remote snorkelling spots, avoiding long drives or crowded boats. Packages typically include experienced guides, snorkelling gear, safety briefings, and sometimes additional activities such as beach visits or sunset views. Whether you’re a first-timer, a non-swimmer, or an experienced snorkeller, these tours allow you to experience the best snorkelling spots in Bali effortlessly and safely.

Tips for Non-Swimmers

Bali is perfect for snorkellers of all levels, including non-swimmers. Choose shallow, calm bays like Blue Lagoon, Amed, or Secret Bay, where the water is clear and waves are gentle. Using a life jacket or floatation device adds confidence and safety, allowing you to enjoy marine life without worry.

Always snorkel with a buddy or guide, follow instructions carefully, and stay within designated safe zones. Many tours provide professional support and even helicopter transfers to remote sites, making it easy for non-swimmers to access pristine reefs while minimizing travel stress. With the right precautions, non-swimmers can experience Bali’s underwater wonders just as fully as experienced snorkellers.

Best Time & Seasons for Snorkelling

Bali offers snorkelling opportunities year-round, but conditions vary by season. The dry season from April to October provides calm seas, excellent visibility, and minimal rainfall, making it the ideal period for exploring reefs, lagoons, and remote snorkelling spots. This is also the best time to see manta rays at Nusa Penida or enjoy vibrant coral gardens at Menjangan Island.

The wet season (November to March) brings occasional rain and stronger currents, especially on the east coast. While some sites may be less accessible, snorkelling can still be enjoyable in protected bays. Helicopter transfers offer an added advantage, allowing snorkellers to reach secluded locations safely and efficiently regardless of season, ensuring the best possible underwater experience.

What to Bring & Safety Tips

Proper preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable snorkelling experience in Bali. Essential gear includes a well-fitted mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit appropriate for the water temperature. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Always snorkel with a buddy or guide, follow local safety instructions, and pay attention to currents and tides. For non-swimmers or beginners, use a life jacket or floatation device. For remote or less accessible sites, consider helicopter transfers, which reduce travel time, minimize fatigue, and ensure quick access to pristine reefs. By preparing properly, snorkellers can safely enjoy Bali’s stunning marine life and vibrant coral gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel in Bali?
No, many sites are calm and suitable for beginners or non-swimmers. Life jackets are available.

2. When is the best time to snorkel?
April to October offers calm seas, clear visibility, and ideal conditions for coral and marine life.

3. Can I combine multiple snorkelling spots in one day?
Yes, multi-site tours or helicopter transfers make visiting remote spots fast and convenient.

4. Are snorkelling tours suitable for families?
Absolutely — shallow bays like Blue Lagoon or Amed are perfect for kids and non-swimmers.

5. What equipment should I bring?
Mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, and reef-safe sunscreen. Gear can also be rented from local providers.

6. Are helicopter transfers safe?
Yes, licensed helicopter services provide a safe, comfortable, and scenic route to remote snorkelling locations.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Bali offers some of the best snorkelling spots in the world, from vibrant coral reefs to calm bays and encounters with turtles and manta rays. Whether you’re a beginner, non-swimmer, or experienced snorkeller, the island has something unforgettable for everyone. Make your adventure truly extraordinary by combining your snorkelling trip with helicopter transfers, providing stunning aerial views and quick access to remote locations. Book your Bali snorkelling tour today and experience the magic beneath the waves!

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