Snorkeling & Diving Guide in Bali: Best Spots, Prices & How to Save

Bali isn't only about beaches and temples. Beneath its surface hide World War II shipwrecks, vertical coral walls, and manta rays the size of a car. Whether you're a beginner wanting to try snorkeling or a certified diver, this guide rounds up the best spots along with prices and tips to keep your underwater holiday affordable.

Best Snorkeling & Diving Spots

• Menjangan Island (West Bali National Park) — The calmest, clearest water in Bali with spectacular wall diving. Great for beginners thanks to minimal current. Access via Labuhan Lalang; you'll need a boat and a national park ticket.
• Amed & Japanese Shipwreck — A paradise for shore diving and snorkeling: just walk in from the beach. The Japanese wreck at Banyuning is shallow and safe for snorkelers.
• Tulamben — USAT Liberty Wreck — A 120-meter US cargo wreck just 30 meters off the beach, starting at only 5 meters deep. One of the easiest wrecks to access in the world.
• Nusa Penida — Manta Point for swimming with mantas year-round, Crystal Bay with crystal-clear water, and the chance to see mola-mola (giant sunfish) in July–October.
• Blue Lagoon, Padangbai — A calm little bay full of colorful fish, ideal for beginners and open water training.

Price Ranges

• Snorkeling trip: around Rp250,000–500,000 per person (gear and boat included).
• Fun dive (certified divers): around Rp600,000–1,200,000 for 1–2 dives, depending on location and gear rental.
• Open Water course (PADI/SSI): around Rp5,000,000–7,000,000, usually 3–4 days including certification.

Saving tip: book multi-dive packages, go in a group, and reserve directly with local operators in Amed or Tulamben, who are often cheaper than agents in Kuta.

Best Season & Preparation

The dry season (April–October) gives the best visibility and calmest seas. For mola-mola, target July–October. What to bring: swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, spare goggles, drinking water, and cash for entrance tickets or parking.

Beginner Tips & Safety

• Always choose PADI or SSI licensed operators with certified instructors — check reviews and equipment condition.
• Never dive or snorkel alone; use the buddy system.
• Beginners should start in calm water like Blue Lagoon or Menjangan before trying current-prone spots like Nusa Penida.
• Don't touch coral or marine life, and wait at least 18–24 hours after diving before flying.
• Make sure you're well rested and never dive while ill or hungover.

Many of the best spots are in East and North Bali like Amed, Tulamben, and Padangbai — staying near the dive sites makes early-morning dives (when the water is clearest) far easier. Book a hotel voucher through AccessiaPass for a strategic stay near the dive points at a great price, leaving more budget for extra dives. Plan your Bali underwater adventure now and lock in the best stay with AccessiaPass!