Manta Point Nusa Penida: Swim with Wild Manta Rays in Bali's Ocean

One of Bali's most unforgettable underwater experiences lies off the southern coast of Nusa Penida. At Manta Point and Manta Bay, you can swim alongside wild reef manta rays whose wingspans can reach 3–4 meters. Unlike many other places, mantas here can be spotted nearly year-round, making it a magnet for divers and snorkelers from around the world.

How to Get to Manta Point

Manta Point sits on the southwestern side of Nusa Penida, near the Kelingking cliffs, and can only be reached by boat. Most visitors join a boat-based snorkeling tour departing from Toyapakeh or Banjar Nyuh harbor on Nusa Penida.

• From Nusa Penida: shared snorkeling tours typically range from IDR 100,000–250,000 per person for several stops, including snorkel gear and a life vest.
• From mainland Bali (Sanur): a full day tour with round-trip fast boat is usually far more expensive, often hundreds of thousands to millions of rupiah depending on the package.
• Manta Bay: a closer alternative with calmer waters than the often rougher Manta Point.

Best Season & Realistic Expectations

Mantas can appear all year because this is their cleaning station and feeding area. Mornings, when the sea is calmer, generally offer the best visibility. Keep in mind these are wild animals, so there is no 100% guarantee; however, the chances of meeting mantas here are among the highest in Bali.

• The sea at Manta Point can be very rough, especially during strong winds.
• If you get seasick easily, Manta Bay is the more comfortable choice.
• Visibility varies; be patient and follow your guide's instructions.

What to Bring & Manta Etiquette

Simple preparation makes the experience far more comfortable and eco-friendly. Manta rays are protected animals, so our behavior in the water matters greatly.

• Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
• Seasickness pills, especially for the rougher route to Manta Point.
• Swimwear, a towel, and drinking water; a rash guard or thin wetsuit if needed.
• Never touch the mantas and keep a distance of several meters.
• Don't block their swimming path, stay calm, and never chase them.

Practical Info & Reservations

• Location (Google Maps): View on Google Maps
• Reservation/access: by boat only. Book a snorkeling tour through local boat operators in Toyapakeh or Banjar Nyuh, Nusa Penida, or take a day tour from Sanur.
• Price: shared snorkeling tours from Penida ~IDR 100,000–250,000 per person; day tours from mainland Bali are higher.
• Best time: mornings when the sea is calmer, year-round.
• Instagram: search on Instagram

After a full day chasing mantas at sea, a comfortable rest makes the adventure complete. You can book a Bali hotel staycation voucher through AccessiaPass to relax before or after crossing to Nusa Penida.