
From Bali: Snorkeling 3 Spots with GoPro & West Penida Tour
Overview
This full-day snorkeling adventure departs from Ubud — Bali's cultural heartland, located roughly 45 minutes inland — and takes you all the way to the spectacular marine environments surrounding West Nusa Penida, visiting three distinct snorkeling sites and including professional GoPro documentation of your underwater experience. It's an ambitious, comprehensive itinerary that combines long-distance travel, genuine ocean adventure, and high-quality video content in a single booking.
West Penida is home to some of Indonesia's most celebrated underwater landscapes. Manta Point, located off the southwestern tip of Nusa Penida near Pura Batu Mejan, is a world-renowned cleaning station where oceanic manta rays gather to be cleaned by smaller reef fish. Sightings are frequent in the dry season (April–October) and the experience of snorkeling alongside these prehistoric-looking creatures — wingspans reaching 3–5 meters — is genuinely awe-inspiring. The second site typically features pristine coral gardens populated with triggerfish, moorish idols, sea turtles, and schools of fusiliers, while the third often highlights a different reef structure showcasing the diversity of Penida's marine ecosystem in a single day.
The GoPro footage service distinguishes this tour from most Penida snorkeling day trips. An operator-provided camera and underwater videographer (or GoPro mount guidance) captures the action throughout each session, meaning you can focus entirely on the experience rather than trying to manage your own waterproof camera. The resulting footage — delivered same day or within 24 hours — gives you professional-quality content from one of the world's most photogenic dive destinations.
Despite the long distance from Ubud (the drive to the port takes 60–90 minutes), this tour is consistently rated 4.5 stars from 1,989 reviews for good reason: the quality of sites, the inclusion of GoPro footage, a proper lunch, and the professionalism of the guide team justify the full-day commitment. At 600,400 IDR (approximately $38 USD) including all equipment, hotel pickup, lunch, and GoPro service, it's exceptional value for a genuinely world-class snorkeling experience.
Highlights
What's Included
- Snorkeling equipment
- GoPro footage
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup
- Professional guide
What to Bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) to protect coral ecosystems
- Rash guard or lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun and coral protection
- Water shoes or reef shoes for rocky beach entry
- Waterproof bag for personal items and valuables
- Towel and change of clothes for after snorkeling
- Medications (seasickness pills if prone to motion sickness)
- Camera with waterproof case (in addition to GoPro service)
- Hat or visor for sun protection during boat transit
Tips
Book early in your Bali trip to allow time for acclimatization to the ocean conditions; Penida Island waters can be choppier than calmer resort beaches
Request the GoPro footage in advance and confirm file format/delivery method so you receive usable video files after the tour
Wear your rash guard the entire time to minimize sun exposure and coral cuts; the Balinese sun reflects intensely off water
Eat a light breakfast before pickup and avoid heavy meals; some travelers experience mild motion sickness on the 30-45 minute boat ride to Penida
Ask your guide about the specific marine species you'll encounter at each spot (manta rays, reef sharks, turtles) to enhance your underwater experience and photo opportunities
What to Expect
Hotel Pickup from Ubud
Your professional guide picks you up from your Ubud accommodation early in the morning (typically 6:00-7:00 AM). The scenic 1-1.5 hour drive to the port takes you through rice paddies and coastal roads, offering opportunities to see traditional Balinese villages. You'll arrive at the departure port with time to prepare your snorkeling gear and receive a safety briefing.
Boat Transfer to Penida Island
Board a sturdy snorkeling boat for the 30-45 minute journey across the strait to Penida Island. Your guide will point out coastal landmarks and marine life en route. Upon arrival, you'll receive equipment fitting and final instructions before entering the water at the first snorkeling spot.
First Snorkeling Site
Explore the first of three pristine snorkeling locations, typically featuring healthy coral gardens and abundant reef fish. Your guide will stay close by, and the GoPro operator captures your underwater experience. First snorkeling session lasts approximately 45-60 minutes including entry and exit time.
Second Snorkeling Site & Lunch
Travel by boat to the second snorkeling location, continuing your exploration of Penida's marine ecosystem. After this 45-60 minute snorkeling session, return to the boat for a freshly prepared lunch (included in price) featuring local Indonesian dishes and fresh fruit, giving you energy for the final site.
Third Snorkeling Site & West Penida Exploration
Visit the final snorkeling spot, often featuring unique marine characteristics different from the first two sites. Following the snorkeling session, take a brief guided tour of West Penida's landscape, viewing dramatic coastal cliffs and local island features before returning to the boat.
Return to Ubud
Begin your return journey to the mainland, with the boat arriving at the port mid-to-late afternoon. Your guide will arrange transfer back to your Ubud hotel, typically arriving by 5:00-6:00 PM. GoPro footage will be transferred to you (delivery method confirmed during the tour).
Best Time to Go
Visit during Bali's dry season (April-October) when water visibility is clearest (15-25 meters) and sea conditions are calmer, making the boat ride more comfortable. Early departures (6:00-7:00 AM) are preferable to minimize boat traffic and ensure calm morning waters before afternoon winds create chop; aim for tours departing no later than 8:00 AM. Avoid rainy season (November-March) when rough seas and reduced visibility can lead to tour cancellations or shortened snorkeling sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety Information
Penida Island's waters are deeper and can have stronger currents than protected bays—always stay near your guide and within the designated snorkeling area. Wear a brightly colored snorkel vest even if you're a confident swimmer; it increases visibility to boat traffic and provides reassurance. Be aware of sea urchins and stonefish on sandy bottoms; shuffle your feet when entering and exiting water, and wear reef shoes at all times. The boat journey across the strait can create motion sickness; sit in the center of the boat, focus on the horizon, and consider taking seasickness medication 30 minutes before departure. Dehydration occurs quickly in tropical sun and saltwater; drink fresh water regularly even though you're surrounded by ocean. If you have any medical conditions (heart issues, respiratory problems, ear conditions), inform your guide before boarding—they need to assess diving/snorkeling compatibility.
Related Activities
Book This Activity
Book From Bali: Snorkeling 3 Spots with GoPro & West Penida Tour through our trusted partners and get the best prices.


