Manta Bay — Attraction in Bali

Very mixed feeling about our trip to Nusa Penida. We came mainly to see Manta (knowing they are wild animal and free) but there were no manta on May 12th, 13th and 14th and it seems like none the week after either. We did a group trip first which was ok but no manta and a lot of boats everywhere. The snorkelling was no way near as good as in West Bali park, or Gili islands. Because our friends saw some very early in the morning 5 years ago, we decided to do a private boat trip the next day at 6.30am before everyone arrives. We organised with our hotel and double check it was ok and safe. When the guide arrived, he was quite impolite and took us when there were a lot of waves. We were quite scared some moments. We were 4 boats on the bay, but waves were so big they were no way we could see any manta. Later, the guy told me on the boat he was lazy to go when he saw the waves because he knew we would never see any. But instead of telling us, he took us and charged 1 million to go in the waves and see nothing… We didn’t see any plastic because the waves had been so strong, it was washed away. But when I see reviews and pictures of all this plastic around the manta I am impressed and not in a good way… I wish I had changed this island to visit another part of Bali to be honest. The rest is nice, but cliffs everywhere so beaches are too dangerous and you can’t really swim, or if you do, it’s...

I was apprehensive booking a Nusa snorkelling trip after seeing the reviews of manta bay. However we got to the site at around 3pm with our private snorkelling tour and there was only 1 other boat in the water. The swell looked huge however after we got in it was fine, the visibility was very clear and there was no plastic at all - not sure if this was due to the tide.

Someone in our party had never been snorkelling before and was not a strong swimmer. However our guide had a lifebuoy that my friend was holding onto whilst snorkelling and the guide was swimming and pulling the buoy along. She had no difficulties and really enjoyed herself.

We didn't see any mantas but saw a turtle and some wild dolphins. Please don't let the reviews put you off booking a snorkelling tour, I think it truly depends on the tide/ what time you...

My experience at Manta Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali, was nothing short of spectacular, and I can’t recommend it enough! The snorkeling here was a highlight, with crystal-clear waters teeming with majestic manta rays gliding gracefully around us. The sheer thrill of swimming alongside these gentle giants was unforgettable. The vibrant marine life and coral added to the magic of the underwater world.

Our guide, Yogi, deserves all the praise for making this adventure so incredible. His expertise in navigating the bay and spotting the mantas ensured we had the best possible experience. Yogi’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and care for our safety made us feel completely at ease, while his passion for the area brought the trip to life. Manta Bay is a must-visit, and with Yogi as your guide, you’re guaranteed an...