Bali Snorkelling Spots You Can Reach by Scooter
By the SiapPergi Editorial Team · Published 13 October 2026 · 7 min read
Bali isn't just waves for surfers. On the east and north coasts you can enjoy coral reefs and shipwrecks just a few metres from the beach. Many of these spots are actually best reached by scooter: you can stop in fishing villages, arrive before the tour groups and switch spots whenever you like. Here are the spots most worth visiting, how to get there and what to watch out for.
Snorkelling spots at a glance
| Spot | Access | Approx. from south Bali | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amed (Jemeluk, Lipah) | From the beach | ±2.5–3 hours | Coral and fish, fairly calm water in the morning |
| Tulamben | From a rocky beach | ±2.5–3 hours | USAT Liberty shipwreck close to shore |
| Blue Lagoon, Padang Bai | From a small beach | ±1.5 hours | Quick snorkel, close to the harbour |
| Pemuteran | From the beach | ±3.5–4 hours | Coral reefs and conservation projects |
| Menjangan Island | Boat from Labuan Lalang | ±4 hours to the boat point | Famous coral walls |
| Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida | From the beach (boat crossing needed) | Boat from Sanur | Clear bay; watch for currents outside the bay |
Ride times are estimates outside rush hour. For anything over 2 hours, consider staying near the spot. Area guides: riding in Amed & Karangasem, scooter rental in Pemuteran and scooter rental in Candidasa & Padangbai.
Amed and Tulamben
The Amed coast stretches across several small bays with fishing villages and colourful jukung (traditional outrigger boats). At some points, such as Jemeluk, you can reach the reef straight from the beach. About 20–30 minutes north, Tulamben is famous for the USAT Liberty shipwreck lying not far off its rocky beach. Wear water shoes because the beach is rocky, and arrive early before the dive groups get busy.
Blue Lagoon, Padang Bai
This small bay near Padang Bai harbour is good for a short snorkel, for example while waiting for a boat to Lombok or the Gilis. Conditions can change quickly; keep an eye on the waves and boat traffic.
Pemuteran and Menjangan
In north-west Bali, Pemuteran is known for reefs close to shore and a quiet village atmosphere. Menjangan Island, part of West Bali National Park, is reached by boat from Labuan Lalang or on a package from Pemuteran. It's a long ride from south Bali, so plan at least one night.
Carrying gear on a scooter
- Put your mask, snorkel and towel in a backpack, not hanging from the handlebars.
- Fins can be rented on site — easier than carrying them on the scooter.
- Bring a dry bag for your phone and wallet; don't leave valuables under the seat while you're swimming.
- Pack dry clothes; riding a long way in wet clothes makes you tired and cold.
Safety in the water
- Never snorkel alone, and tell a friend on shore where you're swimming.
- Watch out for currents, especially outside the bays. If you're pulled away, swim parallel to the shore, not against the current.
- Don't stand on or touch the coral — it's easily damaged and some can cut you.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen or a rash guard to protect your skin.
After snorkelling, rest and drink water before riding back. Fatigue and dehydration reduce your concentration on the road.
When is the best time?
The water is usually clearest in the dry season, roughly April to October, and in the morning before the wind picks up. The rainy season can make the water murky near river mouths. Month-by-month weather is in the best time to ride a scooter in Bali.
Which scooter to choose
For long rides to Amed, Tulamben or Pemuteran, choose a 125–160cc automatic or a maxi scooter that stays comfortable for hours, especially with a passenger. Compare models in the best scooters for touring Bali and see estimated prices on scooter rental.
Ready to rent a scooter?
See estimated prices by area & model, then book on WhatsApp — the final price is confirmed before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the best snorkelling spots in Bali you can reach by scooter?
Amed (Jemeluk), Tulamben, Blue Lagoon Padang Bai and Pemuteran are accessible from the beach. Menjangan and Crystal Bay need a boat.
How long does it take from Kuta to Amed by scooter?
About 2.5–3 hours outside rush hour. It's more comfortable to spend a night in Amed than to do a day trip.
When is the best time to snorkel in Bali?
Generally the dry season, around April–October, in the morning when the water is calmer and clearer.
Is it safe to leave things on your scooter while snorkelling?
It's not recommended. Keep valuables in a dry bag or leave them somewhere supervised.
This article follows the SiapPergi editorial policy: facts are checked, prices are given as ranges, and mistakes are corrected. Spotted something wrong? Report a correction.