The Ultimate Guide to Snorkeling and Diving in Bali This March

Bali is a diver’s paradise, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, the island is a dream destination for underwater enthusiasts. March is a great time to explore Bali’s underwater world, with warm waters, fewer crowds, and excellent marine visibility in many locations.

Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner looking to snorkel for the first time, this guide will take you through the best snorkeling and diving spots in Bali this March, along with essential tips for an unforgettable experience.

1. Why March is a Great Time for Snorkeling and Diving in Bali

March is the tail end of Bali’s rainy season, meaning that while there may still be occasional tropical showers, the sea remains warm and marine visibility is still excellent in most locations. The waters around Nusa Penida, Amed, and Menjangan Island are particularly clear, making them ideal for snorkeling and diving.

What to Expect for Snorkeling and Diving in March:

• Water Temperature: 27-30°C, perfect for diving without a wetsuit.
• Visibility: Ranges from 15-30 meters, depending on the location.
• Marine Life: Excellent chance of spotting manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, and colorful coral reefs.
• Weather Conditions: Mostly sunny with some light rain, but underwater visibility remains good.

Local Tip: Mornings usually have the best conditions for snorkeling and diving, as the waters are calmer and clearer.

2. Best Snorkeling Spots in Bali for March

A. Nusa Penida – Swim with Manta Rays

If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling experience, Nusa Penida is the best place to swim with giant manta rays. Manta Point is famous for large, graceful manta rays gliding through the waters, often in groups.

Best Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida:

• Manta Point – Best place to snorkel with giant manta rays in open waters.
• Crystal Bay – Clear waters and colorful reefs, perfect for spotting tropical fish.
• Gamat Bay – A less crowded site with thriving marine life and coral formations.

Why Snorkel Here?

• One of the best places in the world to see manta rays up close.
• Great underwater visibility even in March.
• Easy access from Bali via speedboat.

Local Tip: Book a guided snorkeling tour, as manta rays are often found in deep, open waters.

B. Amed – Relaxed Snorkeling with Stunning Coral Reefs

Amed is a quiet coastal village in East Bali, known for its beautiful coral gardens and rich marine biodiversity. The waters here are calm, making it perfect for beginner snorkelers.

Best Snorkeling Spots in Amed:

• Jemeluk Bay – One of the best coral gardens in Bali, filled with colorful fish.
• Lipah Beach – Calm waters and vibrant reefs, perfect for beginners.
• Japanese Shipwreck – A small sunken ship covered in coral, easily accessible from the shore.

Why Snorkel Here?

• Less crowded than other Bali snorkeling spots.
• Shallow waters with abundant marine life.
• Ideal for families and beginners.

Local Tip: Snorkel early in the morning when the waters are calmest and clearest.

C. Menjangan Island – Bali’s Hidden Snorkeling Paradise

Located in West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is one of the most pristine snorkeling destinations in Bali. Known for its incredible coral walls and crystal-clear waters, it is a must-visit for those who love untouched marine environments.

Best Snorkeling Spots in Menjangan Island:

• The Coral Garden – A shallow reef with vibrant corals and tropical fish.
• Eel Garden – Home to hundreds of garden eels and beautiful coral structures.

Why Snorkel Here?

• Best coral reef preservation in Bali.
• Less touristy, offering a peaceful snorkeling experience.
• Clear visibility even during the rainy season.

Local Tip: Since Menjangan is part of a protected marine park, you will need to book a boat tour with a local guide.

3. Best Diving Spots in Bali for March

A. Tulamben – Explore the Famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck

One of the best dive sites in Bali, Tulamben is home to the famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck, a sunken World War II cargo ship now covered in coral and marine life. This easy shore dive is perfect for both beginners and experienced divers.

Why Dive Here?

• One of the most accessible wreck dives in the world.
• Tons of marine life, including turtles, barracudas, and reef sharks.
• Great visibility and mild currents, making it beginner-friendly.

Local Tip: Try a night dive at Tulamben, where you can see bioluminescent plankton.

B. Nusa Penida – Drift Diving with Mola-Mola and Manta Rays

For experienced divers, Nusa Penida offers some of Bali’s most thrilling dive sites. Crystal Bay and Manta Point are famous for their large marine species, including manta rays and the rare Mola-Mola (sunfish).

Why Dive Here?

• One of the best places in Bali to see large pelagic species.
• Crystal-clear waters and exciting drift dives.
• Opportunity to see manta rays and even sharks.

Local Tip: Currents can be strong, so this dive is best suited for experienced divers.

C. Padang Bai – A Great Mix of Macro Life and Reef Diving

Padang Bai is a diverse dive spot offering both easy reef dives and macro diving opportunities. It is perfect for those who love colorful reefs, small critters, and occasional sightings of larger marine species.

Why Dive Here?

• Great for both beginner and advanced divers.
• A mix of shallow reefs and deeper dive sites.
• Famous for its macro photography opportunities.

Local Tip: Try the Blue Lagoon dive site, known for its vibrant coral gardens and schools of tropical fish.

4. Essential Tips for Snorkeling and Diving in Bali This March

• Book a guided tour if you are unfamiliar with the area, especially in open waters like Nusa Penida.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect Bali’s fragile coral ecosystems.
• Check weather and tide conditions before heading out, as some locations may have strong currents.
• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer a comfortable fit, although most tour operators provide high-quality equipment.
• Respect marine life by avoiding touching corals and disturbing sea creatures.

Is March a Good Time for Snorkeling and Diving in Bali?

Absolutely. March offers warm waters, great visibility, and excellent opportunities to see marine life, making it a fantastic month for underwater adventures. Whether you prefer snorkeling with manta rays in Nusa Penida or diving into shipwrecks in Tulamben, there is something for every ocean lover in Bali.

Plan your snorkeling and diving adventure in Bali this March with Bali Gate Tours, and explore the island’s most stunning underwater worlds.