Manta Rays, the Graceful Giants of Nusa Penida
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being underwater with manta rays. These massive, gentle creatures glide through the ocean with a grace that’s almost hypnotic. Recently, I had the chance to experience this firsthand in Nusa Penida, a beautiful little island just off the coast of Bali. If you’re a diving enthusiast, or even just a lover of marine life, this is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Diving with manta rays is surreal. The first time I spotted one, I was in complete awe. They are huge, with wingspans that can stretch up to 7 meters, yet they move with such elegance. It’s like watching a ballet performance underwater, where the ocean is the stage, and you’re lucky enough to have a front- row seat.
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Before heading to Nusa Penida, I took the Manta Ray Specialty Course with PADI, which was offered at the Aquamarine Dive Center in Seminyak. It’s a half-day theory course that’s packed with fascinating information about these amazing creatures. I learned all about their behavior, biology, and how to interact with them in a way that’s respectful and safe for both divers and the rays. One of the coolest parts was learning to identify individual manta rays by their unique markings. It’s like getting to know these magnificent creatures on a personal level.
TRAVEL
<link to AquaMarine’s Manta Ray Specialty Certification>
Nusa Penida is the top spot for manta ray encounters, especially at the famous Manta Point, with dive sites in its neighboring islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Depending on which island you’re starting from, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour by boat to reach Manta Point. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with stunning views of the islands and the blue ocean stretching out around you.
Once you arrive at Manta Point, the excitement really begins. The waters here are home to a large population of manta rays, and it’s not uncommon to see several at once. As you descend into the water, the anticipation builds. Then, out of the blue, a manta ray appears, gliding effortlessly towards you. It’s a moment that’s hard to describe but impossible to forget. Towards the end of my dive, at the 5m stop during the ascent, I was lucky to see a family of five manta rays swim by.
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Hi, I’m Nitisha. I grew up in a world that told me to follow the script, but somewhere along the way I traded the script for a compass. These days, I follow where my feet and heart lead, from sleepy towns to saltwater coves, capturing stories that feel like home even when I’m far from it.
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<add video of Manta Rays x 5>
In addition to manta rays, Nusa Penida is also famous for another unique marine creature: the Mola Mola, or sunfish. These bizarre-looking fish are huge, with flat bodies that look like they’ve been squished. Mola Molas are typically seen at Crystal Bay, another popular dive site on Nusa Penida. If you’re lucky, and depending on the tides and the season, you might be able to combine a dive at Manta Point with a visit to Crystal Bay on the same day. Spotting both manta rays and a Mola Mola in one trip is a rare and unforgettable experience.
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Back on land, I reflected on my adventure and the importance of manta ray conservation. In Bali and the Nusa Islands, several projects are dedicated to protecting these gentle giants and their habitats.
Organizations like the Manta Trust and the Bali Manta Project are doing incredible work, monitoring manta ray populations, educating locals and tourists, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. It’s good to know that these efforts are helping to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty of these animals just as we do.
<link to Blue Corner Conservation’s Manta Ray Conservation Certification>
So, if you ever find yourself in Bali, make sure to add a trip to Nusa Penida to your itinerary. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting out, the chance to swim with manta rays is something you shouldn’t pass up. And who knows, you might even get to see a Mola Mola while you’re at it.
<link to Top 3 Dive Sites in Tulamben>
Ethical Travel Tip: Keep Your Distance & Don’t Chase the Mantas
Manta rays are gentle, curious animals — but they’re still wild. Always to the side of them, and never touch or chase. Flash photography and r out or alter their natural behavior. Follow your dive guide’s cues and res that’s when the best encounters happen.
Map of Nusa Penida’s Dive & Nature Hotspots
(Add an embedded Google Map with pins for: Manta Point, Crystal Bay, Toya P Point, Gamat Bay, Kelingking Beach, and Atuh Beach.)
Location:
Southeast of mainland Bali, Nusa Penida is part of a trio of islands (with Nusa Lembo Ceningan), known for epic cliffs, pristine waters, world-class diving, and untouched marine ecosystems.
How to Reach Nusa Penida:
- From Sanur or Serangan (Mainland Bali):
Fast boats run daily to Toya Pakeh or Banjar Nyuh ports on Penida. The trip takes 35–45 minutes.
- From Nusa Lembongan or Ceningan:
Small boat transfers operate between islands. You can also book combo dives across multiple islands.
- Tour Packages:
Day trips are available from Seminyak, Sanur, or Ubud, often including dive/snorkel + land highlights like Kelingking and Angel’s Billabong.
Best Time to Visit:
- April to November:
Dry season with calmer seas and clearer visibility — prime time for diving with mantas and spotting Mola Mola (July–October).
- December to March:
Rainy season with occasional rough seas. Some dive sites may be limited depending on the weather and swell.
Ideal Stay:
- 2–4 days is ideal if you want to dive multiple sites, chill at beach cafés, and explore the island’s land highlights like Kelingking, Peguyangan Waterfall, and Thousand Islands Viewpoint.
Hidden Gems for Divers & Photographers:
- Manta Point (South):
Massive limestone cliffs surround this cleaning station where mantas glide like underwater kites.
- Crystal Bay (West):
Famous for deep dives and possible Mola Mola sightings — stunning visibility and dramatic terrain.
- Blue Corner (North Lembongan):
Drift diving paradise — watch out for strong currents but incredible pelagic encounters.
- SD Point:
A colorful coral slope often overlooked, but packed with reef life and stunning textures fo photographers.
Top Dive Experiences:
- Manta Point Dive:
Expect 15–25m depth, surge, and dramatic topography. Most dives stay from boats only.
- Crystal Bay Dive:
Known for its thermoclines, dramatic drops, and elusive Mola Mola conditions.
- Night Dive at Toyapakeh or PED:
Available on request — spot sleeping parrotfish, hunting lionfish, and bioluminescence.
Beyond Diving: Land Highlights in Nusa Penida:
- Kelingking Beach:
The “T-Rex” cliff — incredible at sunset, though the hike down is steep and slippery.
- Peguyangan Waterfall:
Blue stairway hike along a cliff to a tiny temple and spring overlooking the ocean.
- Atuh & Diamond Beaches:
Postcard-perfect — turquoise coves with white sand framed by dramatic cliffs.
- Rumah Pohon Treehouse:
Stay or just take photos from the famous viewpoint overlooking the Thousand Islands.
Pro Travel Tips:
- Bring Motion Sickness Tablets:
The boat ride to Manta Point can get bumpy, especially early morning. Be prepared.
- Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen:
Protect marine life from chemical harm — even if you’re not diving, it matters.
- Dive Insurance Recommended:
Currents can be strong, and Nusa Penida’s terrain is advanced. Ensure your dive insurance covers emergency evacuations.
- Pack Light But Smart:
Bring a windbreaker for boat rides, a dry bag, and dive essentials like a mask, logbook, and reef hook (if advised).
- Stay Hydrated + Well-Fueled:
Diving is physically demanding — bring water, light snacks, and avoid alcohol the night before.
- Book in Advance During Peak Season:
Dive shops fill up quickly from June to September — especially for Manta Point + Mola Mola combo dives.
Bonus Tip:
Download the Manta Matcher app or visit the Manta Trust site post-dive — you can upload your manta photos to help researchers track individuals and contribute to conservation efforts.
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Hi, I’m Nitisha. I grew up in a world that told me to follow the script, but somewhere along the way I traded the script for a compass. These days, I follow where my feet and heart lead, from sleepy towns to saltwater coves, capturing stories that feel like home even when I’m far from it.
