Introduction to Manta Point, Nusa Penida

Manta Point is one of the most famous dive sites in Nusa Penida, Bali. This spectacular location offers divers and snorkelers the unique opportunity to swim alongside majestic manta rays in their natural habitat. These gentle giants are frequently seen gliding through the crystal-clear waters, often gathering around cleaning stations where small reef fish remove parasites from their bodies.

But Manta Point is not just about manta rays! This dive site also boasts an abundance of marine life, including reef sharks, bamboo sharks, blue-spotted stingrays, and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, Manta Point offers an unforgettable experience.

What to Expect at Manta Point

The Dive Experience

Diving at Manta Point begins on a sandy seabed leading to the first cleaning station, where manta rays gather. As divers move through the site, they often travel across a vibrant coral plateau before reaching a second cleaning station. This area is teeming with marine biodiversity, including reef sharks, such as bamboo sharks, and schools of trevally.

A little further from the cleaning stations, underwater rock formations and caves offer excellent exploration opportunities. This area is also home to various species of nudibranchs, porcelain crabs, Zanzibar shrimps, and even the occasional eagle ray or marble ray. At the end of this area, there is a wall going down to 40 meters. If you are lucky, you can even see some elusive creatures like the Mola Mola (ocean sunfish) or a whale shark.

Snorkeling at Manta Point vs. Manta Bay

While snorkeling is possible at Manta Point, most snorkeling trips take visitors to Manta Bay, a shallower site near Broken Beach. The main advantage of Manta Bay is its proximity to Toyapakeh or Crystal Bay. The boat trip to reach Manta Bay is faster and cheaper, but the chance to see a Manta is much smaller. Moreover, it can be quite crowded, with multiple boats and snorkelers competing for a glimpse of the mantas. Not the best experience.

Snorkeling at Manta Point, on the other hand, offers a more serene experience. The mantas gather around the cleaning station, which means the boats don’t need to run after them. Also, both captains and snorkelers are usually more respectful of the Mantas because there is less rush. However, since the site is more exposed to ocean currents and swells, it is recommended to go with an experienced guide to ensure safety.

What is a Manta Ray Cleaning Station?

Manta rays frequently visit specific coral structures known as cleaning stations. These are natural formations where cleaner fish, such as wrasses, remove bacteria and parasites from the mantas’ skin. In addition to getting cleaned, manta rays also feed on the abundant plankton in the area, making these stations an excellent spot to observe their graceful movements up close.

Guidelines when swimming or diving at Manta Point

When snorkeling or diving with manta rays at the cleaning station, it is essential to follow strict guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful encounter. First, avoid swimming directly above the cleaning station, as this can startle the manta rays and disrupt their natural behavior. Instead, maintain a respectful distance and observe from the side. Second, never chase after a manta ray. These graceful creatures are indeed much faster than humans, and pursuing them can cause unnecessary stress, making them leave the area.

Lastly, do not touch the manta rays under any circumstances. Their skin is covered with a protective mucus layer that helps prevent infections, and human contact can remove this barrier, making them vulnerable. By following these simple yet crucial rules, snorkelers and divers can enjoy a sustainable and unforgettable experience with these magnificent marine creatures.

Some curious Manta will come to see you

Manta Rays are very smart and sometimes very curious, they usually decide to come close to you, especially if you are diving. You just have to stay still, and the Manta Ray will manage to avoid you. On multiple occasions, a manta ray came just in front of me and, at the last second, just turned around or passed just above my head. It’s easy to recognize the manta with the pattern on their belly.

Fun Fact: Identifying Manta Rays

Each manta ray has indeed a unique pattern on its belly, similar to a fingerprint. Researchers and conservationists use these patterns to track and identify individual mantas. Some mantas, like “Black Mama”, are well-known in the diving community due to their distinct markings. As you can imagine, “Black Mama” is all black!

Snorkeling or Diving: Which One to Choose?

Snorkeling at Manta Point

• Perfect for beginners and non-divers
• Allows observation of manta rays from the surface
• Requires minimal equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, life vest)
• Best with a guided tour for safety

Scuba Diving at Manta Point

• Offers closer and longer interactions with manta rays
• Includes exploration of cleaning stations and coral reefs
• Chance to see reef sharks, macro marine life, and, if you are lucky, Mola Mola
• Suitable for both beginner and advanced divers

Snorkeling and Diving Prices at Manta Point and Manta Bay

The cost of snorkeling and diving varies depending on the type of experience you choose. For snorkeling, a shared boat to Manta Bay costs 300,000 IDR per person, while a shared boat to Manta Point costs 500,000 IDR per person. If you prefer a private boat, a trip to Manta Bay plus three other snorkeling spots costs 1.7 million IDR for up to four people, whereas a private boat to Manta Point with three additional snorkeling stops is 3 million IDR for four people.

For those looking to dive, discovery scuba diving, ideal for beginners aged 10 and above, costs 2.2 million IDR for two dives and a pool session. Certified divers can enjoy a fun dive at Manta Point for 1.65 million IDR per person for 2 dives. These prices typically include gear rental, guide services, and transportation to the dive sites.

Other Marine Life at Manta Point dive site

While mantas are the main attraction, the dive site is home to a diverse range of marine creatures, including:

• Sharks: Blacktip reef sharks, bamboo sharks
• Rays: Blue-spotted stingrays, marble rays, eagle rays
• Macro Life: Nudibranchs, Zanzibar shrimps, porcelain crabs
• Occasional Sightings: Mola Mola (seasonal), whale sharks

How Deep is Manta Point dive site?

• Shallowest area: 8 meters
• Cleaning station depth: 10-12 meters
• Deeper sections: Up to 40 meters for experienced divers

Best Time to Visit Manta Point

Manta rays can be found at Manta Point throughout the year, except during their breeding season when they move to deeper waters. However, their presence can be affected by factors such as pollution, water temperature, and weather conditions. The sea can also be rough at times, making access difficult. If conditions are not ideal, dive centers will usually provide updates.
Due to its popularity, the dive site can become crowded with divers. To ensure a better experience, some operators, such as Dune Penida, adjust their dive schedules to avoid peak hours or explore less crowded sections of the site.

Where is Manta Point Located?

Manta Point is situated on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida, near the Peguyangan Waterfalls. While there is a viewpoint on the cliffs where manta rays can sometimes be spotted from above, there is no direct access to the sea. The only way to dive or snorkel is by boat.

How to Get to Manta Point

• By Boat from Nusa Penida: The journey takes approximately 45 minutes from Toyapakeh.
• From Bali: Speedboats depart from Sanur, taking about 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida, followed by another boat ride to the dive site.
• Boat Route Highlights: On the way, you’ll pass by several famous spots, including Gamat Bay, Crystal Bay, Kelingking Beach, and Broken Beach, making the boat ride a scenic adventure in itself.

Diving Conditions at Manta Point

• Depth: 8 to 40 meters
• Visibility: 10-20 meters
• Current: Mild to moderate, occasional swells
• Water Temperature: 20-27°C
• Access: Boat trip from Nusa Penida (45 min)
• Best for: Reef, photography, macro, and fish identification dives

Unforgettable Encounters at Manta Point: Mola Mola, Whale Sharks, and More!

A Surprise Visit from a Whale Shark

One of my most unforgettable dives at Manta Point was when I encountered a whale shark. We were exploring the wall, enjoying the usual magic of the site, when my dive buddy suddenly caught my attention. He had spotted a manta ray gliding gracefully behind me, so I turned around to admire it. Just as I was filming, I heard frantic banging on his tank and muffled shouts through his regulator. I looked up, and there it was—a massive whale shark swimming right above me! In an instant, I switched from filming the manta to capturing the whale shark. The video is hilarious—you can clearly hear my buddy’s excitement as he yells underwater!

A Double Mola Mola Encounter

Another incredible dive happened when I was with Karl, the manager of Dune Penida, and my Thai friend Fhon, an amazing dive instructor and photographer. We were drifting along the wall, calmly following two majestic manta rays, when Karl suddenly pointed ahead. A little farther away, a Mola Mola had appeared! As we marveled at this rare sight, we noticed another one swimming slightly deeper. I managed to get some great footage, but Fhon’s photo was even more stunning, capturing the eerie beauty of these deep-sea giants perfectly.

A Crown Jellyfish to End the Dive

This dive was a quieter but equally memorable one, filled with manta rays and a bamboo shark sighting. Just as we were ascending for our safety stop, I stumbled upon something unexpected—a massive crown jellyfish floating like an alien visitor in the blue. It was mesmerizing, its translucent body pulsating with life. Watching it drift by was the perfect way to end such an incredible dive.

Conclusion: Is Manta Point Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, Manta Point offers one of the most magical underwater encounters in Bali. The opportunity to witness manta rays up close, along with the site’s rich marine biodiversity, makes it a must-visit destination for ocean lovers.

If you’re planning a trip to Nusa Penida, don’t miss the chance to explore this breathtaking dive site. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned diver, it will be an unforgettable experience beneath the waves.

Read More about Manta Ray and Nusa Penida

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

1. Where is Manta Point Nusa Penida?
   Manta Point is located on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia.
2. Why is it called Manta Point?
   It is named after the resident manta rays that frequently visit the site to feed and get cleaned.
3. How do I get to Manta Point?
   You can reach Manta Point by boat from Nusa Penida or Bali, with trips departing from Toyapakeh, Sanur, or Padang Bai.
4. Is Manta Point suitable for beginners?
   Yes, both snorkeling and discovery dives are available

Snorkeling & Diving at Manta Point

5. Can I snorkel at Manta Point?
   Yes, but Manta Point is a much better option than Manta Bay to snorkel with Manta Rays.
6. Is Manta Point good for diving?
   Absolutely! It’s one of Bali’s top dive sites, known for its manta ray cleaning stations and diverse marine life.
7. How deep is Manta Point?
   The dive site ranges from 8 to 40 meters, with most manta encounters happening between 5 and 15 meters.
8. Do I need a diving certification to dive at Manta Point?
   Yes, for fun dives. However, discovery dives are available for beginners with a professional instructor.
9. What is the visibility like at Manta Point?
   Visibility varies between 10 to 20 meters depending on conditions like tides and plankton levels.

Marine Life & Best Season

10. What marine life can I see at Manta Point?
    Besides manta rays, you might spot reef sharks, bamboo sharks, eagle rays, marble rays, and even Mola Mola in season.
11. When is the best time to see manta rays?
    Manta rays can be seen year-round,.
12. Can I see Mola Mola at Manta Point?
    Yes, Mola Mola (sunfish) are sometimes spotted between July and October at deeper depths.
13. Are manta rays dangerous?
    No, manta rays are gentle and harmless to humans.

Rules & Safety

14. Are there rules for snorkeling or diving with manta rays?
    Yes, do not touch or chase the mantas, avoid swimming directly above the cleaning station, and respect marine life.
15. Is Manta Point safe for snorkeling?
    Yes, but strong currents and swells can occur. It’s recommended to go with an experienced guide.
16. Do I need a wetsuit at Manta Point?
    Yes, water temperatures can drop to 20°C, so a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit is recommended.
17. Are there strong currents at Manta Point?
    Currents vary, but Manta Point can experience mild to moderate swells.

Booking & Prices

18. How much does a snorkeling trip to Manta Point cost?
    A shared boat trip costs around 500k IDR, while private tours start from 3 million IDR for four people.
19. How much does it cost to dive at Manta Point?
    Discovery dives cost 2.2 million IDR for two dives, while fun dives for certified divers start at 1.65 million IDR for 2 dives.
20. How can I book a trip to Manta Point?
    You can book online, through Dune Penida dive center in Nusa Penida. Or send me a message!