Bali Blue Lagoon Snorkeling: An Honest Review & Guide

Planning a trip to Bali, and so, too is snorkeling on your mind? The Blue Lagoon and Tanjung Jepun snorkeling tour is pretty much one that pops up quite a bit, yet deciding if it’s actually something that will float your boat, like your own personal paradise, may be tricky. We took the plunge, literally, and want to give you the lowdown – real talk and, like, all. Hopefully, this review gives you the scoop to decide if it’s the right underwater adventure for you.

What’s the Big Deal About Blue Lagoon and Tanjung Jepun?

First, some context. So, the Blue Lagoon, is that it’s famous because the lagoon features relaxed currents, making it an incredible snorkeling site, for beginners especially. Expect to find lots of reefs that shelter vibrant marine life. Colorful fish, coral formations and, like, maybe even a sea turtle if you get super lucky! Tanjung Jepun, in that case, tends to offer, like, a different vibe with its, supposedly, superb visibility and diverse sea creatures. Combined, and so, too these two spots generally promise a balanced underwater experience – kind of mellow and easygoing mixed with an extra splash of excitement.

Booking the Tour: What to think about?

You’ll find quite a few operators offering this tour and, actually, doing some digging around for deals, may be worthwhile. Often, deals will include pickup and drop-off from your hotel, snorkeling gear and, it’s almost a lock, lunch. Check what’s included and read reviews! You know, seeing what other travelers thought is always helpful. Something else to keep in the back of your mind, is that prices are subject to how many people in your group or tour boat and what supposed inclusions exist, you know, potentially private or bigger group experiences and added stops at waterfalls or beaches. That sort of thing can impact pricing.

Our Actual Tour Experience: The good, the, you know…

Alright, time to share what actually happened. First, pick-up from the hotel? Super punctual, which is a gold star right off the bat. It’s nice when things start according to plan. When we got to the beach, which can get quite busy, our group was organized onto a smaller boat. Short boat ride and we are talking minutes, led us to the Blue Lagoon, which is a stunner for snorkeling, it is pretty great. The water really was that crazy shade of blue, and even more fish were on the viewing schedule than initially planned. Even someone who gets anxious in the ocean thought it was something super mellow, just because of the, like, relaxed currents.

Moving on to Tanjung Jepun, which is generally seen as where you can, like, muck around in some truly unbelievable visibility. Not too awful, in that respect, the second spot held promise but, like, was a bit murkier than it should have been on account of the recent storms, maybe just a tad less impressive on account of some unfortunate swells the day we visited. We still saw some neat critters and coral, even if it wasn’t a total aquarium experience. Overall, too it was an adequate second snorkeling location.

Snorkeling Conditions: The Lowdown

Okay, and so, too the snorkeling itself really does hinge on the time of year and weather. The dry season usually offers better visibility in both spots but, naturally, the ocean is pretty unpredictable. Be ready for potential changes and that it could be super clear one day, yet less clear the next, that is what anyone traveling will have to face anywhere, right? Some operators can swap spots, though, if conditions are crummy at one location, it’s almost as if they might suggest a close substitute or rescheduling. It’s helpful if they’re straight up and willing to make your day awesome, though.

Is it Good for Beginners?

If you’re new to snorkeling, this is something great for first timers, generally it tends to be the perfect launchpad, especially Blue Lagoon, with its usually gentle waters, in some respects. Guides will also provide help with gear and show you a thing or two before setting loose in the water, it is pretty decent to note that assistance exists and there is very limited judgement shown on that snorkeling learning curve. One caveat is you might wish to ensure you’re comfortable in the water before going and, possibly, practice a little in a swimming pool just to take some pressure off those initial few anxious moments when the sea meets that snorkeling mask.

Lunch situation: Yay or nay?

Food: Let’s talk food! Most tours lay on an Indonesian lunch, commonly at a spot with a, basically, killer ocean view. If that food is included with your tour, like yours, expect standard fare – maybe nasi goreng or mie goreng and something else along the lines of tasty-ish eats. It’s generally decent and pretty filling for post-swim refuelling, but if you are extremely picky, then you might pack some granola bars.

What should you Bring? Things you need!

Alright, so that you show up prepped: sunscreen (reef safe ideally!), a towel, swimwear, maybe an extra change of clothes. Bring a waterproof camera for cool underwater pics, like yours if you want! In some cases, if you easily get seasick, you might think about bringing some motion sickness meds, just in case the boat rocks a bit, alright.

Worth it? Our two cents…

So, would we tell you to jump at this trip again? Yeah, it is most often a relaxing day, and it provides that chance to peep at Bali’s underwater charms. Blue Lagoon seriously shines, especially when clear. If you go with a reputable operator, and are okay with the, arguably, potential for less-than-ideal clarity sometimes, then this snorkeling trip can be well worth your money, in fact!

Alternative Options and Things to look at!

Not convinced? Okay, no worries. A few other options abound around Bali. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida provide more snorkeling spots with maybe even clearer waters. Those could also be great alternate options worth researching. Just do it!

Bali Blue Lagoon & Tanjung Jepun Snorkeling FAQs

What is the best time to snorkel at Blue Lagoon?

Usually, the best time is during Bali’s dry season (April to October), when you typically see the clearest water.

Can I snorkel at Blue Lagoon if I can’t swim well?

Yup, that’s not an issue! They supply life jackets and snorkeling gear, so those who aren’t confident swimmers can enjoy it safely.

Are there any facilities at Blue Lagoon?

In a way, around Blue Lagoon, amenities could be described as relatively limited. A few local warungs (small restaurants) generally sell drinks and simple food.

Can I book the Blue Lagoon Snorkeling Tour in advance?

You certainly can! In fact, that’s how many tourists do things now, right? Pre-booking online is a rather common option that might actually get you better deals than turning up and, potentially, it could spare you the grief if a tour company becomes completely booked up!