Bali is one of the most visited destinations in the world. Throughout the year, millions of tourists choose this Indonesian island for their vacations, and many people trust Cooperating Volunteers to experience their first international volunteering opportunity there.
This destination adapts to any type of trip you want to take, offering idyllic landscapes, paradise beaches, adventure, nightlife, surfing, and relaxation.
One of the most common activities our participants do during their free time is diving or snorkeling. That is why today we want to talk to you about the wonderful marine life you can find on this volcanic island.
Some of the best spots to discover its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life are the following:
– BLUE LAGOON (PADANG BAY)
Located on the east coast of Bali, this site is ideal for beginners due to its calm and clear waters. It is home to parrotfish, garden eels, and clownfish.
– AMED AND JEMELUK BAY
Amed is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning coral reefs. In Jemeluk Bay, you can see underwater sculptures and a great variety of tropical fish.
– TULAMBEN (USAT Liberty Shipwreck)
One of the best places to snorkel over a shipwreck. The USAT Liberty, a ship sunk during World War II, hosts corals, lionfish, and schools of colorful fish.
– MENJANGAN ISLAND
Part of the West Bali National Park, this island is famous for its exceptional visibility and coral walls full of marine life. It is a less crowded and more pristine location.
– NUSA PENIDA (Crystal Bay and Manta Point)
Crystal Bay is famous for its white sand and crystal-clear water, where you can see parrotfish, rays, and turtles. Manta Point is the best site to swim with giant manta rays, an unforgettable experience.
– NUSA LEMBONGAN AND NUSA CENINGAN
Mushroom Bay and Mangrove Point in Nusa Lembongan offer vibrant reefs with clownfish, anemones, and schools of tropical fish.
WHAT MARINE LIFE CAN YOU FIND?
Apart from the animals already mentioned in each snorkeling spot, it is important to note that Bali is part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world. It is estimated that its waters are home to around 3,000 species of fish and more than 500 species of coral.
Among the most remarkable species are:
– MANTA RAYS: They can be seen throughout the year, although the best season is from April to November when the waters are clearer and there are fewer strong currents. They are harmless and very curious animals, and unlike regular rays, they do not have a stinger (it is essential to keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them).
– REEF SHARKS: These include the blacktip reef shark and the whitetip reef shark. These animals are not dangerous; they are considered shy and pose no threat to humans. However, it is essential to respect them and avoid getting too close to prevent causing them stress.
– NAPOLEON FISH: This species is famous for its large size (reaching up to 2.5 meters), its striking color, and the hump on its head, which resembles Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s hat, hence its name. It is a calm and curious species that often approaches without showing signs of aggression. However, its powerful jaw allows it to break shells and corals for feeding, so if it feels threatened, it might bite (although this is extremely rare).
– CLOWNFISH: This famous colorful fish, reminiscent of the movie Finding Nemo, is covered in orange, white, and black stripes. They are very peaceful fish, although they can become territorial to defend their home. However, their small size makes their bite imperceptible to humans.
– PYGMY SEAHORSES: One of the smallest seahorse species, they are full of colors and bumps that allow them to camouflage among the corals. They are incredibly fragile and shy, so spotting them is a real stroke of luck.
– BLUE-RINGED OCTOPUS: This very small species has brown or yellowish hues, and when it feels threatened, it reveals bright fluorescent blue rings as a warning, as it is one of the most venomous marine animals. Its saliva contains a toxin that can cause paralysis. It is not aggressive and only defends itself when it feels threatened, but its venom has no antidote. There is no need to fear it; as with any animal, it is important to keep a respectful distance.
– GREEN TURTLE AND HAWKSBILL TURTLE: They are very commonly found on many beaches and near the coast. Seeing them in the wild is an absolute spectacle of nature. It is recommended to keep a prudent distance since they may feel cornered and change their behavior. Both species are wonderful.
– PARROTFISH: They stand out for their vibrant colors, and their name comes from their beak-like mouth, which is made up of teeth that allow them to chew algae and hard corals. They are known for their cleaning behavior and are essential for maintaining healthy coral ecosystems. They are peaceful, and although they have a strong bite, they do not pose a threat.
– ANGELFISH: This group of fish is incredibly colorful and comes in different shapes. They are tall and laterally compressed, allowing them to move easily through reef cracks and structures. If they feel threatened, they defend their territory, but their bite is not dangerous.
– BUTTERFLYFISH: Also notable for their bright colors and laterally compressed shapes that resemble butterfly wings. They are very shy and peaceful, and interestingly, they often form monogamous pairs or small groups.
– LIONFISH: This spectacular-looking fish is famous for its venomous dorsal fins, which resemble a lion’s mane, hence its name. Its spines cause intense pain and swelling if stung, so it is important to respect them and avoid contact.
These are just some of the most popular animals you can find in Bali while snorkeling or, for the more adventurous, diving.
The marine world is a spectacle that must be treated with great respect. These species are fundamental to the global ecological balance. If marine ecosystems are disrupted, terrestrial life is also at risk.
We await you in Bali so you can discover it for yourself.