Dive Site: Manta Point Nusa Penida

About Manta Point Nusa Penida

Manta Point, located on the southwest coast of Nusa Penida near Bali, stands out as a premier global destination for encountering majestic manta rays. This site is particularly significant for its role as a feeding and cleaning ground for reef mantas, making it a reliable spot for divers and snorkelers alike. The topography primarily consists of a flat, rocky plateau that gradually deepens, with an average maximum depth between 14 to 18 meters. Shallower areas feature large boulders that form dramatic backdrops and occasional swim-throughs. The most crucial features are the numerous manta cleaning stations, with the main one starting at about 9 meters and ascending to 3 meters below the surface. Beyond the plateau, the reef transitions into sandy slopes, defining the natural boundaries of the site. Manta rays are the main attraction, with a high likelihood of sightings (85-90%) throughout the year as they utilize the cleaning stations for extended periods daily. Beyond these graceful giants, divers can also spot blue-spotted stingrays burying themselves in the sand, bamboo sharks, and nudibranchs. Occasionally, lucky divers might even encounter Mola Mola or whale sharks, further enriching the marine biodiversity. Conditions at Manta Point can be influenced by wind and swell due to its open ocean exposure, leading to moderate to strong currents. Divers need good buoyancy control to navigate these conditions. The site is accessible for certified divers, with action often concentrated in the shallower depths (1-12 meters), making it suitable for both diving and snorkeling. Visibility typically ranges from 10-15 meters, even with plankton-rich waters that attract the mantas.

Dive site facts: Manta Point Nusa Penida

Depth

0–30 m

Typical dive

10–15 m, 40–60 min

Current

Moderate to strong

Visibility

10–25 m

Water temperature

18–30°C

Entry

Boat / negative entry

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Cleaning station, pelagic, reef

Region / port

Nusa Penida, Bali

Coordinates

-8.7234, 115.5178

Conditions & Currents

Manta Point is situated in an area exposed to open ocean currents, which can range from moderate to strong. These currents are crucial for bringing in the plankton that attracts the manta rays, but they also mean divers must be prepared for dynamic conditions. Currents can shift directions quickly and run along the reef or push up from depth, necessitating good buoyancy control and awareness. Although visibility is generally good, plankton blooms, which are intensified by these currents, can sometimes reduce it, making for a 'milky' appearance in the water. Operators typically employ negative or quick descents and provide thorough briefings on drift procedures and SMB use. Divers should always follow their guide's instructions closely, as conditions can change rapidly with tidal shifts.

Marine life & sighting chances

Reef manta ray

Year-round · common

Oceanic sunfish

July to October · occasional

Whitetip reef shark

occasional

Eagle ray

occasional

Blue-spotted stingray

occasional

Hawksbill turtle

occasional

Octopus

occasional

Moray eel

occasional

Lionfish

occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Trevally

occasional

Snapper

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Manta Point typically begin with a negative or quick descent upon arrival, as currents can be present. Divers usually descend to depths between 10 and 15 meters, where the manta cleaning stations are located on the sloping reef. The dive profile involves either drifting gently along the reef or finding a stable position near a cleaning station to observe the mantas. Groups are often positioned where mantas naturally travel, maximizing encounters while minimizing disturbance. Mantas can approach within close range, circling repeatedly. The dive continues as long as bottom time and air consumption permit, with an average duration of 40 to 60 minutes. Safety stops are conducted as usual before ascending to the surface for pickup by the dive boat.

Underwater photography

Manta Point offers exceptional opportunities for wide-angle photography, especially given the frequent, close-range encounters with reef mantas. A fisheye or wide-angle lens (e.g., 8-15mm or 16-35mm equivalent) is highly recommended to capture the full wingspan of the mantas and the surrounding reef scape. While natural light can be sufficient in shallower depths and good visibility, strobes will help bring out colors and add definition, particularly for capturing the mantas' distinct undersides. Practice good buoyancy to avoid stirring up sediment or impacting the delicate coral, especially around cleaning stations. Approach mantas slowly and avoid sudden movements; let them come to you for the best, most respectful shots. Given the potential for cooler water, consider a wetsuit that allows for longer, more comfortable dives to maximize photo opportunities.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Manta Alley

  A different manta site, located in Komodo National Park, known for oceanic mantas and stronger currents.

• Manta Alley South

  Manta Alley South, nestled in the southern reaches of Komodo National Park, stands out as a premier destination for manta ray encounters.

• SD Point

  SD Point is a renowned dive site located on the northern coast of Nusa Penida, Indonesia, celebrated for its spectacular drift dives and…

• The Cauldron

  The Cauldron, also known as The Shotgun, is a world-class dive site located in the northern reaches of Komodo National Park.

• Crystal Bay

  Known for Oceanic Sunfish (Mola Mola) during season.

• Karang Makassar

  Karang Makassar, widely known as Manta Point, offers one of Komodo National Park's most reliable manta ray encounters.

Getting there & logistics

Most divers access Manta Point through day trips from Sanur on mainland Bali, or directly from Nusa Penida itself. The nearest international airport is Denpasar (DPS). Transfers from accommodation in South Bali to the Sanur fast boat harbor are typically included in day trip packages. A two-dive trip from Sanur generally costs around 170 USD and lasts from 6:30 AM to 2-3 PM. Diving directly from Nusa Penida is often more affordable, around 100 USD for two dives, starting later and finishing earlier. While specific park fees are not universally mentioned, most dive operators will include any necessary local fees. Many itineraries combine a dive at Manta Point with another site like Crystal Bay.

Safety & environment

Diving at Manta Point requires careful consideration of current conditions. Operators prioritize diver safety, and trips may be called off if swells exceed 4m or currents are deemed unsafe. Divers should be comfortable in potentially strong currents and practice good buoyancy control to avoid contact with the reef. A minimum Open Water certification is usually required, with Advanced Open Water recommended due to depth and current variability. Given the site's exposure to the open ocean, motion sickness remedies may be advisable for boat transfers. Divers should ensure they have adequate dive insurance. The nearest recompression chamber is in Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Bali. In case of emergency, evacuation to Bali would be necessary, highlighting the importance of comprehensive insurance and adherence to dive plan limits.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Manta Point Nusa Penida FAQ

Liveaboards diving Manta Point Nusa Penida

These liveaboards may visit Manta Point Nusa Penida on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

$273/day

Ecopro Duyung Baru

Indonesia

6 guests27 m

$361/day

Jaya

Indonesia

14 guests23 m

$280/day

Wellenreng

Indonesia

9 guests25 m

$427/day

Komodo Aggressor

Komodo, Indonesia

16 guests29 m

$312/day

Blue Manta

Indonesia

20 guests45 m

$482/day

Mari

Indonesia

14 guests32.2 m

$328/day

Situju7

Komodo, Indonesia

10 guests32.7 m

$362/day

Pindito

Indonesia

16 guests37.79 m

$533/day

Mermaid II

Komodo, Indonesia

18 guests

$391/day

Pearl of Papua

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

14 guests30 m

$303/day

Putri Naga

Komodo, Indonesia

6 guests25 m