Snorkeling in Blue Lagoon, Bali
Bali is well known for its incredible surfing and scenic beaches, but it also has some incredible snorkelling locations. A particularly special location is Blue Lagoon. Located in the beautiful Padangbai, it is truly a unique and special place for some underwater discovery.
We met up with my Brother in Bali, and the three of us all wanted to experience the Balinese under water world. We travelled by car to the Blue Lagoon in Padangbai, which is a prime spot for snorkelling and diving. The water was choppy but the views of the tropical fish were worth the bit of sea sickness! Here's a few tips before going:
Filmed with a GoPro Hero 5 Black http://amzn.to/2vndhd2 and a Karma Grip http://amzn.to/2vJbfF8. Check out the rest of the gear we use here.
If you suffer from sea sickness we recommend you prepare yourself. As we mentioned the water can be choppy. We use these Sea-Bands that really help and we highly recommend!
Bring an underwater camera. If you have one it's a must! The fish you'll see are amazing. Our GoPro is great for this! If you're really keen throw on this dive filter to get more natural colours under the water.
Wear a shirt! As silly as it might sound, it's very important. You're back is constantly exposed to the sun while you're snorkelling and is a recipe for a real bad sun burn! It's easily avoided by wearing something on your back.
The Experience
The water clear and blue and we got some great swimming time amongst the fishes. You'll have schools of curious fish surround you and will make for amazing photographs. Quick tip: They like the sound of your camera clicking and are attracted to the sound. Snap a couple of shots and wait until they surround you to grab an epic shot! Ask your local boat guide to take you to some good spots, they know all the top spots! The only down side was the choppy water - which is why we recommend preparing yourself, especially if your prone to sea sickness. Overall the snorkelling here was top notch and some of the best we've done! To end off the afternoon we recommend eating lunch at one of the local Warungs (restaurant) along the stretch of beach your boat takes off from. Also ask if they've got a shower you can use to rinse of all the salt from the water. You'll enjoy your lunch and the ride back much more if you do!
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
Pricing
The snorkelling wasn't cheap, we paid around £45 each but this included all equipment, boat and guide for 3 hours. We snorkelled in two different locations, and stopped for lunch afterwards before being taken back to our car.
5 THINGS TO REMEMBER
1. Like we mentioned above, if you are prone to sea sickness, don't do this on a choppy day. The waves were relentless and I felt sick for several hours afterwards. Try the Sea-Bands we suggested or if you really can't avoid the choppy water use these and you'll be just fine!
2. Be careful around the nearby fishing boats when snorkelling in a busy area, when it's crowded you can easily bump your head.
3. Cover up! The sun is strong and if you don't cover your back and shoulders you will end up with severe sun burn.
4. Keep on your flippers - it's MUCH harder without them!
5. Avoid snorkelling after a recent storm, as the water visibility will be low.
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
On top of snorkelling Bali has some incredible beaches that you must pay a visit to. It also has some amazing luxury hotels and villas that are super affordable.
Rachel Ri