Snorkelling in Lombok: A Complete Guide to the Best Spots

Lombok and its surrounding islands offer some of the finest snorkelling in Southeast Asia. From the turtle-rich waters around the Gili Islands to the pristine reefs off Lombok's eastern coast, the underwater world here is extraordinary — and far less crowded than comparable spots in Bali or Thailand. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced snorkeller, Lombok's crystal-clear warm waters will leave you breathless.

Top Snorkelling Spots in Lombok

1. Turtle Point (Between Gili Meno and Gili Air)

This is arguably the most famous snorkelling spot in all of Lombok, and for good reason. Green turtles and hawksbill turtles gather here in impressive numbers, often feeding on seagrass in waters just 2–5 metres deep. You can encounter multiple turtles within minutes of entering the water. The spot is accessible by boat from any of the three Gili Islands.

2. Gili Meno's Underwater Sculpture Garden

Just off the northwest coast of Gili Meno lies one of the world's most unusual snorkelling attractions. British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor created a circle of life-size human figures that have been deliberately sunk to form an artificial reef. The figures are now covered in coral and inhabited by fish — a hauntingly beautiful and otherworldly experience at depths of 5–8 metres.

3. Gili Trawangan House Reef

The house reef running along Gili Trawangan's east coast is rich with coral gardens, reef fish, moray eels, and regular turtle sightings. It can be accessed directly from the beach with no boat required — making it ideal for free, independent snorkelling at any time.

4. Pink Beach (Pantai Merah), East Lombok

Lombok's famous Pink Beach — named for its blush-coloured sand formed by crushed red coral mixed with white sand — sits above some excellent coral reefs. The snorkelling here features hard coral gardens, colourful reef fish, and occasional sea turtles. The beach is located on the eastern peninsula and requires a boat journey to access from the mainland.

5. Gili Nanggu, Southwest Lombok

Gili Nanggu is a tiny, virtually uninhabited island off Lombok's southwest coast. The surrounding reefs are among the island's most pristine and least visited. Coral coverage is excellent and the fish life is abundant. Day trips from Senggigi or Lembar Harbour are available.

6. Sekarbela Reef, Near Mataram

For those based in Lombok's capital area, Sekarbela's reefs offer accessible snorkelling with diverse marine life including coral gardens, reef fish, and occasional shark sightings. Less spectacular than the Gili Islands but very convenient.

What Marine Life Will You See?

• Sea Turtles: Green turtles and hawksbill turtles are common throughout Lombok's waters
• Reef Fish: Parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish in abundance
• Sharks: Small white-tip and black-tip reef sharks are occasionally seen — completely harmless to snorkellers
• Rays: Eagle rays and manta rays (seasonal, more common on dives)
• Octopus: Look carefully under coral ledges
• Moray Eels: Common in rocky reef areas

Snorkelling Tours vs. Independent Snorkelling

Guided tours are recommended for first-time visitors and those wanting to reach the best spots. A typical Gili Islands snorkel tour visits 3–4 spots by speedboat, includes equipment, and costs USD 20–35 per person.

Independent snorkelling is excellent at Gili Trawangan and Gili Air house reefs directly from the beach. Basic snorkel sets can be rented for 25,000–50,000 IDR per day from beach vendors.

Equipment and Safety Tips

• Use reef-safe sunscreen — conventional sunscreen chemicals damage coral reefs
• Never touch coral — it kills the living organisms and damages the ecosystem
• Don't chase or touch turtles — observe respectfully from a distance
• Check currents before entering the water, particularly around headlands
• Wear a rash vest if sensitive to sun — you can snorkel for hours without noticing the UV exposure
• Life jacket: Available and recommended for non-swimmers and children on boat tours