Do you want to familiarize yourself with the best water sports in Bali? This comprehensive list outlines everything you need to know about the most popular water activities in Bali, including where they typically take place and how much they cost.
Surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean and praised for its gorgeous beaches, Bali is the perfect playground for those interested in water sports. Make the most of your time on this beautiful Indonesian island by enjoying the diverse range of fun-filled water sports on offer!
Check out my top picks to find the ones you just have to try, or scroll down further and use our table of content to see all the options!
| # | Activity Type | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Underwater Sea Walking | From US$90 | 10 hours | |
| 2 | Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon | From US$40 | 6 hours | |
| 3 | Wakeboardin at Bali Wake Park | From US$45 | 2 hours |
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1 – Underwater Sea Walking
Explore Bali’s breathtaking underwater wonderland and walk along the ocean floor while wearing a specialized helmet that is pumped with oxygen. Underwater sea walking has quickly become one of the most popular water activities in Bali as it offers a truly unforgettable and unique experience.
You’ll get to see colorful coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish swimming around you, with some tour operators even allowing you to feed the fish. This is your opportunity to get epic underwater photographs to share with your friends and family.
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Sanur, Nusa Dua.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$90 per person.
2 – Snorkeling
With the island’s warm water and diverse array of marine life, Bali attracts snorkeling enthusiasts from all over the world.
Depending on where you snorkel, you can expect to see an interesting variety of tropical fish, colorful coral, sea turtles and even dolphins and manta rays if you’re lucky. No matter your level of experience, there is a snorkeling tour to suit you and your travel companions.
Many boat tours in Bali have snorkeling equipment onboard and offer snorkeling as part of the itinerary, stopping at several snorkeling spots along the way.
Location: Nusa Lembongan, Amed, Padang Bay, Blue Lagoon and many other locations.
Swimming Required: Yes
Price: US$20- US$120 per person depending on the length and type of tour.
Hot tip: Check out our complete list of the best places for snorkeling in Bali.
3 – Wakeboarding
Challenge yourself to carve through the water on a wakeboard as you’re towed behind a speedboat or along a cable. Wakeboarding is undoubtedly one of the most popular and rewarding water sports in Bali, with the sport seeing a steady increase in demand over the years.
Located in Denpasar, Bali Wake Park allows you to try cable wakeboarding on a lake filled with a variety of exciting obstacles. The park is also home to various inflatables and an infinity pool, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Location: Bali Wake Park, Tanjung Benoa and other beaches in southeast Bali.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20- US$50 per person.
4 – Fly Fish
Not to be confused with fly fishing, the fly fish is a thrilling water activity that is quite similar to the banana boat. Instead of just one large cylindrical tube, the fly fish is made up of three inflatable tubes, creating a larger surface area.
Because of the shape of the tubes and the fact that they have wings on either side, the raft actually flies about 2 or 3 meters above the ocean when it is towed by a speedboat. The fly fish is an exhilarating experience that will have you coming back for more!
Location: Tanjung Benoa
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$15- US$90 per person.
5 – Banana Boat
Banana boats are inflatable cylindrical rafts that are towed behind a speedboat and can accommodate between three and ten people depending on their size. Tanjung Benoa, located on the island’s southeast coast, is one of the most popular destinations for banana boating and combo tours.
Book a banana boat session to experience a hit of adrenaline with your travel companions as you glide across the Indian Ocean on a banana-shaped tube. Just make sure that you’re prepared to fall in the water every now and then!
Location: Tanjung Benoa and most beaches around southeast Bali.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$10 – US$90 per person.
6 – Stand Up Paddle Board
Not only does stand up paddle boarding provide a full-body workout, but it also provides you with the opportunity to see Bali’s incredible natural beauty from a completely different perspective.
There is no better feeling than gliding across the ocean on a stand up paddle board as you admire the incredible views of the coastline. There is no need to have any experience to try this relaxing water activity in Bali and beginners are always welcome.
Location: Lake Batur, Nusa Lembongan, Sanur and other Southeast locations.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$85 per person
7 – Subwing
The Subwing is an innovative device that is made up of two wings that can be tilted independently as you are towed behind a boat at a gentle pace. You’ll wear a mask so that you can clearly see your underwater surroundings as you use the wings to control your depth.
Subwing Gili Islands is one of the top-rated companies offering this water sport in Bali and the professional instructors are there to ensure your safety at all times. This is the perfect opportunity to experience the gorgeous reefs of the Gili Islands as you glide through the water like a dolphin.
Location: Gili Islands
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$30 per person
8 – Canyoning
Canyoning is an adventure activity that consists of climbing, abseiling, sliding and jumping as you navigate your way down a natural stream. Canyoning is a great way to experience Bali’s deep gorges that run through the island’s gorgeous jungle landscapes.
Most canyoning tours take place on the northern end of the island and there are plenty of tours available for beginner, intermediate and advanced canyoneers alike.
Location: Gigit Canyon, Mobaya Canyon, Egar Canyon, Aling Canyon and many others.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$100 – US$200 per person
9 – Waterfall Swimming
There is nothing better than cooling off in the refreshing waters of one of Bali’s beautiful waterfalls, especially when the weather is hot and humid. The Aling Aling Waterfall is one of the most popular falls, standing at over 35 meters high and surrounded by lush greenery.
It is estimated that the island is home to over 100 waterfalls, so no matter where you are staying there should be a waterfall nearby. With that being said, not all waterfalls offer swimming opportunities so make sure to do a bit of research before you visit.
Location: Aling Aling Waterfall, Gigit Waterfall, Kanto Lampo Waterfall and many others.
Swimming Required: No
Price: USD20 – USD60 per person.
10 – Jet Ski
Feel the wind in your hair as you soar across the Indian Ocean on a high-powered jet ski. Whether you want to hire a jet ski and explore on your own or join a group jet ski tour led by a local guide, there is a suitable jet ski excursion for everyone!
Embarking on a jet ski adventure is the perfect way to feel a rush of adrenaline as you see Bali’s gorgeous coastline from a unique perspective. Jet skis are easy to operate and you’ll feel confident to ride on your own for the first time after a brief lesson.
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Islands and other beaches in southeast Bali.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$80 – US$120 per person
11 – Scuba Diving
Indonesia’s underwater world is home to incredible creatures like manta rays, sharks, dolphins and sea turtles. Scuba diving in Bali provides you with the opportunity to view these fascinating marine animals in their natural habitat.
Whether you are an advanced diver, a beginner diver or you want to get your PADI Open Diver Certification, there is the perfect package available for you. Whichever option you choose, prepare to experience the underwater adventure of a lifetime.
Location: Tulamben Bay, Nusa Islands, Amed, Padang Bay and other locations.
Swimming Required: Yes
Price: US$70 – US$200 per person.
12 – Waterskiing
Waterskiing is one of the most popular watersports in the world and involves being towed behind a speedboat while each of your feet is strapped into a waterski, allowing you to glide elegantly across the water.
It can be often challenging to get the hang of waterskiing at first, but with just a little practice you will be carving through the water like a pro. There is no better time to cross this item off your bucket list than during your Bali vacation.
Location: Tanjung Benoa
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$45 per person.
13 – Canoeing
Paddle across the glossy lakes of central Bali or through the dense mangrove forests of the southeast coast when you join one of the many canoeing excursions on offer.
Canoeing is a relaxing activity that typically takes place at a gentle pace and provides you with more than enough time to admire your surroundings.
This is your opportunity to connect with nature and make unforgettable memories with your travel companions. You’ll discover Bali’s incredible aquatic landscapes and native animals with a local guide leading the way.
Location: Buyan Lake, Tamblingan Lake, Tanjung Benoa
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$100 per person
14 – River Rafting
White water rafting is undoubtedly one of the most popular and exciting water sports that Bali has to offer its visitors. Paddle down pristine waterways and navigate gentle rapids as you learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Rafting tours in Bali typically take place on the Ayung River or the Telaga Waja River, both of which offer incredible views of the surrounding area. This is the perfect activity to enjoy with a large group of friends or use as an opportunity to meet new people.
Location: Ayung River, Telaga Waja River
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$30 – US$70 per person
Read more: White Water Rafting in Bali – All You Need to Know
15 – Kitesurfing
There is nothing quite like gliding across the water and flying through the sky, using only the power of the wind. In recent years, kitesurfing in Bali has become incredibly popular, with the island even hosting an annual kitesurfing festival.
There are quite a few pieces of equipment needed for kitesurfing including a kite, harness, handlebar and lines. Kitesurfing is quite a technical water sport, so be patient with yourself if you are learning how to kitesurf for the first time.
Location: Sanur, Canggu and other locations.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$50 – US$70 per person
16 – Parasailing
Soar like a bird and see the Balinese coastline from a unique perspective as you’re attached to a parachute that’s towed behind a speedboat. This weightless experience provides the ideal opportunity to create magic moments with your loved ones.
While flight times are usually only around 7 minutes, you’ll find that this is more than enough time to enjoy this activity. Most parasailing tour operators offer the option of a tandem experience, making this the perfect water activity for friends and couples.
Location: Tanjung Benoa
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$50 per person
17 – Kayaking
When looking for kayaking tours in Bali, you have plenty of exciting options to choose from. This enjoyable outdoor activity is suited to participants of various fitness levels and children are usually welcome by most tour operators.
Kayaking provides the perfect way to explore the island’s lakes, rivers, mangrove forests and other waterways in the company of a knowledgeable guide.
Location: Nusa Lembongan, Melangit River, Lovina, Amed, Sanur and many other locations.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$90 per person
18 – Underwater Scooter Ride
Underwater scooter rides are one of the most unique underwater activities in Bali. The tandem or solo scooters work in very much the same way as a regular scooter, except for the fact that oxygen is pumped into the helmet, allowing you to breathe comfortably underwater.
This activity gives you the opportunity to explore Bali’s gorgeous underwater landscapes at depths of up to 20 meters! The scooter travels at slow speeds, allowing you to admire your colorful aquatic surroundings.
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Serangan Island
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$50 – US$70 per person
19 – Deep Sea Fishing
With waters teeming with game fish, Bali offers a plethora of exciting fishing opportunities. Deep sea fishing is probably the most popular option as it allows you to spend the day at sea and admire the island from a different perspective.
Some of the fish you can look forward to catching include tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo, kingfish and many others. You’ll be provided with all the equipment you need to give you the best chance of catching your preferred fish.
Location: Amed, Jimbaran, Nusa Islands, and other locations.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$60 – US$130 per person.
20 – Free Diving
Free diving is a type of underwater diving that makes use of a variety of breath-holding techniques so that the diver can spend more time underwater. No scuba diving equipment is used in free diving, allowing you to swim around freely.
By participating in a free diving course in Bali, you’ll learn how to hold your breath for longer and swim to greater depths, both skills that will prove to be incredibly useful throughout your future travels. You may also get the chance to see a manta ray or two!
Location: Amed, Nusa Penida
Swimming Required: Yes
Price: US$50 – US$150 per person
21 – Windsurfing
Popularized in the 1970s, windsurfing is a classic water sport that utilizes the power of the wind through a small sail attached to a board. While windsurfing may appear a little complicated, it is actually relatively easy to get the hang of.
Within no time, you’ll learn how to pick up speed and change direction and you’ll love the feeling of gliding across the water on your own. If you already have some experience with windsurfing, you could always rent equipment instead of booking a lesson.
Location: Tanjung Benoa
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$40 per person
22 – Flyboarding
If you’re looking to try an exhilarating water activity during your time in Bali, flyboarding may be the answer. The board is connected to a jetski by a long hose and water is pumped through this hose to offer high-powered propulsion to the board.
Flyboarding is a new extreme sport that has gained international popularity in a very short time. Join the trend when you fly above the ocean, hovering on powerful streams of water as you try different tricks like backflips and dolphin dives.
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$70 – US$80 per person
23 – Rolling Donut
Rolling donuts are donut-shaped inflatable boats that are towed behind a speedboat to provide participants with a truly thrilling experience. Most rolling donuts can accommodate between two and five participants at a time, making this the perfect activity to enjoy with friends.
It will be difficult to hold back a smile as you go skimming across the warm Indian Ocean and enjoy stunning views of the island’s coastline from the comfort of the rolling donut.
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Sanur and other beaches on Bali’s southeast coast.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$10 – US$20 per person
24 – Bali Reef Cruise
Spend the day relaxing on a luxury boat as you cruise from Bali to the nearby island of Nusa Lembongan, stopping to admire the reef along the way and enjoy a variety of watersports. The Bali Reef Cruise is also inclusive of lunch onboard the boat.
You’ll dock alongside a pontoon and you’ll be given time to swim, snorkel and simply relax. Joining a cruise provides the ideal way to meet new people and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of both Bali and Nusa Lembongan.
Location: Nusa Lembongan Island
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$120 – US$180 per person
25 – Surfing
With its warm water, a wide variety of reef breaks and perfect rolling waves, Bali is a world-famous surfing destination, proven by the array of international surfing competitions that the island hosts each year.
But Bali isn’t just well-suited for professional surfers, there are plenty of beginner-friendly spots to choose from too. There is no better place to learn to ride a wave than the ‘Island of the Gods’.
Location: Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, Uluwatu, Nusa Islands, and many other locations.
Swimming Required: Yes
Price: US$20 – US$50 per person
26 – Dolphin Watching
Dolphins are one of the most-loved marine animals because of their intelligent and playful natures. There are plenty of dolphin-watching opportunities off the coast of Bali, and there is nothing like seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Lovina is home to multiple pods of dolphins, which are best viewed in the early morning around sunrise. Most boat captains keep snorkeling equipment onboard, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable snorkeling experience while on a dolphin-watching tour.
Location: Lovina
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$40 – US$120 per person.
Read more: Lovina Sunrise Dolphin Watching Tour – All You Need to Know
27 – Water Tubing
Go water tubing down Bali’s pristine waterways and enjoy the magnificent natural beauty that surrounds these streams and rivers. Float along at a gentle pace and slide down small rapids on your tube as you make memories to last a lifetime!
Discover the dozens of plant and animal species found in Bali’s rainforests as an experienced guide leads the way. This is the ideal family-friendly water activity and it is often offered in conjunction with other activities such as ATV tours.
Location: Petanu River, Ayung River, Wos River and other rivers in central Bali.
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$40 – US$100 per person
28 – Bodyboarding
Bodyboarding is very similar to surfing but it is often considered easier for beginners as you don’t need to learn how to stand up. You simply paddle into a wave and ride along its face, enjoying the adrenaline rush that comes with it.
With the island’s plethora of reef breaks and warm, clear water, Bali attracts bodyboarding enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you simply want to rent a bodyboard and try on your own or are interested in a lesson, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Location: Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Canggu, Seminyak, Dreamland, Nusa Islands and other locations.
Swimming Required: Yes
Price: US$10 – US$30 per person
29 – Cliff Jumping
There is nothing like the thrill that comes with jumping off a high cliff into the ocean or a lagoon. The hit of adrenaline that surges through your body as you fly through the air is truly incomparable.
The best spots for cliff jumping are in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, which is just a short boat ride away from Bali. Whether you decide to tackle these spots on your own or join a guided tour, you’re sure to have a great time enjoying this popular activity.
Location: Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan
Swimming Required: Yes
Price: In most cases, cliff jumping is free, however Nusa Lembongan day trips from Bali typically cost between US$40 and US$250 per person.
30 – Waterbom Water Park
Established back in 1993, Waterbom Water Park is a boutique water park surrounded by lush greenery. The park offers 26 slides, a ‘pleasure pool’, a swim-up bar, gazebo areas, expansive lawns and a variety of dining experiences.
Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating experience by sliding down steep slides or you simply want to relax by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, Waterbom Water Park offers something for the entire family to enjoy.
Location: Kuta
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$20 – US$40 per person
31 – Splash Water Park
Splash Water Park, located in Canggu, is home to five slides including a lazy river as well as a 25-meter-long lap pool and a children’s playground. This is the ideal place to spend the day as you relax in the sun and enjoy the park’s modern facilities.
While Splash Water Park is great for kids, adults will also find plenty to do. Splash Water Park is part of FINNS Recreation Club, which is home to a spa, tennis courts, a trampoline center, a gym, a sports bar and so much more.
Location: Canggu
Swimming Required: No
Price: US$10 – US$30 per person
FAQ
Can I book water activities in advance, or is it better to do so on-site?
Most water sports can be booked on-site at the beach. For example, it is very easy to rent a bodyboard in Seminyak from a local surf school. However, some water activities, such as snorkeling trips, need to be booked online ahead of time.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pick the right tour for you and your travel companions. We recommend making use of our innovative search engine to compare offers, read reviews and find the best prices.
Are there any combo packages including several water activities?
Yes, there are plenty of combo packages available, some of which combine just two water activities while others combine several. Use our search engine to find great deals for combo packages.
What is the best time of the year for water activities in Bali?
The best time of the year for water activities in Bali is during the island’s dry season, which takes place between April and October each year. During this time, you’ll experience excellent visibility and dry warm weather, which is perfect for water sports.
Keep in mind that Bali’s peak season happens in June, July and August each year. During this time, the island is filled with tourists and water activity tours and lessons can get fully-booked very quickly.
Are there water activities available on all parts of the island, or are some areas better than others?
Bali’s east and southeast coasts offer calmer ocean conditions, which are better suited to water activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, wakeboarding and water skiing. The northern and central parts of the island are also home to the majority of waterfalls in Bali.
The southwest coast of the island is better known for the reef breaks and amazing waves, which provide the island’s famous surfing and bodyboarding spots.
Fortunately, the island is relatively small so no matter where you end up staying you can still easily participate in all the water sports on your bucket list. If you are traveling to different parts of the island, you should try to leave early before traffic gets too busy.
Can non-swimmers participate in water sports in Bali?
Yes, there are plenty of water sports for non-swimmers in Bali. Things like underwater sea walking, rafting, jet skiing, water tubing and kayaking are perfect for those who aren’t confident swimmers.
Most water activity tour operators in Bali offer life jackets to prioritize your safety. Just remember to communicate the fact that you are a non-swimmer to your instructor/guide so that the relevant precautions can be taken.
Are water activities in Bali safe for children?
While not all water activities are suitable for children, there are plenty of family-friendly water activities in Bali to choose from. Kids usually love banana boats, snorkeling, kayaking and rafting.
The activities that your children can safely participate in will also depend on their ages and how confident they are in the water. Remember to check specific tours to learn more about age limits and whether or not children can join.