Snorkeling in East Bali? Why Padangbai’s Blue Lagoon and Bias Tugel Are Worth It

 

On 21–23 November 2024, I rode my scooter from Ubud to Padangbai for a short escape. People usually know Padangbai as a transit port to Lombok or the Gilis, but if you stay longer than a few hours, you’ll find it has its own rhythm, quiet mornings, raw beaches, and underwater life that makes the ride worthwhile.

Snorkeling at Tanjung Jepun & Blue Lagoon

On 22 November, I finally snorkeled at Tanjung Jepun and Blue Lagoon. I booked my ticket through Traveloka Experience (around Rp 190,000 per person), simple, easy, and it covered the boat, gear, and guide.

Tanjung Jepun is known as the “aquarium” for a reason. The water is shallow and calm, with schools of fish darting around you almost instantly. Perfect if you’re a beginner or just want to float and enjoy the colors without worrying about currents.

Blue Lagoon, on the other hand, feels wilder. The water is deeper, the reef stretches wide, and every glance down feels like a discovery, corals, darting fish, and the kind of brightness that makes you stop, breathe, and just stare.

And yes, I met Nemo. Several clownfish popped in and out of their anemones, reminding me that sometimes the ocean rewards you with small, pure joy. For me, the bigger reward was finally being able to trust my body enough to relax in the ocean, no panic, no hesitation, just floating and breathing with the rhythm of the waves.

Sunrise at Bias Tugel Beach

The next morning, 23 November, I went to Bias Tugel Beach for sunrise. The sand was still cool, the waves soft, and the sky lit in pastel colors. It felt like the perfect time for a first dip.

So I went in. And right beside me, a snake. Black and white bands, moving smoothly through the water. I froze, then rushed back out.

A few boys were also swimming, and I asked them what kind of snake it was and why it was there. They told me casually that sea snakes live in the rocks right next to the beach, exactly where I had walked in.

Later, I looked it up. What I had seen was a banded sea krait, one of the most venomous sea snakes in the world. (The picture above is from Google, no way I was taking photos mid-panic.) The good news: sea kraits aren’t aggressive unless provoked. But still, imagine starting your morning like that.

I call it my oleh-oleh (souvenir) from Bias Tugel.

Heading Back to Ubud

That same day, I rode my scooter back to Ubud. The return ride after a trip always feels different, heavier, like you’re carrying something invisible with you. Padangbai gave me joy, clarity, and a sharp reminder that the ocean is both beautiful and untamed.

Sometimes you get Nemo. Sometimes you get a sea snake. And both become the stories you take home.

Quick Guide: Snorkeling in Padangbai (East Bali)

• Snorkeling Spots: Tanjung Jepun & Blue Lagoon

• Price: ~Rp 190,000 per person (Traveloka Experience)

• Best Time to Snorkel: Morning,  calmer sea, clearer visibility

• Bias Tugel Beach: Best at sunrise; peaceful, golden light (watch out near the rocks, sea snakes live there)

• Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by scooter from Ubud (depending on traffic)