Bali : Watersports

Bali’s watersports split into two categories: ocean-based activities along the southern and eastern coasts, and freshwater adventures in the island’s river valleys. Your choice depends on how wet you want to get, how much adrenaline you want, and whether you prefer waves or rapids. Travjoy has selected five options that cover the full spectrum — from a toddler-friendly waterpark to open-ocean snorkelling off a neighbouring island.

Which Watersport Is Right for You?

• Want motorised beach thrills without planning ahead? → Other Watersports — Tanjung Benoa, walk-up bookings, multiple options.
• Want a jungle adventure that is not ocean-based? → White Water Rafting — river gorge near Ubud, no experience needed.
• Want to see coral reefs and marine life at your own pace? → Snorkelling — Amed or Tulamben, including the USS Liberty wreck.
• Want to swim with manta rays? → Nusa Penida Island — boat trip to Manta Point, seasonal but spectacular.
• Travelling with kids and want a full-day waterpark? → Waterbom Bali — slides for all ages, central Kuta location.

If You Visit Only One — Editor’s Pick

White Water Rafting. It requires no prior experience, works for ages 7 and up, and the setting — paddling through a narrow jungle gorge with carved rock faces and waterfalls — is unlike any beach-based activity. Most operators run the Ayung River route near Ubud, which takes about two hours on the water. If you are more drawn to marine life than rivers, swap this for Snorkelling at Amed or Tulamben, where the USAT Liberty shipwreck sits in shallow water just offshore.