Buddha Point: A Snorkeling Adventure in Bali

Buddha Point is a stunning group of underwater Buddhist temple statues located near Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan in Bali. This travel guide will provide you with essential information on how to reach this unique attraction and valuable insights for your trip!

Where To Stay In Nusa Penida

Visiting Buddha Point

The underwater statues are only about 5 meters (15 feet) deep, making them accessible for snorkeling enthusiasts without any scuba gear. The centerpiece is a 3-meter (8-foot) tall Buddha statue surrounded by large bell-shaped stupas reminiscent of Borobudur Temple in central Java.

Exercise caution as the currents can be quite strong; I found myself needing assistance from my boat guide to stay close to the statues. If you’re a proficient swimmer or have a vigilant guide, you should enjoy your time here without any issues.

How To Get To Buddha Point

Buddha Point is conveniently accessible from Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, or Penida. The statues are situated near the north end of Nusa Ceningan, close to the Ceningan Channel, which separates Nusa Ceningan from Nusa Lembongan. Reaching the site by boat from Penida is straightforward; I personally visited during a half-day snorkeling adventure that included various coral spots, and it cost just 200k Rupiah ($14 USD).

Now Closed?

Since 2019, the area around the statues has reportedly been closed to tourists. Some locals even claim that the statues have been removed. Conversations with Balinese friends in Nusa Penida revealed that the company responsible for placing the statues as a snorkeling attraction was unhappy with the influx of other tour companies bringing snorkelers to the same site, leading to attempts to deter competing tours.

This has seemingly resulted in what some are calling a turf war over the statues, with claims that the original company has removed the statues, though this may just be a rumor to discourage visitors. I am actively seeking updated information regarding the current status of the statues, so if you have any insights, please share.

More Nusa Penida Travel Tips

For those seeking additional details on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida in Bali, be sure to explore the full Nusa Penida Travel Guide, which includes helpful tips, maps, and stunning photos. The island is abundant with lovely beaches, dramatic cliffs, picturesque caves, and excellent snorkeling locations!

Day Tours To Nusa Penida

If you’re short on time or prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing your own journey to Nusa Penida, consider prearranged day trips that include hotel transfers, fast boat tickets, guided island tours, and same-day returns to Bali. These tours offer a comprehensive experience, making it easy to enjoy the highlights of Nusa Penida.