Gamat Bay

Gamat Bay

Gamat Bay is the little sister of Crystal Bay, in Nusa Penida, Bali, in a wilder version. It’s like an aquarium, but with currents.

About Gamat Bay

Gamat Bay is one of Nusa Penida’s hidden gems. Wilder and more rugged than nearby Crystal Bay, this black sand beach is definitely worth a visit. If you’re looking for an accessible snorkeling spot without joining one of the boat tours, then Gamat Bay got you covered. Since it’s a bit harder to reach Gamat Bay, chances are that you might have this beautiful place all to yourself. I spent a whole morning here and only saw three other people down there.

Gamat Bay by boat

To reach Gamat Bay by boat is pretty straight forward. Just take a stroll along the beach at Toyapakeh Harbour and you’ll likely be approached by multiple guys who are more than happy to take you on a snorkeling trip. These tours normally stop at multiple snorkeling spots like Crystal Bay, Manta Point and Gamat Bay. Snorkeling gear (fins, goggles and snorkel) should be included in the price.

Gamat Bay land access

Coming from Toayapakeh it’s a 20-minute scooter ride to the top of the hill overlooking the bay. Turn right at the first intersection and follow the road towards Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay. The road forks after 1.3km and among the bunch of wooden signs pointing towards a place like Amok Sunset and La Lucy Sunset, there’s also a small green sign saying “Gamat Bay 1km”.Follow this dirt road for roughly 1500 meter and you’ll reach Gamat Garden Homestay. This is a good place to park your scooter, since the last 150 meters or so are particularly rocky and also a bit steeper. Once you reach Warung Gamat Sunset, turn right and follow the rocky dirt track for 200 m to 300 m. Around 20 m before this path ends, turn left and you’ll see a small footpath with a blue rope leading downwards to Gamat Bay.

Snorkeling at Gamat Bay

Gamat Bay offers some of the best shore snorkeling you can find on Nusa Penida. In the morning you’ll see a bunch of tour boats coming to Gamat Bay. You’ll find the best snorkeling spots right where the boats stop. Keep in mind though, that currents can be strong here and be extra cautious. I’m not a very strong swimmer and was happy that I got myself some fins from a diving school at Toyapakeh.

Sunbathing

Since it’s a little more difficult to reach Gamat Bay, chances are that you’ll be the only person there. So pack a towel and a good book and enjoy your own private beach. Don’t forget to bring some snacks and enough water since there’s no place whatsoever to buy anything down at the beach. I was lucky and the guy owning the small adjacent coconut palms was kind enough to climb up and pick one for me.

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