Angel’s Billabong in Nusa Penida, Bali, is famous for its crystal-clear, blue-green waters framed by rugged rock formations.
The natural infinity pool attracts travellers from around the world keen to swim in its serene-looking waters. But while the scenery is postcard-perfect, the location hides a dangerous reality, a powerful waves that can appear without warning.
Malaysian model and TV host Lee Yvonne learned this the hard way. During a visit in May 2022, she found herself caught in a terrifying moment when a sudden wave swept through the pool.
Her story, shared in an Instagram Reel on Friday (8 August 2025), has since served as a stark reminder for others considering a dip in the area.
Lee recalled arriving at Angel’s Billabong with friends, immediately taken in by the destination’s beauty.
“It looked like a natural infinity pool,” she said, explaining that she and her friends had noticed other tourists happily swimming. With the tide appearing calm and inviting, they decided to join in.
Initially, the water remained gentle, giving no hint of the danger ahead. “The waves were bigger than when we first arrived,” Lee admitted, “but I thought it was normal because we were by the sea.”
Lee Yvonne even believed the coral reef nearby would block the waves from reaching them.
From Calm to Chaos in Seconds
It turned out the reef was no match for what came next. A powerful wave surged in without warning, sweeping across the pool area.
“Suddenly, everyone was shocked and tried to save themselves,” she said. When the water calmed momentarily, Lee and her friend began to make their way down into the pool again.
That was when their guide, sensing danger, shouted urgently: “Cepat, cepat, cepat!” urging everyone to get out immediately. But, as Lee recalled, “It was too late.” The next wave hit with even greater force, engulfing the entire pool.
Lee described the sensation vividly: “We felt like clothes in a washing machine.” She and her friends were thrown around by the current, crashing into the coral beneath. “This is it, my life is over,” she thought in that moment.
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The impact left her body covered in cuts and bruises, with one particularly deep wound requiring eight stitches. Reflecting on the incident, she said it was a lesson she would not forget and one she hopes others will learn from.
“Do your research,” she urged, explaining that she had only looked up the location after the incident and discovered its reputation for dangerous waves.
Lee also stressed the importance of being prepared for the unexpected when travelling. “Never underestimate nature,” she said, adding that tourists should consider having travel insurance for peace of mind.
A Known Danger Spot
Local guides and authorities have long warned about the risks at Angel’s Billabong. Several incidents in the past have resulted in serious injuries and in some tragic cases, fatalities when visitors were caught off guard by surging waves.
While the area remains open to visitors, experts recommend caution, particularly during high tide or rough sea conditions. Staying a safe distance from the edge, obeying safety signs, and following guide instructions can make all the difference.
For those still eager to experience the spot’s beauty, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September.
The weather during these months is generally more stable, and the sea calmer, allowing for safer access to the natural pool. Even then, the advice remains the same: enjoy the view, but respect the power of the ocean.
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