Best Diving sites in Bali

225 dive logs in “Bali”

1. Bali is a great place to dive. I would recommed to learn scuba diving in Tulamben on the Liberty Ship Wreck. Good visibiliy and no current. Menjangan in the North is really great too for the coral.

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   • I agree! I just dived the Liberty Ship Wreck and it was an incredible experience! The visibility was great and you can dive throughout the wreck, which was thrilling. I went with Bali Fab Dive and had a great time. My dive instructor was very meticulous and helpful to make sure I had an amazing dive experience. You can check out their YouTube channel to see some action videos!

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2. Don’t miss Manta Point in Nusa Penida if you want to spot Manta Rays!!!

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3. Menjangan has it’s execellent wall dives but you must beware of the rainy season whereby the trash that floats from the island of Jawa towards Bali is so bad especially when you’re doing your safety stops.The muck diving in that area is really crazy with layers of trash but critters are everywhere and it really take some getting used to.One area near Menjangan that everyone must try is Secret Bay.Doing the night dive here is awesome but the water is a bit cold so I’ll recommend the 5 mm.The other parts of Bali especially the eastern side is a bit more pleasant because of the current that move most of the trash towards other part of Indonesia like Tulamben,Seraya,Amed ,Padang Bay,Tepekong,Blue Lagoon,Shark’s point and Crystal bay and many more sites.

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   • Yes Secret Bay is awsome for muck diving! A must do for any underwater photographer.

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4. I live in Bali and my favourite dive spots are Crystal Bay (sometimes the current can get a little strong) and Manta Point. Manta rays are such graceful creatures, I could spend hours watching them swim above and around me…

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5. hi! we’re planning a trip to bali this last week of september and we would like to go scuba diving for about 2 days. can you help me with the following info pls?

   1) can you recommend a (safe, established) diving company?
   2) what area should we stay at? (kuta? nusa dua?)
   3) what are your best 7 dive spots in bali? we have advanced diving certification. we are interested to see big fishes more than corals.
   4) how much is the average cost per dive? what is included? we will just bring our mask, snorkel, fins and wet suits.

   thank you!!

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   • Hi Lisette!

     1) It really depends where you want to stay and where you want to dive. If you want to stay in the South of Bali around Kuta, you can go diving with Blue Season Bali Dive Center, they are very professionals, with new diving gears and a very nice boat.

     2) If you are in Bali mostly for Scuba Diving and you want to see big fishes, I would advise Sanur. It is a bit upmarket and more expensive than other places but if you want to dive Nusa Penida it is the best place to stay. If you look for a more peaceful place you can go to Padang Bai on the East coast. You can also stay on Nusa Lembongan Island with a chill out atmosphere.

     3) For big fishes the best place is Nusa Penida / Nusa Lembongan. You can see Manta Rays, Reef Sharks, Sometimes Hammerhead Sharks and Mola Mola. try to dive Blue Corner, Crystal Bay as well as Manta Point. If you have time don’t miss also the Liberty Ship Wreck in Tulamben.

     4) It depends of the dive center. The average price is 20 USD for a shore dive with diving gears up to 50 USD for dive boat all inclusive (Lunch, equipment rental,…).

     I hope it will help. Please give your feedbacks once you are back! have a safe trip.

     Julien

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     • My girlfriend and I are coming to Bali in September, package through Expedia and think that we will be staying in Kuta. I read your reply to another request. We are flying 38 hours just to see Manta Rays, crazy but true.

       Please advise to which dive center to book with that will do pickup and drop off at our hotel in Kuta?

       Will they do a trip out to see Manta’s and Moli’s?

       Plan to do three days of diving but also up for one more day if need too. Please assist with advise, we live on an island so we dive every weekend and have done it it all. But yes want to do a wreck dive, manta and Moli dive and let’s us know what other dive site is good to request.

       Thank you, Juan Keyter
       Aruba

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       • Hi Juan – I see you live in Aruba, wonderful!

         I don’t know if I am allowed to ‘recommend’ my own dive company:
         AquaMarine Diving – Bali
         http://www.AquaMarineDiving.com
         I hope so!

         I understand that you and your girlfriend (regular divers) will be in Bali in September and would like to do 3-4days of diving.

         AquaMarine would, of course!, be delighted to take you to Nusa Penida for Manta rays and Mola-Molas plus some great drift-diving; to Tulamben Bay (NE Bali) to the 120m USAT Liberty shipwreck, and to the dive sites outside Padangbai/Candidasa (my personal favourites!). There are many other dive locations around Bali, but I’d suggest you limit yourselves to the above three – even if you do four days of diving.

         Travelling Kuta-Tulamben in September (still busy with tourists) will be approx 3hrs each way.

         We will pick you up each day from your Kuta accom (and drop you back afterwards too!).

         Please e-mail Info@AquaMarineDiving.com so that we can send you full information, thank you.

         Annabel

         AquaMarine Diving – Bali, PADI 5 Star Dive Resort 6344
         Indonesia’s first Project AWARE Go ECO Operator
         2012 PADI Green Star Award

         Office: Jl Petitenget 2A, Kuta, Bali 80361
         Postal: PO Box 2098, Kuta, Bali 80361
         Phone: +62 361 4738 020 Fax: +62 361 4738 021

6. I am planning a trip to Bali in October 2nd-25th. Is this considered a good time for dive conditions?

   Where would I have the best chance to see a Mola Mola?

   Are there any dive areas I should avoid at this time of the year?

   Thanks
   Alan

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   • Hello Alan! Your best best chances to see a Mola Mola is to dive around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. October is still the Mola Mola season. Enjoy!

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   • October is great for mola-molas. As Julien said they can be seen around Nusa Penida and Lembongan. My Favorites sites to spot them there are Toyapakeh, PED, SD, Buyug, Blue Corner and Manta Point. Avoid Crystal Bay if you want to escape encounters with dozen of divers harassing one mola-mola…
     Yesterday in Manta, our divers had 2 mola, 5 mantas, 1 nurse shark… and 1 guitarshark in one dive only!
     Lastly, Gili Tepekong, Mimpang and Biaha are some of the best places for sunfish if you like one on one experiences. You can dive there best from Padang Bai or Candidasa.
     Hope you have a great time.

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7. Be arriving in Balk this Friday and have one dive trip scheduled for Nusa Penida (Mola-Mola) inc. Manta Point on Monday. Also plan on traveling to Tulamben for the liberty wreck dive. Then off to Gili islands do a day of diving…
   I want to know while staying in Bali , legain area… How do we get to someplace to take us to Komodo islands… Is it worth it from there and this tme of year? Aside from he dIvIng there can you visit a park there or something for the Komodo dragons?

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8. Hi, I am currently planning a dive trip to Lembongan Island in October this year. It has been a life long dream to dive with the Manta rays and I know it says here that the best time would be April/ May but what is the likelihood of seeing mantas around late october?

   Also, would lembongan be the likely place to see Mantas or would you recommend another place?

   Very interested in your feedback! Please let me know

   Cheers,
   Mei Ni

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   • Mantas can normally be seen all year round. Although you never get a 100% guarantee like in a zoo, the Alfredi rays can be seen on virtually every trip, all year long!
     They can be seen on the West coast of Nusa Penida. Operators normally call those different sites Manta Point. The best places to dive Manta Point from are Padang Bai, Nusa Lembongan and Sanur.

     Diving in Bali is great all year long. Dry season is between May and November. Rain season is from November til May. However, it rarely rains all day long, normally just a few hours in the night or morning, then it gets sunny. The months of August and September are the most busy. During these months, I personally avoid some dive sites, such as Tulamben’s Shipwreck or Nusa Penida’s Crystal Bay.

     The mola-mola, AKA oceanic sunfish, is the number one attraction in Bali. Best time to see it is between August and beginning of November. It can be seen at other times, especially close to full moon or new moon. The best dive sites for sightings are Gili Mimpang/Tepekong, Nusa Penida PED, Sental, Toyapakeh or Blue Corner. Crystal Bay is also good, but can be dangerous and crowded during mola-mola season…

     There are many more things to see in Bali. Mantas can be seen all year round at Nusa Penida’s Manta Point. This site is best dived from Lembongan, Sanur or Padang Bai. Encounters take place on virtually every trip.

     Sharks can be seen frequently in Padang Bai, Mimpang/Tepekong and Tulamben. Reef sharks like whitetips or blacktips are most common. Wobbegong sharks can be seen in Padang Bai and Tepekong during the dry season. Thresher, hammerheads and whale sharks are less common, but there are a few sightings every year.

     Macro is unbelievably great in Bali. With a bit of luck and a lot of diving you may see most of the critters that people dream of. Frogfish, pipefish, scorpionfish, nudibranches and crustaceans are common. If lucky, you may even encounter Mimic Octopus (Pemuteran, Gilimanuk, Padang Bai), Harlequin Shrimps (Tulamben, Seraya), Pygmy Seahorses (Tulamben, Amed, Padang Bai), etc… The best dive sites for macro are Gilimanuk Secret Bay, Tulamben and Padang Bai.

     Diving in Bali can be done in many different ways. There are both shore dives and boat dives. Large dive centers with up to 100 divers a day can be found on the island. Smaller, more intimate ones also exist. In some places, like Tulamben or Padang Bai, you can even request your own private dive guide and dive with him for the duration of your stay. Some dive centers have house reefs and dive sites a few hundred meters from the base. Others commute for several hours a day. There is really something for every diver in Bali!

     By Cedric Saveuse

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9. I confirm that Bali is one place that people who love diver must go. And I recommend Koh-Tao in Thailand, it’s another good place for diving.

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10. West coast of Bali is very dirty this week, over New Year, 2012-2013, due to storms. Masses of debris on the beaches, even palm trees, and the water is like a soup with lots of green seaweed and other rubbish. Better to go to the east or north-east coast, which does not seem to get as much of the Java/Sumatra rubbish coming past. Expect plenty more rain January.

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    • Yes, unfortunately there has been a lot of junk all around Bali in the last few weeks.
      It looks like the clean-up efforts of dive centers are not enough to get rid of the trash when the first rains arrive and push junk from the riverbeds into the sea!
      I strongly recommend anyone, who witnessed this being a problem, to write an email to the governor of Bali and express their desire for a change. If enough people join forces, we should be able to better the situation.

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11. Diving in Bali is great all year long. Dry season is between May and November. Rain season is from November til May. However, it rarely rains all day long, normally just a few hours in the night or morning, then it gets sunny. The months of August and September are the most busy. During these months, I personally avoid some dive sites, such as Tulamben’s Shipwreck or Nusa Penida’s Crystal Bay.

    The mola-mola, AKA oceanic sunfish, is the number one attraction in Bali. Best time to see it is between August and beginning of November. It can be seen at other times, especially close to full moon or new moon. The best dive sites for sightings are Gili Mimpang/Tepekong, Nusa Penida PED, Sental, Toyapakeh or Blue Corner. Crystal Bay is also good, but can be dangerous and crowded during mola-mola season…

    There are many more things to see in Bali. Mantas can be seen all year round at Nusa Penida’s Manta Point. This site is best dived from Lembongan, Sanur or Padang Bai. Encounters take place on virtually every trip.

    Sharks can be seen frequently in Padang Bai, Mimpang/Tepekong and Tulamben. Reef sharks like whitetips or blacktips are most common. Wobbegong sharks can be seen in Padang Bai and Tepekong during the dry season. Thresher, hammerheads and whale sharks are less common, but there are a few sightings every year.

    Macro is unbelievably great in Bali. With a bit of luck and a lot of diving you may see most of the critters that people dream of. Frogfish, pipefish, scorpionfish, nudibranches and crustaceans are common. If lucky, you may even encounter Mimic Octopus (Pemuteran, Gilimanuk, Padang Bai), Harlequin Shrimps (Tulamben, Seraya), Pygmy Seahorses (Tulamben, Amed, Padang Bai), etc… The best dive sites for macro are Gilimanuk Secret Bay, Tulamben and Padang Bai.

    Diving in Bali can be done in many different ways. There are both shore dives and boat dives. Large dive centers with up to 100 divers a day can be found on the island. Smaller, more intimate ones also exist. In some places, like Tulamben or Padang Bai, you can even request your own private dive guide and dive with him for the duration of your stay. Some dive centers have house reefs and dive sites a few hundred meters from the base. Others commute for several hours a day. There is really something for every diver in Bali!

    By Cedric Saveuse

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12. Dear all, i have yust booked a trip to Bali ( Sanur ) in begin August and would like to have as mutch info as possible for divingplaces.
    Thanks in advance. Wim ( Netherlands )

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    • Hi Wim
      I have just stayed in 3 different “homestays” in Sanur in December. You basically get a room with or w/o airconditioning, substituted by a fan. You have a private bathroom in most, sometimes with hot water.
      I recommend you try Keke at Jalan Danau Tambingan 96. They are building 8 new rooms and reforming the originals. Her niece has just completed new rooms in the same lane: Kirana Homestay. I stayed at the Aussie place Flashbacks connected to The Porch Restaurant and got 20 mosquito bites on each leg. You could also try Yulia 1 and Yulia 2 (Billy’s Cafe) and also Little Pond. I saw those last 3 and they looked good.
      Here is a larger list http://www.travelfish.org/accommodation/indonesia/bali/bali/sanur/all
      Of course,if you want 5* there are the the Hyatt and Sanur Beach Hotels, where you pay USD100’s per night i.s.o. IDR125,000 – 200,000 – €10 – 15.
      Take your pick.

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13. wimwiersma@outlook.com
    asked
    My last dive was in oktober in Egypt, visibility 30 meter at 30 degrees, what is visibility in Bali when there is no rain season?

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14. Hi Wim,
    Great to hear that you’ll be diving in Bali soon. The visibility really depends on which dive site you will be diving. Bear in mind that Bali is a large island and that it takes more than 5 hours to go from one hand of the island to the other.
    The best visibility can be found around Nusa Penida in dive sites such a Crystal Bay (hence the name) or Toyapakeh. 30m+ can be expected there. Tulamben has good visibility with 25m + most of the tim. The Padang Bai area has an average viz of 20-25m. The worst viz can be found in Gilimanuk (>10m) and Manta Point (10m average).
    Hope this helps!

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15. Yes, Ive dived in Bali but NEVER again. The local DiveMaster proceeded to scratch his initials into a giant coral. This is the only dive I have ever been on where myself and two other divers simultaneously about turned and headed in the opposite direction to force the DM to break off the what he was doing. His werent the only initials or environmental underwater graffiti either. I felt terrible having gone on the dive and been partially responsible for the destruction. I will never recommend or return to Bali again. There are plenty of fantastic dive destinations worldwide to visit, my top picks being the Sinai and cenote dives around Tulum.

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    • ?!!!!! WTF!!! Thank you Sabrina for your feedback, can you please give the name of the Dive Center and the Dive Master?! Julien

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16. Julien, I would like to have the name of this champion of diving graffiti, too, so I can be sure he/she never appears on our website. However, I think it is childish to condemn a whole island, and thus a whole people, for the bad behaviour of 1 lout. The waters of Bali and adjoining islands are teaming with the most beautiful fish and coral, as you well know, and I hope other divers will not be put of by this NEVER person, Sabrina.

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17. My first snorkeling experience was in Bali earlier this year. I went with Blue Season Bali, they are actually a dive center, but also run snorkeling trips around Bali. Nusa Penida was the snorkeling site that I went to. I was the only person who was snorkeling at that time, the others were guests, and I think there were also a group of people who were having some scuba internship course. My guide, Putu, was also one of the boat crew, he was really kind, patient and helpful, knowing the fact that it was my first ever snorkeling experience in my life *shame on me*. My first spot was Crystal Bay. Since the site is actually a bit more for the pro divers, Putu advised me to and to snorkel not too far from the boat and stay on the rather shallow spots, since I was snorkeling I also thought that it was the best. The visibility here was not so good, and I saw quite some debris that kind of spoiled the whole scenery. Mola mola, the rare oceanic sunfish, usually show up here on certain times of the year, but none was spotted when I was snorkeling there. My second spot was SD, which stands for ‘Sekolah Dasar’, Indonesian word for Primary School. I guess it named that way because there is a school building located near the beach of the spot. The visibility here is better, I saw Nemo, and lots of other beautuful small fishes and corals.
    I should’ve taken a friend to join me, because they’re having a free snorkel set promo if I bring a friend along.
    Overall my first snorkeling experience was awesome, I couldn’t believe why I didn’t jump into the ocean years ago, I am looking forward to learning to dive now in hope to be able to enjoy more of the underwater world.

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18. Hi,
    I have been diving in Bali twice – the first time was my first ever dive and I was hooked straight away. I got my dive ticket as soon as I got back to Australia. On my next trip to Bali, my mates and I went diving around Menjengang (spelling??) and it was beautiful. We saw so much – the turtles were my favourite!
    I have just booked an another trip to Bali in October. This will be a family trip and none of my family members dive. I was hoping to go diving again while I’m there but I won’t have a dive buddy. Can you suggest any places that might be able to pair me up with another diver? We will be staying in South Kuta and I was hoping to dive somewhere not too far from there. Thanks!

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    • Hi Luke,

      You can try contacting dive operators around the Menjangan National Park. You will probably find that is the easiest way to get paired you with a buddy, dive operations in south bali don’t frequently run trips to Menjangan area.

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    • October is a great month to be diving Bali!

      Plus most dive companies are still busy so there should be no problem with you being a single diver, they can join you up with a pre-existing trip

      If you’d like to e-mail me, it’s Annabel@AquaMarineDiving.com – no sales pitch, just some questions and answers/advice.

      Annabel

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19. The closest place for nice diving to Kuta is Padang Bai… not exactly next door, but Kuta is one of the worst places to stay in Bali for diving holidays.
    During local dives in Padang Bai you can see turtles, sharks and great corals. The problem is that traveling to Padang Bai everyday is going to cost you a lot of money.
    Other option is to dive with one of the dive operators based in Sanur. They have boats in Sanur going to Nusa Penida including Manta Point. They also go to Tulamben but plan on staying in a car for 5hrs +… not the nicest way to spend a holiday!

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20. Hi everyone !

    i’m gonna be in Indonesia from 16th february untill 1 april and I want to dive

    All of the diving sites looks amazing, but i need to choose, but wich one ?
    Nusa Penida and Tulamben, for Bali ?

    I just bought a new camera and a caising for diving, can wait to try it!

    And for Lombok, any suggestions ?

    And around 18th march i’m thingking to go to Flores – komodo, any suggestions?

    thank you so much

    have a nice day

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    • Hi Elise
      Heed the warning of the diving people writing on this blog. Your nearest town, though, for going to Nusa Penida & Lembongan is Sanur. There you can take a boat from the beach area near INNA Grand Beach Hotel or Benoa Harbour. But if you go with diving company they will tell you where their boats are.
      If you “have the means” look at these hotels
      http://www.mydestination.com/bali/accommodation/180280/sanur-beach-hotel-bali
      http://www.mydestination.com/bali/accommodation/180280/sanur-beach-hotel-bali
      If you need to go much cheaper, look at
      http://www.travelfish.org/accommodation/indonesia/bali/bali/sanur/all
      If you are going up the East Coast, see my suggestions for acomm. above 11th February.
      For Lombok, go to the Lombok section on this website. Different place, different dives.

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    • Hi Elise
      About Lombok, have you heard of the Gili Islands – Meno, Air (means water in Bahasa) and Trawangan? The 3 islands are so close that there are boats running between them all day. It is peaceful and there are good dives. There is a dive centre on Trawangan. Go to http://nirwanaguesthouse.com and under CONTACT email to Rudy. He knows everybody out there and speaks good English.
      Situation: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gili_Islands#Gili_Trawangan
      Have a peaceful stay if you go.

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21. Hi Elise,
    Could you tell us what’s your diving experience? I’m asking that to point out that diving in Nusa Penida might take at least an Advanced Open Water diver. I am not sure for Tulamben.
    Those area are absolutely great for diving, I say go dive ’em all
    In case you need a great dive center. Try contacting Blue Season Bali, as they also do dive trips to Lombok and Komodo. And.. you can also take your Advanced OW level if you haven’t done so. Just send an email to diving@blueseasonbali.com.
    Julien has dived with Blue Season too if I’m not mistaken.
    I hope you have a great time diving in Indonesia
    Cheers!

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    • Hi Yoas,
      I have my Advance since march 2011.
      I dive in Québec, Belize, Honduras, Ecuador and Cambodia. I have around 22 dives.

      In komodo, the current is really strong that it can be dangerous ?

      If i want to go to Nusa Penida, wich city i should stay to get there ? Its possible to stay a overnight ?

      Thanks for the diving center, i’m gonna have a look
      If you have any other tips or recommandations, you can write me. Its my first time in Indonesia, can wait to go

      thanks again!

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      • Hi Elise,
        The current in Komodo, like in many parts of Indonesia like Nusa Penida, can be very strong. This is due to the Indonesian throughflow, a movement of water between the Indian Ocean in the South and the Pacific Ocean in the North.
        That being said, diving in Nusa Penida or Komodo is not necessarily dangerous. You just need to choose the operator carefully and dive with Divemasters who possess extensive experience on local dive sites.
        To dive Nusa Penida, you can either stay in Sanur, Padang Bai or Nusa Lembongan. Nusa Lembongan is closest but it can be tricky to get there, depending on where you are in Bali. It’s only a 15/20 minute boat ride from Padang Bai and Sanur depending on which dive sites you choose to dive.
        Although Nusa Penida is a great place to dive, there are many other great spots around Bali

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22. Yes, if you’re going to be in Bali for a 1 1/2 month, you should definitely dive both Penida AND Tulambem. As Yoas said this is only true provided that you are already AOW.
    If you are not yet certified, steer away from Nusa Penida. Some unscrupulous dive centres offer introduction dives in Manta Point – Nusa Penida. This is not safe under any circumstances since conditions there with strong swells do not allow for safe Discover Scuba Diving programs.

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23. Elise,

    Yoas and Gecko dive are right, best thing you can do is head to Tulamben & Padang Bai for dives. If you’d like to head to Nusa Penida you can of course as technically you are qualified with your AOW licence, but experience wise its best to head there after a few days of diving here in Bali so your divemaster gets to know you a bit better before bringing you to dive sites with strong current such as Penida. The current can vary from nothing to 4 knots, really depends on the conditions each day, but reputable dive centers will have guides with tens of thousands of dives and have all the experience to keep you safe.

    Komodo is another story, current can be strong at certain dive sites, but there are also some muck diving sites around. If you are diving a few days in Bali that would be the best preparation for your Komodo trip – My only suggestion is be careful which dive center you go with in Komodo, Many I have approached are over ambitious and take on far too many divers each day.

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24. Thanks everyone for your answers
    I dove with Geko Dive Bali in Padang Bai for 3 days, its was amazing and they are really professional and frendly I really had a good time,

    I’m not sure anymore if i still want to go to Komodo, if not i’m gonna do more diving in Bali

    First underwater shooting

    https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151287649145785.455519.531615784&type=1

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25. Hi all,
    I’m planning to spend 4 full days in bali (end of June 2013 ) my main plan is to spend my time diving! need some help on where to stay and where to dive.

    Thx
    Allan

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    • Hi Allan,

      It depends on what kinds of diving are you looking for. There’s the USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben, Mola-molas (the oceanic sunfish-sighted on certain season if I’m not mistaken) and Mantas in Nusa Penida. Check out http://www.baliocean.com/en/bali_dive_sites.blueseason for more detailed info.
      Happy diving

      YN

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      • I appreciate your quick response
        Thx

        Allan

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        • You’re welcome, Allan

          Cheers,
          YN

    • As the main focus of your four days is to dive: Padangbai (or Candidasa a little further up the coast if you want more to see/do in the evenings or when off-gassing) is the best place to base yourself as you’ve got all the Padangbai/Candidasa sites (my personal favourites) on the doorstep and you just get on the boat to go over to Nusa Penida/Lembongan.

      Taking the boat from Snore the journey is longer and considerably more bumpy.

      However, the Pbai/Cdasa and NP/L sites are generally the more challenging – which you might not want to do.

      If you’d rather than easier diving, or you’re into photography, then I’d suggest you base yourself in Tulamben – there are sites within the bay such as the USAT Liberty shipwreck, as well as those just outside the bay (eg: Palung-Palung). You are just a short drive from Kubu, Amed, etc.

      Plenty to do in four days

      Actually – one more idea/suggestion: Diving around the north west of Bali including Menjangan Island, staying in Pemuteran.

      Please let me know if you’d like more details. The above is v short

      Annabel

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26. Diving from Padang bai means you can easily access most of the best dive sites in Bali within less than one hour. It’s also a great place to discover real Balinese life rather than touristic resorts… Please let us know what your experience is and what you would like to see under water?
    Enjoy your planning!

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    • I agree with this comment – as the main focus of your four days is to dive: Padangbai (or Candidasa a little further up the coast if you want more to see/do in the evenings or when off-gassing) is the best place to base yourself as you’ve got all the Padangbai/Candidasa sites (my personal favourites) on the doorstep and you just get on the boat to go over to Nusa Penida/Lembongan.

      Taking the boat from Snore the journey is longer and considerably more bumpy.

      However, the Pbai/Cdasa and NP/L sites are generally the more challenging – which you might not want to do.

      If you’d rather than easier diving, or you’re into photography, then I’d suggest you base yourself in Tulamben – there are sites within the bay such as the USAT Liberty shipwreck, as well as those just outside the bay (eg: Palung-Palung). You are just a short drive from Kubu, Amed, etc.

      Plenty to do in four days

      Actually – one more idea/suggestion: Diving around the north west of Bali including Menjangan Island, staying in Pemuteran.

      Please don’t hesitate to ask if you’d like more details – the above is v brief!

      Annabel

      Reply ↓

27. Thanks for good information on this log!

    I am staying in Bali, Seminyak right now and am looking into diving one of the following days. I know west coast is the best place to base from, for the best dives but I will just have to get to Sanur or Padang bai real early one morning

    I am hearing different things from different places regarding the currents at Manta point and also where is biggest chance of seeing mantas and/or sharks.

    Are the currents very strong at this time of the year at manta point and is Open water certificate ok? How deep do you have to go to spot them? And are sharks common there too? Or am I better to go somewhere else for sharks?

    Thank you in advance for any tips,
    /Malin

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Malin

      I am sorry for my delayed reply

      We (AquaMarine Diving – Bali) are actually based in Seminyak and would be very happy to pick you up from your accommodation to take you diving – that way you don’t have to get yourself to Sanur/Padangbai.

      If you have not yet organised your diving, please contact us: We have loads of different sites available this weekend and into next week.

      They include:

      – Tulamben Bay (with the 120m USAT Liberty Shipwreck – possibly the world’s easiest wreck dive) and Amed, both on the NE coast.

      – the less-challenging sites outside Padangbai/Candidasa on Bali’s east coast

      – Over at Nusa Penida, including Manta Point.

      You said you are OW-certified but didn’t mention how many dives you have logged, nor when you last went diving.

      Once we have that info, we can recommend sites for you. And I promise that we will not take you anywhere that you are not ready to dive

      Annabel

      Reply ↓

28. Correction: I know the west coast is NOT the best base if you want to dive:)

    Reply ↓

29. Dear Malin,
    You’re right: the West Coast is not the best for diving in Bali. The East is where the action takes place.
    You can go to Manta Point with an Open Water certificate. You do need a couple of dives under your belt and it’s better if you dived recently. At Geko Dive, we ask that people dive with us once before going to Manta Point, when they are OW and have only a few dives. That way we can evaluate their diving proficiency.
    The tricky thing with Manta Point is not the current. The swell (read big waves) is the problem, especially a week after the full moon. It is rarely un-divable as the big swell can actually be a lot of fun for people who are comfortable on a rocking boat. The great thing is that Mantas are spotted on almost every trip, all year long!
    Manta Point is not the best dive site in Bali to spot sharks. Sightings of nurse sharks are not uncommon, but, if you want sharks with slightly bigger teeth, then you’re better off to head to Padang Bai or Gili Mmpang/Tepekong. The Whitetip reef shark populations there are still healthy, with both juveniles and adults spotted frequently (especially when diving with local dive centres that know the sites best).
    Please email me or have a look at my website if you want more info.
    Cedric/Geko Dive Bali

    Reply ↓

    • Hi to All!
      We are planning to go to Bali on 7th of February 2014.
      Is the dive conditions are really so bad as everyone describing?
      Please share your opinion?

      Reply ↓

      • Hi Dzianis,

        February is still a good time to dive, however you may not see as much as you would in other months (anywhere between April and Dec is the best time to dive in Bali). Unfortunately wet season usually means less visibility. February is heading towards the end of the wet season, although during wet season the current unfortunately brings rubbish to the top of the island from Java. I would suggest diving on the North East coast of Bali, Tulamben (this is where the USAT Lberty Shipwreck is located). We are hoping that because we had an early start to the wet season this year it will finish up early too. I hope this information is useful and we look forward to seeing you in Bali.
        Best wishes
        Carol

        Reply ↓

      • Actually, diving right now (Feb 6th) is great. Visibility was amazing today in Padang Bai with 30m. Sharks, turtles, schools of fish and great macro were all spotted by our Divemasters a couple of hours ago.
        It is a living environment and you may have a lot of changes from one week to another, even more so from one year to the next. I suggest getting in touch with local dive centers who dive here frequently, know the best dive sites and the right times to dive those sites.
        People who tell you there is always currents and bad vis with strong waves on dive sites where you can see sharks this season obviously have not done much diving here…

        Reply ↓

30. Hi Malin,

    Although Cedric is offering you decent advice, I think he did not pick up on the fact that you are concerned about the strong currents. You definitely do not want to be diving around Gili Mimpang or Tepekong as the currents can be outrageous. Sharks and bigger pelagics love current. If you want to see sharks then your best bet is to dive more until you are comfortable enough to brave the currents (Generally 50-100 dives experience for Gili Tepekong/Mimpang). You would have a nicer time at Tulamben or Menjangan island. Hope this helps! P/S: Go for your Advance Open Water

    Reply ↓

    • Dear neoprene_lover,
      I beg to differ but sharks can be seen in Padang Bai by beginner divers. It is not rare that our introductory divers or open water students see them during their very first dives. Most sharks can be spotted extremely shallow and the Advanced ticket is not necessarily needed.
      I do agree with you that doing the Advanced has value but indicating that it is a necessity borders on bad advertising practices…

      Reply ↓

31. This is a question rather than a post dive comment – I just want to pick some brains! I’m going on a family holiday to Kuta in July. I’d like to take my nephews + niece snorkelling (aged 11-18ys) – can you recommend a good company to take us on a day trip? I was thinking maybe to Padangbai or Tulamben. They all swim, but haven’t snorkelled much. And I’d like to dive Manta Point – can you recommend someone to take me there on a day trip (am Open Water diver)?

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Jenny – first: I hope you all have a great holiday here in Bali in July

      Snorkelling: Yes, either Blue Lagoon or Tulamben Bay would be fine.

      If you have your own transport, you could simply drive to Padangbai and choose an operator when you get there – probably cheaper.

      Obviously you could do the same in Tulamben but it’s a long drive.

      Alternatively you can go with a south Bali operator who will pick you all up, supply snorkelling gear (although you could dive at either location while your niece/nephews snorkel), lunch, all logistics really.

      If you need one, either a local operator or one from south Bali, can supply a snorkelling guide.

      AquaMarine Diving – Bali offers snorkelling tours to both locations every day however at Blue Lagoon on Tue and Fridays we also include a Free Barbeque Lunch.

      For snorkelling, because Tulamben is ‘from the shore’, they could come and go as they please. Obviously you can also do that with a boat (Blue Lagoon) too

      Blue Lagoon can have a current, but has white-ish sand so is brighter.

      Tulamben’s beach is round rocks, and has black sand – volcanic from Mt Agung. It is pretty cool to see the shipwreck under you!

      Diving at Manta Point: No current but it can be surgy – however it is unlikely to be surgy in July!

      What I would point out to you: There is a season for Mola-Mola (Ocean sunfish) in Bali – it’s July-November – and we generally see them around Nusa Penida. It makes sense to offer 2 Big Fish (Mantas and Molas) on one trip. However MM are generally found deep (30m ish) and around the current-y areas. So, if you are not experienced, or you’re a bit rusty, please(!) make sure that whichever operator you choose does not simply ‘put you on a boat to Nusa Penida’. More divers in MM season, so boats tend to ‘get filled up’. I wouldn’t want you to have a miserable time – MM also like cold water! – too deep, swirly currents.

      Please let me know if you have any other questions – happy to answer them

      Annabel

      Reply ↓

    • Hi Jenny
      You may want to try these people in Padang Bay:
      http://www.mydestination.com/bali/things-to-do/191160/padi–idc–bali
      PADI qualified instructor.

      Reply ↓

32. Hi Jenny!
    Snorkelling at Padangbai and Tulamben are both great options for your nephews and niece! Blue Lagoon Beach (Padang bai) is a great beach for snorkeling. The coral reef is right up to the shore and is very pretty. On a calm day expect lots of fish and great visibility! The USAT Liberty Shipwreck at Tulamben is a well known dive site in Bali, but the beauty of this hystorical WWII ship is that it lies from 3 meters, meaning it can be snorkeled from the surface; lots of marine life and it also enjoys favourable conditions making it perfect for snorkelling. If you would like to go diving yourself at Manta point keep in mind that most dive operators will only take you there after completing at least 50+ dives. The currents here during the summer months can be very strong and therefore experience is a must. If your looking for a good dive operator to take you both on your snorkelling and dive trips, then i would recommend Blue Season Bali. I hope this comment was helpful and if you like to find out more about Blue Season then you can check out there website; http://www.blueseasonbali.com/
    Regards, Tommy!

    Reply ↓

33. Hi everyone,
    my family is staying in Seminyak over Christmas for one week. I’ve read that the rainy season in December can make waters a bit murky for diving. I’m wondering whether anyone can recommend a dive site that may still have good visibility, and be accessible from Seminyak as a day trip. I haven’t scuba dived in about 15 years, and my partner never has, although we have snorkelled on many trips.
    Many thanks in advance,
    Chloe

    Reply ↓

    • Hi, during rainy season we sometimes find that visibility is reduced where dive sites are near rivers as additional silt finds it way to the ocean

      At Nusa Penida we have many sites that are unaffected by rainfall and visibility remains good

      Reply ↓

34. Hello,
    I just booked my Indonesian trip in Dec. 1st week, staying near Candidisa (Nov 30-Dec 6)
    2nd week, staying near Anyer, Jakarta
    3rd week, staying in Sanur
    I’m a beginner diver, 10 dives and will be diving without my buddy.
    I was hoping to dives 2 days each per week. I contacted Blue Fin and they were going to take me to Tulamben/Padang Bay( you recommended those 2 sites for beginners)
    The other site was Nusa Penida( is that safe for beginner? Your sites said its for advanced divers)
    Would u recommend me dives company in Bali and Jakarta with dives sites for beginner?

    Reply ↓

    • Dear Evy,
      Congrats on booking your dive holiday in Bali. You’re going to love the diving here.
      Padang Bai and Tulamben are indeed great for beginners. Nusa Penida can be a little more challenging, but is manageable for people who already have a few dives under their belt and possess good diving skills.
      I would personally recommend that you complete your Advanced Open Water course so that you can enjoy all these dive sites more fully. The price difference between fun dives and completing the Advanced is not huge. The Advanced is a practical course with limited theory and no exam and is a lot of fun. You can find a dive operator who will be happy to bring you to Tulamben and Padang Bai to complete the dives for the course and could dive the same dive sites.
      Lastly, I am not sure why you would chose to dive with an operator from Sanur when staying in Candidasa… It would make more sense to me to dive with a local operator rather than with one located far away. Just my 2 cents!
      Can’t help with diving around Jakarta since I haven’t dived there yet. From what I’ve heard there isn’t so much and most people from Jakarta come to Bali to do their dives…
      You’re welcomed to email me if you want more info

      Reply ↓

    • Hi Evy, excellent news that you are coming to Bali and would like to do some diving while you are here – it is beautiful!

      As an Open Water (OW) diver, I would recommend diving at Tulamben Bay/USAT Liberty Wreck, Amed or Blue Lagoon (off Padangbai).

      Tulamben Bay with the world famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck is fantastic dive site with diverse marine life, you can’t come to Bali without diving here!

      Blue Lagoon is an easy dive site with a gentle white sand slope, it is very beautiful and a favourite for underwater photographers

      Amed is also a sand beach with easy conditions. The reefs just offshore from the quiet fishing village of Amed, it has many unexpected treasures and has a 20m coral-encrusted wreck of a steel freighter!

      If you would like full details please drop a line to info@AquaMarineDiving.com and the dive travel consultants would be more than happy to organise for you – see you in Bali soon!

      Reply ↓

35. Hey there I am planning to visit Bali during Mid-October, I am a PADI OW diver and am traveling alone. Is there a way to register with any of the Dive offices for a couple of dives? I came to know that dive packages require a min of 2 people to book , however as I said I’m traveling alone.
    Any help would be appreciated.

    Reply ↓

    • Hello Nabil – Great to hear you are planning to come to Bali mid-Oct and would like to do some diving while you are here

      Yes, dive companies (such as AquaMarine Diving – Bali, my company) do publish prices ‘based on 2 divers’ however, as long as we have other divers on that day, you can simply join us – what I mean is, you can join an existing trip.

      You said you are a PADI OW diver – how many dives have you logged, and when was your last dive? I ask because that info will influence the dive locations that I suggest to you.

      In fact the best thing to do would be to e-mail Natalie and Carol on Info@AquaMarineDiving.com: Tell them as much info as you can (arrival and departure dates, where you’re staying, what you’d like to do, what you’ve already got booked (and planned), how many days of diving you’d like to do, any PADI courses you’re interested in (Advanced is 2days, most Specialties are 1day), and so on – the more info, the better/sooner they’ll be able to put together something suitable for you).

      You said “a couple of dives” so maybe you only have time for one Day Trip: I’d suggest Tulamben Bay on Bali’s north east coast, site of the 120m USAT Liberty Shipwreck. It’s a shore dive, suitable for all levels, a wonderful site – if you have an uw camera, you should take it (or rent one!)!

      Don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any other questions for me, otherwise please e-mail Natalie and Carol asap

      Annabel

      Reply ↓

36. My husband and I are travelling to Bali in late Oct/early November. We love to snorkel and scuba dive. We are trying to decide if Seminyak or Nusa Dua is a better place to stay? We have Starwood points to use, so it’s one of the two locations. Does either place have beaches you can snorkel from? Is it easier to scuba dive from a shop near Nusa Dua or Seminyak? Any help is much appreciated!

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Erin

      Great to hear that you and your husband would like to do some snorkelling and scuba-diving while you are here in Bali in late Oct/early Nov

      Seminyak and Nusa Dua are very different places:

      Seminyak, where our office is located, is full of villas, resorts, shops (jewellery, clothes, homewares, etc, etc, etc!) as well as a wide range of cafes and restaurants. Although Bali doesn’t particularly lend itself to pedestrians, it’s an easy place to walk around.

      Nusa Dua (which means ‘island two’) used to be a separate island, the area between Nusa Dua and Bali was reclaimed for the airport. Nusa Dua is full of huge, self-contained resorts with everything on-site. To go anywhere else you would either be going to another nearby self-contained resort, or taking a taxi for 20-30mins to visit Seminyak (or Sanur for example).

      So it depends ‘how’ you like to spend your days?

      The beach in Seminyak is an extension of Kuta beach and is therefore for surfers, not snorkellers.

      Nusa Dua has v pretty (and calm) beaches but very little to see underwater.

      I am unaware of any dive companies in Nusa Dua – plenty of agents who can organise it for you (as can any hotel/resort) but you probably wouldn’t know which dive company you’d be booked with.

      AquaMarine Diving – Bali is pretty much the only dive company on this side of the island, certainly we are the largest.

      However – any dive company located in south Bali will pick you up from either Seminyak or Nusa Dua to take you diving (or snorkelling) so that shouldn’t be your limiting/deciding factor

      I’d suggest you get online and check out websites, contact the dive companies that appeal to you, and go from there.

      AMD-B offers daily snorkelling trips to Blue Lagoon outside Padangbai on Bali’s east coast, however the ones on Tue and Fridays include a FREE Barbeque Lunch!

      Annabel

      Reply ↓

37. Hi,
    In bali at the moment, staying in canggu. I have rescue diver and a few specialties with 63 dives. Looking at doin another specialty or two depending on price. My wife only snorkles, any day trips that could accomodate this? Any dive companies pick up from canggu?
    Dan

    Reply ↓

    • Dan – we (AquaMarine Diving – Bali, located in Seminyak/Kerobokan) do pick-ups in Canggu all the time because we’re on your side of the island

      We would be delighted to take you and your (snorkelling) wife on a Day Trip or two so you can see some of Bali’s fabulous diving, and perhaps do some further Specialty training.

      Could you please e-mail us on Info@AquaMarineDiving.com, letting us know where in Canggu you’re staying (so we can give you the correct pick up time info) and any dates that you can or cannot do.

      Also which Specialties you are interested in? Wreck and Deep are 4dives, so 2days. Night is 3dives, but you’ll be doing Day Trips so that doesn’t fit

      The rest are 2dives so easy to do on Day Trips.

      Annabel

      Overall 5 Stars on Tripadvisor
      Overall 5 Stars on ScubaAdviser

      IWUPC 2013: USD200,000 Cash Prizes – 7 Categories: Prizes at all levels

      Annabel Thomas (Miss), Director
      AquaMarine Diving – Bali, PADI 5 Star Dive Resort 6344
      Indonesia’s first Project AWARE Go ECO Operator
      2012 PADI Green Star Award

      Office: Jl Petitenget 2A, Kuta, Bali 80361
      Postal: PO Box 2098, Kuta, Bali 80361
      Phone: +62 361 4738 020 Fax: +62 361 4738 021

      Reply ↓

38. Hi All,

    i am going to Bali in Nov 2013. any recommendation which dive site is the best for that month?

    Best Regards,
    Yukie Teo

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Yukie

      Pretty much all of the dive locations on Bali’s north east coast (Tulamben and Amed areas) and east coast (Padangbai/Candidasa and over at the offshore islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan) are still fine in November.

      I’d suggest you avoid the north west of Bali (around the island of Menjangan) because there’ll probably be a lot of rubbish coming over from Java – the currents change around that time of year.

      This link takes you to some descriptions of the above dive locations:
      http://www.aquamarinediving.com/bali-dive-sites/

      If you only have one day to dive in Bali, regardless of your level of certification, I’d suggest you go to Tulamben Bay on the NW coast, to dive at the USAT Liberty Shipwreck – even if wreck-diving isn’t appealing to you, it’s a fabulous site!

      Please e-mail Info at AquaMarineDiving.com for further info/advice, and to make an enquiry/booking.

      Annabel

      Reply ↓

39. Hi, please can you advise is Menjangan island area really to be avoided for diving in late December, because of bad visibility or trashes floating with rainy season currents?
    We will be staying in Lovina, and were hoping to visit Menjangan for diving and/or snorkeling.. Tulamben I have already seen (>check<)
    Thanks in advance!

    Reply ↓

    • To be honest, with ‘global climate change’ happening, it’s difficult to predict from year to year.

      I’m personally going up to NW Bali for a couple of days diving on the Biorock Project at Pemuteran on 08/09 December – next weekend.

      (Pemuteran is the nearest village to the port for boats to Menjangan Island).

      I know that’s 2-3wks before you’re planning to go yourself, but I’m telling you so you have an indication of what I (owner of Bali dive company!) am doing/thinking

      Annabel
      http://www.facebook.com/AquaMarineDivingBali

      Reply ↓

      • Hi Annabel!
        Did you visit Pemuteran / Menjangan last weekend? What is your impression or opinion?
        Thank you very much

        Reply ↓

        • Nemo – I need to apologise: I didn’t get up to NW Bali last week, sorry. I should have notified you
          My trip is actually on hold until mid/late January because I unexpectedly need to go back to the UK this week.
          I suggest you e-mail several of the hotels and dive companies in Pemuteran and ask them what it’s like, see what replies you get back.
          Again, I am sorry to have let you down.
          Annabel

        • That’s ok Annabel, no prob, I’ll ask around..

40. Hi, I will be arriving in Bali on a cruise ship at Benoa.. I will be there from noon on 14 Feb through 6 pm on 15 Feb. Can you recommend sites and a dive company that can support this short visit. Thanks in advance!

    Dave

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Dave,
      This is a very short time to dive indeed. The only place where you could hope to squeeze in a dive is in Sanur. Not the best dive site, but some ok macro. This can only be done if the conditions are right: you dive in a pass and current can be strong and visibility poor.
      The best way to go about it is for you to contact any of the big dive centres in Sanur. If they have availability, they might be able to help you…
      Enjoy your cruise and your (very short) stopover in Bali,
      Cedric

      Reply ↓

      • Bonjour aux plongeurs !
        Je viens d’aller passer ma certification “open-water” à Bali sur Nusa Lembongan et je me suis éclaté :)!!
        Si vous êtes intéressés pour vivre cette aventure, j’ai écrit un article qui décrit mon expérience dans mon blog voyage: http://desyeuxplusgrandsquelemonde.com/apprendre-la-plongee-a-bali-visite-dun-autre-monde
        Vraiment un autre monde
        Bonne plongée !
        Benoît

        Reply ↓

41. hi everyone

    I am planning to visit bail next month for 7 days. Exactly Kuta Beach. I will divide my plan such as one day scuba diving & other day land trip until I return my home country. I have advance license. If any recommend for destination or spot. please inform me

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Mohammed.

      It is good news that you will be visiting Bali soon.
      My name is Manon and I am a Dive Travel Consultant at AquaMarine Diving – Bali, we are located very close to Kuta. On a daily basis I arrange customized itineraries. So I am used to make nice programmes that combine both fantastic diving and interesting land tours and other land based activities. You mentioned that you are planning a 7 days holiday, I would suggest to visit the Mountains first, before you start diving, to avoid DCS. And move on to visiting Ubud town and maybe Tanahlot Temple or Uluwatu after your diving days. Since you will be staying a week only, I would recommend diving at the Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben Bay and since you are advanced certified; Nusa Penida Manta Point. That guarantees the best dive sites in Bali, maybe adding an extra diving day trip at Padangbai would be a good idea. Should you need any help drafting an itinerary, you are welcome to email me at Diving@AquaMarineDiving.com I would be delighted to help. Thanks! Manon

      Reply ↓

42. Hi guys,

    I’m planning to take my open water license in Bali on 4-12 May. I only have average swimming skill. I also still haven’t decided either to take SSI or PADI. But I will figure it out later. I want to ask you guys, which diving center is recommended in Bali? I’m open for any suggestions. Thank you..

    Cheers,
    Villya

    Reply ↓

    • I dive with Aquamarine in Bali and Lutwala at Gili T (fast boat from Bali). Both are good companies.

      Reply ↓

    • Hello Villya

      It is great news that you are considering becoming a certified diver. You will see, this will open new opportunities and new holiday destinations that you wouldn’t maybe consider being a non-diver.
      You mentioned that you are not a very good swimmer, well is no problem, as long as you can swim okay and mostly you are comfortable in the water.
      I have to thank Dan, for recommending AquaMarine.
      We can organize your Open Water Diver Course between your preferred dates (4-12 May). You could choose to do the theory before hand either by PADI e-learning and completing also the exam online. Or maybe choosing e-book, which would allow you to study the manual online before you arrive in Bali. Of course there is another way which we arrange usually, we can deliver the Manual to your Hotel and you could take a couple of days to learn the theory. After that the Course can start; we would pick you up at your hotel so you can begin your class at our office, followed by your confined water training (in the pool, next day you will start your first 2 Open water dives in Tulamben Liberty Shipwreck or maybe Blue Lagoon, and the last day finish your last 2 Open water dives for the completion of your course. We have very good pricing for our Courses and our Instructors are very professional and patient. The equipment we use is always best quality and to top it all our lunches are delicious.
      Villya, I hope to hear from you at Diving@AquaMarineDiving.com so I can continue letting you know what makes AquaMarine Diving – Bali so special.
      Thank you. Manon

      Reply ↓

43. Hi Guys,

    I hope everything is good. Let me tell you about my last dive I did on Bali. First of all, I did my dive on April 18,19,20 & 21 ,2014 with Aqua Marine Diving Center. The spot I like most is SD and also, Manta point. I sew a huge manta there but the current was strong with big wave. The crews are friendly and helpful. In addition, the is flexible with the payment which I paid my invoice last day I dived. Finally, I strongly recommend with that diving center.

    Reply ↓

    • Hello Mohammed!Thank you so much for taking the time to compliment our company and services! It is great to hear that you enjoyed your four diving day trips with AquaMarine Diving – Bali. Well, you did choose the best dive sites in Bali; Tulamben Bay Liberty shipwreck, Amed, Padangbai and Nusa Penida Manta Point. I hope that this trips have left you hungry for more and that you will join us again for some more fantastic diving, maybe for a new adventure, there are other wonderful dive sites in Bali that you haven’t discovered yet, such as Menjangan Island, interesting muck sites and much more… See you soon I hope! Manon

      Reply ↓

44. I am a non diving Aussie with a Japanese wife. We are going from Australia in July,August and my mum and sister in law are coming over from japan. They want to dive while I surf. The Japanese travel agents are still recommending drift diving in Sanur to my in laws and don’t seem to know about the recent tragedy.

    Any thoughts or recommendations for safe authorised companies that won’t lose my wife and her family?

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Mark,

      My name is Ira, I work in AquaMarine Diving – Bali.

      I have noted that your wife and your sister in law are interested to dive on Bali in July or August.
      I understood that you are concern about their safety.

      Mark, could you please advice me later about their level certification?

      I would like to recommend them to dive on Blue Lagoon/ Jepun. These dive sites are located on Padangbai area. These sites are easy dive sites, well-recommended for all level certification even for non-certified diver.
      The currents are zero to mild so it will be safe enough for beginner.

      Please find below the dive site’s description for your easy reference.

      Blue Lagoon
      Blue Lagoon is a small bay with a steep white sand beach, located just northeast of Padangbai. The steepness of the beach means there are waves; therefore we take a 5 minute boat ride from Padangbai. The topography is not spectacular: white sand bottom, which slopes gradually to 22m, has scattered rocks, soft corals and a huge area of staghorn coral. The fish life however is amazing! A large napoleon wrasse is occasionally sighted, and the area is home to several kinds of reef shark, stonefish, moray and blue ribbon eels, nudibranches, rays, squid and octopus, leaf scorpion fish in every hue and stargazers, giant frogfish and cuttlefish.

      While the diving at Blue Lagoon is easy (sometimes used for Open Water courses and popular with snorkellers), experienced divers and photographers also thoroughly enjoy the site. Visibility is 15-20m, there is sometimes a little surge and a mild current but the bay is fairly protected. The site has a good variety of sweetlips, angelfish and surgeonfish.

      Jepun
      AquaMarine’s favourite treasure-trove. It is an extension of Blue Lagoon and has a white sand bottom. An area of artificial reef has been created – we regularly sight frog fish here.
      Jepun yields Leaf scorpionfish, Solarpowered nudibranch, Rhinopias (eschmeyeri and frondosa), ghostpipefish, seamoths, Flamboyant cuttlefish, Cockatoo waspfish, shrimps, crabs, Thorny seahorse and more.
      Highlights: Nudibranchs, Rhinopias (rare), giant frog fish, Coleman shrimp

      Mark, I would like to suggest your wife and your sister in law to dive with AquaMarine Diving – Bali.
      Reasons to choose AquaMarine Diving – Bali: (In case you still doubt that we are the “Best”).

      – AquaMarine only offers diving at Bali’s better dive sites thereby providing the quality of diving your clients are seeking.

      – Emphasis on safety and enjoyment

      – Our dive staff are employed full-time and minimum PADI Divemaster certification (more than 50% are PADI Instructors)

      – Maximum ratio of 1 dive guide for 4 divers

      – We have the three best custom-built dive boats in Bali

      – Minibuses customised for maximum space and leg room

      http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g297697-d2206659-Reviews-AquaMarine_Diving_Bali-Kuta_Bali.html

      if you have any enquiry, please send to info@AquaMarineDiving.com

      I hope the information above will be helpful and please feel free to contact me if you have any further question. I would be delighted to assist you with your queries.

      Thank you and have a pleasant Sunday.

      Cheers,

      Ira Utami

      Reply ↓

45. Hi, Thank you for creating such an awesome website! I am planning a trip to Bali in November, and would like to dive with as much wild animals as possible, rays in particular!

    I have dived in quite a few places around the world, and hence would prefer the slightly more hidden and less crowded sites. Because of that, I am debating between Bali and Komodo Island.

    I have a very tight timeline, and would like to spend as little time as possible in transfer (without sacrificing too much of the diving quality). In this case, would you recommend me diving in Bali or Komodo Island, which will require a lot more travel time?

    I am always told that Bali is crowded and busy and less well preserved than other areas on Indonesia, do you agree?

    Thanks a lot for your suggestion! I really appreciate it!

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Helen,

      My name is Ira, I work in Bali and beyond section of AquaMarine Diving – Bali.
      I have noted that you are interested to dive on Bali and Komodo on November 2014. Excellent!

      I understood that you have a very tight timeline.
      Therefore, I would like to recommend you to stay in the hotel/resort that is located nearby to the dive site in order to avoid long time on transfers.

      Helen, could you please advice me later about your email address or please send me an email to Tours@AquaMarineDiving.com and I will be more than happy to provide you possible itineraries for Bali Diving and Komodo Diving for you to consider?

      Please feel free to contact me if you have any further question and I would be delighted to assist you with your queries.
      Thank you and looking forward to hear from you.

      Have a nice weekend.

      Ira Utami

      Reply ↓

46. On the subject of diving in Bali … Candidasa, a relatively sleepy tourist town right on the coast on the eastern tip of the island is without doubt the best place to stay as a jumping off point to all of the best of Bali dive sites.
    Blue Lagoon, Jepun and the islands of Tepekong and Mimpang are right on the front door; manta point and Crystal Bay (mola mola “central:) are just 20 minutes by fast boat and the huge shipwreck of the USAT Liberty is only one hour north.
    Candidasa is well serviced by top restaurants and many dive centres, however we have always used Shangrila Scuba Divers divingatbalishangrila@yahoo.com, based at Bali Palms resort, on the southern entrance to the town of Candidasa.

    Reply ↓

    • Candidasa is indeed a good place to base yourself if you want to dive the sites around Bali’s east coast (including Tulamben and Amed in the NE). My personal favourite accom there is http://www.WatergardenHotel.com

      Please note Candidasa is about halfway up Bali’s east coast, not on the eastern tip.

      Padangbai, which is smaller and quieter, about 15mins south on the southern side of Amuk Bay, is also an ideal place for divers to stay as you can walk off the beach and onto the boats. Padangbai is popular with backpackers. I recommend the food at Topi Inn, the last place you reach as you walk along the (short-ish) beach.

      Please note that in addition to the Blue Lagoon area, and Mimpang/Tepekong mentioned by Ian Monaghan above, a fast boat can also take you to the little crescent-shaped island of Gili Biaha – my absolutely favourite dive site in all of Bali!

      And even further northwards is Gili Selang, another little island, which is on Bali’s very eastern tip: Yes, can be dived as a drift-dive but there are also sheltered areas

      I hope the above is helpful.

      Annabel
      PS: Ian said Candidasa is “without doubt the best place to stay as a jumping off point to all of the best of Bali dive sites” – there are also good dive sites in Bali’s north west eg: Menjangan Island.

      Reply ↓

    • Candidasa is indeed a great place to locate yourself for diving Bali’s east coast and up to Tulamben Bay (USAT Liberty shipwreck) and Amed – on the north west.

      For accom in Candidasa, I like http://www.WatergardenHotel.com.

      (Candidasa is about halfway up Bali’s east coast rather than on the east tip of Bali).

      Padangbai, a little to the south of Candidasa, on the bottom side of Amuk Bay, is also a good base for divers: Smaller than Candidasa, quieter, popular with backpackers (I recommend the food at Topi Inn, the last place you come to when you walk along Padangbai’s short beach).

      If your chosen dive co has a fast boat, you can also reach my personal favourite dive site in Bali, the little crescent-shaped island of Gili Biaha further up the east coast, and (on the very eastern tip of Bali), Gili Selang.

      Gili Biaha is known for its surge and I’ve seen a really wide variety of marinelife there from Blue-ring octopus to Mola-Mola. It’s also home to two of the world’s coolest fish: Bearded soapfish

      Parts of Gili Selang are very exposed to the currents which can mean very short, very fast, drift dives! But there are also very sheltered areas.

      Ian calls Candidasa “the best place to stay as a jumping off point to all of the best of Bali dive sites” however there are also some lovely sites in NW Bali as well, including Menjangan Island: The first internationally recognised dive location in Bali.

      I hope the above is useful.

      Reply ↓

47. Dive guides around Candidasa in eastern Bali have recently added a new site to the list of dive locations.
    Called Tanah Ampo, it is a huge (100 metres-plus) jetty which was built in an ill-advised move to try and lure cruise ship tourism to this quiet part of Bali. The jetty is now about three years old and is attracting the smaller critters, nudibranchs, scorpion and lion fish, frogfish, who are finding plenty of flotsam and jetsam habitat. It is a smooth, whitish sand bottom and no deeper than 15 metres, so it is now well and truly on the agenda for those divers who like underwater photography of the macro variety. For more information on this new site contact divingatbalishangrila@yahoo.com

    Reply ↓

    • “divers who like underwater photography of the macro variety” – very well put Ian!

      We have been diving the jetty for a while now, but only with uw photographers looking for muck-diving and/or macro critters.

      Unfortunately in recent months we’ve noticed that anyone and everyone is going there, even for Open Water training – so much kicking of fragile coral growth on the jetty pillars, and also … kicking up of sand … and kicking of the marinelife

      We used to see loads of frogfish, pipefish, seahorses, similar – even Flamboyant cuttlefish – but now, due to over-crowding and inexperienced divers (not their fault), the numbers are reduced.

      Reply ↓

48. Hi , I love Snorkeling wherever I traveling around the world. I don’t dive but I love snorkeling so much. I did amazing snorkeling with manta rays at small island southern east of Bali mainland. I didn’t use any dive operator, but my friend introduced me with a local snorkeling guide. This guy organizing snorkeling trips to all dive sites in Bali. Best snorkeling experiences in my life ever. We did 2x snorkel , fisrt at Manta point. play with dancing manta rays on the surface. second place was also beautiful, colorful fishes and the corals are incredible, crystal clear water. This guy sent me a link; http://balisnorkelingtrip.weebly.com/swim-with-manta-rays.html
    Hope you can feel what I had done at this trip.
    Good Luck!!

    Reply ↓

    • The above “swim with mantas” snorkeling trips posted by Leonard:
      http://balisnorkelingtrip.weebly.com/swim-with-manta-rays.html

      Are offered by Relax Bali Diving in Sanur:
      http://relax-bali-diving.weebly.com/

      The e-mail address is the same for either:
      balidivecenter@aol.com

      Reply ↓

49. Hi, I am staying in Kuta for the next 9 days with some friends all of whom don’t have their diving license. I have my open water and was hoping to do some dives around Bali, ideally 2-4, hopefully including a wreak dive. I was wondering whether someone could help me organise this?
    As well as potentially organising an easy assisted dive for some of my friends? Preferably at a nice place to snorkel so those that don’t want to dive can still have fun..
    Thanks!

    Reply ↓

    • Hello Jayden, it is fantastic news that you are already in Bali and planning some diving day trips. There are great dive sites in Bali which are perfect for certified divers and non-divers alike. In my opinion Tulamben Liberty Shipwreck is a must-see dive site, and it will simply be magical for your friends to do their first underwater breath surrounded by the wreck’s beautiful underwater scenery. Another option is Blue Lagoon being a treasure trove of marinelife, and where we can arrange for your party a Balinese barbeque lunch. Looking at these 2 great dive sites you would be able to experience both shore-entry and boat-entry dives. Jayden, should you need any help to put something together, please feel free to contact me at Diving@AquaMarineDiving.com I can propose you some options and I will make sure to let you know our offers for group bookings! Hoping to hear from you soon, enjoy Bali.

      Reply ↓

50. Hey,

    I will be in Bali from the first week in August. I have never dived before so looking to do a half day padi with a dive also but im unsure what company to go with. Id like to make sure it is a reputable company as i have heard some parts of Bali can be quite dangerous for novis Divers. Staying in Seminyak but dont mind travelling for it.

    Any help would be great, thanks.

    Colin

    Reply ↓

    • Hi Colin,
      Its good news that you are planning to do your first underwater breath in August. You will see, it is like a door that opens to a different world. And there’s no better place to fall in love with diving than Bali!
      At AquaMarine Diving – Bali we have created a unique package for non-divers who would like to get their feet wet but aren’t sure they want to go the lengths of getting certified. We conduct this on the world famous USAT Liberty shipwreck in Tulamben Bay or at Blue Lagoon, near Padangbai (a favourite location with underwater photographers). Your Instructor would provide an on-shore briefing and practical skills demonstration before you enter the water and you would dive to a maximum of 12 metres, side by side with your Dive Guide. We can most definitely pick you up in Seminyak and drop you off again after the diving trip. I hope you will feel free to contact me at diving@aquamarinediving.com if your plans materialize, I would be very happy to provide more information and secure this for you.

      Reply ↓

(120 votes, 3.73/5)

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