Macro and Pelagic Paradise
One of the most beautiful islands in the world, Bali is Indonesia's most popular dive and holiday destination. Many find the attraction of good shore-based diving set against a stunning back drop of huge, magnificent volcanoes and picturesque rice paddy terraces, simply irresistible.
The greatest asset of Bali scuba diving is its rich and varied sites - drop-offs and steep banks, coral ridges and bommies, one of the most famous wrecks in the world, volcanic outcrops and seagrass beds. With the varied marine life there's enough here to keep you coming back for more.
To the east of the island lies the Lombok Strait, the most direct and first deep water trench to the east of the Asian continental shelf. Through this channel flows the greatest volume of tidal water on earth. This Pacific Ocean water can create some roaring currents, and rollercoaster dive rides. It also means regular visits from large and unusual pelagic fish like the mola mola, or sunfish. The strong currents can also clean the water and create fantastic visibility conditions.
How to Dive Bali
Most tourists base themselves in the urban south in Kuta and Sanur. Unfortunately there isn't any good diving nearby and to base yourself here will mean long and uncomfortable daily journeys to the sites by minibus. We recommend you choose a combination of resorts in the east, the north west and Nusa Lembongan, near the best diving sites, to avoid unnecessary travel. You can stay in Kuta, if you must, after your diving.
Diving Season
Bali diving season runs all year round. Overall, the best dive conditions exist from April to December, with sunfish, sharks and other pelagics visiting from June to September.
December to March is rainy season, reducing visibility in the north and north west - Tulamben, Amed, Gili Selang, Pemuteran and Menjangan. From June to September dry monsoon winds bring rough seas and nutrient rich upwellings to Nusa Penida, Padang Bay and Amuk Bay.
Reef Basics
Great for: Large animals, small animals, drift diving, visibility, advanced divers and non-diving activities
Not so great for: Underwater photography and snorkelling
Depth: 5 - >40m
Visibility: 10 - 45m
Currents: Can be very strong
Surface Conditions: Calm
Water Temperature: 19 - 26°C
Experience Level: Beginner - advanced
Number of dive sites: ~50
Access: Scuba resorts
Recommended length of stay: 1 - 2 weeks
Dive Sites
More detailed information on the Bali scuba diving locations:
Dive The World Recommendations: Nusa Penida, Tulamben, Amuk Bay and Menjangan.
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