Diving in Bali and Nusa Penida
Bali and Nusa Penida are true paradises for divers and snorkelers. With crystal-clear water, species-rich coral reefs and impressive shipwrecks, they offer some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world. In this article, we present the best dive sites, the ideal time to visit and tips for unforgettable snorkeling experiences. The best way to reach Nusa Penida is by speedboat from the port in Sanur. We made a stop in Nusa Lembongan before Nusa Penida. We were able to really relax there as there is not much going on and there are many hidden beaches.
Best diving spots in Bali
Amed
Amed is a quiet fishing village on the north-east coast of Bali and is known for its diverse dive sites. The clear water and colorful coral reefs make it an ideal place for beginners and experienced divers. The drop-offs and the opportunity to see sharks, rays and a variety of tropical fish are particularly popular. A particular highlight are the underwater pyramids, artificial reef structures that attract an impressive variety of marine life. Amed lies at the foot of the still active stratovolcano Agung. Agung means “great, grand” in German, as it is the largest volcano in Bali at 3142 meters above sea level.
Tulamben and the USAT Liberty shipwreck
Tulamben is another diving paradise on the north-east coast of Bali. The highlight is undoubtedly the USAT Liberty shipwreck, an American cargo ship that was sunk during the Second World War. The wreck lies just a few meters from the shore and is easily accessible. It offers a fascinating underwater landscape with coral growth, schools of fish and the occasional passing manta ray and shark. Near the wreck, there are plenty of frogfish and octopus to be seen. To dive, we simply walked into the water from the coast. In Tulamben, at the so-called “drop-off”, we were even able to see the electric flame mussel or disco mussel. This is an orange-colored cittern shell that looks as if it is producing blue electric flashes due to the reflection of light.
Best diving spots in Nusa Penida
Manta Point
Manta Point is one of the most famous diving spots in Nusa Penida. Here, divers have the unique opportunity to observe giant manta rays at close range. The majestic creatures often glide through the water in groups and offer an unforgettable experience. The best time to visit is in the dry months from April to November, when visibility is at its best. The mating season of the rays in March is particularly exciting, when the chance of seeing many of these impressive animals is especially high. The opportunity to see manta rays exists all year round.
Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay is known for its crystal-clear water and spectacular underwater world. This spot is ideal for divers who want to see the rare mola mola, also known as the moonfish. These huge, unusually shaped fish can be seen especially in the cooler months from July to October. For this we recommend the Advanced Open Water Diver from PADI, as the animals are most likely to be found at a depth of 20 to 30 meters.
Batu Mulapan
Batu Mulapan is another outstanding diving spot in Nusa Penida. This spot is known for its diversity of marine life and offers exciting dives. A hammerhead shark was even spotted here during our stay, which makes this spot particularly exciting. But the many colorful fish and sea turtles are also definitely worth a dive.
Snorkeling spots in Nusa Penida
SD Reef
The SD Reef offers varied snorkeling conditions with a variety of corals and fish. It is an ideal spot for snorkelers who want to experience a colorful and lively underwater world. The reef can also be reached from the beach, although the current can be strong.
Gamat Bay
Gamat Bay is known for its crystal clear visibility and rich biodiversity. Here snorkelers can see colorful corals and a variety of reef fish. The beach can be easily reached by scooter. However, the path there is not paved, but consists of sand and stones. It is better to walk the last section as it is very steep and sloping. The beach itself is beautiful, with both light and black sand.
Mangrove Point
Mangrove Point is another highlight for snorkelers. The calm waters and mangrove landscape offer a unique environment to explore. Turtles and schools of colorful fish can often be seen here. Mangrove Point invites you to take a boat tour through the mangroves and then go snorkeling. Good swimmers can reach the reef from the beach or by hiring a canoe. However, the current can be very strong and the local providers will take you out to sea by boat.
Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay is not only an excellent diving spot, but also ideal for snorkeling. The colorful underwater world and clear water offer snorkelers a great view of the diverse marine life.
Marine life
Manta rays
Manta rays are impressive sea creatures that are known for their large wingspan and elegant locomotion. Adults can be up to 8 meters long and have a wingspan of up to 7 meters. They feed mainly on plankton and small fish. Manta Point in Nusa Penida is an ideal place to observe these majestic animals, especially during the mating season in March.
Mola Mola (Moonfish)
The mola mola, also known as the moonfish, is one of the heaviest bony fish in the world. It can grow up to 3.3 meters long and weigh 2,300 kilograms, with its brain weighing only a few grams, making it the dumbest fish in the world compared to its body. The moonfish is known for its unusual shape and is often spotted in Crystal Bay during the cooler months.
Blacktip reef shark
The blacktip reef shark is a small to medium-sized shark that is typically found in coral reefs. It is easily recognized by the black tips of its fins. These sharks are harmless to divers and snorkelers and contribute to a healthy reef ecosystem.
Whale shark
With a lot of luck, divers and snorkelers at Nusa Penida can also see the whale shark, the largest fish in the world. These gentle giants are plankton eaters and offer an impressive spectacle as they glide through the water.
Other sea creatures
In addition to the species mentioned, divers and snorkelers in Nusa Penida can also see whales and dolphins that occasionally pass by in the island’s waters. Dolphins can be found in Lovina on Bali.
Ideal travel time
The best time for diving and snorkeling trips to Bali and Nusa Penida is during the dry season from April to November. During these months, underwater visibility is at its best and sea conditions are calm. The water temperatures are between 26 and 30 degrees Celsius all year round, which makes diving and snorkeling very pleasant.
Conclusion
Bali and Nusa Penida offer breathtaking underwater experiences for divers and snorkelers of all levels. With spectacular dive sites such as Amed, Tulamben, Manta Point and Batu Mulapan as well as excellent snorkeling spots such as Blue Lagoon, SD Reef, Gamat Bay and Mangrove Point, there is something for everyone. The trip is best planned during the dry season to enjoy the best conditions and experience unforgettable adventures.
There are strong currents in some places, which is why it is important to pay particular attention and watch your own skills. Many reefs and the rays at Manta Point can be admired while snorkeling, but the experience is even more exciting as a diver. Visibility can range from 20 to 40 meters and the water temperature averages 26 to 29 degrees Celsius.
If you are planning to do a lot of diving or snorkeling, you should spend at least 3 to 4 days on Nusa Penida itself, as there are beautiful beaches on site that also invite you to explore and relax. These can all be easily explored by yourself with a rented scooter, which can be rented from €4 per day, or by one of the numerous tour guides on site, who act as a personal cab driver and tour guide.
On Nusa Penida, we opted for the BaliAqua diving school. Not only is it modern, it is also located directly on the beautiful SD Reef, so we were able to go snorkeling there after our dives. The team is very friendly, extremely professional and the equipment is top quality.
Don’t wait too long and plan your unique underwater experience in Indonesia!
