Indonesia Diving

Indonesia Diving

Discover the Ultimate Diving Experience in Indonesia – A Treasure Trove of Breathtaking Dive Sites and Vibrant Marine Life.
Offers an unparalleled adventure into the underwater realm of the world’s largest archipelago. Very few places in the world can compete.
With over 17,000 islands and situated at the heart of the Coral Triangle, Indonesia is a haven for marine biodiversity and a must-visit destination for divers of all levels.

From the captivating coral reefs of Raja Ampat to the majestic manta rays of Komodo, Indonesia diving promises an unforgettable experience. This is a comprehensive guide to explore the best dive locations in Indonesia, top dive sites, travel times, and the optimal times to visit.

Raja Ampat Diving

Raja Ampat, located in West Papua, is renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity, boasting over 1,500 fish species and 75% of the world’s known coral species. That alone makes Indonesia one of the best diving destinations in the world.
Some iconic dive sites in Raja Ampat include Cape Kri, Blue Magic, and Manta Sandy but Raja Ampat is so full of diversity. Raja Ampat is unique with three main areas to explore: Central, North and South.

The best time to dive in Raja Ampat is between October and April when the weather is at its best, dry season and very little waves. Actually Raja Ampat can be visited all year round but the visibility and the rainy season may put off most people.

Bali

You cannot think of diving in Indonesia and not mention Bali, the Island of the Gods. Bali is not only a tropical paradise but also a world-class diving destination, perfect for a thrilling dive trip. Dive sites such as the USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben, Manta Point in Nusa Penida, and Crystal Bay cater to a range of interests and skill levels, offering unparalleled opportunities for world-class diving experiences during your dive trip in Bali and throughout Indonesia.

Bali diving is excellent year-round, with April to November offering the best conditions but truly, Bali is really suitable for diving all year round.
The Nusa Penida dive sites are the best that Bali has to offer and it’s the ideal spot to visit if planning just a one day diving. In Nusa Penida it’s where divers can enjoy seeing the elusive Mola Mola during the months of June to October, but be careful, the water temperatures are as cold as ice sometimes going down to as low as 16C (60F).
If divers are planning more than one day of diving in Bali, you should consider doing what it’s called the best of Bali:

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a stunning island located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. It is part of the Nusa Islands, along with Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, and captivating dive sites, Nusa Penida has become a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, adventure, and incredible dive experiences.
One of the main attractions of Nusa Penida is its dramatic coastline. The island boasts magnificent cliffs that drop dramatically into the turquoise ocean below. Kelingking Beach, often referred to as T-Rex Bay due to its distinctive shape, is one of the most iconic sights on the island. Its white sandy beach and towering cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Additionally, Nusa Penida is home to exceptional dive sites that attract diving enthusiasts from around the world. Exploring the underwater world of Nusa Penida is a thrilling adventure, with vibrant coral reefs, an abundance of marine life, and the opportunity to encounter majestic manta rays and other fascinating creatures.
Another highlight of Nusa Penida is its vibrant underwater world. The island is home to numerous dive sites, where divers can explore colorful coral reefs, encounter manta rays, and spot a variety of tropical fish species.
Nusa Penida also offers cultural experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local way of life by exploring traditional villages and interacting with the friendly Balinese people. The island is dotted with temples, and one of the most significant ones is Pura Goa Giri Putri, a Hindu temple nestled inside a limestone cave. The spiritual ambiance and stunning cave architecture make it a must-visit site for cultural enthusiasts.

Tulamben

Tulamben is a picturesque coastal village on the northeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia, renowned for its exceptional scuba diving destinations. It is a popular haven among diving enthusiasts, attracting visitors with its stunning underwater landscape and the presence of the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck, making it an extraordinary dive site.

The shipwreck, which sank during World War II, has transformed into a thriving coral reef, creating an unparalleled scuba diving experience. Divers from all over the world flock to Tulamben to explore this unique underwater treasure and discover the diverse marine life that inhabits its depths. With its pristine waters and abundant marine biodiversity, Tulamben is truly a remarkable dive site.

Besides the shipwreck, Tulamben offers a range of diving sites suitable for beginners and experienced divers. The crystal-clear waters of Tulamben provide:

The calm and relatively mild currents make it an ideal location for underwater photography and videography. Tulamben is a paradise for divers and a haven for nature lovers. Scenic landscapes, lush greenery, and majestic mountains characterize the surrounding area. The village exudes a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, offering a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the black sand beaches, soak in breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, or explore the nearby natural attractions such as Mount Agung and the Tirta Gangga water palace. Tulamben offers a range of amenities for tourists, including some of the best dive sites for drift diving. Numerous dive centers and resorts cater to divers of all levels, providing equipment rental, guided dives, and certification courses.

The village’s dive site showcases stunning underwater landscapes teeming with vibrant marine life. From vibrant coral reefs to shipwrecks rich in history, Tulamben’s dive site offers a captivating experience for diving enthusiasts.
Tulamben also boasts various restaurants and cafes serving delicious local cuisine, as well as shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs and diving gear. With its captivating dive site, serene surroundings, and an array of amenities, Tulamben offers a memorable experience for anyone seeking adventure, tranquility, and the wonders of the sea.

Padang Bai

Padang Bai is a small coastal village located on the eastern coast of Bali, Indonesia. Padang Bai has become a popular tourist destination in recent years because of its picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and excellent dive sites. The village is a significant hub for exploring the surrounding islands, including Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and the Gili Islands, making it a favorite spot for divers, snorkelers, and enthusiasts of underwater exploration.

One of the main attractions in Padang Bai is its stunning beaches and dive spots. The white sandy shores, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery create a tropical paradise for beach lovers. Visitors can relax under the shade of palm trees, soak up the sun, or indulge in water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the vibrant dive spot.

Blue Lagoon and Bias Tugel are two of the most popular beaches in the area, offering breathtaking views, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and access to the captivating dive spot.Padang Bai is also renowned for its vibrant underwater world and is considered one of the best dive sites for drift diving. The village is home to several dive centers catering to divers of all experience levels. Whether a beginner or an advanced diver, you can explore a wide range of dive sites, including the famous dive site of Blue Lagoon, which is known for its calm and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for drift diving and snorkeling adventures.
These dive sites are teeming with colorful coral reefs, exotic fish, and offer the chance to spot turtles, manta rays, and sharks, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

Padang Bai is a destination for water enthusiasts and offers cultural and historical attractions. The village is dotted with temples, the most prominent being Pura Silayukti, which overlooks the ocean and offers stunning sunset views.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local Balinese culture by witnessing traditional ceremonies and rituals, exploring the nearby villages, or even taking part in a cooking class to learn about the authentic flavors of Balinese cuisine.
There are a lot of other diving destinations in Indonesia such as Banda Sea, Maumere, and Bunaken, all of extremely unique underwater features. Simply imagine diving in Banda Sea for the Hammerhead migration season during September and October and seeing a wall of hundreds of Hammerhead sharks. That is an unforgettable experience.

Komodo Diving

Experience thrilling drift dives and close encounters with manta rays during unforgettable liveaboard diving adventures in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Komodo National Park. Komodo is found in the area of East Nusa Tenggara and offers a few dive sites, including world-class locations such as Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, and Manta Alley, renowned for their world-class muck diving. Embark on a liveaboard diving trip and immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of Komodo, where you can witness the majesty of manta rays up close.

Komodo diving is best enjoyed during the dry season, from April to November and that is when divers can enjoy seeing tens and tens if not hundreds of Manta Rays in what we like to call, a Manta storm.

Komodo is best visited with a liveaboard but luckily, the best dive resort in Indonesia according to PADI Travel is located in Komodo called Komodo Resort
The Komodo National Park is notorious for strong currents so divers are recommended to have at least Advanced Open Water certification and a minimum of 50 logged dives to enjoy the dive sites.

Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is a renowned dive spot located within the Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking beauty and abundant marine life. Nestled in the Flores Sea, it is a small bay surrounded by lush green hills and pristine white sandy beaches. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers alike.

One of the main attractions of this place is its diverse marine ecosystem, perfect for scuba diving, macro diving, and night diving. The waters are teeming with a rich variety of marine species, including colorful coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even majestic manta rays. Diving enthusiasts can embark on scuba dive adventures, exploring the depths to witness the mesmerizing underwater world, where they may encounter turtles, reef fish, reef sharks, whale sharks, and numerous other marine creatures.

Padang Bai is also renowned for its vibrant underwater world and is considered one of the best dive sites for drift diving. The village is home to several dive centers catering to divers of all experience levels. Whether a beginner or an advanced diver, you can explore a wide range of dive sites, including the famous dive site of Blue Lagoon, which is known for its calm and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for drift diving and snorkeling adventures.
These dive sites are teeming with colorful coral reefs, exotic fish, and offer the chance to spot turtles, manta rays, and sharks, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

Padang Bai is a destination for water enthusiasts and offers cultural and historical attractions. The village is dotted with temples, the most prominent being Pura Silayukti, which overlooks the ocean and offers stunning sunset views.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local Balinese culture by witnessing traditional ceremonies and rituals, exploring the nearby villages, or even taking part in a cooking class to learn about the authentic flavors of Balinese cuisine.
There are a lot of other diving destinations in Indonesia such as Banda Sea, Maumere, and Bunaken, all of extremely unique underwater features. Simply imagine diving in Banda Sea for the Hammerhead migration season during September and October and seeing a wall of hundreds of Hammerhead sharks. That is an unforgettable experience.

Batu Bolong

Batu Bolong is a breathtaking rock formation located on the Indonesian island of Bali, known for its stunning dive spot. It is situated on the western coast, near the famous beach town of Canggu. The name “Batu Bolong” translates to “hollow rock” in the local language, which accurately describes the unique feature of this landmark. The rock formation consists of a large rock arch with a hole in the middle, allowing seawater to pass through.
Visiting Batu Bolong is a mesmerizing experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, especially those eager to scuba dive. The picturesque setting offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, with crashing waves and stunning sunsets that create a perfect backdrop. The rock arch is an iconic sight and symbol of Bali’s natural beauty. The area surrounding Batu Bolong is also known for its rugged cliffs and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

Moreover, Batu Bolong is renowned for its vibrant underwater world, making it one of the popular dive spots for beginner divers. The crystal-clear waters and diverse marine ecosystem attract diving enthusiasts from around the globe. For those interested in diving trips, Komodo Island, located nearby, offers extraordinary diving experiences. Komodo Island is home to several popular dive sites and dive spots suitable for beginners, including renowned drift diving spots. The currents around the island create a thrilling drift diving experience, allowing divers to be carried along while enjoying the mesmerizing underwater scenery.

Exploring the depths beneath the surface of Batu Bolong and Komodo Island reveals a hidden realm of marine life and breathtaking coral formations, adding an exhilarating dimension to the already captivating experience. Whether you’re a beginner diver or a seasoned enthusiast, these destinations offer unforgettable diving adventures that showcase the beauty and richness of Indonesia’s underwater world.
Batu Bolong holds great cultural significance to the local Balinese people. It is considered a sacred site and is often visited by Hindu devotees for religious ceremonies and rituals. The spiritual atmosphere surrounding Batu Bolong adds to its allure and provides visitors with a sense of tranquility and connection to the island’s cultural heritage. The rock formation is also believed to have spiritual protective power, guarding the coastline against evil spirits and negative energies.
Batu Bolong is a renowned surf spot for surfers, attracting both beginners and experienced wave riders. The area is known for its consistent and powerful waves, offering thrilling rides for surf enthusiasts. Surrounded by other popular surf breaks, such as Echo Beach and Old Man’s, Batu Bolong provides a diverse range of waves suitable for different skill levels. Surfers can enjoy catching waves while being surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Batu Bolong and its surroundings.

Manta Point

Manta Point is a renowned destination for diving, snorkeling, and night diving in Nusa Penida, an island off the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia. This popular site draws divers and underwater enthusiasts worldwide due to its remarkable population of majestic manta rays. Whether exploring during the day or venturing into the depths after sunset, visitors can witness these graceful creatures gliding effortlessly through crystal-clear waters, creating an unforgettable experience.
At Komodo Island, divers are treated to a unique and exhilarating experience as they encounter these gentle giants up close. The manta rays, with their impressive wingspans and elegant movements, create a mesmerizing spectacle. Komodo Island is one of the most popular dive sites in the world, attracting advanced divers from all over. The island’s diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs make it an ideal destination for diving trips.
The site’s underwater topography consists of rocky outcrops and deep drop-offs, providing a suitable habitat for plankton, which serves as the primary food source for the mantas. This abundance of food attracts large numbers of mantas to Komodo Island, offering divers an unforgettable opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. With its reputation as a popular dive site, Komodo Island is a must-visit destination for advanced divers looking for extraordinary diving experiences.
Diving at requires some experience due to the occasional strong currents. However, even snorkelers can enjoy breathtaking encounters with the mantas, as they often swim near the surface. The visibility at the site is generally excellent, allowing visitors to appreciate the vibrant marine life surrounding them fully. Alongside the mantas, divers may encounter other marine species such as turtles, colorful reef fish, eagle rays, and occasionally even larger pelagic species like sharks and whales. Additionally, the area is known for its diverse marine life, including the elusive blue-ringed octopus, which can be spotted by lucky and observant divers.
Beyond the incredible underwater encounters, offers stunning scenic beauty above the surface. The island of Nusa Penida boasts breathtaking cliffs, pristine white sandy beaches, and lush green landscapes. Visitors can combine their diving or snorkeling adventures with exploring the island’s natural wonders, making for a truly unforgettable trip.

Tatawa Besar

Tatawa Besar is a picturesque island in the Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Indonesia. Known for its breathtaking beauty and diverse marine life, Tatawa Besar offers a paradise-like experience for visitors. The island is a popular dive spot and destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts drawn to its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

The underwater world surrounding Tatawa Besar is a sight to behold. Snorkelers and divers are treated to an array of colorful tropical fish, including clownfish, parrotfish, and butterflyfish, as well as magnificent coral formations. The warm waters provide excellent visibility, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing marine ecosystem fully.
Apart from its underwater wonders, Tatawa Besar offers stunning landscapes above the surface. Pristine white sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and lush greenery characterize the island. Exploring the island’s trails allows visitors to encounter unique wildlife, such as the famous Komodo dragons native to the region.
Tatawa Besar provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its remote location and limited human presence create an untouched and serene atmosphere. Visitors can relax on the beaches, take in breathtaking sunsets, or bask in the tranquility of nature.

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands, located off the northwest coast of Lombok in Indonesia, are a tropical paradise that captures the essence of pristine beauty and tranquility. Comprising three small islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—the archipelago offers stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and exciting dive spots.

With no motorized vehicles allowed on the islands, Gili offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, where visitors can immerse themselves in a laid-back atmosphere, enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and diving, and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies while admiring breathtaking sunsets. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, the Gili Islands provide an idyllic retreat that promises unforgettable experiences in a tropical paradise.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan, often called Gili T, is a small paradise island off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. It is part of a trio of islands known as the Gili Islands, which also include Gili Air and Gili Meno. Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular among the three, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant underwater life.
Gili Trawangan’s main attractions are its incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island is surrounded by flourishing coral ecosystems, making it a haven for marine life enthusiasts. Snorkelers and divers can explore a variety of vibrant coral gardens, encounter sea turtles, and swim alongside tropical fish species. The warm waters and excellent visibility make it an ideal destination for both shallow reef diving and muck diving, catering to the interests of beginners and experienced divers alike.

Apart from its underwater wonders, Gili Trawangan offers a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere. The island has a no-motorized vehicle policy, meaning that the main modes of transportation are bicycles and horse-drawn carts, known as demos. This adds to the island’s charm and allows visitors to embrace a slower pace of life entirely. The absence of cars and motorbikes contributes to the island’s peaceful and tranquil ambiance.
Gili Trawangan also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. The island comes alive after dark with various beachfront bars and restaurants offering live music, fire shows, and themed parties. It’s a great place to socialize, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the breathtaking sunset. However, Gili Trawangan also offers a quieter side for those seeking solitude, with stretches of secluded beaches where you can unwind and soak up the sun.

Gili Meno

Gili Meno is a stunning tropical paradise located in Indonesia, specifically part of the Gili Islands archipelago, which also includes Gili Trawangan and Gili Air. It is the smallest of the three islands known for its serene and untouched natural beauty. Gili Meno offers a tranquil escape from bustling tourist spots, making it a popular destination for those seeking peace and relaxation.

The island’s main draw is its pristine beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts are particularly drawn to Gili Meno for its vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with diverse marine life. Visitors can explore the underwater world and encounter colorful fish, turtles, and even occasional sightings of reef sharks. The island also boasts several picturesque dive sites, providing unforgettable experiences for both beginners and experienced divers.

Gili Meno’s laid-back atmosphere and unspoiled nature make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The island is largely undeveloped, with no motorized vehicles allowed. Instead, visitors can explore the island on foot, by bicycle, or horse-drawn carriages known as cidomos. This adds to the island’s charm and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful and idyllic surroundings fully.
Gili Meno offers a range of accommodation options, from rustic beachfront bungalows to luxurious resorts. The island also has a small local community, giving visitors a glimpse into the local way of life. There are several quaint beachside restaurants and bars where visitors can savor fresh seafood and enjoy stunning sunsets.

Gili Air

Gili Air is a stunning tropical paradise in Indonesia, specifically part of the Gili Islands archipelago. Situated in the azure waters of the Lombok Strait, Gili Air offers visitors a serene and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The island is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets, which create a picturesque backdrop for a tranquil getaway.

One of the unique aspects of Gili Air is its blend of natural beauty and local charm. The island has a small population and is primarily inhabited by friendly locals who have preserved their traditional way of life. Visitors can interact with the locals, experience their warm hospitality, and gain insight into the local culture. The absence of motorized vehicles on the island further enhances the tranquility, as transportation is mainly done by horse-drawn carriages or bicycles.

The underwater world surrounding Gili Air is a haven for snorkelers and divers. The island is renowned for its vibrant marine ecosystems teeming with abundant marine life, including colorful tropical fish, turtles, and even the occasional reef shark. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore the thriving marine gardens and discover a mesmerizing array of sea creatures, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Gili Air also offers a range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors. Along the coastline, you’ll find a variety of beachfront resorts, cafes, and restaurants where you can relax, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and soak up the island’s idyllic atmosphere. The island also provides opportunities for yoga retreats, spa treatments, and wellness activities, allowing visitors to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul.

Diving Adventures: Deep, Shore, Wall, Drift, Macro, and Muck

Welcome to the thrilling world of Diving Adventures, where the ocean becomes your playground, and exploration knows no bounds. Dive into the depths of the Deep, navigate the enchanting Shorelines, marvel at the majestic Walls, embrace the exhilarating Drift currents, and uncover the hidden treasures of the Muck.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey beneath the waves, where every dive promises awe-inspiring encounters and unforgettable memories. Let the underwater wonders beckon you as we delve into the extraordinary realm of Diving Adventures.