Bali

The USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben is by far the most famous dive site in Bali, Indonesia. This massive 120-meter shipwreck is easily accessible from the shore and is completely encrusted in coral. It attracts immense schools of fish and is suitable for all levels, from snorkelers to advanced divers, making it a must-do.

Well-known sites include Crystal Bay and Manta Point in Nusa Penida. For incredible, less-crowded diving, explore the reefs around Amed, the Japanese Wreck, or head to Padangbai's Blue Lagoon. For advanced divers, the 'Secret Gilis' near Candidasa offer pristine reefs and challenging currents with rewarding marine life encounters.

Water temperatures in Bali, Indonesia are warm, typically ranging from 26-29°C (79-84°F). However, be prepared for thermoclines, especially from July to October around Nusa Penida and Candidasa. During this period, deep water upwellings can cause temperatures to drop to a chilly 20-24°C (68-75°F), especially at sites like Crystal Bay.

You can dive in Bali, Indonesia year-round. The best time is the dry season (April to October), which offers the calmest seas and best visibility. This period also coincides with the Mola mola (oceanic sunfish) season from July to October, a major highlight for divers visiting the Nusa Penida area.

Visibility in Bali, Indonesia is generally good to excellent, often ranging from 15-30 meters (50-100 feet) during the dry season (April-October). During the rainy season (November-March), runoff can reduce visibility, particularly at shore dives and muck sites. Offshore sites like Nusa Penida typically maintain the best clarity year-round, though conditions can change quickly.

Yes, the most famous seasonal event in Bali, Indonesia is the appearance of the Mola mola (oceanic sunfish) from July to October, primarily around Nusa Penida's cold-water sites. Manta rays can be seen year-round at Manta Point, but their numbers can be higher at certain times. Whale sharks are rare but occasional visitors.

The marine life in Bali, Indonesia is exceptionally diverse. Expect to see reef sharks, turtles, moray eels, octopus, and huge schools of bumphead parrotfish. It's a macro paradise with ghost pipefish, pygmy seahorses, and countless nudibranchs. Seasonally, you can find giant Mola mola and majestic manta rays, offering encounters for every type of diver.

A 3mm full wetsuit is suitable for most diving in Bali, Indonesia, where water is warm. However, if you plan to dive around Nusa Penida or Candidasa between July and October, a 5mm wetsuit and even a hood are highly recommended. The thermoclines can be surprisingly cold, and proper thermal protection ensures a more comfortable dive.

Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, which has many direct international flights. From the airport, diving destinations like Tulamben, Amed, or Padangbai are typically a 2-3 hour drive. Most dive operators and resorts can arrange airport transfers, or you can easily hire a private driver or taxi upon arrival.

Bali, Indonesia is an excellent destination for shore-based diving. Staying on land allows you to experience the rich culture and access most dive regions via day trips. This is the most common and flexible option. Liveaboards are less common and often combine Bali with other destinations like Komodo, which is a great way to maximize dive time across a wider area.