Tulamben & Amed
Tulamben & Amed, located on Bali's northeast coast, offer a unique and accessible diving experience. The area is globally renowned for the USAT Liberty Wreck, an impressive WWII shipwreck teeming with life, easily accessible from the shore. This destination is also a paradise for macro enthusiasts, with its volcanic black sand creating a dramatic backdrop for an incredible diversity of critters. From world-class muck diving sites to vibrant coral walls and fascinating artificial reefs, the variety of the 24 dive sites caters to every diver's interest. Diving conditions are typically calm with minimal currents, making it an ideal location for all certification levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals and photographers. Water temperatures are warm year-round, and visibility is generally excellent.
The combination of world-class wreck diving, exceptional macro opportunities, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere makes Tulamben & Amed a must-visit destination. The ease of shore diving directly from the beach adds to its charm and accessibility, offering a truly hassle-free dive vacation.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
The most popular dive site is undoubtedly the USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben. This massive WWII shipwreck is incredibly accessible, starting just 30 meters from the shore in shallow water. It's popular because it's completely encrusted in coral and hosts a staggering amount of marine life, including a famous school of bumphead parrotfish that sleeps in the wreck. Its sheer size and biodiversity make it a world-class dive for all levels, including snorkelers.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
Besides the Liberty Wreck, popular sites include the Drop Off and Coral Garden in Tulamben. For something less crowded but equally rewarding, explore the dive sites in Amed. Jemeluk Bay offers beautiful coral walls and Pyramids is a fantastic artificial reef. For macro lovers, Seraya Secrets is a world-class muck diving site and a true hidden gem for spotting rare critters. These sites offer a different experience away from the main wreck.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
Water temperatures in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia, are generally warm and tropical, ranging from 27-30°C (80-86°F) for most of the year. However, during the dry season, particularly from July to September, thermoclines and upwellings can bring colder water, with temperatures sometimes dropping to 23-25°C (73-77°F). It's always best to check conditions just before your trip.
When is the best time to visit Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
The best time to dive in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia, is during the dry season from April to November. These months offer the calmest seas, sunniest weather, and generally the best visibility. The peak season is July to September, though water can be cooler. Diving is possible year-round, but the rainy season (December to March) can occasionally reduce visibility due to runoff, though conditions often remain very diveable.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
During the prime dive season (April-November), underwater visibility in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia, is typically very good, often ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50-100 feet). Visibility can be affected by rainfall, especially during the wet season (December-March), which may cause some runoff from the shore, reducing it slightly. Plankton blooms can also occur, which decrease visibility but attract more marine life.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
While large pelagic migrations like manta rays or whale sharks are very rare in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia, there are seasonal events. From July to October, the colder water upwellings increase the chances of spotting the elusive mola mola (ocean sunfish), although sightings are not guaranteed. This period also brings rich, nutrient-filled water, leading to a higher concentration of marine life in general, making it an exciting time to dive.
What marine life can I expect to see in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
You can expect incredible biodiversity. The USAT Liberty Wreck is home to a resident school of bumphead parrotfish and giant barracuda. Reef sharks, turtles, and moray eels are common. The area is a macro heaven, famous for pygmy seahorses, ornate ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimp, frogfish, nudibranchs of every kind, and boxer crabs. The variety from large schools of fish to tiny, rare critters is a key attraction of diving here.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
For most of the year, a 3mm shorty or full wetsuit is sufficient for the warm waters of Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia. However, if you are diving between July and October when water temperatures can drop due to thermoclines, a 5mm full wetsuit is recommended, especially for multiple or deeper dives. Many divers also appreciate the extra protection from the sun and potential minor stings that a full suit provides year-round.
How do I get to Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
To get to Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia, you first fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, Bali. From the airport, it is a 2.5 to 3.5-hour drive to the northeast coast. You can hire a private driver, which is the most common and convenient option, or arrange a transfer through your dive resort. The scenic drive takes you through Balinese villages and rice paddies.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia?
Tulamben & Amed, Indonesia, is almost exclusively a shore-based diving destination. The vast majority of its 24+ dive sites, including the famous USAT Liberty Wreck, are easily accessible from the beach or via a short trip on a traditional 'jukung' boat. Staying on shore allows you to enjoy the relaxed local culture and dive at your own pace. Liveaboards in Indonesia typically cover more remote regions like Komodo or Raja Ampat, not this area.