Lombok

Lombok, the stunning island east of Bali, offers a diverse and often underrated diving experience. With over 17 distinct dive sites, it presents a quieter alternative to its bustling neighbor. Divers can explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the famous Gili Islands, discover unique macro life in sheltered bays, and even encounter larger pelagics in more challenging southern sites. This variety, from sloping reefs and walls to muck diving hotspots, makes Lombok a versatile destination catering to a wide range of underwater interests and skill levels.

Diving conditions in Lombok are generally favorable year-round, with warm waters and good visibility. While some sites can experience strong currents, particularly around the full and new moons, there are plenty of protected areas suitable for beginners. The main draw for divers is the combination of rich marine biodiversity, uncrowded dive sites, and the authentic Indonesian island charm. Whether you're seeking encounters with turtles and reef sharks or hunting for pygmy seahorses, Lombok provides a memorable and rewarding underwater adventure.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Lombok, Indonesia?
Shark Point, near Gili Trawangan, is arguably the most famous. It's known for its sloping reef that attracts whitetip and blacktip reef sharks, large green turtles, and schools of trevally. The site's reliability for seeing these key species, combined with its accessibility from the Gili Islands, makes it a must-do for most divers visiting Lombok, Indonesia. It's suitable for various levels, though currents can be present.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Lombok, Indonesia?
Besides popular Gili Islands sites like Shark Point and Meno Wall, explore the 'Secret Gilis' in the south-west for pristine coral and macro life with fewer crowds. For a unique challenge, 'The Magnet' at Belongas Bay is a pinnacle known for schooling hammerheads and mobula rays, though it's an advanced dive. These less-trafficked areas showcase the incredible diversity of diving in Lombok, Indonesia.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Lombok, Indonesia?
Water temperatures when diving in Lombok, Indonesia are consistently warm. From April to November, expect 27-29°C (81-84°F). During the cooler months of December to March, temperatures may dip to 25-27°C (77-81°F). The southern sites like Belongas Bay can experience colder upwellings, with temperatures dropping to around 22-24°C (72-75°F), especially between July and September.
When is the best time to visit Lombok, Indonesia?
The best time to dive in Lombok, Indonesia is during the dry season, from May to September. This period offers the calmest seas, sunniest weather, and typically the best underwater visibility. While diving is possible year-round, the rainy season (November to March) can bring reduced visibility and rougher surface conditions, though diving is still very active, especially in the more sheltered Gili Islands.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Lombok, Indonesia?
Underwater visibility when diving in Lombok, Indonesia is generally good, averaging 15-25 meters (50-80 feet). During the dry season (May-September), it can often exceed 30 meters (100+ feet), offering crystal clear conditions. Visibility can be reduced during the rainy season (November-March) due to runoff, sometimes dropping to 10-15 meters (30-50 feet). Certain muck diving sites will naturally have lower visibility.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Lombok, Indonesia?
The main seasonal highlight in Lombok, Indonesia is the schooling hammerhead sharks (scalloped and great) at 'The Magnet' in Belongas Bay, with the best chances from August to October. Mobula rays are also more common during this period. While large-scale manta or whale shark migrations are not a feature, the rich macro life is excellent year-round, with calmer months being ideal for spotting rare critters.
What marine life can I expect to see in Lombok, Indonesia?
Lombok, Indonesia boasts impressive marine biodiversity. Expect to see green and hawksbill turtles, whitetip and blacktip reef sharks, cuttlefish, octopus, and moray eels. The reefs are teeming with angelfish, clownfish, and fusiliers. Macro life is abundant with frogfish, ghost pipefish, pygmy seahorses, and various nudibranchs. In the south, you might spot eagle rays, mobula rays, and even seasonal hammerheads.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Lombok, Indonesia?
For most dive sites in Lombok, Indonesia, a 3mm shorty or full-length wetsuit is sufficient year-round. Some divers are comfortable in a rash guard. However, if you plan to dive in the southern region like Belongas Bay, where temperatures can drop to 22°C (72°F) due to upwellings, a 5mm full wetsuit is highly recommended for comfort and warmth.
How do I get to Lombok, Indonesia?
The primary gateway to Lombok, Indonesia is Lombok International Airport (LOP), with flights from Jakarta, Bali, and international hubs like Singapore. Alternatively, you can take a fast boat from various ports in Bali (e.g., Padang Bai) directly to the Gili Islands or mainland Lombok. Once on the island, taxis and private drivers are readily available for transport to your accommodation or dive center.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Lombok, Indonesia?
Lombok, Indonesia is predominantly a shore-based diving destination. Staying in a resort on mainland Lombok or the Gili Islands provides easy access to the majority of dive sites via daily boat trips. This offers flexibility and a chance to experience local culture. While some liveaboards pass through, they are less common and part of a larger itinerary. For a dedicated Lombok trip, shore-based diving is the most practical option.
All Dive Sites in Lombok (34)
Batu BelahBatu BelandraBatu PutihBiorockBlue Coral Gili GedeBounty WreckCoral BeachDeep CornerDeep TurboGili AsahanGili Gede WallGili LayarGili MedasGili Meno SlopeGili Meno WallGili Nanggu WallGili PohGili SarangHalikHans ReefHidden ReefLazy WaveMagnetPink BeachRengit WestShallow TurboShark PointSimons ReefSunken IslandSunset ReefThe LabyrinthThe SandTurtle City HeavenWave Corner