Bali is much more than an island: it is a universe of its own. Between ancient temples, endless rice fields, and the warmth of its people, the surrounding ocean holds one of the richest biodiversities on the planet.
Diving here is not only about discovering an underwater mosaic of colors, but also about connecting with the calm and spirituality that permeate the entire island. If you love the ocean, keep reading: here’s why Bali is one of those destinations you always want to return to.
Why dive in Bali
Bali offers a unique combination of culture, nature, and marine life. Its volcanic landscapes extend underwater in the form of coral-covered walls, gorgonian gardens, and wrecks colonized by thousands of species.
In a single trip you can dive with oceanic mantas in Nusa Penida, search for the elusive mola mola, or lose yourself among schools of tropical fish in Tulamben.
The island is also a paradise for underwater photography lovers: the water clarity and the diversity of macro creatures turn every dive into an ideal setting for slow observation.
Although diving is possible year-round, the best time is usually from May to November, during the dry season, when conditions are more stable and visibility reaches its peak.
Marine fauna and flora
The waters of Bali are a crossroads between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, which explains their incredible marine richness. Tiny nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and pipefish coexist with turtles, whitetip reef sharks, and napoleon wrasses.
In season, the mythical mola mola appears in the colder waters of Nusa Penida, while at Manta Point majestic oceanic mantas glide calmly over the cleaning stations.
The reefs, covered with hard and soft corals, host countless reef species dancing among the sunbeams. Each area of the island has its own personality: the volcanic sand in the north, the nutrient-rich currents in the east, and the calm bays in the south make Bali a true natural laboratory.
Best dive sites
1- Liberty Wreck (Tulamben)
The famous USAT Liberty wreck is the emblem of diving in Bali. Easily accessible from shore, it rests between 4 and 28 meters, covered in corals and surrounded by jacks and batfish. It’s ideal for all levels and perfect for underwater photography.
2- Drop Off (Tulamben)
A wall dive that drops down to 70 meters, adorned with gorgonians and barrel sponges. Here you’ll find bumphead parrotfish, napoleon wrasses, and schools of fusiliers, all in a peaceful and beautiful setting.
3- Blue Lagoon (Padang Bai)
A white-sand bay with crystal-clear waters, perfect for beginners or photographers. Its sandy bottoms are home to moray eels, lionfish, whitetip reef sharks, and abundant macro life.
4- Mimpang (Candidasa)
Considered one of Bali’s best dive sites, this small archipelago hosts whitetip reef sharks, turtles, and corals of all shapes. In season, lucky divers may spot the giant mola.
5- Gili Biaha (Candidasa)
A wild and demanding site reserved for experienced divers. Its famous Shark Cave shelters whitetip reef sharks and lobsters in a setting of strong currents and untamed beauty.
6- Manta Point (Nusa Penida)
The great classic. Here, oceanic mantas approach the rocks to be cleaned by smaller fish, offering a hypnotic show at shallow depth.
7- Crystal Bay (Nusa Penida)
Famous for its transparent waters and for mola mola sightings during the cold season. Its reefs are full of tropical life and multicolored corals.
8- Amed Wall & Pyramids (Amed)
Two ideal sites for relaxed dives. Amed Wall stands out for its gorgonian-covered wall, while Pyramids offers artificial structures turned into shelters for macro creatures like frogfish or boxer shrimps.
Plan your diving trip with Te Moana Expeditions
At Te Moana Expeditions, we believe that diving in Bali is much more than an underwater experience: it is stepping into a balance of culture, nature, and ocean. Our trips are designed for divers who want to connect with the sea and discover the essence of Southeast Asia in a responsible way, guided by experienced professionals committed to marine conservation.
If Indonesia’s waters inspire you, we invite you to explore more about our trips in the Asia & Indonesia section and continue reading our article about diving in Indonesia, where we explore this fascinating destination in depth.
