Explore Underwater Goodness
Discover Bali's world-class dive sites, beautiful coral reefs, and incredible marine biodiversities. Your ultimate guide to diving and snorkelling in the Island of the Gods.
Bali Diving & Snorkelling - Essential Information
Everything you need to know for your underwater adventure in Bali
Best Season
Optimal conditions with calm seas and excellent visibility during the dry season.
Water Temperature
Warm tropical waters perfect for diving and snorkelling year-round.
Visibility
Often time excellent, offering clear views of marine life and coral reefs.
Marine Highlights
Incredible biodiversity from tiny critters to majestic ocean giants.
Welcome to Bali's Underwater World
Bali is one of most sought destinations when it comes for scuba diving and snorkelling, offering an extraordinary variety of underwater experiences. Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the epicenter of marine biodiversity, Bali's waters are teeming with beautiful coral reefs, shipwrecks from WW2, and an array of marine life. From encounters with majestic Manta Rays and the ever famous Mola Mola to exploring nudibranches, Bali has something for every underwater enthusiast.
Top Diving & Snorkelling Regions
Nusa Penida & Lembongan
Famous for encounters with Manta Rays at Manta Point and the incredible Mola Mola (Sunfish) at Crystal Bay during the season (July-October). These islands offer thrilling drift dives at occasions and healthy coral reefs.
- • Highlights: Manta Rays, Mola Mola, Drift Dives
- • Best for: Experienced divers
- • Key Sites: Manta Point, Crystal Bay, SD Point
Tulamben
Home to the world-famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck, a must-visit for any level of divers in Bali. This easily accessible shore dive is covered in corals and home to a huge variety of fish. The location is almost always calm and poses no threat.
- • Highlights: USAT Liberty Wreck, Macro Life
- • Best for: All Levels, Wreck Divers, Photographers
- • Key Sites: Liberty Wreck, Coral Garden, Drop Off
Amed
A relaxed fishing village with a string of calm bays perfect for either diving or snorkelling. Amed offers gentle drift dives, artificial and natural reefs, and great macro photography opportunities on its black volcanic sand.
- • Highlights: Healthy Corals, Macro, Calm Conditions
- • Best for: Beginners, Snorkellers, Macro Lovers
- • Key Sites: Jemeluk Bay, Pyramids, Japanese Wreck
Diving Safety & Best Practices
Your Safety is Paramount
Bali's waters can have strong and unpredictable currents, there are many cases of people being trapped in rip currents. Always dive or snorkel with a reputable PADI / SSI / CMAS certified dive center and an experienced local guide.
- • Check Certifications: Ensure your dive operator is fully certified and has an excellent safety record and reviews.
- • Listen to Briefings: Pay close attention to pre-dive / snorkel briefings about currents, depth, possible sea creatures, and safety procedures.
- • Dont do it alone: Never dive or snorkel alone. Always have a buddy or be part of a guided group.
- • Respect Marine Life: Do not touch corals or marine animals whenever possible. Practice passive observation to protect the already fragile ecosystem.
- • Use Waterproof Sunscreen: Protect your skin and the reefs by choosing sunscreens without oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions about diving and snorkelling in Bali answered.
Do I need to be certified to dive in Bali?
Yes, for scuba diving you need a certification (e.g., PADI Open Water). If you're not certified, you can take a "Discover Scuba Diving" with 1 on 1 personalised guide. Snorkelling does not require any certification.
Is it safe to dive in Bali?
Yes, diving in Bali is considered very safe when you go with a reputable, certified dive center, and follow their guidelines. Danger comes from not following instructions and by going beyond your skill level.
When is the best time to see Manta Rays and Mola Mola?
Manta Rays can be seen year-round at Nusa Penida's Manta Point and could be found in some other locations as well. The best season for spotting the Mola Mola (Oceanic Sunfish) is during the colder water period from July to October, especially at Crystal Bay.