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In case you hadn’t heard Bali is one of the world’s top destinations for scuba diving.
With healthy coral reefs, crystal clear waters and frequent sightings of rare marine species it’s easy to understand why. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a complete newbie, scuba diving in Bali is not to be missed!
But because Bali is so popular for diving, there’s a ton of information out there. So it can be a little overwhelming when planning your trip.
And that’s why we’ve put together this simple guide. We’ll cover all the essential information you need to know about scuba diving in Bali.
Is Scuba Diving in Bali Safe?
Scuba diving is a very safe activity. As long as you follow safe diving practices and stay within the limits of your training and experience, diving is not dangerous. And scuba diving in Bali is no exception.
Bali boasts a large number of reputable dive centers where safety and training standards are very high. But make sure you do some research before deciding who to dive with in Bali. Speak to the operator, read reviews and, if possible, talk to other divers. Choose a dive center that follows strict safety standards and looks after their dive equipment.
There are countless dive sites around Bali, but not all are suitable for beginners. Don’t be an idiot and pretend you know what you’re doing if you don’t. Choose a dive spot that suits your experience level. And always listen to your dive professional.
If you follow these simple rules then you’ve got nothing to worry about when scuba diving in Bali.
Where are the Best Places to Scuba Dive in Bali?
Bali offers a diverse range of unique dive spots to explore. Most of these can be accessed through day trips from South Bali. However, if you have the time, we recommend staying in the area you wish to dive in for a more relaxing experience.
Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
Located just south of mainland Bali, these islands are home to some of the most epic dive spots in Indonesia, if not the world. Expect exhilarating drift dives, plenty of reef sharks and almost guaranteed manta rays. Plus you’ve got a high chance of spotting the elusive Mola Mola during the right season
Padang Bai
Padang Bai isn’t just a quick stop on your way to the Gilis, it’s also one of Bali’s top scuba diving spots. Macro enthusiasts love hunting for the weird and wonderful creatures that live here. Expect to find frogfish, nudibranch, stargazers and much more. Plus there are also some more challenging drift dives further offshore for advanced divers.
Amed
This laid back fishing village on the northeast coast of Bali boasts an impressive array of dive sites just 10 minutes offshore. Scuba diving around Amed you’re guaranteed to see a huge amount of fish and tons of cute critters that you’ve never seen before.
The healthy corals, calm currents and cheap rates make Amed the perfect place to build your diving experience.
Tulamben
Tulamben is famous for it’s fascinating shipwreck just off the shore. The USAT Liberty starts at 10ft (3m) and drops down to 92ft (28m), great for beginners and experienced divers alike. Encrusted in colourful corals and teeming with fish, this site is not to be missed when diving in Bali.
And it’s not all about the shipwreck. Tulamben also offers some breathtaking walls and stunning coral gardens. Combine diving in Tulamben with Amed for the diving perfect trip.
Menjangan
Pristine coral reefs teeming with life await you in this protected marine park in the north-west of Bali. Encounter barracuda, reef sharks, moray eels, schools of fusiliers, cardinalfish and much much more, even in the shallows.
With calm conditions and an abundance of marine species, Menjangan is an ideal spot for both new and advanced divers. Over 4 hours drive from the South, you’ll need to make an overnight trip to dive here.
Gilimanuk
Tucked away in the far northeastern corner of Bali is a paradise for underwater photographers. The volcanic sands of Gilimanuk offer some of the best muck diving in Indonesia. Get ready to find hairy frogfish, mimic octopus, ghost pipefish, rhinopia and rare nudibranch in just 1 dive.
Diving in Gilimanuk requires an overnight trip if you’re staying in South Bali. Or you can combine with diving in Menjangan and stay in Pemautran.
Is Scuba Diving in Bali suitable for Beginners?
Perhaps you’ve heard whispers of the challenging currents around Bali. And now you’re unsure if scuba diving in Bali is suitable for beginners.
Whilst it’s true that there are several dive spots only recommended for advanced divers. The great thing about scuba diving in Bali is that there are awesome dive sites for all levels, including complete beginners.
Tulamben, Padang Bai and Amed all have a range of beautiful dive sites that are perfect for new divers. With calm conditions and abundant marine life, these are the best spots in Bali to learn or try scuba diving.
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida aren’t normally recommended for complete beginners as they have strong currents. However, there are several dive sites that are accessible to open water divers, including the famous Manta Point.
Can I learn to Scuba Dive in Bali?
Learning to scuba dive is often considered as one of the best experiences on a trip to Bali. Superior training standards and some of the best easy access dive sites in Asia make Bali the ideal spot to get certified.
The entry-level certification, aka the open water diver course, takes approximately 3 full days. Although you can shorten this by completing the theory online before your trip. The course is a mix of theory, pool sessions and open water dives. At the end of the course, you will be certified to dive up to 60ft (18m) worldwide. Almost every dive operator in Bali offers the open water course.
Don’t have the time or budget for the full course? Or not sure you’ll even like scuba diving?
Don’t panic. You can try scuba diving in Bali in just 1 day. A try dive in Bali will usually start with a basic introduction followed by practice in a swimming pool. You’ll then head out for a dive in the ocean with your instructor, to a maximum of 39ft (12m).
How Much Does Scuba Diving Cost in Bali?
Scuba Diving in Bali is cheaper than in more remote locations in Indonesia. And tends to be less than most western countries. However prices for fun diving and courses will vary significantly depending on the location.
For example, Tulamben and Amed tend to be the cheapest places to dive. The dive sites are very close so fuel costs are low. Scuba diving in Nusa Penida will be more expensive because speed boats are required to reach the dive sites. And if you stay in South Bali you’ll pay extra for transport to the dive spots.
Here are the average costs of scuba diving in Bali:
- 2 x Fun Dives (1 day) : Approx. 1,500,000 IDR or $100
- Try Dive (1 day) : Approx. 1,800,000IDR or $120
- Open Water Course (3-4 days): Approx 6,500,000 IDR or $450
- Advanced Open Water Course (2-3 days): Approx. 5,000,000 IDR or $340
- Rescue & EFR Course (4-5 days): Approx 7,000,000 IDR or $480
The price tends to include rental equipment, but not always. Discounts are often available for advanced bookings or multiple days diving.
Remember don’t just look for the cheapest operator. It’s important you find a trustworthy dive center with a good safety record, well-maintained gear and professional instructors.
Best Time of Year to Scuba Dive in Bali
Scuba diving in Bali is good year-round. But the best time to scuba dive in Bali is during the dry season, from April to October. The seas are calm and visibility can reach up to 40m. Although water temperatures are a little cooler with an average of 25’C.
If you don’t like crowds, avoid the peak season between July and September. May and October are the ideal months for scuba diving in Bali. The diving conditions are still great and there are fewer divers.
During the rainy season, between November and March, visibility is often reduced and the weather less predictable. However, dive sites are far less crowded and the water is warmer. Plus you can find some great low season deals on diving and accommodation.
You can see the manta rays in Nusa Penida all year. But the Mola Mola are usually only spotted between July and October when the water is coldest.
Best Scuba Diving Tour Guides in Bali
Best Dive Centers in South Bali
These dive centers arrange both day and overnight trips to all the dive spots across Bali. As well as offering the full range of dive courses.
Best Dive Centers in Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
If you want to stay and dive on Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida, head to one of these highly recommended dive resorts.
- Blue Corner Dive, Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
- Siren Diving, Nusa Lembongan
- Penida Dive Resort, Nusa Penida
Best Dive Centers in East Bali
Check out these professional yet friendly dive operators for accommodation, fun dives and courses in Amed, Tulamben and Padang Bai.
Best Dive Centers in North Bali
Based in Pemuteran, these dive centers offer fun dives and courses to Menjangan marine park and Gilimanuk. Plus affordable options for accommodation in the area.
Scuba Diving in Bali Final Thoughts
With beautiful blue waters and an unbeatable marine life, scuba diving is a must-do activity for every traveller visiting Bali.
And with such a huge variety of fascinating dive spots in Bali, there’s something to suit every diver’s taste and experience level.
Scuba diving in Bali is definitely one for your bucket list!