Bali

About Bali

Bali is the entry point for most divers starting out in Indonesia. Several dive regions on a single island, each one a transfer away from Denpasar:

• Tulamben (northeast) — USAT Liberty wreck, possibly the world’s easiest beach entry
• Amed (northeast) — macro, calm conditions, good for course divers
• Nusa Penida (south of Bali) — mola mola in season, strong currents
• Menjangan (northwest) — calm water, wall, plenty of coral
• Sanur/Padang Bai (southeast) — turtles, easy access

When to go

April to October. Bali has two monsoons: the rainy season in January–February gives poor visibility and a lot of trash in the water. Mola mola show up July–October at Nusa Penida when the water is coldest (20–22°C — pack a 5 mm).

What to know

• Nusa Penida’s currents aren’t for beginners. Open Water is enough for Manta Point; Crystal Bay / mola mola requires drift experience.
• Tulamben is best at dawn — avoid mid-day when the day boats drop off groups.
• A “Bali loop” with three regions takes 8–10 nights and transfers between each. We recommend focusing on two regions instead of three.
• Ubud isn’t on the coast but makes a good stopover for a non-diving partner.

Good fit if you

Are starting with Indonesia, have 10+ dives, want to combine diving with a cultural trip, or are traveling with someone who doesn’t dive.

Skip if you

Have already dived Bali, are after the most remote, or want mantas and sharks — Komodo or Raja Ampat are better for that.

Land activities

Ubud (temples, rice terraces, art), the Campuhan Ridge walk, Pura Lempuyang (the gates of heaven), cooking classes, Mount Batur sunrise, the Sidemen valley (less touristy than Ubud). Bali is the least dive-specialized of our Indonesian destinations, and that’s a strength if you’re a couple where only one of you dives.