Bali is a diver’s paradise, offering incredible underwater adventures that cater to all skill levels. From vibrant coral gardens and thrilling drift dives to exploring historic wrecks, the island’s marine life and diverse underwater landscapes are nothing short of magical. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, here’s a guide to the best areas to stay in Bali for an unforgettable scuba adventure.
Best Areas to Stay in Bali for Diving 🤿
The top dive spots in Bali are typically located in the north and east, rather than the south. While the southern part of Bali is beautiful, it doesn’t have the same reputation for diving as these northern and eastern areas.
📍Tulamben – A Wreck Diving Haven
Tulamben is synonymous with world-class wreck dives, thanks to the iconic USAT Liberty Shipwreck. Nestled along Bali’s northeastern coastline, this quiet village is a must-visit for divers eager to explore coral-encrusted ruins in calm, clear waters.
Why Stay in Tulamben?
USAT Liberty Shipwreck: This shallow wreck is teeming with marine life—think vibrant corals, sponges, schools of fish, sea turtles, and even barracuda. With depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters, this site is suitable for all divers, including first-timers.
Seraya Secrets: A short ride away, this muck-diving hotspot offers unique macro sightings like ghost pipefish, seahorses, and cuttlefish—a dream for underwater photographers.
Drop-Off Site: This spectacular wall dive features dramatic coral formations and is ideal for experienced divers looking to go deeper.
Where to Stay: Tulamben caters to divers with cozy accommodations like Oceanus Tulamben Dive and Teluk Karang Divers. These hotels offer tailored packages that include dives and local transport.
Don’t miss a night dive at the Liberty Shipwreck, where you’ll experience bioluminescent wonders and mysterious nocturnal creatures.
📍Amed – Relaxed Vibes and Vibrant Reefs
Just south of Tulamben lies Amed, a quaint fishing village with an easygoing atmosphere that perfectly complements its underwater beauty. With thriving coral gardens and calm, clear waters, Amed is a fantastic choice for both divers and snorkelers.
Why Stay in Amed?
Colorful Coral Reefs: Perfect for beginners, Amed’s coral gardens are easily accessible straight from the shore or via traditional jukung boats.
Proximity to Tulamben: Amed offers a quieter base only a short trip from the Liberty Shipwreck, giving you access to its treasures while avoiding crowds.
Night Dives & Macro Life: The village is renowned for its night dives, where you can spot unique marine wonders like nudibranchs, reef octopuses, and even pygmy seahorses.
Where to Stay: Stay at Adventure Divers Bali or Bali Dive Cove, both highly rated for their professionalism and proximity to top-tier sites. For beachfront accommodations, check out Kembali Beach Bungalows, which pairs easy access to the water with great nearby dining spots.
Don’t Miss: The artificial reef known as “The Pyramids” in Jemeluk Bay is a must-dive. It’s teeming with marine life and striking underwater architecture.
📍Nusa Lembongan – Drift Diving and Majestic Mantas
If you dream of encountering manta rays or experiencing exhilarating drift dives, Nusa Lembongan is the place to be. Just a short boat ride from Bali’s mainland, this laid-back island is a diver’s dream.
Why Stay in Nusa Lembongan?
Manta Point: This renowned site allows divers to swim alongside graceful manta rays in their natural habitat, a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Drift Diving: Lembongan’s north shore features some of Bali’s best drift dives, with currents gliding you through stunning coral gardens brimming with marine life.
Mola Mola Season: Visit in late summer to witness the elusive mola mola (ocean sunfish), a rare and fascinating attraction.
Where to Stay: Opt for Lembongan Discovery Divers or Blue Corner Dive, which balance great accommodations with expertly guided dives. The island’s chill vibe and scenic beauty make it the perfect place to recharge after a day underwater.
Pro Tip: Nervous about strong currents? Communicate your experience level with your chosen dive center—they’ll tailor dives to suit your comfort.
📍Nusa Penida – Pristine Waters and Thrills for Experienced Divers
For advanced divers seeking the ultimate challenge, Nusa Penida offers steep drop-offs, vibrant reefs, and regular sightings of big pelagic species. The island is famous for its exceptional underwater biodiversity and exhilarating conditions.
Why Stay in Nusa Penida?
Crystal Bay: This photogenic site boasts pristine coral gardens and is one of the best places to spot mola mola during their seasonal migration.
Bat Cave & Blue Corner: These deepwater sites are home to sharks, rays, and dramatic underwater topography, perfect for thrill-seeking divers.
Manta Point: Just like its neighbor Lembongan, you’ll find abundant manta rays cruising the waters here.
Where to Stay: Nusa Penida offers a range of accommodations from charming homestays to upscale resorts, many of which cater to divers. They’ll sort out transport and guides for you.
Good to Know: The currents around Nusa Penida can be challenging. Make safety a priority by consulting your instructor before heading into these waters.
📍Menjangan Island – Northern Serenity
Part of the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is an excellent choice for divers looking to escape the crowds. Known for its calm waters and incredible biodiversity, it’s an oasis for both beginners and seasoned divers.
Why Stay near Menjangan Island?
Pristine Reefs: Menjangan Island boasts some of Bali’s healthiest coral gardens, offering superb visibility year-round.
Varied Diving Options: Explore shallow reef dives, dramatic walls, and the chance to spot turtles, reef sharks, and dolphins.
Peaceful Nature: The nearby landscapes of the West Bali National Park are breathtaking, offering scenic backdrops to your aquatic adventures.
Where to Stay: Pemuteran, a nearby village, is home to excellent resorts like Mydas Dive Centre, which specializes in Menjangan tours and eco-diving.
What to Know: Entry into the nature reserve requires a small fee, but the serene dives and lush surroundings are worth every penny.
📍Padang Bai – Under-the-Radar Variety
Located on Bali’s southeastern coast, Padang Bai is a lesser-known gem with easy access to diverse sites that cater to all levels of diving expertise.
Why Stay in Padang Bai?
Shark Point: One of the area’s highlights, this site offers close encounters with (friendly) reef sharks and vibrant marine life.
Secret Bay: A must for muck-diving enthusiasts, this shallow site is packed with rare critters like frogfish, nudibranchs, and pipefish.
Jetty Diving: Explore unique biodiversity in coral-covered structures beneath the jetty. Small sharks and rays are often spotted here.
Where to Stay: Geko Dive Bali is a trusted local operator offering fantastic guided tours. Beachfront hotels in Padang Bai provide relaxed, comfortable stays.
Extra Tip: Padang Bai is the ideal jumping-off point for day trips to nearby islands like Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
Planning Your Ultimate Bali Diving Adventure
Combine Locations: For a varied experience, split your stay between east Bali (Tulamben or Amed) and the Nusa islands.
Book Ahead: Popular spots and seasons can get busy, so secure your dives and stays in advance.
Trust the Locals: Work with local instructors and centers for safer, more enriching dives.
Stay Flexible: Weather and currents can be unpredictable. Have alternative plans ready and listen to expert advice.
From world-famous shipwrecks to ethereal manta rays and hidden coral gardens, Bali is a diver’s dream destination. Whether you’re immersing yourself in Tulamben’s history or riding the currents in Nusa Lembongan, each experience is bound to leave you wanting more. Make Bali your next underwater masterpiece.
