For travellers seeking the perfect mix of underwater exploration and cultural immersion, Bali delivers in every way. And with the expert support of Oonasdivers, a trusted UK diving holiday specialist, planning the ideal Bali dive escape is simple and stress-free.
The Island of the Gods
Bali’s charm lies in the seamless way natural beauty and spirituality coexist. Emerald rice terraces curve down the hillsides, incense drifts gently from temples, and colourful offerings appear outside homes each morning. Traditional dance performances and ancient rituals are part of everyday life, giving visitors an authentic window into Balinese culture.
While the island has long attracted yogis, surfers, and artists, divers have discovered an equally mesmerising world beneath the surface. And for those travelling with non-divers, Bali’s mix of spas, cooking classes, waterfalls, surfing, and local markets ensures everyone finds their perfect way to unwind.
Exploring Bali’s Underwater World
Bali offers a remarkable variety of dive sites suitable for every level. From gentle coral slopes to exhilarating drifts, the island’s underwater landscapes are as diverse as they are beautiful.
Tulamben – Home of the USAT Liberty Wreck Tulamben is famous for one of the world’s most accessible wrecks, the USAT Liberty, lying just metres from the shore. This WWII cargo ship, resting between 5 and 30 metres, has evolved into a thriving artificial reef. Divers can glide past shimmering schools of glassfish, encounter turtles cruising along the hull, and, at dawn, witness bumphead parrotfish patrolling the wreck. The dramatic light and structure make it a favourite for photographers as well as new divers experiencing their first wreck dive.
Amed – Peaceful Reefs and Macro Delights A short drive south, the laid-back village of Amed offers calm, clear waters ideal for relaxed diving and snorkelling. Its reefs are full of colour and buzzing with life. Nudibranchs, frogfish, and seahorses are just some of the macro treasures waiting to be spotted among vibrant coral gardens. The gentle pace and scenic surroundings make Amed a wonderfully restorative part of any Bali dive trip.
Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan – Encounters with Giants For divers seeking big-animal encounters, Nusa Penida is nothing short of spectacular. The island’s nutrient-rich waters attract manta rays year-round, offering magical moments as these graceful creatures glide effortlessly through Manta Point.
Between July and October, Penida becomes one of the world’s best places to see the elusive Mola Mola (sunfish). Watching these deep-water giants rise to the cleaning stations is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many divers. Nearby Nusa Lembongan adds its own charm, with pristine reefs, lively fish life, and exhilarating drift dives.
Padang Bai – A Little Bit of Everything On Bali’s east coast, Padang Bai offers an impressive variety of dive sites in one compact area. The Blue Lagoon is perfect for easy, colourful diving, while deeper sites such as Tanjung Jepun offer more dramatic terrain and the chance to spot rays, reef fish, and rare critters like ghost pipefish and ornate nudibranchs. It’s a great choice for divers who enjoy having plenty of variety at their doorstep.
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