When most people think of diving in Bali, they immediately picture the bustling beaches of Seminyak or the popular dive sites of Tulamben and Amed. However, just a short boat ride from Bali’s mainland, the serene island of Nusa Lembongan offers an equally spectacular diving experience—without the crowds. Lembongan diving has rapidly gained popularity among underwater enthusiasts for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-timer, Lembongan promises a unique and unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.
Why Lembongan Diving Should Be on Your Radar
Lembongan is a small island located southeast of Bali, famous for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and top-notch diving spots. The island’s waters are teeming with marine life, including manta rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, and an abundance of tropical fish. With its warm, clear water and diverse dive sites, Lembongan offers something for everyone—whether you’re new to diving or a certified diver looking to explore new underwater terrain.
Here are a few reasons why Lembongan diving stands out:
1. Crystal-Clear Water and Incredible Visibility
One of the key draws of Lembongan diving is the pristine water quality and exceptional visibility. With waters that can reach up to 30 meters of visibility, divers are treated to stunning views of vibrant coral gardens and large schools of fish. The clarity of the water makes it ideal for underwater photography and provides an immersive experience, where every detail of the reef’s complex ecosystem is easily visible.
2. Abundant Marine Life
The marine life around Lembongan is incredibly diverse, thanks to the healthy coral reefs and protected marine areas. Divers can expect to see a variety of creatures, including:
- Majestic manta rays, which are frequent visitors to sites like Manta Point.
- The elusive mola-mola (ocean sunfish), which can often be spotted in Crystal Bay.
- Sea turtles, moray eels, reef sharks, and a colorful array of tropical fish, such as clownfish, angelfish, and parrotfish.
The island is also known for its vibrant coral reefs, with healthy hard and soft corals creating a beautiful underwater landscape.
3. A Range of Dive Sites for All Levels
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a more advanced diving challenge, Lembongan has dive sites that cater to every level of experience. Beginners can explore shallow waters with calm currents, while more experienced divers can take on deeper dive sites with stronger currents and the chance to see larger pelagics. Some of the island’s most famous dive spots include:
Best Dive Sites for Lembongan Diving
Lembongan is home to several world-class dive sites, each with its own unique features. Here are some of the best spots for Lembongan diving:
1. Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay is one of Lembongan’s most iconic dive sites. Famous for its stunning underwater visibility and the chance to encounter the massive mola-mola (ocean sunfish), Crystal Bay offers a truly memorable diving experience. The site features a steep drop-off, vibrant coral gardens, and the potential for thrilling encounters with large pelagic species. While mola-mola sightings are most common between July and October, Crystal Bay is a beautiful dive site year-round.
2. Manta Point
Manta Point is a must-visit for anyone diving in Lembongan, especially for those hoping to swim with the graceful manta rays. These magnificent creatures are often seen gliding through the waters, and the site offers excellent visibility and calm conditions. In addition to manta rays, divers can also spot reef sharks, turtles, and a variety of reef fish. It’s a great spot for both beginner and experienced divers, as the currents are usually mild.
3. Mangrove Point
For those who are new to diving, Mangrove Point is an ideal spot to begin your underwater journey. Located on the northern part of the island, this dive site features shallow coral gardens and soft, clear waters. It’s perfect for beginner and intermediate divers, and you’ll encounter plenty of marine life, including sea turtles, small fish, and occasional rays. It’s also an excellent site for macro photography, with many tiny critters like seahorses and nudibranchs hiding in the reefs.
4. Blue Corner
For advanced divers, Blue Corner offers thrilling diving conditions with strong currents, deep walls, and the possibility of seeing large pelagic species like tuna, barracuda, and even reef sharks. The site’s nutrient-rich waters attract a wide range of marine life, and drift diving along the corner’s currents provides a high-adrenaline adventure. It’s a challenging but rewarding dive site that is best suited for experienced divers.
5. Toyapakeh (Nusa Penida)
While not directly on Lembongan, Toyapakeh on the nearby island of Nusa Penida is just a short boat ride away and offers some of the most beautiful diving in the region. Known for its stunning coral gardens, clear water, and large schools of fish, Toyapakeh is a must-visit dive site for anyone staying in Lembongan. It’s also a great location to encounter manta rays and molamola, depending on the season.
When is the Best Time to Go Diving in Lembongan?
The best time to visit Lembongan diving is during the dry season, which lasts from April to October. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the seas are calmer, making it ideal for diving. The visibility is at its best during these months, and it’s also the peak season for encountering mola-mola and manta rays.
The wet season (November to March) is still suitable for diving, but conditions can be less predictable. You may experience occasional rain and stronger currents, which can affect visibility. However, the waters are still rich with marine life, and the dive sites are less crowded, making it a good option for those seeking a quieter, more peaceful dive experience.
Lembongan Diving for All Levels
Whether you’re a beginner diver or an advanced diver, Lembongan diving caters to all levels. Many dive shops on the island offer PADI certification courses, introductory dives for beginners, and guided dive trips for certified divers. The dive sites around Lembongan are diverse enough to provide challenges for experienced divers while still being accessible for those new to the sport.
Dive Operators and Services
Lembongan has a range of dive operators offering everything from rental gear and dive courses to guided dive tours. Most dive centers are located in the main village or near popular beaches like Mushroom Bay and Jungut Batu. These operators prioritize safety, offer professional dive guides, and maintain small group sizes to ensure a personalized experience.
Other Things to Do in Lembongan
While Lembongan diving is the main attraction, the island offers a variety of other activities to enjoy:
- Snorkeling: For those not interested in diving, snorkeling is a fantastic way to explore the reefs and see the island’s marine life.
- Island Tours: Explore the island on foot or by scooter to visit stunning beaches like Dream Beach or Sunset Beach, or take a boat trip through the island’s mangrove forests.
- Relaxation: Lembongan is known for its peaceful vibe, so take time to unwind on the beach or enjoy a traditional Balinese spa treatment after a day of diving.
Conclusion
Lembongan diving is a unique and rewarding experience that should be on every diver’s bucket list. With its rich marine life, clear waters, and diverse dive sites, Lembongan offers something for everyone. Whether you’re hoping to swim with manta rays, spot a mola-mola, or simply enjoy the stunning coral reefs, Lembongan provides a diving adventure that is both serene and thrilling. Book your trip today and get ready to explore one of Bali’s hidden underwater treasures.