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Dive Sites at Nusa Penida Island

Many of these diving locations at Nusa Penida rank among some of the best places to dive and snorkel in Bali. But, fast-flowing undercurrents can be a stiff test for novices.

This section contains a list of all the best sites for divers around Nusa Penida with expert advice for beginners who will visit these popular destinations for diving and snorkeling.

Nusa Penida Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

There are three islands that attract divers and snorkellers to this area:

The islands straddle the Badung Strait as the 'Indonesian Throughflow' shoots past Bali's south eastern coastline.

As a result, the cold upwelling currents that rise from the Indian Ocean tend to keep the water clear - but a little chilly.

In fact, the water clarity found at the north western dive spots of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida is one reason why local scuba schools rate them as some of the best diving locations in Bali, Indonesia.

You can expect to have underwater visibility ranging from fifteen (15) to twenty (20) metres for most of the year, especially at the deep sites.

In general, the water temperature stays around 27° Celsius for most of the year. But, it drops to the low twenties from July through to September. So, these are the best months to see the gigantic Mola Mola (ocean sunfish).

Aquatic Life at Nusa Penida Island

Diving at the southernmost sites offers the best opportunities for swimming with the majestic manta rays as they swirl above.

The underwater topography in this part of the Nusa islands is relatively sparse with large plateaus. In other words, you will find many cleaning and feeding stations that are a favourite meeting place for mantas.

Besides the usual ravines and swim-throughs, the diversity of the marine ecosystems also create natural habitats for coral formations and incredible sea life. For example, some of the lesser-known species include:

List of Penida Island Dive Sites

It's fair to say there is no clear winner for whether Nusa Lembongan or Penida is better for diving. But, this list will help you find the best dive site in Nusa Penida for beginners as well as qualified divers:

Northern Locations

Southern Locations

Pro Tip: It is important for beginners to understand the importance of carrying signaling devices to indicate their position in the water to any passing boats.

Related Information and Help Guides

Pro Tip: The short video [1:01 seconds] presented by 'Rems Production' contains some amazing footage of the different sea life plants and animals found at Crystal Bay dive site in Bali, Indonesia.

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