Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, a hidden gem just off the coast of Bali, is a diver’s paradise known for its dramatic underwater topography, pristine reefs, and rare marine encounters. Unlike its bustling neighbor, Nusa Penida offers a quieter, more rugged escape — a place where steep cliffs meet turquoise waters, and vibrant coral gardens teem with life. Whether you’re here to spot majestic manta rays gliding through the currents or to catch a glimpse of the elusive mola mola (sunfish), this island delivers some of the most exhilarating diving experiences in Indonesia.
This guide will help you explore everything you need to know before diving into the deep blue. From the best time of year to visit and what conditions to expect underwater, to the ideal experience level for divers and other must-do activities on the island, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to plan your unforgettable underwater adventure in Nusa Penida.
Best Season to dive in Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. The dry season, from April to November, provides the best conditions for diving, with calm seas and excellent visibility. During the wet season, from December to March, the island remains accessible, though occasional rain showers may affect diving conditions slightly. However, the lush green landscapes during this time add a different kind of beauty to the island.
Dive Conditions in Nusa Penida
The waters surrounding Nusa Penida are known for their clarity and vibrant marine ecosystems. Visibility often ranges from 20 to 40 meters, making it ideal for underwater exploration. Water temperatures are typically between 26°C to 29°C, providing comfortable diving conditions. However, divers should be aware of strong currents in certain areas, making it crucial to dive with experienced guides.
Experience Level to dive in Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida offers dive sites suitable for a range of experience levels, from beginners to advanced divers. Novice divers can explore calmer spots with rich coral gardens and abundant marine life, while experienced divers can take on more challenging sites such as Manta Point and Crystal Bay, known for their pelagic encounters and dynamic underwater landscapes. It's essential for divers to have good buoyancy control and be comfortable with drift diving due to the strong currents in some areas.
Activities in Nusa Penida
Beyond diving, Nusa Penida offers a wealth of activities to suit every traveler. Snorkeling is a popular option, allowing visitors to witness the island's vibrant reefs and marine life from the surface. Adventurous souls can explore the island's rugged terrain, visiting iconic spots like Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Broken Beach. Hiking, cliff jumping, and exploring hidden beaches add to the island's allure. For those seeking relaxation, the island's tranquil beaches and scenic vistas provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding.
Conclusion
Nusa Penida beckons with its stunning natural beauty, rich marine life, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a traveler looking to explore untouched landscapes, Nusa Penida offers an unforgettable escape. Dive into its azure waters, hike its rugged cliffs, and discover why this island gem remains one of Bali's most cherished destinations.
Additional information
- Hotel pickup/drop off service (South Bali)
- Full Dive equipment
- Lunch on all full day trips
- Bottled Water
- Towels
- Guide
- Insurance
All of our diving trips are led and guided by our experienced team of PADI Divemasters and Instructors. We can’t wait to show you what Bali Diving has to offer! We keep our diving ratio’s at 4  guests to one guide – so that you get the best, safest experience here in Bali!
We offer equipment rental at no extra charge for those without their own diving gear. When scuba diving with Go Dive Bali, all you need to bring are your certification, logbook, and personal items such as sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuit, and a camera. Go Dive Bali also has digital underwater cameras available for rent at IDR 000/day, allowing you to effortlessly receive your photos or videos via Google Drive.
The summer months in Bali can be exceptionally busy, so booking online ensures we can confirm your spot on the boat and reserve the correct size wetsuits for you, and possibly an underwater camera. All of our dive trips can be combined with a PADI dive course. Why not try the PADI Enriched Air Specialty course on your next dive trip?
Dive Sites in Nusa Penida
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