Diving in Penida

A dramatic scenery of volcanic islands emerging from deep trenches and surrounded by strong currents creates a true underwater paradise where turtles are a common sight, and encounters with sharks, stingrays, giant trevally, tunas, and even dolphins add to the excitement.

Here, divers can explore vibrant coral reefs, experience exhilarating drift dives, and encounter majestic Manta rays all year round, along with seasonal visits from the elusive Mola mola sunfish. Whether you’re just starting your diving journey or seeking challenging adventures, there’s a dive site here perfectly suited to your skill level.

A well-preserved coral reef in Indonesia

Nusa Penida is the heart of a Marine Protected Area. Spanning over 20,057 hectares, this marine reserve is home to 296 coral species and 576 species of fish, making it one of Indonesia’s premier spots for Manta ray sightings, be it snorkeling or scuba diving. Established in 2010 by the Coral Triangle Center, in collaboration with the Klungkung government, the area is thoughtfully zoned to not only safeguard the reefs with designated diving and snorkeling zones, but also to honor Bali’s rich spiritual traditions.

These zones cover areas dedicated to ecotourism,  biodiversity conservation, mangroves, sacred sites, and traditional fishing and seaweed farming. Strict rules ensure that anchoring on the reef is forbidden and that the fishing of sharks, mantas, molas, and turtles is strictly prohibited.

The currents and the Rock N’ Roll

At the core of this marine marvel is the Indonesian Throughflow Current (ITC), the largest water movement on Earth, which transports nutrient-rich waters from the Western Pacific to the Indian Ocean.

This massive current fuels the region’s remarkable biodiversity and contributes to local seasonal temperature variations. While the ITC enriches the dive sites with abundant marine life, it also creates mighty and sometimes unpredictable currents, influenced by tides, moon phases, and seasonal shifts that create irregular patterns.

While this adds to the mysterious and wild character of Penida, divers are strongly encouraged to maintain excellent buoyancy control as they navigate these varying conditions—ranging from gentle drift diving along the reef to more challenging, forceful flows. Although diving in Penida can sometimes be a wild ride, rest assured that our professional team is always ready to guide you safely through every underwater adventure.