Molas & Mantas, The Penida’s Rock Stars

For those of us who know the seabed of Penida well, it seems a waste that many divers only visit us for the molas or mantas. There are, in fact, fantastic reefs in a perfect state of health and smaller but equally fascinating life.

However, it is easy to understand why mantas and molas steal the limelight. That is why we tell you here a little about the rock stars of Penida. And before each dive, you will receive a briefing explaining the correct code of conduct to dive with mantas or observe molas.

The famous residents

We are blessed: Manta rays are a year-round attraction at Nusa Penida. The reef manta ray (Mobula alfredi, measuring 4 to 5 meters) is the species most frequently encountered in these shallow coastal areas along the stunning south coast of the island. Although the larger giant manta ray (Mobula birostris, reaching about 7 meters) can occasionally be seen, reef mantas are the predominant visitors of the Penida waters.

To the divers’ delight, mantas are often observed gliding elegantly near natural cleaning stations. Here, small fish work to remove parasites from the manta’s skin—a vital process for their health. Their slow, deliberate swimming often includes gentle pauses as they feed on plankton, and their naturally curious demeanor means they sometimes approach divers with a relaxed familiarity.

The most reliable sightings are expected at Manta Point (a cleaning station), with additional encounters at Manta Bay (a feeding station), both located on the wavy South Coast. Due to sea conditions tending to become rougher as the day progresses, dive operators schedule Manta Point or Manta Bay as the first dive of the day, regardless of which is shallower, to ensure optimal conditions.

A scenic boat ride to the manta encounter spots treats you to views of Nusa Penida’s dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches, where towering white limestone formations rise above rugged rocks and crashing waves. While the dive sites themselves are sheltered bays with minimal currents, occasional surges from the surrounding waves can occur. Underwater visibility in these areas varies between 5 and 20 meters, averaging around 10 meters. This slightly reduced clarity—compared to other sites around Penida—is due to the plankton, the main source of food the mobulas and the best way to attract the mantas. The best visibility usually occurs from January to March, during the low season.

A really original guy

The Mola Mola, commonly known as the Ocean Sunfish (or Moonfish in various languages), is among the largest bony fishes in the world. Although it begins life as a tiny larva of 2.5 mm, this ancient giant can grow to over 3 meters (10 feet) in length and weigh up to 2,000 kg (more than 4,400 lbs) within a few years. Its distinctive, flattened, round body features thick, spotted skin in hues of silver-gray to dark brown, accented by subtle golden highlights. The short dorsal and anal fins, set far apart, give the impression that the fish has no tail at all. Encountering a sunfish weighing over a ton in the underwater realms of Nusa Penida is both striking and unforgettable.

 
Between July and October, cooler waters draw these enigmatic creatures into shallower depths around Nusa Penida Mola Molas depend on “cleaning stations” to rid themselves of skin and eye parasites. At these spots, small fish—primarily longfin bannerfish—gather and delicately remove the unwanted hitchhikers. This process is crucial for the health of the sunfish, and they typically appear to be in a state of calm or even a trance as the cleaning occurs. Key sites where divers and snorkelers can encounter the sunfish are Crystal Bay and Blue Corner. This period offers the best chance to witness their impressive presence.

A word of caution: be ready for strong currents, deep dives (typically 25-40m), and colder water (18-22°C). Experience and education in drift diving is recommended.