Nusa Penida is a large island off the Southeast Coast of Bali. There are numerous good dive sites to choose from but it is recommended that only experienced divers use this region. This is because of the strong and unpredictable currents that affect the area. However, experienced drift divers continually flock to the Island for some of Bali?s most thrilling dives. An impressive array of fish is on display as well as a vast range of Sponges and Corals.
Ped
Ped is on the North Coast of the Island and is a perfect drift diving spot. The currents are usually so strong that you will have very little choice whether to drift dive or not. Expect to see Reef Sharks and Manta Rays as the water carries you along. Make sure that you are with an experienced local guide as every dive carries an element of risk. This risk is far outweighed by the chance to have an exhilarating time.
Highlight:
- Coral Reef
- Assorted Soft Corals
- Moorish Idols, Angel Fish and Reef Shark
- Moderate to Strong Currents
- 15-30 Meters Visibility
- Experienced Divers
S.D.
S.D. is another challenging drift dive that is not for the fainthearted. Many fish are on show including some of the larger Pelagics, you can also expect to see Turtles as well. All divers should be kitted out in sturdy suits as the currents here can make the water very cold at times. There are several specialist dive guides whose advice can prove invaluable. This dive can be combined with another along the reef for a great day out.
Highlight:Coral Reef
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Scribbled File Fish, Puffer Fish and Sweetlips
- Moderate to Strong Currents
- 10-25 Meters Visibility
- Experienced Divers
Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay has earned its name because of the fantastic visibility throughout the site. The broad panoramas of the area mean that some tremendous pictures can be taken. There is a persistent cold current in the bay but it is not as strong as in other areas. Precautions must still be taken but the less experienced divers should not be put off by the conditions. Along a very deep wall, it is possible to enter a cave where there are numerous Bats and several beautiful Corals.
Highlight:Reef and Cave
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Sweetlips, Reef Shark and Moorish Idols
- Moderate Currents
- 10-45 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver
Toyahpekah
This is the premiere dive location on Nusa Penida and by far the most popular. The site is partially protected so the less experienced divers have a chance to get wet. Currents can still surprise the unwary so highly qualified instructors should always be part of the team. For variety of marine life, Toyahpekah is hard to better and continues to attract the same divers year after year. Hard Corals and impressive bommies house countless schools of fish. Rare creatures like Sun Fish and Sea Snakes have also been seen in the area.
Highlight:Coral Reef
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Fire Fish, Amberjacks and Manta Rays
- Moderate to Strong Currents
- 10-20 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver
Manta Point
Manta Point is a specialist dive site for people who want to see Pelagics. There are no Corals or small schools of fish. The area is primarily used as a feeding point with many Rays grazing on the abundant Plankton. Take good advice on the right time to go, as it will be very boring otherwise. If you get lucky this is a fantastic location to observe some wonderful animals. Being amongst a number of feeding Manta Rays is an experience not to be missed.
Highlight:
- Open Water
- No Corals
- Tiger Mackerel, Manta Rays and Tuna
- Moderate to Strong Currents
- 10-25 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver
Blue Corner
To be able to dive at sites like this requires plenty of experience. The months and years of training lead you towards incredible locations such as Blue Corner. There is a strong, cold current that attracts large Pelagics, Eagle Rays and Sun Fish are often sighted. Corals along the slope and wall are also impressive and provide many places to explore. Blue Corner is a rewarding dive for those who have the ability to appreciate it.
Highlight:
- Drift Dive
- Soft Corals
- Sun Fish, Puffer Fish and Various Shark
- Strong Currents
- 10-20 Meters Visibility
- Experienced Divers
Gamat Bay
Gamat Bay is another of the more popular sites as it is partially sheltered from the ever-present currents. There are a number of ridges and hidden caves that conceal a wide variety of marine life. Serious photographers will be in their element here as the Corals are as diverse as the fish. This site offers opportunities for several different dives, as there are so many areas to explore.
Highlight:
- Sand Bottom
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Grouper, Nudibranchs and Unicorn Fish
- Moderate Currents
- 10-30 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver
Malibu Point
For Corals and bommies, this is a tremendous place. Large schools of sizeable fish regularly patrol the area. Malibu Point is perhaps the most popular area for Sharks and attracts countless photographers each year. The ample rewards of this dive are tempered somewhat by its difficult location. Visibility and currents must always be taken into account. Go on the right day and you will not be sorry.
Highlight:
- Reef and Corals
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Various Shark, Trevally and Napoleon Wrasse
- Moderate to Strong Currents
- 15-30 Meters Visibility
- Experienced Divers