Is scuba diving available in Nusa Penida?
Scuba diving is possible all year round in Penida, although there are more divers between July to September due to the Mola-Mola season. We are lucky to have manta rays year round, as well as numerous pelagics. Nusa Penida’s scuba diving sites are undeniably more diverse and stunning than those of the Gili Islands. The Nusa Penida waters boast sightings of Manta rays, the seasonal Mola Mola from July to October, and a vast array of fish and corals.There are 2 main spots in Nusa Penida for snorkeling with Manta Rays – Manta Bay and Manta Point. The first one is the closest and most of the snorkeling trips are going there. Usually, it is very chaotic and messy, there are a lot of people and boats. The further spot is Manta Point.The dry season in Bali runs from April to October however the best diving season is from May to November. The best time to see Manta Rays is April and May. The best time or season to see the famous Mola Mola, Oceanic sunfish is from August to October.
Is it worth diving in Nusa Penida?
Expectations are significantly high for the Nusa Penida dive sites because of the richness of the underwater life, soft and hard corals, and the large marine life that can be enjoyed here: Manta Rays, Mola Mola, Dolphins, Sharks, Octopus, Moray Eels, and more. Bali has many great dive sites, but some of the most popular ones include Nusa Penida, Tulamben, Amed, Padang Bai, and Menjangan Island.Popular Nusa Penida Dive Sites Sites that are popular here include Sental, PED, SD, Toyapakeh, Blue Corner, Crystal Bay, Malibu Point, Gamat Bay, Manta Point I & II, and Vertigo Point.The super five destinations have been identified to become the “next Balis” for domestic and international tourists alike. They include Lake Toba in Sumatra, Borobudur in Java, Mandalika in Lombok, and Likupung in North Sulawesi.
Are there sharks near Nusa Penida?
Great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) are rare in Nusa Penida dive sites, but their appearances are really exciting. Over the past 10 years, divers observed them at Ped, Crystal Bay, and Blue Corner. Great white sharks are extremely rare in Bali. One was spotted in Nusa Penida, but sightings are exceptional and not something divers should expect. Most shark encounters are with smaller, reef-dwelling species.