Hidden Dive Sites in Bali: Exploring Beyond the Famous Sites

May 8, 2025

When you think of diving in Bali, destinations like Tulamben, Nusa Penida, and Menjangan might spring to mind. These iconic locations attract divers from around the globe with their breathtaking underwater landscapes and abundant marine life. But Bali has so much more to offer beyond these famous spots. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, the hidden dive sites in Bali reveal rare macro critters, untouched coral formations, and tranquil dives away from the crowds. 

8 Lesser-Known Dive Sites in Bali That Might Surprise You

Here’s a guide to some lesser-known dive sites in Bali that deserve a place on your itinerary.

1. Secret Bay, Gilimanuk

Nestled near Bali’s westernmost tip, Secret Bay is a paradise for macro fans and underwater photography. This shallow bay is a muck diving haven, offering the chance to spot rare and bizarre critters like frogfish, ghost pipefish, seahorses, and juvenile cuttlefish. The sandy and silty bottom is dotted with algae, debris, and coral fragments, providing perfect hiding spots for elusive marine life.

  • Accessibility: A 3.5-hour drive from Denpasar; best explored with an experienced Divemaster.
  • Conditions: Calm waters with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). Bring a 5mm wetsuit as it can feel cooler.
  • Best Time to Dive: Dry season (April to October) for better visibility.

2. The Japanese Wreck, Amed

While Amed’s coral gardens and house reefs are well-known, the Japanese Wreck remains a quiet alternative among dive sites in Bali. This small WWII-era shipwreck lies at a depth of around 6-12 meters (20-40 feet), making it accessible to divers of all levels. The Japanese Wreck is encrusted with vibrant corals and surrounded by a diverse array of marine life, including nudibranchs, shrimp, and reef fish.

  • Accessibility: Shore entry from Amed.
  • Conditions: Gentle currents with water temperatures averaging 27-29°C (81-84°F).
  • Best Time to Dive: Year-round, but visibility peaks from May to November.

READ MORE: 8 Best Spots For Muck Diving

3. Gili Mimpang

Located near Candidasa, Gili Mimpang is known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, including reef sharks and Mola mola during the season. Its unique topography, featuring large boulders and sloping coral gardens, makes this dive a favorite for both wide-angle photographers and those seeking exciting drift dives.

  • Accessibility: Approximately a 20-minute boat ride from Padang Bai.
  • Conditions: Can have strong currents; suitable for experienced Advanced Open Water divers.
  • Best Time to Dive: July to November for the best chances of spotting Mola mola.

4. Gili Selang

Gili Selang, located off the eastern tip of Bali, is a secluded and challenging dive spot. Known for its dramatic underwater landscapes, this site features steep slopes, coral-encrusted pinnacles, and strong currents. Large schools of jackfish, barracudas, and reef sharks are common here, along with the occasional Mola mola (oceanic sunfish) during the season.

  • Accessibility: A 2-hour drive from Denpasar, followed by a short boat ride.
  • Conditions: Strong currents and surges; recommended for experienced divers.
  • Best Time to Dive: August to October, when Mola mola sightings are more likely.

Plan your next dive trip with the 10 Best Dive Spots in Asia

5. Puri Jati

Located near Lovina in northern Bali, Puri Jati is a renowned muck diving hotspot among the diverse dive sites in Bali. Its dark sandy slopes may appear barren at first glance, but a closer look reveals an astonishing array of macro life. Puri Jati is particularly renowned for sightings of unusual nudibranchs, Banggai cardinalfish, gobies, Ambon scorpionfish, and mimic octopuses.

  • Accessibility: About 3 hours from Denpasar by car.
  • Conditions: Shallow with minimal currents; perfect for long, slow dives.
  • Best Time to Dive: May to October for the best visibility.

6. Padang Bai’s Blue Lagoon

Often overshadowed by nearby Candidasa, Padang Bai’s Blue Lagoon offers a tranquil diving experience. This small bay boasts a mix of hard and soft corals teeming with reef fish, cuttlefish, and moray eels. Keep an eye out for blue-spotted stingrays and occasional turtle sightings. Divers also often encounter leaf scorpionfish, stonefish, and a variety of nudibranchs in this area.

  • Accessibility: A 1.5-hour drive from Denpasar; shore and boat entry available.
  • Conditions: Mild currents with water temperatures between 27-30°C (81-86°F).
  • Best Time to Dive: April to November for optimal visibility.

RELATED: Love Indonesia? Here are 11 Unmissable Indonesian Dive Destinations

7. Biaha Reef

Situated near Candidasa, Biaha Reef is a unique dive site in Bali featuring a mix of caves, canyons, and coral gardens. The highlight is a small underwater cave that houses reef sharks. Outside the cave, the reef’s healthy corals attract a variety of fish, including angelfish, triggerfish, and sweetlips.

  • Accessibility: Reachable by boat from Padang Bai.
  • Conditions: Moderate currents and surge; suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.
  • Best Time to Dive: June to October.

8. Pemuteran Bio-Rock Project

In northwest Bali, Pemuteran is home to one of the world’s largest bio-rock artificial reef projects. This Pemuteran Bio Rock Project combines stunning coral formations with marine conservation efforts. Divers can explore intricate metal structures encrusted with thriving coral, while schools of fish dart in and out of the frames. It’s an excellent spot for learning about reef restoration and sustainable diving.

  • Accessibility: A 4-hour drive from Denpasar.
  • Conditions: Calm and shallow, suitable for all levels.
  • Best Time to Dive: April to October.

Tips for Exploring Lesser-Known Dive Sites in Bali

  • Dive with a Knowledgeable Operator: Local dive centers know the best times and conditions for each site, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.
  • Prepare for Diverse Conditions: While many dive sites in Bali are beginner-friendly, some require advanced skills due to strong currents or challenging topography. Check conditions beforehand. 
  • Support Sustainable Diving: Many of these hidden gems are delicate ecosystems. Practice good buoyancy, avoid touching marine life, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow responsible diving guidelines.

Useful Courses to Take Before Visiting Bali

To make the most of your dive trip to Bali, consider enrolling in SSI courses tailored to the unique challenges these dive sites in Bali present. We recommend Deep Diving, Wreck Diving, Perfect Buoyancy, and getting some drift diving experience to expand your skills and comfort zone, making you better prepared for the varying conditions.

Whether you are chasing rare critters in Secret Bay or marveling at Pemuteran’s coral restoration efforts, Bali promises unforgettable diving. By venturing beyond the famous spots, you will discover why Bali continues to captivate divers year after year. 

Ready to explore Bali’s best dive sites? Find the perfect Bali dive center and start planning your adventure today.

Go Diving in Bali