Scuba diving in Tulamben Bali is an unforgettable experience, thanks to its calm waters that make underwater adventures easier and more relaxing. This small village, located in the Kubu District of Karangasem Regency, has gained worldwide recognition among divers, primarily due to the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck. Facing the Lombok Strait, known for its rich marine biodiversity, Tulamben is one of the top destinations in Bali for underwater activities.
If you’re traveling from Kuta, reaching Tulamben requires covering approximately 102 kilometers, which takes around three hours by car. The journey is worth it for the incredible underwater experiences that await.
Tulamben’s Top Dive Sites
USAT Liberty Ship Wreck
The USAT Liberty is Tulamben’s most famous attraction and a must-visit for divers. This World War II cargo ship was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942 and now rests just 25 meters from the shore, making it one of the most accessible wreck dives globally.
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Coral Garden
Coral Garden is a haven for macro divers and photography enthusiasts. This shallow dive site, with depths ranging from 4 to 10 meters, is home to vibrant coral reefs and artificial structures designed to mimic temples and statues.
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Coral Garden is perfect for beginner divers and snorkelers because of its shallow depth, making it safe and easy to explore. It is also a favorite among underwater photographers, offering colorful and unique shots of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Kubu
Kubu, a small village located just 15 minutes from Tulamben, offers a peaceful and rewarding diving experience. This dive site is known for its sandy bottom, which is dotted with vibrant coral reefs and colourful sea fans. Divers often encounter a wide variety of marine life here, including lionfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, and the occasional blue-spotted ray. Turtles are also frequently spotted gliding gracefully through the waters. One of the unique highlights of Kubu is the large barrel sponges, which sometimes house the rare and fascinating hairy squat lobster. With depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters, Kubu is an excellent choice for divers of all levels, providing calm waters and plenty to explore.
Seraya Secrets
Seraya Secrets is a favourite spot for divers who enjoy searching for unique and tiny marine creatures. The sandy seabed gently slopes and is decorated with patches of coral and sea fans, creating a perfect environment for rare species like harlequin shrimp, mimic octopus, seahorses, and frogfish. The striking black volcanic sand provides a beautiful background for underwater photography. With depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters and calm conditions, this site is ideal for divers of all levels, especially those passionate about macro photography and discovering hidden underwater treasures.
Drop Off Tulamben
The Drop Off, also known as the Great Wall of Tulamben, is a dramatic coral wall created by the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung. The wall starts at a depth of 3 meters and plunges down to 70 meters, offering breathtaking underwater scenery. Covered with large corals, colourful sponges, and gorgonians, this site is a favourite among divers of all levels. The volcanic rocks from the lava flow add a rugged charm to the underwater landscape. With its diverse marine life and striking coral formations, the Drop Off is a must-visit for anyone who loves scuba diving in Tulamben, Bali.
Why Tulamben is a Must-Visit for Divers
Tulamben combines historical intrigue, rich marine biodiversity, and accessible dive sites, making it a premier destination for underwater enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the iconic USAT Liberty, marvelling at Coral Garden’s artificial reefs, or diving into the depths of the Drop Off, Tulamben promises an unforgettable experience.
Pack your gear, plan your trip, and dive into the wonders of Tulamben, Bali’s underwater paradise!
