Any Time! Diving in Bali is available all year round. As we move through the seasons the weather changes as do the diving conditions and the marine life that we see around our islands. In this article we take a look at the different seasons and what Bali has to offer throughout the calendar year.
Wet Season & Dry Season
Unlike most countries in the northern hemisphere, Bali does not have four seasons in the year, instead, it offers an equatorial climate with 2 monsoon seasons, the wet season and the dry season. The dry season runs from April to November, while the wet season runs from December to March. Both November and March are considered ‘shoulder months’ and the weather can be very changeable and unpredictable as Bali transitions from one season to the next.
Diving During the Wet Season
If you prefer diving in warmer water then the wet season is the time for you! Although it is termed ‘wet’ season, it’s important to note that it does not rain all day, every day. There can be weeks at a time with absolutely no rainfall and on days when it does rain, it’s often short lived. Rain in Bali tends to be flash tropical showers. Showers are usually heavy but last for only around 1-2 hours, it’s only on a handful of days of the year that it rains all day.
Nusa Lembongan is a low-lying island and unlike Bali, does not have any mountainous peaks. This geography results in a micro-climate effect and Nusa Lembongan is significantly drier than areas on mainland Bali such as Ubud, Tulamben or the Kintamani region.
Visibility during the wet season remains excellent. There are no rivers on Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, or Nusa Penida and so there is very little run-off from the land. Manta ray sightings are still strong during the wet season, however on days when there are strong winds driving the waves, we may not be able to access Manta Point – or there may be increased surge underwater while diving.
Many accommodations on Nusa Lembongan offer slightly cheaper rates during the wet season as it is also considered to be the low season. If you are looking for great deals and a quieter island experience then the wet season is the best time to visit!
Diving Bali During the Dry Season
There are some obvious benefits to visiting us during dry season – endless days of sunshine and blue skies as we cruise around the islands aboard Big Boat!
Dry season is also what is known as ‘high season’ on Nusa Lembongan so if you are planning to stay during these months, book your accommodation and diving in advance, rooms and dive boats fill up fast. You’ll also find that many accommodations have premium prices at this time and discounts or promotions are limited.
Visibility at sites is excellent, however, water temperatures are cooler at between 21-24 degrees and at some sites there can be thermoclines in the sub-20 degrees range. A 5mm long wetsuit is recommended (some divers prefer a 7mm during these months) and a hood. Hoods are not easy to rent so it is a good idea to invest in your own.
Dry season coincides with the mola mola season that runs from August to October with July and November being shoulder months where sightings are unpredictable.
There is little wind during these months so boat transfers from mainland Bali to Nusa Lembongan are generally smooth and comfortable. If you need assistance in booking your boat, let us know. We recommend traveling with Arthamas Express as they stop directly in front of our dive shop. Arthamas also operates a pickup and drop off service and will pick you up from your hotel in Bali (or the airport) and bring you to the harbour in Sanur prior to departing for Nusa Lembongan. The crossing takes approximately 40 minutes.
Seasonal Highlights
- Wet season offers Bali’s warmest waters and temperatures can be up to 29 degrees Celsius
- Crystal Bay during the height of the dry season offers phenomenal visibility
- Although manta ray sightings are year round on Nusa Penida’s south coast, during the months of April and May, sightings are particularly prevalent – often with mating trains
- The Jurassic looking mola mola frequents Nusa Penida from August to November
- Although the dry season brings excellent visibility, it’s also when water temperatures can plummet to 21-24 degrees Celcius with thermoclines occasionally below 20 degrees.
- Hawksbill turtles and bamboo sharks are spotted around our islands all year round
- Stronger winds from December through to March can make boat rides to the island more choppy and increase surge at some south Nusa Penida dive sites, including Manta Point and Manta Bay
Are you Ready to Dive with Us in Nusa Lembongan?
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida have something to offer everyone. If you’d like to take a PADI course while you are here we have a purpose built onsite dive training pool and you’ll be amazed by the reefs, marine life, and our professional team. No matter what time of year you want to visit, we are open and enjoying phenomenal diving!
To make a reservation or for more information please feel free to contact us on info@world-diving.com or use the button below...
We are looking forward to introducing you to underwater Nusa Lembongan soon!
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