Table of contents
Introduction
Nusa Penida, an island south of Bali, is known for its breathtaking scenery and majestic temples. However, beyond its apparent charm, the island hides an underwater wealth that fascinates divers and snorkeling enthusiasts the world over. It is part of a Marine Protected Area, covering some 20,000 hectares, which also includes the islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. The area is home to almost 300 species of coral and over 570 species of reef fish.
The Ambassadors of the Deep: Mola Mola and Manta Rays
Among the wonders to be seen around Nusa Penida, mola mola, or sunfish, hold a special place. These giants of the sea, with their almost lunar silhouette, are often seen being cleaned by smaller fish, offering a spectacle that is both graceful and surprising. For their part, manta rays perform aerial ballets underwater, captivating all those lucky enough to observe them. And sadly, there are hundreds of them. The sites of Manta Bay and Manta Point are packed with boats carrying hundreds of divers/snorkelers, which kind of broke the magic of the moment.
Despite a sharp increase in tourism over the past decade, it would appear that this has had no significant impact to date on the number of these sea giants present. However, it would appear that they are facing increasing pressures (increased tourism, poor diver behavior and overcrowding, noise from boat engines and injuries from fishing gear) and that additional regulations need to be put in place as soon as possible.
The North and East of the Island: Unforgettable Diving Spots
Less popular or even shunned by most dive centers, the north and east of Nusa Penida nonetheless boast some magnificent spots. These areas are less frequented than the tourist sites in the south, offering a more authentic experience less disturbed by human activity. In particular, we have tested the Malibu, Semaya, Blue Garden and Sental sites.
General information on these spots:
- Currents: The presence of currents is a common feature of these sites, especially to the north and east of Nusa Penida.
- Biodiversity: Each of these spots boasts impressive marine biodiversity, with healthy corals and a variety of fauna, making Nusa Penida a paradise for diving enthusiasts. You’ll dive and drift along coral fields.
- Accessibility: Although these sites are accessible, diving here is often recommended for divers with at least intermediate experience, due to conditions that can change suddenly and currents.
- Photography: Strong currents make macro photography particularly challenging. But making videos while letting yourself be carried along by the current on long drifts is quite fun.
Malibu Point
Site characteristics:
- Location: Located east of Nusa Penida
- Conditions: Often subject to strong currents, which can make diving here a challenge, but also an exciting adventure
- Marine life: Manta rays, hawksbill turtles and a variety of reef fish can be seen here.
- Special features: Malibu Point is famous for its coral walls and natural arches, creating underwater tunnels that divers love to explore.
Semaya
Site characteristics:
- Location: Located to the east of Nusa Penida just above Malibu.
- Conditions: Conditions can vary, but it is often less choppy than Malibu, offering a more accessible dive for intermediate divers.
- Marine life: Semaya is known for its schools of fish, including barracuda and jacks. The coral gardens are well developed, offering rich marine biodiversity. The coral gardens are well developed, offering a rich marine biodiversity.
- Special features: This site is often recommended for those wishing to see a wide variety of fish without necessarily having to face the strong currents.
Blue Garden
Site characteristics:
- Location: East of Nusa Penida, near Semaya
- Conditions: Generally calmer diving conditions, with often very good visibility
- Marine life: As its name suggests, Blue Garden is a veritable underwater garden, with an abundance of soft and hard corals. Nudibranchs, angelfish and the occasional marbled stingray are often encountered.
- Special features: This is an ideal site for underwater macro-photography, with a diversity of small marine creatures.
Sental
Characteristics:
- Location: Situated to the northeast of Nusa Penida.
- Conditions: Possibly subject to moderate to strong currents, making it less frequented but no less fascinating.
- Marine fauna: Sental is renowned for its rock formations and crevices where moray eels, scorpion fish and a variety of reef fish hide.
- Special features: This site offers a wilder diving experience, with dramatic underwater scenery and a feeling of exploration in less explored waters.
Nomads Diving: A Multi-Faceted Diving Center
Why choose Nomads Diving? Firstly, we were delighted with the service we received. With eight dives in total, the manager and the whole team were very professional. Secondly, the owner is committed to ecology and marine conservation, a sensibility we share. Indeed, Nomads Diving collaborates with Project Laut, an association dedicated to turtle monitoring and coral restoration, a subject we’ll be tackling in a future article. As for the program for a day of fun diving: meet at 8.20am for a complimentary coffee. It’s easy to prepare your equipment if you have your own, as you can leave it on site for the duration of your stay, which is very practical. Departure by boat is around 9:00 am. Between the two dives, there’s a break with fruit and snacks, as well as coffee, tea or water. Return to the center between 1:00 and 2:00 p.m., where a well-deserved lunch awaits you. Don’t hesitate to ask to visit specific sites; the attentive staff will do their best to fulfill your wishes. Finally, Nomads Diving, affiliated to SSI, also offers various courses for beginners or for those wishing to improve their diving skills.
Conclusion
As you can see, mola mola and manta rays are the undisputed stars of Nusa Penida. Nevertheless, the hidden side of Nusa Penida, to the north and east, is well worth exploring for those who dare to brave the sometimes vigorous currents. With its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine fauna, this part of the island offers a window onto an underwater world that continues to surprise and amaze. In addition to the multitude of fish species, this island is a sanctuary for corals, which thrive here in excellent health. A must-see for divers.
