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South East Asia

Targeting Bali's Strongest Currents: 2026 Dive Predictions

Prioritize the eastern islands of Nusa Penida and Lembongan for the clearest visibility and strongest marine encounters in 2026.

Updated on:

Dec 10, 2025

Big manta ray
Big manta ray

The 2026 diving forecast for Bali points eastward, focusing on the dynamic conditions surrounding the Nusa islands. Scubalo instructors have analyzed current projections to ensure precise planning for your next Indonesian dive trip.

Dive Site Overview

Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan remain Bali’s premier dive sectors for 2026, benefiting from optimal conditions projected in the east. Divers should anticipate variable depths ranging from 10 meters on coastal reefs to over 40 meters on deeper drift sites.

Visibility throughout the region typically sustains 20 to 35 meters. Due to persistent currents flowing between the islands, the average site difficulty is categorized as Moderate to Expert, requiring competence in negative entries and current management.

Marine Life

The nutrient-rich currents feed a dense ecosystem supporting diverse megafauna and robust coral structures.

  • Pelagic Stingrays (Dasyatidae family)

  • Hard and soft coral formations

  • Oceanic Manta Rays (Manta birostris)

  • Reef Sharks (Blacktip and Whitetip)

  • Abundant nudibranch species

Best Time to Dive

Optimal diving conditions occur during the dry season, generally spanning April through October. During this period, surface conditions are calmer, and upwelling often increases thermal stratification, maximizing deep-water visibility.

While the calendar year supports diving year-round, Scubalo recommends planning expeditions between June and September to minimize rain runoff and sediment disturbance.

Ready to dive? Submit a booking inquiry at Scubalo.com.