Question Bali in February

[elmo]

Hi,
I must be the only Australian who’s never been to Bali, but I’ll be there in mid-February and have a few days to myself I plan to spend diving. I’m thinking probably Tulamben, but interested in suggestions. I’m interested in big things, little things and rusty things. Happy with 50m or 1m visibility. Comfortable with currents. Open to depths of up to 51m (tech 1) but no particular craving to go deep for the sake of it.
So, is Tulamben a good idea? If so, any recommendations for who to dive with? Or anywhere else on the island?

 

[justinthedeeps]

Certainly can be done. Rainy season can affect the sea state for diving. I'd look into a place where off days are still gonna be worth it, just in case. I've seen stubborn divers take headers into stones (not sand) in ~0.5-1 metre shore waves at some places
Maybe someone here knows some good weather-proof/season-proof spots with sheltered entries or harbors

 

[Searcaigh]

Rainy season, shore diving and mainly macro, enjoy,

 

[fantarara]

Tulamben and surrounds, and add Gili Tepekong if you're mainly keeping to the mainland. I went with Ocean View in Tulamben in 2022 (they are located on the beach right next to the wreck). Their dive shop is pretty good, with great long time, local guides, and the bungalows are great value for money. You're right there so can wait out the wather to some extent.

If heading to Tepekong (big fish, currents), I've gone with Water Worx in Padang Bai. I love the vibe there, they're a very friendly bunch (mostly germans). Can stay at the bungalows next door to their dive shop but they can probably suggest other places more fitting to your budget/expectations.

Another option is Nusa Penida island, but with all the weather uncertainty, if you only have a few days, you risk a chance of the the ferries not operating due to weather and high waves.

Welcome, neighbour!

 

[Tippytoes12]

I have been to Bali several times in February and have had mostly good weather. I would base myself in Tulamben. There you can dive the Liberty Wreck and the excellent macro sites. Then on day three ask the dive shop if they can take you to Padang Bai and onwards to the Nusa islands on a day trip. There is a very high chance of seeing Mantas and all of the sites have beautiful coral, excellent visability and in the right season Mola Mola. Recommend Liberty Dive Resort, which has a loyal following on this board. Made Saur has always been our guide and .is absolutely superb. The diving in Bali is fabulous, prepare to come back again and again.