Padang Bai OR Tulamben (December 2015)

[nthomas1986]

Hi folks,
My wife and I are planning our Honeymoon to dive throughout Indonesia this December over the holidays. We need to pick between 4 days of diving in Tulamben area or 4 days of diving in Padang Bai area.
Keep in mind it will be during mid to late December. We are short on time as we also want to head to Lembongan/Penida for 4-5 days, and then take off to Lembeh Strait for 4-5 days...
What are your thoughts on Padang Bai vs. Tulamben during this time of year?
Thanks

 

[dirtfarmer]

Both are excellent. I love Tulamben and there are lot's of other divers that rate it highly for Muck/Macro. There are some nice reefs close to Padang Bai and also it can have really good Muck/Macro dives. There has been quite a few Rhinopia's in the Padang Bai area the last few Novembers. Padang Bai is a port town with a bit of character and they also do dives out to Lembongan/Penida, but since your going there I'd do my dives there from there. If you stay in Padang Bai or are transiting and need a good place to eat I recommend No-Name Cafe, homemade Gnocchi and Pasta and great deserts. Tulamben is a cute little town with many choices to choose from to stay and dive. Tulmben of course has the world famous Liberty wreck, great Muck/Macro and nice reefs also.
Sounds like you have a great trip forming! Lembeh is fantastic for Muck/Macro and does have some really nice reef habitat, just not stellar visibility.

 

[Tippytoes12]

We are heading back to Tulamben for the third time in October. ...really love it there , plus the Liberty Wreck won't be there forever. Tulamben seemed to be quieter...not sure if that's what you want or not. We are also going to Lembongan , also love it there. You may just see a Mola Mola , but the manta spots are fabulous there. It really is worth staying in Lembongan as it's a lovely little island with fantastic diving.

Have a wonderful trip.