Alright, so let me tell you about Tulamben diving—it’s honestly one of those experiences that sticks with you long after your dive log is full. Located on Bali’s northeastern coast, Tulamben is this tiny, unassuming village that hides one of the most incredible underwater landscapes you’ll ever see. If you’re new to diving or even if you’ve clocked hundreds of dives, this place has something for everyone. Trust me, it’s not just hype—it’s legit.
Read also: Must-Do Tours in Bali
The first thing you gotta know is that the main attraction here is the USAT Liberty wreck. It’s a World War II cargo ship that was torpedoed in 1942 and ended up just chilling off Tulamben’s shore, slowly turning into this epic underwater reef. And when I say it’s accessible, I mean it. You can literally walk in from the beach with your gear on, swim a few meters, and boom—you’re diving on one of the most famous wrecks in the world. No boats, no fuss, just pure diving bliss.
But here’s the kicker: the Liberty wreck isn’t the only game in town. Sure, it’s what draws people in, but once you’re here, you realize Tulamben has so much more to offer. From vibrant coral gardens to black sand muck dives, it’s like a candy store for divers. Oh, and the marine life? Insane. Picture yourself surrounded by schools of bumphead parrotfish, colorful nudibranchs, and the occasional reef shark cruising by. And let’s not forget the macro stuff. If you’re into underwater photography, this place is like hitting the jackpot.
Now, before you go booking your trip, let me throw in some tips that might save you a headache or two. First off, timing is everything. Tulamben is pretty diveable year-round, but the sweet spot is from May to November during the dry season. The visibility can get up to 25 meters on a good day, which is perfect for taking in all the wreck details and snapping some killer shots. I’ve been there in the rainy season too, and while it’s still awesome, you might get some murkier water.
Oh, and about the black sand? It’s beautiful and makes for some stunning contrast in your underwater photos, but it also gets hot. Like, blistering hot. I learned this the hard way while waddling out of the water without my booties on. Let’s just say my feet weren’t happy. So, yeah, bring sturdy booties and save yourself the pain. Also, the entry point can be a bit rocky—nothing too crazy, but if you’re used to sandy beaches, this might catch you off guard.
For accommodations, Tulamben is pretty low-key. Most of the dive shops double as small resorts, so you can roll out of bed, grab some breakfast, and be in the water within an hour. I stayed at a dive resort right on the beach, and let me tell you, waking up to the sound of waves and the thought of diving all day is pure magic. Plus, the local dive guides are absolute legends. They know every nook and cranny of the dive sites and will point out critters you’d probably miss on your own. Like that tiny pygmy seahorse? Yeah, I would’ve swum right past it if it weren’t for my guide.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is the current. Most of the time, it’s mild, making it a great spot for beginner divers. But occasionally, you’ll get a bit of a push, especially around the wreck. Nothing too crazy, but if you’re not used to drift dives, it might feel a bit intimidating at first. My advice? Relax, trust your guide, and go with the flow—literally.
Also, night dives here are a whole other level. I still get goosebumps thinking about descending into the inky blackness and watching the wreck come alive under my flashlight. The nocturnal critters, like Spanish dancers and hunting lionfish, are out in full force. Plus, there’s something surreal about surfacing under a sky full of stars after a dive. It’s one of those “pinch me” moments, you know?
If you’re the type who loves a bit of post-dive chill, Tulamben might feel a bit too quiet for you. There’s no raging nightlife or big city vibes—it’s more about the diving and soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. But honestly, that’s part of the charm. After a day of exploring underwater, sitting on the beach with a cold Bintang beer and watching the sunset is pretty hard to beat.
Oh, and let’s talk food for a sec. The local warungs (small restaurants) serve up some killer nasi goreng and mie goreng. And don’t even get me started on the fresh seafood. Just remember, you’re in a small village, so don’t expect fancy five-star dining. But honestly, when the food is this good and cheap, who cares?
Tulamben diving is one of those bucket-list experiences that lives up to the hype. It’s affordable, accessible, and packed with underwater magic. Whether you’re chasing critters on a muck dive, exploring the wreck, or just enjoying the vibe, it’s a place that stays with you. Just make sure to pack those booties!
So, let’s dive a little deeper (pun totally intended) into the dive sites around Tulamben, because there are a few that are must-sees when you’re there. Sure, everyone raves about the Liberty wreck, but there are other spots that are just as impressive, and it would be a shame not to explore them.
One of my personal favorites is Seraya Secrets. It’s a muck dive, which, let me tell you, might not sound like much at first—just a sandy, barren seabed. But trust me, the magic happens when you slow down and look closely. It’s like a treasure hunt, finding all the tiny critters camouflaged in the sand. I remember the first time I went there, I thought, “This is going to be boring,” but by the end of the dive, I had spotted a tiny frogfish, a pair of jawfish, and even a rare mimic octopus! For underwater photographers or macro lovers, Seraya is a hidden gem. Just be sure to take your time and keep your eyes peeled. The good stuff isn’t always obvious.
Then there’s Tulamben Wall, which is perfect if you want to take in some beautiful coral formations and marine life. The wall starts at around 5 meters and drops to over 40 meters deep, so you’ve got a wide range of dive options depending on your experience level. I’ve had some of my most serene dives here, cruising along the wall while schools of surgeonfish and butterflyfish dart by. The visibility is usually excellent, making it perfect for wide-angle shots of the reef. The best part? You can do this dive pretty much at any time of day—whether you’re an early bird or a late-night diver, it’s got you covered.
Something I didn’t expect on my first trip was how much I’d enjoy the drop-offs around Tulamben. As you approach the deeper water, the reefs just drop off dramatically, and the ocean floor seems to vanish. If you’re a more experienced diver looking for a bit more excitement, these areas will give you that gentle thrill of going deeper and seeing different types of marine life. I always feel like a bit of a fish myself when I’m diving down these walls—sometimes the visibility is so clear, it feels like you're in an aquarium with the entire ocean laid out beneath you.
For all the beginners reading this, don’t fret—Tulamben has plenty to offer at all levels. Even if you’re a newly certified diver, the shallow parts around the wreck and the coral gardens are perfect for you. You won’t get swept away by currents or have to worry about extreme depths. The shallow reefs around Tulamben are packed with color and life, making them ideal for a relaxed dive. Heck, you might even come across a sea turtle casually cruising by. These dives are like diving into a postcard—vibrant, peaceful, and utterly mesmerizing.
Another thing worth mentioning is the shore diving. Yup, in Tulamben, you can easily walk into the water from the beach, gear up, and start your dive. You don’t need to worry about dealing with boats or big crowds—just wade in, and you're good to go. The best part about shore diving here is the freedom. It’s much more laid-back, and you can explore at your own pace. That said, if you’re planning on doing a lot of shore dives, be mindful of the time of day. The sun can be brutal, and those black sands can heat up quickly, making it tough to walk in bare feet. A solid pair of booties is a lifesaver here—trust me, you’ll thank me later.
As far as dive operators go, there are plenty to choose from. Most of the dive shops in Tulamben are incredibly experienced, with local guides who’ve spent their entire lives in these waters. You’re not just getting a guide—you’re getting someone who knows the area like the back of their hand. I’ve always preferred going with a local guide because they seem to have this uncanny ability to find the coolest creatures that you’d never spot on your own. Plus, if you’re new to the area, they’ll show you the safest entry and exit points and make sure you’re always diving within your limits.
It’s worth mentioning, too, that Tulamben is not just a fantastic spot for diving—it’s also a great place to just be. The village itself has a very relaxed, no-frills vibe that makes it feel like you’re on your own little adventure. There are a few low-key places to eat, but Tulamben doesn’t have a bustling nightlife scene, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. You’re not there for the parties (unless you're into some chill beachside beers)—you’re there to dive and unwind. And honestly, that’s what draws me back time after time.
I’ll never forget the last time I visited—there was this sense of connection to the ocean, to the village, and to the people there. As I sat on the beach after a full day of diving, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I realized how much I’ve grown to love this little corner of Bali. It’s not about the crowds or the big tourist attractions. It’s about the diving, the people, and the stories that come with each dive.
So, if you’re looking to get your feet wet (figuratively or literally) in Bali’s underwater world, don’t skip Tulamben. Whether you’re there to tick off the Liberty wreck from your dive list, get lost in the muck diving or just soak up the island’s laid-back charm, it’s the kind of place that makes you fall in love with diving all over again. And hey, if you do end up at Seraya Secrets, I’ll be over here, waving at you from the other side of the muck!
コメント