Close Encounters - Bali

We’re big fans of a site that feels genuinely remote, and Greenstone Beach absolutely delivers. Tucked away in Fiordland, it’s a proper expedition to get here, and that’s part of the appeal. The shoreline drops quickly, hitting 5 meters almost straight away, then a 45-degree slope takes you down to 20m. It’s all solid rock and big boulders, draped in thick kelp. Visibility sits around 15m, sometimes a little less, sometimes a little more, but always with that deep, emerald Fiordland hue. Our pick for what to look for here are the smaller things hiding amongst the kelp and rocks – we’ve had cracking encounters with octopus, the shy Jasons nudibranch, and plenty of marblefish peeking out. You’ll definitely spot wrasses and eels, too. We’ve been lucky enough to see small black coral colonies, which are always a treat. Keep an eye out into the gloom for school sharks or dogsharks gliding past. If you’re a diver who appreciates rugged, wild scenery and the thrill of discovery, Greenstone Beach is a true Fiordland experience. It’s not about vibrant colours, but about the raw, untamed beauty of New Zealand’s underwater world.

Location
Bali, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.129900, 114.661400
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Bali Barat

Best Time to Dive in Bali

The warmest water temperatures in Bali occur in December, averaging 30.9°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 29.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 30.1°C
  • February: 29.7°C
  • March: 30.1°C
  • April: 30.7°C
  • May: 30.6°C
  • June: 30.2°C
  • July: 29.4°C
  • August: 29.1°C
  • September: 29.3°C
  • October: 30.1°C
  • November: 30.9°C
  • December: 30.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Bali

Nearest Dive Centres to Close Encounters

Marine Life in Bali

Home to 528 recorded species including 359 reef fish, 73 hard corals, 42 sharks & rays, 12 other, 12 sea snails & nudibranchs, 11 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Close Encounters

Based on average water temperature of 30.1°C, currents 3 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth at the Close Encounters dive site in Barbados?
The Close Encounters dive site is located in Bali, Indonesia, not Barbados. At this site, divers can expect a maximum depth of 20 meters, with a diveable range typically between 5 and 20 meters. It is important to note that the site is not suitable for snorkeling due to its depth profile.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Close Encounters?
Divers visiting Close Encounters can anticipate a vibrant reef environment teeming with diverse marine life. You'll likely encounter various reef fish, scorpion fish, lion fish, nudibranches, and even sharks. The site also features beautiful sea fans, eels, and offers opportunities for macro photography, with sightings of triggerfish, sweetlips, and parrotfish.
How challenging is the Close Encounters dive site for different skill levels?
The Close Encounters dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers clear water and easy diving conditions at times, divers should be prepared for potential currents, making it important to look for the tide. With a maximum depth of 20 meters and a minimum of 3 meters, it is not suitable for snorkeling.
What is the best time of year to dive at Close Encounters for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data for the Close Encounters dive site does not specify a particular best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. Divers are advised to consult general when to dive resources for Bali, Indonesia to understand seasonal variations. It is always recommended to check local conditions and tide charts before diving, as currents can be present.
What dive certifications are required to dive at the Close Encounters site?
The provided information for the Close Encounters dive site does not explicitly state specific dive certifications required. However, given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 20 meters, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. It is always best to confirm with local dive operators in Bali, Indonesia regarding their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Close Encounters dive site?
At the Close Encounters dive site, divers can expect generally clear water with an average visibility of 15 meters. Regarding current conditions, it's important to note that currents can be present, so divers should always look for the tide to plan their dives accordingly. This intermediate site requires attention to conditions for a safe and enjoyable experience.