Bonsai dive site - Komodo

Bonsai is a Komodo site that we've always found a bit... subtle. It doesn't scream at you with massive pelagics or dizzying drift dives, but for those who appreciate the smaller, stranger things, it's absolutely fantastic. Think of it as a macro photography playground, a real treasure hunt for the patient diver. We're talking critters galore here, particularly if you’re into the truly tiny. You’ll spend your dive exploring scattered patches of coral amongst seagrass beds, feeling a gentle current often pushing you along. Keep your eyes peeled for the Bicolor Blennies darting in and out of crevices, and we’ve spotted Pink Anemonefish here more than once. The Fluted Clams and Small Giant Clams bring pops of colour to the substrate. It's not a deep dive, maybe 15 metres max, making for good bottom time. Our favourite finds have always been the Seastar Shrimp, almost perfectly camouflaged, and the Crinoid Clingfish, tiny jewels nestled amongst their hosts. It's a fantastic spot for photographers, or anyone who just wants to slow down and really look. Just remember, Bonsai demands your attention to reveal its wonders.

Location
Komodo, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.603452, 119.654465

Marine Protected Area: Komodo

Best Time to Dive in Komodo

The warmest water temperatures in Komodo occur in November, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 27.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.2°C
  • February: 28.9°C
  • March: 29.4°C
  • April: 29.7°C
  • May: 29.4°C
  • June: 28.9°C
  • July: 28.1°C
  • August: 27.9°C
  • September: 28.2°C
  • October: 29.2°C
  • November: 30.3°C
  • December: 30.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Komodo

Nearest Dive Centres to Bonsai dive site

Marine Life in Komodo

Home to 220 recorded species including 95 reef fish, 92 hard corals, 13 seagrass & algae, 5 sharks & rays, 4 sea cucumbers, 3 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Bonsai dive site

Based on average water temperature of 29.1°C, currents 5 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°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