Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida - Lombok & Gili Islands

Crazy Coral is one of our picks for a leisurely afternoon dive in Cousteau Reserve. It’s got a maximum depth of around 19 metres, making it perfect for a long, relaxed bottom time, just drifting and observing. What we love about this spot is the unusual topography, almost like a miniature underwater mountain range. We’ve found some really interesting valleys here, carved out of the coral massif. The big draw is a huge patch of staghorn coral, a vibrant, sprawling thicket. It’s a busy neighbourhood, constantly alive with yellowtail damselfish zipping in and out of the branches. Look closer and you'll often spot flamingo tongue snails grazing, their spotted mantles a striking contrast against the coral. We’ve had great luck finding juvenile barracuda lurking in the deeper channels, too. Visibility averages around 13 metres, good enough to take in the full scale of the coral formations. It’s a very calm site, so excellent for newer divers wanting to get comfortable, or photographers who appreciate having time to compose shots without fighting a current.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.773100, 115.484500
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: KK Nusa Penida

Best Time to Dive in Lombok & Gili Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Lombok & Gili Islands occur in December, averaging 30.1°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.6°C
  • February: 29.3°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.1°C
  • May: 29.9°C
  • June: 29.2°C
  • July: 28.5°C
  • August: 28.3°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 29.3°C
  • November: 30.1°C
  • December: 30.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Lombok & Gili Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida

Marine Life in Lombok & Gili Islands

Home to 258 recorded species including 153 reef fish, 44 sharks & rays, 37 hard corals, 10 seagrass & algae, 4 other, 3 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 23 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range and what marine life can divers expect to see at Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida?
At Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida, divers can explore depths up to 23 meters. This pinnacle dive site offers a rich diversity of marine life, with various pelagic species often spotted off its deep walls. Closer to the walls, you'll discover an abundance of macro life nestled among beautiful corals.
How challenging is the Batu Bolong dive site in Nusa Penida, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The Batu Bolong dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty due to its challenging conditions. Divers should be prepared for high current and surge, as it can only be dived safely on a rising tide when the swell is low. This requires a good level of diving experience and comfort in dynamic water conditions.
What are the usual current conditions and water temperatures encountered when diving Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida?
When diving Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida, divers should anticipate high current and surge conditions. The site is specifically dived on a rising tide with low swell to manage these strong water movements. Information regarding typical water temperatures for this specific site is not provided in the available data.
When is the best time of year to dive Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida, particularly for spotting Mola Mola?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida, nor does it mention specific seasons for spotting Mola Mola at this site. For general information on optimal diving periods in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there specific dive certifications or a minimum number of logged dives required to safely dive Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida?
While specific certifications or a minimum number of logged dives are not explicitly stated for Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida, its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive site suggests that divers should possess adequate experience. Given the high current and surge conditions, comfort and proficiency in challenging environments are highly recommended for safe diving.
What unique underwater topography and features characterize the Batu Bolong dive site in Nusa Penida?
Batu Bolong, Nusa Penida is characterized by its unique topography as a pinnacle dive site, famously located around a prominent arch often photographed. Divers will explore deep walls that drop off into the blue, providing opportunities to spot pelagic species. The walls themselves are adorned with beautiful corals, hosting a variety of macro life.