Ben Ben Garden - Lombok & Gili Islands

Deep Blue, near the Gilis, is where we head when we want to just strap in and go for a ride. This site is a proper drift, a conveyor belt taking you past fields of staghorn and branch corals. We love that feeling of being effortlessly propelled, watching the reef unfold. You’ll spot plenty of blennies darting in and out, and if you keep your eyes peeled for the smaller stuff, you might even catch a Cobb’s winged murphydoris clinging on. The current here can be assertive, so it’s not a site for your first foray into drift diving. But for those comfortable with a bit of speed, it’s a super rewarding dive. Our favourite part is looking out into the blue, hoping for a glimpse of something larger. We've seen eagle rays cruise by and, on a lucky day, a school of bumphead parrotfish in the distance. Visibility averages around 18 metres, which is usually enough to enjoy the ride without feeling overwhelmed by the speed. It’s a great spot for videographers too, if they can manage to hold steady with the current.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.144500, 115.407900
Type
drift
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: KK Karangasem

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 Ben Ben Garden

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 Ben Ben Garden

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 for diving at Ben Ben Garden?
Diving at Ben Ben Garden typically starts at a shallow depth of 4-5 metres, allowing for a gentle entry. Divers can explore a deeper area with numerous blocks, though the maximum depth for this site is specified as 22 metres. This provides a varied dive profile, from shallow coral gardens to deeper, fish-rich environments.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at Ben Ben Garden?
Divers at Ben Ben Garden can expect to see a vibrant array of marine life amidst beautifully overgrown corals along the headland. Notable species include fascinating critters like the Pygmy Seahorse (Hippocampus bargibanti), Hairy Shrimps, Ornate Ghost Pipefish, and Leaf Scorpionfish. You might also encounter Garden Eels, Moray Eels, Blue-spotted Stingrays, and various Nudibranches.
How challenging is the Ben Ben Garden dive site for different skill levels?
Ben Ben Garden is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site, making it well-suited for divers who have some prior experience. As a drift dive, it requires divers to be comfortable with currents and maintain good buoyancy control. This site offers an engaging experience for those looking for a moderately challenging underwater adventure.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ben Ben Garden for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Ben Ben Garden for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, you may want to consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Ben Ben Garden?
The specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Ben Ben Garden are not detailed in the provided information. However, given its intermediate difficulty and status as a drift dive, divers should typically hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, ensuring they are comfortable with deeper dives and currents. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Lombok & Gili Islands for precise requirements.
Are there strong currents or specific water conditions to be aware of when diving Ben Ben Garden?
Yes, Ben Ben Garden is characterized as a drift dive, which means divers should anticipate and be prepared for currents. The average visibility at the site is a clear 17 metres, offering excellent viewing opportunities despite the potential for moving water. Always consult with your dive guide for the most up-to-date conditions.