Ghost Bay - Lombok & Gili Islands

Lane Cove often feels like hitting the jackpot on Cocos. We love it for those calm summer days, when the winds drop below 10 knots and the swell lays flat. Drop in, and you’re immediately greeted by a shallow reef top around 10 metres. It’s here you’ll often find schools of fusiliers so thick they block the light, shimmering like a living curtain. Our favourite part is the eastern ridge. It’s a short, dramatic drop-off to 18 metres, then the reef just slopes away into the deep blue. This is where we’ve consistently spotted grey reef sharks cruising by, along with decent-sized tuna and trevally. Look closely and you’ll find impressive stands of fire coral, bright orange and imposing, and we’ve often seen inquisitive common octopus peeking out from their crevices. The visibility here, usually around 30 metres, just adds to the feeling of immense space. It’s a site that rewards those who take their time, exploring both the shallower reef top and the drop-off, perfect for divers who appreciate consistent fish action and a dramatic reef profile.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.333900, 115.642500
Type
reef

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 Ghost Bay

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 Ghost Bay

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 Ghost Bay?
The maximum depth at Ghost Bay is 17 meters, making it a relatively shallow dive suitable for various certification levels. This depth range is perfect for extended bottom times, allowing ample opportunity to explore the vibrant macro life.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ghost Bay?
Divers at Ghost Bay can expect to encounter a rich variety of macro marine life, making it a paradise for photographers. The site, characterized by a unique rock-shaped reef, is home to fascinating creatures such as frogfish, leaf scorpion fish, and even elusive harlequin shrimps. It's an ideal spot for critter hunting, and bringing a camera is highly recommended to capture these incredible sightings.
How difficult is diving at Ghost Bay, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Ghost Bay is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers easy access and a relatively shallow maximum depth of 17 meters, its intermediate rating suggests it might be more suitable for divers with some experience rather than absolute beginners. Divers should feel comfortable with basic skills before exploring this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ghost Bay for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Ghost Bay for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons in the Indonesia region, you may want to consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Ghost Bay?
Given that Ghost Bay has an intermediate difficulty rating and a maximum depth of 17 meters, an Open Water Diver certification would generally be sufficient. However, divers should ensure they are comfortable with their skills and experience level for an intermediate site. Always check with local dive centers for specific requirements.
Are there strong currents at Ghost Bay, and what is the typical visibility?
The typical visibility at Ghost Bay is excellent, averaging around 17 meters, providing clear views of the abundant macro life. The provided data does not mention the presence of strong currents, suggesting it is generally a calm site, but local conditions can always vary.