Gili Asahan slope - Lombok & Gili Islands

La Palomita is one of those Cozumel spots that really shines, especially if you’re into the smaller stuff. We love it for an easy, shallow dive, perfect for a long bottom time and really soaking in the details. You'll often find us here with a macro lens, spending ages trying to get the perfect shot of a shy Textile Blenny peeking from its hole, or a Lesser Starlet Coral pulsing gently. It’s a fantastic nursery site. Expect to see loads of juvenile French Grunts darting between the rocks, and we’ve spotted more Drum here than almost anywhere else in Cozumel, their fins waving like tiny flags. While the current can pick up, usually it’s pretty mellow, drifting us gently over sandy patches where we often find Milk Conchs slowly plowing along, or a Caribbean Chestnut Moray tucked deep inside a crevice. It’s definitely not a shore dive, despite its proximity to land – the current makes boat entry and exit much safer. If you're keen on night diving, this is our pick; the site comes alive with Belted Cardinalfish and hunting Trumpetfish. Maximum depth here is 15 meters, so it’s wonderfully relaxed, great for newer divers or those who just want to chill out and observe.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.743900, 115.884400

Marine Protected Area: KK Gita Nada

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 Gili Asahan slope

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 Gili Asahan slope

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 the Gili Asahan slope?
The Gili Asahan slope offers a maximum depth of 16 meters, making it suitable for various dive levels. As a sandy slope, divers can explore shallower sections gradually descending to its deepest point, providing a comfortable profile for exploration.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at the Gili Asahan slope dive site?
Divers at the Gili Asahan slope can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life, including turtles, moray eels, lionfish, scorpionfish, stonefish, pufferfish, porcupine fish, crocodile fishes, and clownfishes. The site features a natural coral reef alongside an artificial reef boasting an abundance of soft corals. For more information on species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Gili Asahan slope dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Gili Asahan slope is rated as an intermediate dive site. While not typically recommended for absolute beginners, certified divers with some experience will find it enjoyable. Its maximum depth of 16 meters and generally clear conditions make it accessible for those comfortable with basic diving skills.
What is the best time of year to dive the Gili Asahan slope for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Our current data for the Gili Asahan slope does not specify a particular best time of year for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. We recommend checking with local dive operators in the Lombok & Gili Islands region for the most up-to-date seasonal advice. You can also explore our When to Dive section for general regional information.
What diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive the Gili Asahan slope?
Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 16 meters, an Open Water Diver certification is typically sufficient to dive the Gili Asahan slope. Divers with advanced certifications will also find it a pleasant and relaxing dive. Always confirm specific requirements with your chosen dive operator.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the Gili Asahan slope dive site?
The Gili Asahan slope typically boasts an average visibility of 11 meters, offering clear views of its vibrant reef and marine life. Information regarding usual current conditions at this specific site is not provided in our current data. It's always advisable to consult with your local dive guide for real-time conditions.