Jemeluk Bay - Lombok & Gili Islands

Matavera Wall, just south of Matavera Point, is one of our favourite spots in Rarotonga for a relaxed, visually rich dive. We appreciate how it caters to different comfort levels; the top of the wall starts at a gentle 12 metres, and you can follow it down to a maximum of 21 metres before it really drops away. The water here is consistently clear, often giving us 25 metres or more of visibility, which makes the whole experience feel expansive. We love drifting along the wall, keeping an eye out for the smaller details: the vibrant flash of a Bicolor Chromis, or a Bullethead Parrotfish nibbling at the coral. Look closely in the nooks and crannies for a Chiragra spider conch or a Strawberry Drupe. In the shallows, we often find turtles cruising lazily, and it's a good place for spotting moray eels peering out from their hideaways. Deeper, around the 20-metre mark, keep an eye out in the blue for the occasional tuna passing by. This site is perfect for those who enjoy a calm drift and appreciate taking their time to observe the reef's inhabitants without feeling rushed.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.337900, 115.661000
Type
wall

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 Jemeluk 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 Jemeluk 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 are the typical diving depths and maximum depths at Jemeluk Bay dive sites?
At Jemeluk Bay, divers can explore a maximum depth of 14m. The site offers a diverse experience, featuring both the shallower bay area and deeper sections along the wall. This range makes it suitable for various skill levels.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see in Jemeluk Bay?
Divers at Jemeluk Bay can expect to encounter a vibrant underwater landscape rich in hard and soft corals, particularly near the corner with Bunutan. The bay is also home to frequent sightings of snappers and hawksbill turtles, and features artificial reefs contributing to reef restoration efforts.
Is Jemeluk Bay suitable for beginner divers, or is it more challenging?
Jemeluk Bay is remarkably versatile, suitable for both beginner and experienced divers. Its accessible shore entry and varied depths make it an excellent spot for those just starting out as well as seasoned enthusiasts. While generally classified as intermediate, its welcoming conditions cater to a broad range of diving proficiencies.
What is the best time of year or day to dive in Jemeluk Bay for optimal conditions and marine life?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day for optimal diving conditions or marine life sightings at Jemeluk Bay. For general guidance on diving seasons in Indonesia, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive in Jemeluk Bay?
The provided data does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required or recommended for diving in Jemeluk Bay. Given its suitability for beginners and a maximum depth of 14m, an Open Water Diver certification would typically be sufficient for exploring the bay's depths safely.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like for diving in Jemeluk Bay?
Divers at Jemeluk Bay can typically expect good visibility, averaging around 14m. The available data does not provide specific details regarding typical current conditions within the bay, so local dive operators would be the best source for up-to-date information on currents.