Kubu Reef - Lombok & Gili Islands

Mountain Top is one of those Dominica dives that requires a bit of good fortune to access. You need calm seas, basically no wind or strong current, but when it lines up, it’s worth the wait. We’ve found the top of the seamount sits around 17 meters, and the lack of cover means you often find yourself swimming alongside big schools of horse-eye jacks and rainbow runners. It’s a great spot for seeing the bigger picture, with plenty of barracuda lurking, and if there’s a gentle current, the jacks are known to cruise right up close. The site drops to 26 meters, with visibility averaging 21 meters, making it a good choice for divers comfortable in open water with some mild current.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.251000, 115.576700
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 Kubu Reef

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 Kubu Reef

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 Kubu Reef?
Divers at Kubu Reef can explore depths up to a maximum of 20 meters. This makes it an accessible site for various skill levels to enjoy the beautiful underwater scenery and unique black sand bottom.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Kubu Reef?
At Kubu Reef, divers will encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including beautiful corals, Gorgonias fan corals, and soft corals. The site also features a beautiful slope where you can spot garden eels and blue spotted stingrays. A unique highlight is the contrast of these colorful corals against the black volcanic sand from Mount Agung, creating a truly distinctive underwater landscape.
Is Kubu Reef considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginners?
Kubu Reef is widely considered suitable for all diving levels, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced divers. With a maximum depth of 20 meters and easy beach access, it offers a comfortable and enjoyable diving experience after a dive like Boga Wreck.
What are the best months or seasons to dive at Kubu Reef for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for diving at Kubu Reef. For optimal conditions, we recommend checking local dive operator information or our When to Dive guide for the Lombok & Gili Islands region.
What diving certifications are required to dive at Kubu Reef?
The specific diving certifications required for Kubu Reef are not detailed in the provided information. Generally, sites suitable for "all levels" may accommodate Open Water divers, but it's always best to confirm with local dive centers in the Lombok & Gili Islands.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Kubu Reef?
Divers at Kubu Reef can typically expect good visibility, averaging around 15 meters. The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions for this site. It's always advisable to consult with local dive guides for real-time current information before your dive.