Monkey Reef - Lombok & Gili Islands

Pot Luck is exactly what it sounds like, a bit of a gamble, but usually in a good way. We’d suggest hitting this site on an incoming tide for a solid drift along the wall. The reef crest here can break the surface at low tide, so plan your entry accordingly. We’ve seen whitetip reef sharks cruise by, and the occasional hawksbill turtle munching on the corals. Look out for the small giant clams tucked into the reef, and if you’re lucky, a tigerfish or even a quick flash of a shortfin mako in the blue. It’s a good spot for divers comfortable with current, offering a different look each time.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.247400, 115.572300
Type
drift
Maximum Depth
10-40m

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 Monkey 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 Monkey 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 maximum depth for diving at Monkey Reef?
The main reef area at Monkey Reef typically goes down to a maximum depth of 20 meters, offering beautiful corals and many fish. However, for those looking to explore deeper, bigger fish are sometimes spotted between 30 and 40 meters. Divers should be aware of these varying depths when planning their dive.
What kind of marine life and corals can I expect to see when diving Monkey Reef?
Monkey Reef is home to a vibrant array of marine life and features nice corals. You can expect to encounter various species such as Anemone fish, Pufferfish, Scorpionfish, Filefish, and Triggerfish. Keep an eye out for Turtles, and occasionally, bigger fish can be spotted in the deeper sections. For more information on species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Monkey Reef dive site, is it suitable for beginners?
Monkey Reef is classified as an intermediate dive site, primarily due to its drift dive nature. While it offers beautiful sights, it may not be ideal for absolute beginners who are not yet comfortable with currents. Divers should have appropriate experience for drift diving to fully enjoy this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Monkey Reef for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Monkey Reef for optimal conditions. We recommend checking local dive operator information or our When to Dive section for general guidance on the Lombok & Gili Islands region.
What diving certifications are required to dive at Monkey Reef?
The provided data does not specify the exact diving certifications required for Monkey Reef. Given its intermediate difficulty and drift dive type, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, along with experience in drift diving, would generally be recommended. It's always best to consult with a local dive center in Lombok & Gili Islands for specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Monkey Reef?
Monkey Reef is known as a drift dive, indicating that currents are typically present and will carry divers along the reef. The average visibility at the site is a clear 15 meters, offering good viewing conditions. Divers should be prepared for drift diving techniques to safely and enjoyably explore this beautiful reef.