Palung Palung - Lombok & Gili Islands

Saco do Funil, tucked away in the Alcatrazes Refugio, offers a relaxed dive, especially good for those still building their confidence. We love how sheltered it feels here; it’s a calm pocket, a nice change if the open water makes you a bit nervous. The depth holds steady between 10 and 11 meters, perfect for longer bottom times without any rush. Out on the sandy patches, we always keep an eye out for octopus burrows. You’ll spot them by the neat piles of crab shells and other bits around the entrance – a clear sign someone’s home. The little Dash Gobies and Lizardfish often dart across the sand, while near the rocky edges, you'll find Atlantic Spadefish cruising alongside Angelfish and the occasional Porgy. Visibility averages around 11 meters, clear enough to enjoy the details without being overwhelming. It’s a gentle exploration, a place to really slow down and appreciate the smaller residents of Arraial do Cabo.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.279000, 115.598400

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 Palung Palung

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 Palung Palung

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 Palung Palung?
The Palung Palung dive site offers a maximum depth of 24m, making it suitable for a range of recreational divers. As a prolongation of the drop-off, divers can explore various depths up to this limit. This depth range allows for enjoyable dives while exploring the reef at Palung Palung.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at Palung Palung?
Divers at Palung Palung can anticipate a vibrant array of marine life, including Groupers, Trevally fish, Oriental sweet lips, Puffer fish, Lion- and other Scorpion fish, Anemone fish, and Napoleon wrasse. There's also the exciting possibility of pelagic encounters. This rich biodiversity makes for a captivating underwater experience on the reef; explore more about these species in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Palung Palung dive site for recreational divers?
The Palung Palung dive site is rated as an intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for divers with some experience. Its characteristics, such as being a prolongation of a drop-off, suggest conditions that require a moderate skill level. Divers should be comfortable with various dive conditions to fully enjoy this site in Lombok & Gili Islands.
When is the best time of year to dive Palung Palung for optimal conditions?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year to dive Palung Palung for optimal conditions is not available. However, you can generally find information about diving seasons for Lombok & Gili Islands to plan your trip. For more general guidance on dive planning, visit our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive Palung Palung?
The provided data does not specify any particular diving certifications recommended or required for the Palung Palung dive site. Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 24m, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent would generally be beneficial for comfort and safety. Always check with local dive operators in Lombok & Gili Islands for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Palung Palung dive site?
Divers at Palung Palung can expect an average visibility of 17m, offering clear views of the vibrant reef and marine life. While specific current conditions are not detailed in the provided data, sites that are 'prolongations of a drop-off' often experience varying currents. It's always advisable to consult with your dive guide on the day of your dive for the most up-to-date current information at Palung Palung.