The Drift Bali - Lombok & Gili Islands

Yulliet Besar, just north of Pulau Yulliet, is a pretty consistent performer, especially for a night dive. You’ll find plateaus from 5-10 meters, then slopes and walls that dip to around 20 meters, though our computers often read closer to 21 meters max. Visibility averages 15 meters, which is decent enough to spot the hogfish and some of those tiny Marshall dottybacks. We’ve had good luck with pygmy gobies here, the forktail and Stobbs' varieties are often tucked into the staghorn coral. It’s a comfortable dive, nothing too taxing, and a nice spot for macro hunters looking for a relaxed pace.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.117400, 115.345600
Type
drift

Marine Protected Area: KK Buleleng

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 The Drift Bali

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 The Drift Bali

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 depths encountered on drift dives in Bali, particularly around Nusa Penida?
For "The Drift Bali" site, located on the Northeast Coast of Bali, divers can expect a maximum depth of 20m. The provided data specifically details this site in the Lombok & Gili Islands region. Information regarding typical depths around Nusa Penida is not available in the current context.
What marine life and underwater scenery are commonly observed on drift dives in Bali?
On drift dives like The Drift Bali, you'll encounter a fascinating mix of coral rubble and sand, slowly sloping on sandy soil, with many sponges. This environment is rich in small discoveries, including various scorpion fish (such as lion fish), cuttlefish, moray eels, nudibranchs, and different kinds of shrimps. Lucky divers might even spot seahorses and frogfish, making it a great spot for macro enthusiasts to explore marine life.
How difficult are the drift dives in Bali, and are they suitable for beginner divers?
The drift dives in Bali, specifically at sites like The Drift Bali, are rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to this rating, they are generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers without prior drift diving experience or appropriate advanced training. Divers should be comfortable with currents and proficient in buoyancy control.
What is the best time of year to experience drift diving in Bali for good conditions and specific marine encounters?
The provided data for The Drift Bali does not specify the best time of year for good conditions or particular marine encounters. For general information on optimal diving seasons in the region, please refer to our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications or experience levels are recommended for drift diving in Bali?
Given that sites like The Drift Bali are classified as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. Proficiency in drift diving techniques and good buoyancy control are highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience.
What are the typical current strengths and water conditions like for drift diving in Bali's popular sites?
As a designated drift dive site, The Drift Bali inherently features currents, though specific strengths are not detailed in the provided data. Divers should be prepared for varying current conditions typical of drift dives. The average visibility at this site is excellent, typically around 22m, offering clear views of the underwater environment.