Turtle Heaven - Lombok & Gili Islands

Horseshoe Bay is a good spot for a relaxed, shallow dive, topping out around six metres. You really do need to time your entry for high tide, otherwise, you'll be shuffling over some very skinny water. Once you're in, it's an easy drift, currents are usually non-existent, and navigation is simple. Keep an eye out for reef fish congregating around the rocks on the current-facing side, and there are always a few nudibranchs tucked away on the smaller coral blocks. Visibility averages about six metres here, making it a good choice for newer divers or those looking for a leisurely swim.

Location
Lombok & Gili Islands, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.340800, 116.061800
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: KK Pulau Gili Air, Gili Meno, dan Gili Trawangan

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 Turtle Heaven

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 Turtle Heaven

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 Turtle Heaven?
At Turtle Heaven, divers typically explore depths up to a maximum of 18 meters. While the pinnacle itself stretches from 9 meters down to 30 meters, the most active areas for marine life, including green turtles, are found in the shallower sections. This makes it an accessible site for many recreational divers.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Turtle Heaven?
Turtle Heaven is renowned for its abundant sea turtles, especially green turtles, which are often found resting on the shallower parts of the pinnacle. The site is also covered in vibrant corals on all sides, providing a rich habitat. Divers can additionally spot schools of sergeant majors, fusiliers, and surgeon fish gracefully swimming above the pinnacle. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is Turtle Heaven a suitable dive site for beginner divers, or is it more for advanced divers?
Turtle Heaven is classified as an intermediate dive site. While it offers a rewarding experience, its conditions or depth might require a bit more experience than a complete beginner possesses. Divers with an Open Water certification and some experience will find it suitable.
What is the best time of year to dive at Turtle Heaven for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Unfortunately, the provided data context does not specify the best time of year to dive at Turtle Heaven for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general information on seasonal diving in the region, you might consult our when to dive guide. We recommend checking local dive operators for current conditions.
What dive certifications are required to dive at Turtle Heaven?
The provided data does not explicitly state the specific dive certifications required for Turtle Heaven. However, given its classification as an intermediate difficulty site, an Open Water Diver certification is generally the minimum requirement. It is always best to consult with local dive centers in the Lombok & Gili Islands for their specific requirements and recommendations.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Turtle Heaven?
Divers at Turtle Heaven can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 20 meters, offering clear views of the vibrant reef and marine life. The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions at this site. It's always advisable to check with your dive guide or local operators for real-time current information before your dive.