Raja Ampat
Synonymous with the diving scene in Indonesia, Raja Ampat is an archipelago of 1,500 small islands and it boasts about 1200 fish species. Raja Ampat is found within The Coral Triangle – the heart of the world’s coral reef biodiversity – which includes Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and East Timor. It is also probably the richest coral reef ecosystems in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be diving in Raja Ampat during the right season, you might even spot some whale sharks.
Togian Island
Located North of Sulawesi, Togian Island is a group of islands that is mostly untouched. You must make it point to dive at the apparently best dive site in the area, B24 Bomber Wreck, located 16 kilometres northeast of Kaidiriri Island. With the high visibility underwater, it’ll be a breeze for you to take in the beautifully coloured coral reefs and black-tail barracudas! Also, check out Una Una, which is a volcanic island that has lava ash sand.
Komodo Island
Diving in Komodo island must be pretty amazing because it is a favourite even among world class divers. The reserve at Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has calm and gloriously coloured shallow reefs, deep walls and pinnacles! Because the currents can get quite rough, only intermediate or advanced divers are advised to dive here. If you’d like to see some manta rays, the best time to go is from December to February, although they can be spotted all year round.
Bali Island
Diving in Bali is something that should be on all of our bucket lists, especially since it is one of the most accessible destinations in Indonesia. Because of the very light or total lack of currents, beginner divers can go to Amed, Padang Bay, and Pulau Menjangan.
Lombok Island
Lombok Island, neighbour to Bali Island, has somehow managed to keep its spectacular dive sites that feature untouched coral reefs and pinnacles very low key. The Gili Islands, located northwest of Lombok, is one of the most popular diving site nearby. While diving around Lombok, keep your eyes out for those hammerhead sharks amongst other spectacular marine life species.
Weh Island
The best time to go diving at Weh Island is during the country’s dry season, from April to November. The Indonesian government has made efforts to preserve a part of this island and its wildlife by declaring two areas as marine parks. Beginners can look to dive at sites like Limbo Gapang, Batee Meuroron, Lhong Angen and Pantee Gua!
Wakatobi Islands
The main islands of Wakatobi – Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomea and Binongki – are great diving destinations. With gentle currents, the islands are great for beginner divers. The islands is brimming with rich marine life which is every diver’s dream! The best time to dive here is from March to December. If you can, avoid the peak periods, which are from April to May and September to November!