Dive Site: Gili Selang

About Gili Selang

Gili Selang is a small island located off Bali's easternmost tip, forming a striking geological feature at the foot of Mount Seraya. Its strategic position means it receives the full force of the Indonesian Throughflow, making it a dynamic and often challenging dive site that offers a unique blend of marine ecosystems. Divings here typically begin on a black sand slope, rich with macro life such as nudibranchs and gobies, before transitioning into a vibrant, sheltered reef at around 4 meters. This reef boasts a diverse array of colorful soft and hard corals, including impressively large Acropora table corals and extensive soft coral fields. Further offshore, the environment shifts to a more exposed, pelagic realm, characterized by steep slopes that can drop dramatically to depths exceeding 200 meters just 100 meters east of the islet. The site is renowned for its diverse marine encounters, ranging from macro critters like pygmy seahorses on gorgonian fans to larger pelagic species. Divers frequently spot schooling big-eyed trevally, yellow margin morays, and cuttlefish, while sharks, including blacktip, whitetip, and grey reef sharks, are common. During the right season, you might also encounter hammerhead sharks, tuna, mackerel, and even mola mola. Sea snakes are regularly observed, a rare sight in nearby areas. Due to the variable and strong currents, Gili Selang is primarily suited for experienced divers. Most dives here are drift dives, leveraging the powerful currents. Divers must pay close attention to briefings and stay near their guide due to unpredictable changes in conditions. It’s often dived by boat, departing from locations like Tulamben, and may involve riding out strong currents, sometimes referred to as the 'Selang Express'.