Dive Site: Pura Ped

About Pura Ped

Pura Ped, located on the northern coast of Nusa Penida, is a celebrated dive site known for its extensive and healthy reef system. It provides an exhilarating drift diving experience along a massive coral plateau, boasting diverse marine inhabitants and magnificent coral formations. The site is often compared to the nearby SD Point due to their similar dive profiles and abundant marine life. Dive depths at Pura Ped typically range from 3 to 37 meters, making it accessible for a variety of certification levels. The currents here can vary, sometimes providing a gentle drift suitable for less experienced divers, while at other times offering a more thrilling ride. This variability ensures a dynamic and engaging dive every time. The site is famous for its potential sightings of large pelagic species such as Manta Rays and the elusive Mola Mola, particularly between August and October. Beyond these iconic creatures, divers can expect to see a wide array of reef fish, including various pufferfish, batfish, and clownfish, alongside turtles and occasional reef sharks. Its consistent outstanding visibility, often exceeding 20 meters, further enhances the underwater exploration. Pura Ped is a year-round diving destination, with conditions generally favorable across all seasons. Access to the site is typically via boat, usually from Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida, making it a convenient addition to any dive itinerary in the region.

Dive site facts: Pura Ped

Depth

3–37 m

Typical dive

10–25 m

Current

Medium, can be strong

Visibility

20–30 m

Water temperature

24–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced Divers recommended

Dive type

Drift dive, reef, pelagic encounters

Region / port

Nusa Penida, Bali

Coordinates

-8.665, 115.51

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Pura Ped are typically medium and can range from mild to strong, often making it an exhilarating drift dive. The site's location on the north coast of Nusa Penida means it is exposed to the dynamic currents of the Lombok Strait, which can be unpredictable. Divers should be prepared for varying current strengths, which can change throughout the dive. Entry is usually from a boat, and divers often descend into the current for a controlled drift along the reef. Exit strategies depend on the current direction and strength, often involving ascending to a safety stop and being picked up by the boat down current. While visibility is generally outstanding, strong currents can occasionally bring thermoclines, which can drop water temperatures and affect visibility, especially in deeper areas. Due to these currents, divers should have good buoyancy control and be comfortable with drift

Marine life & sighting chances

Manta Ray

August–October (Mola Mola season, but year-round sightings p · occasional

Mola Mola

August–October · occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Damselfish

common

Grouper

common

Napoleon Wrasse

occasional

Parrotfish

common

Pufferfish

common

Scorpionfish

occasional

Sea Snake

occasional

Turtle

common

Whitetip Shark

occasional

Batfish

common

Clownfish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Pura Ped typically begins with a boat entry, often a negative entry due to the potential for strong currents, allowing divers to quickly descend to the reef. The dive follows a drift profile along the extensive coral plateau, moving with the current. Depths range from the shallow reef crest at 3 meters, gradually sloping down to around 25 meters, and extending to deeper sections reaching 37 meters. Divers typically explore the vibrant hard and soft coral gardens, keeping an eye out for pelagic species in the blue and smaller reef inhabitants nestled within the reef. The turn point is often dictated by air consumption and current strength, signaling the start of the ascent. Safety stops are conducted in shallower, calmer areas if possible, or as a mid-water stop in open water before surfacing to meet the dive boat for pickup.

Underwater photography

Pura Ped offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle reefscapes to macro subjects, especially with its healthy coral and abundant fish life. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive coral plateau and potential pelagic encounters like Mola Mola or Manta Rays. If currents are strong, a quick shutter speed and proper strobe positioning are crucial to freeze motion and illuminate subjects. For macro enthusiasts, patience is key in the currents to photograph smaller creatures like nudibranchs and various reef fish. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the delicate coral and to maintain stable shots in moving water. Always be mindful of other divers and marine life, ensuring respectful distances and minimal disturbance.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• SD Point

  A similar drift dive with beautiful corals and pelagic potential.

• Mangrove Point

  Known for vibrant reef life and drift diving.

• Crystal Bay

  Famous for Mola Mola sightings during season and excellent visibility.

• Toyapakeh Drop-Off

  Features blooming coral gardens and drift diving with currents.

• Gamat Bay

  Offers spectacular underwater topography and good visibility.

• Tanjung Sari

  Another northern Nusa Penida site with healthy reefs.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Pura Ped is typically from Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), followed by a short transfer to Sanur. From Sanur, a speedboat ride of approximately 45 minutes to an hour takes you to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan, where most dive operators are based. Dive trips to Pura Ped are usually part of a day trip or multi-day diving package from these islands. It is commonly combined with other northern Nusa Penida dive sites like SD Point or Mangrove. Many operators offer daily trips, and packages often include equipment rental, guides, and lunch. No specific permits beyond standard dive tourism are usually required.

Safety & environment

Diving at Pura Ped, like many sites around Nusa Penida, can involve strong and unpredictable currents, requiring good buoyancy control and experience with drift diving. Divers should always carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) and know how to deploy it. The nearest recompression chamber is in Denpasar, Bali, necessitating a boat transfer followed by land transport, which can take several hours. Comprehensive dive insurance covering evacuation and hyperbaric treatment is strongly recommended. Always dive with a reputable operator, follow your dive guide's instructions, and stay within your certification limits. Be aware of thermoclines, which can cause sudden temperature drops, and ensure your thermal protection is adequate.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Pura Ped FAQ

Liveaboards diving Pura Ped

These liveaboards may visit Pura Ped on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

$274/day

Ilike

Indonesia

16 guests40 m

$298/day

Mermaid I

Alor

15 guests28 m

$372/day

Sunshine Liveaboard

Indonesia

10 guests31 m

$191/day

Tiare Cruise

Indonesia

12 guests36.5 m

$473/day