Dive Site: Tanjung Sari

About Tanjung Sari

Tanjung Sari marks the southern boundary of Padang Bai's Blue Lagoon, providing a distinctive dive site characterized by a protruding reef top and unusual volcanic rock formations. This site slopes gently to about 30 meters, where it meets a sandy bottom, serving as a dynamic habitat for a variety of marine life. Its exposed position to tidal currents makes it a prime location for observing large schools of fish and pelagic species. The topography transitions from shallow reef outcrops to a deeper sandy slope, offering diverse environments for exploration. The site is particularly known for its strong currents, which, while challenging, are responsible for attracting bigger fish and creating an active underwater scene. Divers can expect to navigate through these currents, especially around the cape separating Blue Lagoon from the Padang Bai harbor. Marine life at Tanjung Sari includes reef sharks patrolling the area, alongside eagle rays, Napoleon wrasse, and tuna. During the cooler dry season, from May to September, Wobbegong sharks are occasionally sighted. The rock and coral structures provide refuge for moray eels, lobsters, and octopuses. The site also offers the unique possibility of encountering the elusive Mola Mola during its season. After exploring the deeper sections, divers often ascend to the reef shallows. The return journey towards Blue Lagoon is facilitated by a labyrinth of rocky channels, offering protection from the currents and a chance to observe smaller reef inhabitants in a calmer environment. This blend of thrilling currents and rich biodiversity makes Tanjung Sari a highly rewarding dive for experienced divers.

Dive site facts: Tanjung Sari

Depth

5–30 m

Current

Mild to strong, tidal

Visibility

10–30 m

Water temperature

26–29°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Intermediate to advanced

Dive type

Reef, drift, pelagic

Region / port

Padang Bai, Bali

Coordinates

-8.528, 115.514

Conditions & Currents

Tanjung Sari is notably exposed to tidal currents due to its location at a cape, leading to mild to moderate conditions that can become strong. These currents are a key factor in attracting schooling fish and pelagic species, but require divers to be mindful of their position and gas consumption. While conditions can be suitable for beginners, the more challenging currents often appeal to experienced divers. Visibility generally ranges between 10 and 30 meters, with better conditions during the dry season. Water temperatures are typically between 26°C and 29°C, though they can be cooler during the Mola Mola season.

Marine life & sighting chances

Moray eel

common

Octopus

common

Lobster

common

Reef shark

occasional

Eagle ray

occasional

Napoleon wrasse

occasional

Tuna

occasional

Wobbegong shark

May to September · occasional

Mola Mola (Oceanic Sunfish)

July to October · rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Tanjung Sari typically begins by boat, arriving directly over the reef. Divers descend onto the protruding reef top, characterized by volcanic rock formations. The dive progresses along this structure as it slopes gently down to a sandy bottom at around 30 meters. Due to the exposed nature of the cape, divers should anticipate and manage mild to strong currents, which often bring in a variety of schooling fish and pelagic species. Exploration involves searching for reef sharks, eagle rays, and potentially Mola Mola, especially in season. After navigating the deeper sections, the ascent leads towards the reef shallows. The return to the Blue Lagoon area is made easier by traversing a series of rocky channels, which offer protection from the main currents and opportunities for a safety stop in calmer, shallower water.

Underwater photography

Tanjung Sari offers excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography, though managing currents is key. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the expansive volcanic rock formations and the numerous schooling fish, as well as any pelagic encounters like reef sharks or eagle rays. For macro enthusiasts, the reef provides shelter for moray eels, lobsters, and octopuses tucked into crevices, requiring careful buoyancy control to approach subjects without disturbing them in the surge. During the Mola Mola season, a wide-angle setup is essential to attempt capturing these majestic creatures. Due to variable light conditions at deeper sections or during cloudy weather, an external strobe can enhance color and detail.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Blue Lagoon Padang Bai

  A shallow, protected coral garden perfect for beginners and macro photography, contrasting with Tanjung Sari's currents.

• Jepun (Ferry Channel)

  An artificial reef known for macro life and as a good site for new divers, located close to Tanjung Sari.

• Gili Mimpang

  A more challenging offshore site known for sharks and potential Mola Mola, suitable for advanced divers.

• Gili Tepekong

  Another advanced offshore site with strong currents and possibilities for large marine life, often paired with Gili Mimpang.

Getting there & logistics

Diving at Tanjung Sari usually originates from Padang Bai, a ferry port town located approximately one hour east of Sanur by car. Dive operators based in Sanur often offer day trips, including hotel pickup and drop-off. The dive site is only a few minutes' boat ride from the main beach of Padang Bai. Typical trips include two dives, with surface intervals often spent back at the dive center. Bali's main international airport is Denpasar (DPS). While most dive sites in Bali do not require specific permits beyond standard dive operator fees, it's advisable to confirm details with your chosen dive center. Tanjung Sari is often combined with other Padang Bai sites like Blue Lagoon or Jepun for a varied day of diving.

Safety & environment

Safety at Tanjung Sari requires awareness of the variable and sometimes strong tidal currents; divers should possess experience in current diving and maintain excellent buoyancy. It is imperative to dive with an experienced local guide who understands the site's specific conditions. Emergency oxygen and first aid kits are standard on dive boats, but the nearest recompression chamber is in Denpasar. Divers should ensure they have comprehensive dive insurance covering emergency medical evacuation. Always follow your guide's instructions regarding entry, exit, and dive plan, and do not attempt to dive beyond your certification level or comfort zone. Given its proximity to a working harbor, some boat traffic may be present on the surface.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Tanjung Sari FAQ

Liveaboards diving Tanjung Sari

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

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

$271/day

Ilike

Indonesia

16 guests40 m

$350/day

Mermaid I

Alor

15 guests28 m

$474/day

Sunshine Liveaboard

Indonesia

10 guests31 m

$190/day

Tiare Cruise

Indonesia

12 guests36.5 m

$473/day