The Gili Islands, located off the northwest coast of Lombok in Indonesia, are renowned for their pristine waters and vibrant marine life, making them a paradise for scuba divers. For advanced divers seeking thrilling underwater experiences, the Gili Islands offer an array of dive sites that cater to diverse skill levels and preferences. Here’s a guide to some of the top dive sites that should be on every advanced diver's bucket list.
1. Manta Point
Situated between Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno, Manta Point is a legendary site famous for encounters with majestic Manta Rays. The site features gentle sloping reefs where divers can glide alongside these graceful creatures. Best visited during high tide, advanced divers can navigate around the rocky outcrops and enjoy the stunning visibility that often reaches up to 30 meters. Keep an eye out for vibrant coral gardens and an array of fish that inhabit the area.
2. Shark Point
True to its name, Shark Point is a hotspot for spotting blacktip reef sharks and occasionally, the elusive grey reef sharks. Located on the northern side of Gili Trawangan, advanced divers will appreciate the challenging currents that require skillful navigation. The underwater landscape features cantilevering walls adorned with colorful corals and sponges. Divers can also encounter schools of sweetlips, batfish, and various species of sea turtles, making every dive unforgettable.
3. The Twilight Zone
This dive site is perfect for those looking to explore deeper waters. The Twilight Zone, located on the south side of Gili Trawangan, plunges to depths of over 30 meters. Advanced divers can explore the stunning underwater topography that consists of steep walls and deep canyons, teeming with life. Night diving here offers an entirely different perspective as bioluminescent organisms light up the darkness. Be prepared for encounters with nocturnal species such as nudibranchs and resting sharks.
4. Trawangan Wall
The Trawangan Wall is a vertical drop-off that provides a striking dive experience for advanced divers. With depths ranging from 5 to over 30 meters, divers can explore stunning features, including overhangs and swim-throughs. The wall is home to an abundance of marine life, including soft and hard corals, sponges, and a plethora of fish species. The currents here can be challenging, offering a thrilling ride for those adept at drift diving.
5. Gili Meno’s Underwater Statue
As one of the most unique dive sites in the region, the underwater statue of Jesus sits approximately 30 meters below the surface near Gili Meno. This dive site combines spirituality and adventure as divers explore the stunning scenic backdrop of corals and fish while visiting the statue. The surrounding area is filled with marine biodiversity, providing an excellent opportunity to spot various species of reef fish and even occasional sea turtles. This site is ideal for those looking to enhance their underwater photography skills.
6. Simon's Reef
This vibrant dive site near Gili Air is known for its pulsating coral gardens and abundant marine life. Advanced divers are greeted with spectacular visibility and exciting currents. The reef is home to a diverse range of fishes such as clownfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish, making it a colorful underwater paradise. Exploring the small caves and overhangs of Simon's Reef adds an element of adventure, perfect for those looking to push their boundaries.
7. The Seriously Awesome Dive Spot
Often referred to simply as "S.A.S.," this site is tailored for those who thrive on challenging conditions. The strong currents and deep walls make it the perfect realm for advanced divers wanting to test their skills. Home to vibrant coral structures and schools of large pelagic fish, S.A.S. is a fantastic spot to encounter larger marine species, including barracuda and jacks.
For advanced divers, the Gili Islands offer exhilarating dive sites that are both beautiful and diverse. With stunning marine biodiversity and varying underwater landscapes, each dive promises a unique adventure. Always ensure that you are equipped with the right certifications and gear to enjoy these underwater wonders to the fullest.