Observing the ocean’s tinier species brings joy to certain divers. They aren’t easily intimidated by the large and bold, such as patrolling sharks. They are especially proud to discover unusual, small, and well-camouflaged creatures hidden in a quiet nook of a pinnacle, as their attention is always based on the minute and mysterious. In reality, macro diving has a devoted following among divers. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia, is one of the best macro diving sites. While the Tulamben is best known for the USAT Liberty Wreck, it also has other hidden gems that provide incredible macro opportunities. Prepare to be blown away—you may forget to return to the land as you become engrossed in these enthralling microorganisms.
Melasti, the Hidden Micro Diving Sites in Tulamben Bali
The Melasti is one of few amazing muck diving spots in Tulamben Bali with amazing critter life. This location is snugly nestled along the Seraya coast, sometimes as blurred as the Seraya Secret itself. In fact, many divers have dived here without realizing it was the Melasti. Mantis shrimps and harlequin shrimp can be found hiding behind piles of coral heads or feasting on starfish. It’s also the best place to see Melasti’s two signature nudibranchs, the Donut Dorid and the Shaun the Sheep. They are frequently requested by divers—and they are not particularly easy to find, making them all the more rewarding!
Seraya Secret, Famous Site for Micro
Tulamben is only five kilometers away from the Seraya Secret. It’s a simple dive with gentle currents and great visibility. You can get to the site from the beach and descend into the 10 meter deep ocean floor. The seafloor is dominated by black sands. Other divers may find it uninteresting, but macro enthusiasts will adore it because it is teeming with life! An underwater macro photographer can spend hours scouring the seafloor for strange small creatures. The abundance of crustaceans and nudibranchs on Seraya makes it ideal for muck and macro. Expect to see Harlequin shrimps, which are a common sighting, as well as tiger shrimps, boxer shrimps, Bumble bees, Coleman shrimps, zebra crabs, and thousands of other species! Patience is a virtue; good things come to those who wait.
More Diving & Travelling Stories:
Best Diving Places In Bali and How To Plan It
Scuba Diving Bali, Unforgettable Activity While Holiday
Off the Beaten Path in Batu Niti
Not everyone is familiar with Batu Niti, another hidden site for macro diving in Tulamben. The location is past the Seraya Secret, in a headland and reef formation. The Batu Niti is a nudibranch paradise. During the nudibranch mating season, the site becomes even more active. Thousands of nudi will be seen all over the place, getting into action. Frogfish and coral fish are occasionally spotted. Corals and spongers of all sizes and shapes bloom in the area, adding to the beauty of the site. If you want to see something other than the macro, there are schools of barracuda, jacks, trevally, and even whale sharks nearby.
