Gili Mimpang & Gili Tepekong

Candidasa’s underwater world is a haven for marine biodiversity. The coral reefs that line the coast are vibrant and teeming with life, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. These reefs shelter an array of marine species, from the smallest critters to larger pelagic creatures.

Divers in Candidasa can encounter a fascinating array of marine life, including vibrant coral formations, schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, and even a popular pelagic like Mola-mola (Sunfish). The region’s underwater diversity ensures that every dive is a chance to witness something new and awe-inspiring. The two famous dive sites are Gili Mimpang and Gili Tepekong.

Candidasa Diving Highlight:

Diving Type: Deep Dive, Wall Dive, Drift Dive

Water Temperature:

Diving conditions around both sites are generally favourable, with varying currents and depths. Water temperatures are generally comfortable year-round, ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F), making diving a pleasant experience regardless of the season.

Visibility:

The visibility in Gili Mimpang and Tepekong can vary, but generally ranges from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet), making it possible to enjoy clear views of the marine life and underwater landscapes.

Candidasa Diving Site

Dive Sites Information:

Gili Mimpang and Tepekong, with their rich marine life, stunning coral formations, and challenging dive conditions, offer a glimpse into the remarkable underwater diversity that makes Bali a top diving destination. These sites not only showcase the beauty of the Coral Triangle but also provide a thrilling and unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the ocean’s depths.

Gili Tepekong: It’s located a short distance from Gili Mimpang. This dive site is famous for its dramatic wall dives, where divers descend along vertical drop-offs adorned with colourful corals and teeming with marine life. The currents around Tepekong can be strong, making it an ideal location for more experienced divers seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

As divers drift along the walls, they might spot graceful reef sharks cruising in the blue, as well as schools of jacks and barracudas. The overhangs and crevices in the walls often harbour moray eels and critters like scorpionfish and pygmy seahorses. Tepekong’s underwater cliffs are also known for their vibrant, soft corals, which create a stunning visual contrast against the deep blue ocean backdrop.

Gili Mimpang: Known as “Bat’s Head” due to its distinct rock formations resembling a bat’s face, is a cluster of small islands off Bali’s southeastern coast. This dive site is known for its maze-like underwater topography, consisting of a series of pinnacles and channels that create a captivating labyrinth to explore.

Divers can expect to spot schools of reef fish, including angelfish, surgeonfish, and triggerfish, as well as larger pelagic species Mola-mola (Sunfish) and eagle rays. The intricate terrain also serves as a habitat for critters like nudibranchs, shrimp, and octopuses, offering macro photographers a treasure trove of subjects to capture.

Please note that the specific dive sites visited during the day trip may vary depending on factors like weather conditions, currents, and diver experience levels. Our dive guides will carefully select the sites to ensure the best possible diving experience, prioritizing safety and the opportunity for memorable encounters with marine life.

How we run our Candidasa diving day trip:

The trip will start with a bus drive around 1-hour from our dive center in Sanur. The bus will depart at 8:00 AM. We pick a local restaurant as our base to prepare the dive equipment and continue with boat riding for about 20 – 30 minutes to the dive site.

Snacks and cold beverages are available on the boat during the surface interval.