Best Spots For Scuba Diving In Gili Islands

A picture of a beach at Gili islands with tall pine trees and a hut-shaped resort at the shore

Scuba diving in Gili Islands brings out real adventure in the underwater world, with views of various forms of marine life. Kaleidoscopic coral reefs and shoals of colourful tropical fish delight the diver upon descent into the crystal-clear waters. Equipped with pleasant water temperatures, generally calm conditions, and excellent visibility, the Gili Islands offer the ultimate diving experience for every diver, from the lowest to the highest experience levels. For both beginners and very experienced divers, the Gili Islands promise great times underwater in this Indonesian paradise.

Factors That Affect Scuba Diving In Gili Islands

A picture of a beach at Gili island with eateries and restaurants on the right side

Photo: Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedeia Commons

When planning for scuba diving in the Gili Islands, several important factors can influence your experience, such as:

  • Health Conditions
  • Finning Techniques
  • Water Conditions
  • Aquatic Life
  • Safety Precautions

Suggested Read: Discover The Thrill Of Scuba Diving In Bali For An Adventurous Vacation

Levels Of Scuba Diving In Gili Islands

A picture taken from a famous Gili island where another Gili island is visible at a distance

Photo: MisterGrigri / Wikimedia Commons

There are numerous levels of scuba diving in Gili Islands for all divers, whether at primary or advanced expertise levels. These are as follows:

Discover Scuba Diving: This is simply for an introductory experience regarding scuba diving under the very close supervision of a PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) instructor. No prior experience is required. This procedure shall be followed by a short briefing, after which you are free to go down to 12 metres deep with a time approach of 30-40 minutes.
Duration: 30-40 minutes

Open Water Diver: This is the first level of certification for recreational scuba diving: some classroom sessions, confined water training, and 4 open water dives. At the end of the course, you can dive up to a maximum depth of 18 metres (60 feet).
Duration: 2-3 days

Advanced Open Water Diver: Upon completing this course, one can try different dive styles, such as deep diving, underwater navigation, night diving, and many more. This course includes 5 adventure dives up to a maximum depth of 30 metres (100 feet).
Duration: 1-2 days

Rescue Diver: The course teaches you how to prevent and manage problems for yourself and others. You can learn various dive rescue techniques, emergency management, and first aid options when you need them.
Duration: 2 days

Divemaster: This professional-level rating aims to train you as a dive leader so that you can supervise dive activities and assist instructors with diver training. Extensive training is provided in dive theory, skills, and the environment. You must be at least 18 years old and have 40 dives logged.
Duration: About 4-6 weeks

Popular Destinations For Scuba Diving In Gili Islands

Beautiful Sri Lanka has many places that allow tourists to have a fantastic scuba diving experience. Here are a few places for Scuba Diving in Gili islands.

1. Gili Trawangan

A picture of a diver exploring underwater with a big turtle swimming in front of him

Photo: Nuctuslasheca / Wikimedia Commons

Dive sites around Gili Trawangan are colourful and exciting. On the dive sites of this island, one can experience excellent visibility and clear, warm waters, with a chance to swim above vibrant coral reefs and enjoy the abundance of marine life. Divers frequently come across species like graceful sea turtles, elusive reef sharks, and colourful schools of tropical fish. Dramatic drop-offs and huge coral gardens typify underwater topography that both provides shallow and deep dive experiences. With its relatively mild currents and warm temperatures, this must be accessible and enjoyable for every diver, regardless of their level.

Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 30 metres

Suggested Read: Scuba Diving Gili Trawangan For Underwater Expedition

2. Gili Meno

A famous spot for scuba diving in Gili island with a ferry parked and mountains visible afar

Photo: yeowatzup / Wikimedia Commons

It holds some of the most peaceful and beautiful dive sites, which are much calmer compared to its neighbours. Gili Meno has beautiful coral gardens and a great deal of marine life, so the conditions are ideal for a relaxed underwater experience. One can frequently see colourful reef fish, green turtles, and sometimes blacktip reef sharks. The dive sites are generally not that deep, which makes for an ideal location for beginners or for those who would like to make a leisurely dive. This tranquil atmosphere and beautiful marine landscape earned it its reputation as one of the best dive spots.

Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 40 metres

3. Gili Air

A popular destination for scuba diving in Gili Islands with a boat sailing away from the shore

Photo: Laurent Bigué / Wikimedia Cpmmons

This island has many dive sites, where access is easy, and a wide array of dives caters to all diver levels. Underwater landscapes are shallow reefs and deeper drop-offs, which provide conditions for a wide range of dives. The same variety is reflected in the rich diversity of marine life, featuring schools of colourful tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and occasional visits from larger pelagic species like sharks. Calm waters and great biodiversity of marine life make Gili Air just the right place to explore the underwater world in a beautiful, unruffled setting.

Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 30 metres

Suggested Read: The Best Adventure Sports In Bali To Try On Your Next Vacation

4. Gili Selang

A tall and elevated island in Indonesia with green environment and resorts along with a sea view

Photo: Visions of Domino / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The island appears on the list despite being distinct from the other three due to its equal beauty and short distance. Gili Selang is one of those dive destinations that bring adventure, and it is known for its strong currents and colourful undersea scenery. The site includes dramatic coral walls, deep drop-offs, and abundant marine life, from barracudas and reef sharks to schools of colourful fish. Such demanding conditions make it perfect for experienced divers searching for extra adrenaline in their underwater adventure. The island of Gili Selang is a pristine setting that is unspoiled and provides a unique and hair-raising dive experience.

Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 35 metres

Best Time For Scuba Diving In Gili Islands

A picture of a person scuba diving in the Gili Islands and exploring underwater plants

Photo: Mudasir Zainuddin / Wikimedia Commons

The best time to scuba dive in the Gili Islands, Indonesia, is from April to October. The weather is dry in these months, with clear water visibility as far as 20-30 meters. Seas are normally calm at this time of the year, and most divers would prefer this for a more enjoyable and safe experience.

Suggested Read: Gili Islands Snorkelling For Underwater Adventures

Price Of Scuba Diving In Gili Islands

A picture of a scuba diver exploring the underwater world with sea plants and fish

Photo: AshwiniShinde / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Scuba diving in the Gili Islands offers a range of affordable options in INR, making it accessible to many enthusiasts. The price of scuba diving in Gilli Islands starts from ₹2,800 to ₹4,000. For those seeking certification, an Open Water Course ranges from ₹28,000 to ₹36,000, covering equipment rental, instruction, and certification.

Scuba diving in Gili Islands provides an exciting, visually stunning, and exhilarating experience. Islands beaches offer some of the most breathtaking scenery and a variety of thrilling activities, such as scuba diving. Viewers can get up close and personal with the marine reefs to witness the ocean’s magnificence. Make your reservation with TripXl today to explore the azure water and enjoy scuba diving in the Gili Islands.

Cover Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedeia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

No specific criteria make it compulsory to know how to swim before scuba diving. However, it would be helpful to the basics.
You may encounter colourful reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and coral species. Some sites also offer the chance to see larger fish like barracudas.
Beachside shops or agencies usually provide clothes and suits along with accessories needed. Hence, it is recommended that visitors only take the costumes from there.
Tourists can enjoy snorkelling on the islands and other water sports and activities.
There are multiple places to visit on the islands, including temples, cafes, beaches, and many more sights to explore.

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