Sanur · Padang Bai → Toya Pakeh · Banjar Nyuh
Daily 07:30 – 17:00
When to go
Three seasons, three trade-offs between weather, crowds, underwater visibility and what it costs.
In short
The dry season, June to September, offers clear skies, calm seas and exceptional visibility for diving and snorkelling. It is also the busiest and the most expensive.
01 — The seasons
What each season actually gives you, and what it takes away.
June – September
Minimal rainfall, under 50mm a month, and consistent sunshine. Days sit between 28°C and 31°C, evenings around 24°C.
April, May, October
Warm at 29°C to 32°C with rainfall typically under 100mm a month — short showers that give way to sunshine.
November – March
Rainfall of 150mm to 300mm a month, wettest in January and February. Showers are intense but often short. Temperatures hold at 27°C to 30°C.
02 — Under the surface
The water is warm all year. What changes is visibility, current and what you are likely to meet.
Consistently 26°C to 29°C year round. A 3mm shorty or full suit is usually enough.
Year-round residents at Manta Point and Manta Bay. Their feeding depends on plankton rather than season.
Mainly July to October, when cooler nutrient-rich upwellings bring them closer to the surface, especially at Crystal Bay.
Run-off can drop visibility to 10–15 metres in coastal bays, and currents run stronger. Sheltered bays like Gamat Bay and Toyapakeh hold up better.
Currents vary with moon phase and local conditions. Check local dive reports closer to your travel dates, and dive with guides who know the sites.
03 — The cost of timing
Figures as published in this guide.
Dry season (June–September)
Luxury accommodation
Per night, premium options
USD 400 – 800
Two-tank dive
Excursions are often fully booked
USD 120 – 150
International flights into Denpasar
Compared with shoulder season
15–25% higher
Shoulder (April, May, October)
Accommodation
A villa at USD 700 in August might be USD 500–550 in May
15–30% lower
Fast boat ticket from Sanur
One way, approximately USD 13–20
IDR 200,000 – 300,000
Wet season (November–March)
Luxury resorts
A stay at USD 600 in July might be USD 300–350 in the wet season
30–50% lower
Any season
Guided snorkelling tour
Half-day trips, equipment rental available
USD 30 – 60
Keep reading
Tell us when you can travel and what you want to see, and we will tell you honestly what to expect.
