Nestled on Bali's northeast coast, with the majestic Mount Agung as its backdrop, Tulamben is more than just a village—it's a pilgrimage site for divers worldwide. What makes it unique is its incredible shore diving. Forget long boat rides; here, some of the planet's most spectacular underwater scenes are just a few steps from the volcanic black sand beach. This guide is your briefing for an unforgettable experience.
The Crown Jewel: USAT Liberty Wreck
The star of the show is undeniably the USAT Liberty. This 125-meter-long US Army transport ship was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942. It was beached at Tulamben, but the volcanic eruption of Mount Agung in 1963 pushed the vessel off the shore, where it now rests on its side. Today, it's a thriving artificial reef, completely encrusted in corals and teeming with life.
- Accessibility: A true shore dive. The top of the wreck starts at just 5 meters, making it accessible even to snorkelers, while the stern lies deeper at around 30 meters.
- Marine Life: Expect to see resident schools of bumphead parrotfish at dawn, swirling vortexes of big-eyed trevallies, and a huge diversity of macro critters like pygmy seahorses, ghost pipefish, and countless nudibranch species hidden in the structure.
- Best Dive Plan: An early morning dive here is magical, often shared only with the parrotfish. It's also one of Bali's most famous night dive locations, where nocturnal creatures emerge to hunt.
Beyond the Wreck: Tulamben's Other Gems
While the Liberty gets most of the attention, Tulamben's other sites are world-class in their own right and offer a different kind of underwater adventure.
The Drop Off (Wall Dive): A short walk from the wreck, this site is a dramatic lava wall that plunges to depths of over 70 meters. The wall is adorned with massive gorgonian sea fans, barrel sponges, and a kaleidoscope of hard and soft corals. It's a fantastic multi-level dive and a great place to spot larger marine life like reef sharks and the occasional eagle ray.
Coral Garden: Located between the Liberty Wreck and the Drop Off, this shallow reef is a paradise for photographers and novice divers. Starting at just 2-3 meters, it gently slopes down to around 15 meters. The site is famous for its anemone fields full of clownfish, ribbon eels, and expertly camouflaged creatures like scorpionfish and octopus.
Planning Your Dive: Conditions & Logistics
Success in Tulamben comes down to preparation. The conditions are generally favorable, but knowing what to expect makes all the difference.
- Best Season: Aim for April to November for the calmest seas and best visibility, which can often exceed 25 meters. Water temperature is a pleasant 27-29°C (80-84°F) year-round.
- Entry & Exit: All main sites are shore dives. The beach consists of smooth, volcanic rocks, so sturdy dive boots are a non-negotiable piece of gear. Local porters (often the women of the village) are available to carry your gear to the entry point for a small fee—a practice that is customary and supports the local community.
- Currents: Currents are typically mild to non-existent, which is why it's so popular for training. However, they can pick up, especially around the Drop Off. Always dive with a reputable guide who understands the local patterns.
- Conservation: Tulamben's reefs are precious. Practice perfect buoyancy, never touch marine life or corals, and use reef-safe sunscreen. Your actions ensure this paradise remains for future generations.
