You are on the largest archipelago in the world. Indonesia has too many diving and snorkeling spots to list. Many are easily accessible. PADI is well recognized and many travelers take their basic open water certification here as part of their holiday. Prices vary but count on about US$ 350 for a 4-day course. Instructors are multilingual. When choosing a dive operator, do check on their equipment. Too cheap means they are cutting corners. 2 dives cost about US$ 30 at most sites. We have listed a few dive sites that you may find interesting.

Pulau Seribu literally means a thousand islands about 17 km off the North Coast of Jakarta.There are actually only 130 islands. Many have resorts that fill up during the weekends and school holidays. Pulau Kotok offers the best diving although it pales in comparison to diving spots anywhere out of Pulau Seribu. We recommend it only if you are stuck in Jakarta and going nowhere else.

Pulau Seribu Island

This is a world class diving and snorkeling site. The island is part of the Bunaken Manado Tua Marine National Park. The coral drop-offs, caves and valleys are easily accessible and it is common to see large fish including rays, dolphins, shark and turtle. There is flat coral 100 m off Liang Beach that suddenly drops from 2m into black nothingness. Bunaken is close to Manado, Sulawesi.

Located in one of the remotest areas of Indonesia, Raja Ampat in Papua is magnificent. It is accessible from Sorong.

Home to newly discovered species, these are truly unspoilt and pristine. The waters are fairly sheltered and offer diving year round. Coupled with bird watching to catch the elusive birds of paradise, white sandy beaches, and the mystery of Papua, this dive spot adds spice to your diving tales back home.

Most divers end up diving in Bali. Reefs are varied, easily accessible, and competition keeps prices competitive. There are far too many dive sites to list here.

Padangbai is popular for PADI courses. Calm shallow waters and vibrant marine life only 5 minutes off shore, make it an excellent choice for beginners. The family of nurse sharks at Blue Lagoon will thrill newbie's. Nusa Penida and Lembongan dives are run from Padangbai to catch the 2m radius flatfish Mola-mola. Manta Point is also popular.

Tulamben in the North East boasts wreck diving 101. The SS Liberty, a WW2 torpedoed ship lays in shallow waters only 10 m off the coast. The hull has broken into sections but you can easily dive through it. There is a lot of marine life, although it can get crowded with up to 50 divers during peak periods. Snorkeling here is also good.

Most divers end up diving in the Gilis. Reefs are varied, easily accessible, and competition keeps prices competitive. Again, there are far too many dive sites to list here.

The three Gili islands are one huge playground for divers. Marine life is varied and in abundance. Black and white tip sharks are common as are manta rays. Lobsters and crabs abound. Snorkeling here is as good as it gets.

Popular sites include Shark Point, Simon's Reef, and Deep Halik. Nitrox divers will enjoy Deep Turbo and Japanese Wreck

Diving in the Gilis Island

Lobsters