Best Time To Dive In Belongas
Belongas Bay in South Lombok is one of Indonesia’s most exhilarating dive destinations—famous for its adrenaline-charged sites, seasonal hammerhead encounters, and pelagic action. Conditions here can vary dramatically throughout the year, so choosing the right month makes a big difference in visibility, currents, and wildlife.
Diving Months (March–November Best)
Belongas Bay’s main diving season runs from March to November, when seas are calmer and visibility improves. Here’s how the season breaks down:
March - May
Start of the diving season. Water settles after the rainy months, with improving visibility and moderate currents.
June - August
Peak season for experienced divers. This is when water conditions are clearest and big pelagics become more active.
September - November
Still excellent diving, with warm water and stable weather. Conditions gradually mellow as the rainy season approaches.
December - February
Off-season. Stronger winds, rougher seas, and reduced visibility make diving unpredictable. Most operators reduce or pause trips.
Overall Best
June to September for marine action, April to October for reliable conditions.
Visibility, Temperature, and Current Strength
Belongas Bay is known for dynamic conditions—this is part of the adventure but requires awareness.
Visibility
Average
10–20 m
Best Months
July–October, when water clarity is at its peak
Lowest
December–February (rain runoff and wind)
Water Temperature
Range
23–28°C
Coolest
June–August (down to 23–24°C at depth)
Warmest
March–May and September–November (26–28°C)
Currents
Currents can be strong and unpredictable, especially at sites like The Magnet and Cathedral.
Stronger currents typically occur from July to September, coinciding with peak pelagic activity.
This region is recommended for advanced divers or confident intermediates with guidance.
Marine Sightings (Hammerhead Season & Pelagics)
Belongas Bay is famous for one major highlight: hammerhead sharks.
Hammerhead Shark Season
Peak sightings: July to September
Most often seen at The Magnet, where cooler, nutrient-rich water brings them closer to divers.
Sightings are not guaranteed, but this is the only place in Lombok with seasonal schooling hammerheads.
Other Pelagic Life
Mobula Rays
(May–September)
Giant Trevally, Tuna, and Barracuda
(year-round, most active mid-season)
Eagle Rays and Reef Sharks
Occasional
Large schools of Snapper and Fusiliers
In calmer months
If pelagics are your priority, aim for June–September.
Currents
Currents can be strong and unpredictable, especially at sites like The Magnet and Cathedral.
Stronger currents typically occur from July to September, coinciding with peak pelagic activity.
This region is recommended for advanced divers or confident intermediates with guidance.
Safety Notes and Weather Overview
Belongas Bay is known for challenging, open-ocean conditions. Safety considerations are essential:
Safety Tips
Only dive with operators experienced in Belongas Bay’s unique environment.
Be prepared for negative entries, downcurrents, and surge—standard at top sites.
A minimum Advanced Open Water level is highly recommended.
Use proper exposure protection; temps can drop unexpectedly.
Weather Overview
Dry season (April–October)
Best overall diving. Calm seas, good visibility, and predictable weather.
Rainy season (November–March)
Rougher seas, higher winds, and lower visibility. Trips may be canceled last-minute.