Bali's waters are home to green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles, both of which are regularly encountered on dives across the island. These ancient reptiles have been navigating the oceans for over 100 million years.
Best dive sites for turtles: Amed (Jemeluk Bay has resident turtles on the reef), Tulamben (turtles sleep in the Liberty wreck structure), Menjangan (hawksbill turtles are common on the walls), Nusa Penida (green turtles at Toyapakeh and Crystal Bay), Padang Bai (turtles at Blue Lagoon).
Green sea turtles are the most commonly seen species in Bali. They are herbivores that graze on seagrass and algae growing on rocks and coral. You often see them munching contentedly on the reef, ignoring divers completely.
Hawksbill turtles are smaller and more colorful, with beautiful patterned shells. They feed on sponges and are found on coral walls and overhangs, particularly at Menjangan Island.
Responsible turtle interaction: never touch or ride turtles (this is illegal in Indonesia), maintain a 2-meter distance, do not block their path to the surface (they need to breathe), and avoid flash photography that may startle them.
Bali has several turtle conservation programs, including the Serangan Turtle Conservation Center. Many dive operators, including us, support local conservation efforts and educate divers about protecting these endangered animals.