4 Best Things to Do in Tulamben
What is Tulamben Most Famous For?
Most of the best things to do in Tulamben are related to the ocean. Right off the coast of this fishing village in East Bali, divers and snorkelers can explore a World War II shipwreck, home to vibrant coral and exotic fish. Many dive centers organize trips to this haven, as well as a nearby Japanese shipwreck that’s now a thriving marine habitat. Sculptures have even been deliberately sunk to aid coral growth around Bali. These beautiful underwater gardens are popular with photographers.
There are also plenty of things to see above the waves of Tulamben, including the pebbly black-sand beach of Tulamben and a large hilltop complex with treehouses and shrines.
1. USAT Liberty Shipwreck
The resting place of a WWII cargo ship
Good for: Adventure, History, Photo
As Tulamben’s main dive site, the USAT Liberty shipwreck just off the coast has drawn divers from the world over to this quiet coastal village in East Bali. Join a diving trip to visit the spectacular remains of a military cargo ship originally built in World War I, but which was torpedoed by the Japanese during World War II.
Snorkeling over the 120-meter-long wreck is possible as the highest point of the stern is only about 4 meters below the surface. Among the corals, you can expect regular sightings of parrotfish, cod, and even occasional sea turtles. Read more
Location: Coral Garden Diving Spot, Tulamben, Kubu, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia
USAT Liberty Shipwreck
2. Boga Shipwreck
A modern shipwreck with its own car inside
Good for: Adventure, Photo, Unusual
The Boga shipwreck, also known as the Kubu Wreck, is located off the coast of Tulamben in East Bali, at a depth of 18 to 40 meters. A former Indonesian government patrol ship was intentionally sunk back in 2012 in order to enhance the marine habitat by creating an artificial reef.
The 45-meter-long wreck is covered with algae and coral, attracting a variety of marine life such as sunfish, great barracuda, peacock grouper, coral trout, and angelfish. The Boga shipwreck has an intact steering wheel that’s a favorite photo-op among freedivers. There’s even a sunken Volkswagen 181 car inside the wreck.
Location: Jl. Sida Karya, Baturinggit, Kec. Kubu, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80853, Indonesia
Boga Shipwreck
3. Suci Place
A beautifully decorated underwater garden
Good for: Adventure, Photo, Unusual
Suci Place is a beautiful diving spot right off the shores of the Matahari Tulamben Resort. The site dates back to 2013, when the resort wanted to have its own house reef for divers in Tulamben. Matahari Tulamben Resort also has a dive center that organizes diving trips to Suci Place.
With a depth of around 9 to 17 meters, this sunken garden is decorated with Buddhist statues, temple fragments, and relics, along with imagery of Hindu gods and goddesses. Moray eels, ocean sunfish, and eagle rays have been sighted in the waters, attracting divers looking to get close to exotic marine life in Bali
Location: Jl. Kubu-Abang, Tulamben, Kubu, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80853, Indonesia
Suci Place
4. Tulamben Beach
A rugged but stunning coastline
Good for: Adventure, Budget
Tulamben Beach is a popular take-off point for divers and snorkelers heading to the various dive sites in the area. This palm tree-lined stretch of coastline is made up of smooth pebbles and rocky volcanic boulders, certainly a contrast to the soft, sandy, white beaches along Bali’s southwestern coastline.
However, it has its own picturesque charm. As most of the touristy action takes place underwater, the beach itself has a quiet, laidback atmosphere that’s suitable for relaxing strolls, sunbathing, and sunset viewing. Read more
Location: Pantai Tulamben, Karangasem, Tulamben, Kubu, Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia
Tulamben Beach
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