5 Best Things to Do in Tulamben

As Tulamben’s main dive site, the USAT Liberty shipwreck in Tulamben 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 about 4 meters below the surface. Among the corals, you can expect regular sightings of parrotfish, cod and even occasional sea turtles.

The Boga shipwreck is located off the coast of Tulamben in East Bali, at a depth of 30 meters. This World War II cargo ship was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine back in 1942. The 85-meter-long wreck is covered with algae and coral, attracting a variety of fish like 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, as well as a sunken Volkswagen 181.

Suci Place is a beautiful diving spot right off the shores of 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 Buddha images, temples and stupas, along with 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.

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 beach is made up of smooth pebbles and rocky volcanic boulders – a contrast to the soft, sandy, white beaches along Bali’s southwestern coastline. As most of the action is underwater, the beach itself has a quiet, laidback vibe that’s suitable for relaxing and sunset viewing.

Rumah Pohon is a private complex in Batu Dawa Village. One of the best spots for panoramic views over the hills of Tulamben, it has 2 treehouses, a mini-Borobudur-like structure, along with high swings and suspension bridges made from bamboo and wood. Each treehouse can accommodate 6 people at a time, so it’s a good idea to get there early to avoid a long queue. The many vantage points at Rumah Pohon overlook Mount Agung in the southwest, Tulamben Beach and Amed Beach in the east.