Tulamben Beach

Dive into Adventure at Tulamben Beach, Bali’s Premier Wreck Dive Spot

Tulamben Beach is a serene fishing village nestled in the tranquillity of Karangasem Regency on the east side of Mount Agung. This idyllic location boasts a beautiful beach and an extraordinary underwater world. Hence, it makes it a haven for divers from around the globe. The allure of Tulamben lies in its unique and captivating underwater scenery. It features historic shipwrecks that serve as vibrant habitats for coralfish. Recognized as one of the best Bali wreck dive spots, Tulamben promises divers an enchanting experience on every descent into its azure waters.

The name “Tulamben” has roots in the local Balinese word “Batulambih,” meaning “many stones.” This reference reflects the aftermath of destructive eruptions by Mount Agung. The eruption has left the beach covered not in sand but in smooth, fairly large stones. Over time, the name evolved from “Batulamben” to the contraction “Tulamben,” with “batu” translating to “stone” in Indonesian. Tulamben Beach is situated in Tulamben Village, Kubu District, Karangasem Regency. It is approximately a 3-hour drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Recognized as one of the prominent tourist destinations in Karangasem, Bali. The beach invites visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and unparalleled underwater treasures.

General Information

Tulamben Beach, situated in the Karangasem Regency of Bali, is celebrated for its exceptional diving opportunities and captivating marine biodiversity. The beach’s volcanic black sand shores starkly contrast the azure waters of the Bali Sea, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for underwater exploration.

History

Tulamben has a rich history, but the spotlight shifted to the area when the USS Liberty, a United States Army cargo ship, met its fate during World War II. The ship, originally built in 1918, was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine near Lombok in 1942. In an attempt to salvage the vessel, it was towed to the Tulamben area. However, it was deemed irreparable, and in 1963, the eruption of Mount Agung pushed the ship off the beach into the water, where it now lies on its side.

The USS Liberty Shipwreck

The shipwreck lay dormant for years until it was ‘rediscovered’ by divers in the late 20th century. The Liberty Wreck has since become an iconic underwater attraction and a haven for marine life. The wreck rests relatively shallowly, making it accessible to divers of various skill levels. The abundant coral growth on the ship’s structure has transformed it into a vibrant and diverse artificial reef, teeming with many marine species.

The Highlights:

1. USAT Liberty Shipwreck Dive:  Descend into the depths and discover the iconic USAT Liberty Shipwreck. It is one of Bali’s most famous dive sites, home to many colourful corals, tropical fish, and marine creatures.
2. Macro Photography Opportunities:  Explore Tulamben’s diverse marine ecosystem, renowned for its excellent macro photography opportunities. It includes rare critters such as pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and ghost pipefish.
3. Night Diving:  Experience the thrill of night diving at Tulamben Beach. It is a nocturnal marine life that comes to life under the glow of dive lights. Also, it offers a unique perspective on the underwater world.
4. Easy Shore Diving: Enjoy convenient shore diving access at Tulamben Beach. It is suitable for divers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
5. Hotels and Accommodations: Relax and unwind in comfort after diving with a range of hotels and accommodations near Tulamben Beach that offer picturesque views and convenient access to the dive sites.
6. Restaurants: Indulge in delicious Indonesian and international cuisine at the beachfront restaurants and cafes scattered along Tulamben’s coastline, serving fresh seafood and refreshing beverages.
7. Transportation Services: Seamlessly navigate to Tulamben Beach with transportation services available, including private transfers and guided tours, ensuring a hassle-free journey from your accommodation to the dive site.
8. Water Activities: Dive into a world of adventure beyond scuba diving with various water activities available at Tulamben Beach, including snorkelling, swimming, and underwater photography, perfect for non-divers and families alike.

Related Tours

Enhance your diving experience with combined tours such as the Karangasem Tour, East Bali VW Safari Tour, and other Bali Tour Packages. Contact our team to tailor your itinerary and discover exclusive deals and discounts.

Other Tourist Attractions

While in the region, explore nearby attractions, including Tenganan Village, Besakih Temple, Candidasa Beach, and the majestic Karangasem Royal Palace. Delve into the cultural heritage of East Bali at Taman Sukasada Ujung Karangasem, unwind at Tirta Gangga Waterpark, or relax on the shores of Virgin Beach. Discover Amed Beach, Bloo Lagoon, and Putung Village’s natural beauty, each offering unique charm and attractions.