Dive Site: Toya Pakeh
Location: Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia
Description: Reef
Depth: 6 – 40 metres (20 – 130 feet)
Visibility: 15 – 40 metres (50 – 130 feet)
Located on the islands’ northwest point, the channel between Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan is probably the single most popular dive site on Nusa Penida and is regarded by many as the best. Its recognition comes because it is partially protected from the current and because the water is clear and the coral is rich. The topography here is very nice with some very attractive coral formations, big gorgonians and soft coral bushes. The fish life is excellent with both small and large species present in large numbers. Emperor and regal angelfish are common and triggerfish of many types and bright clownfish cruise the reef.
Snapper of several varieties, especially midnight snapper, are seen schooling here in phenomenal numbers and there are a great number of sweetlips. The larger reef residents include giant grouper, large parrotfish, moray eels, white tip sharks, giant trevally, big eyed jacks, barracuda and in deeper areas a chance encounter with the fabled ocean sunfish. The current often heads northeast but can sometimes be difficult to read. The easiest way is to drop into the middle of the dive site, starting on the reef at 6 metres then following the slope downwards to 10-15 metres. You can either head north or south, depending on conditions. The water can be very cold here.
Scubster 