Tulamben: USS Liberty Shipwreck & Coral Garden Dive with Pickup

Summary

Black sand, coral gardens, shipwrecks and Bali’s underwater life

You’ll slip into Tulamben’s black sand shore for two dives: first exploring the hauntingly beautiful USS Liberty shipwreck, then drifting through Coral Garden’s bright reefs and curious fish. With hotel pickup, all your gear sorted, lunch included, and a local guide who keeps things relaxed, you’ll find yourself surprised by what you notice — and how peaceful you feel afterward.

What’s the experience like?

We pulled up to Tulamben just as the morning air was starting to get sticky — our driver had picked us up right on time, which felt like a small miracle given Bali traffic. The village itself is quiet, nothing flashy. I noticed the black sand right away, almost glittery under our feet as we geared up. Our dive guide Wayan grinned when he saw how nervous I looked (first time diving outside a pool), and he kept patting my shoulder before we headed in. I could smell something salty and earthy mixing with the sunscreen on my hands.

First stop was the USAT Liberty shipwreck. It’s only a short swim from shore — maybe five minutes? — but it felt longer with my heart thumping in my ears. The water was cooler than I expected. Suddenly there it was: this huge shadow covered in soft corals, like nature had decided to decorate an old war story. Schools of fish darted around us; at one point, Wayan pointed out a parrotfish that looked like it had been painted by someone who’d run out of patience halfway through. I tried not to laugh into my regulator.

After a quick break (and some strong Indonesian coffee back on shore — seriously, don’t skip it), we went back in for the Coral Garden dive. This part felt lighter somehow; sunlight filtered down and made everything glow greenish-gold. Ribbon eels poked out from rocks like they were judging us. I lost track of time watching tiny fish flicker past my mask — honestly, 30 or 40 minutes goes fast down there. Lunch after tasted better than it probably was because we were starving and still half-damp.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm underwater, or to remember the way Wayan kept checking on us with these little hand signals that meant “okay?” even when we’d already nodded three times. There’s something about Tulamben diving that sticks with you — maybe it’s the wreck itself or just how simple everything feels once you’re floating there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tulamben diving at popular spots

• Pickup from hotel at 8 AM
• Dive at Coral Garden for 30-40 minutes
• Dive at USAT Liberty Shipwreck for 30-40 minutes
• Explore underwater coral and fish species

Top questions

How long is each dive at Tulamben?

Each dive lasts about 30 to 40 minutes at both the USS Liberty shipwreck and Coral Garden spots.

Is Tulamben diving suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners can join as long as they’re accompanied by professional instructors provided by the operator.

What does the Tulamben diving package include?

The package includes hotel pickup (optional), all diving equipment, two dives, lunch, and an English-speaking driver if needed.

Where is Tulamben located in Bali?

Tulamben is a small village in northeast Bali known for its black sand beaches and famous dive sites.

What marine life can I see while diving in Tulamben?

You might spot parrotfish, ribbon eels, snappers, frogfish, scorpionfish, and many more species among the corals.

Is lunch included during the day trip to Tulamben?

Yes, Indonesian lunch is included after your dives.

Are transfers provided from my hotel in Bali?

A comfortable air-conditioned car can pick you up from your hotel if you choose this option when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes optional hotel pickup in an air-conditioned car, all necessary diving equipment for two guided dives (each around 30 minutes), a professional local instructor looking out for you throughout both the USS Liberty shipwreck and Coral Garden dives, plus Indonesian lunch before heading back still smelling faintly of saltwater.