Saleh Bay in Sumbawa

Explore the whalesharks and untouched beauty of Saleh Bay

What you need to know about Saleh Bay

Situated between the islands of Sumbawa and Komodo, Saleh Bay is an emerging diving destination that offers a unique and exciting underwater experience. Known for its rich marine biodiversity and stunning coral formations, Saleh Bay provides an exceptional diving adventure for enthusiasts seeking untouched beauty.

Dive into the depths of Saleh Bay to encounter a plethora of marine life, including manta rays, reef sharks, and a vibrant array of tropical fish. The coral gardens are a diver’s paradise, with colorful soft and hard corals providing a mesmerizing backdrop. The bay’s relatively calm waters and excellent visibility make it an ideal spot for underwater photography and macro diving.

For non-divers, Saleh Bay has much to offer. Enjoy boat trips around the bay, explore the mangrove forests, or visit the nearby traditional fishing villages for a cultural experience. Whether underwater or on land, Saleh Bay promises an adventure filled with natural wonders and serene landscapes.

Interesting facts about Saleh Bay

Getting there: The best way to explore Saleh Bay is by liveaboard, offering direct access to its prime dive sites. Alternatively, you can fly to Sumbawa and take a boat to the bay.

Best time to visit Saleh Bay: The optimal time for diving is from April to November, when water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), providing ideal conditions for marine life encounters.

Diving Conditions: Saleh Bay features dive sites with depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters (16 to 131 feet). The bay generally has calm waters with mild currents, suitable for divers of all levels.

Our liveaboard trips: Our liveaboard expeditions to Saleh Bay typically last 7-10 days and often include stops at other premier dive locations such as Komodo and Sumbawa. Multiple liveaboard vessels operate in this region, ensuring a comprehensive diving experience.

A little known fact: Saleh Bay is home to the rare and fascinating "strawberry sea cucumbers," named for their unique appearance and vibrant color, making them a favorite among underwater photographers.

Pictures of Saleh Bay

Highlights in Saleh Bay

Whaleshark Encounter

Saleh Bay, located on the northern coast of Sumbawa, Indonesia, is renowned for offering one of the most thrilling marine experiences: swimming with whalesharks. These gentle giants frequent the bay, providing divers and snorkelers a rare and unforgettable encounter with the largest fish in the ocean.

The Whaleshark Encounter in Saleh Bay is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you glide through the clear, warm waters, you'll be awestruck by the sheer size and grace of these magnificent creatures. Snorkelers can often see whalesharks feeding near the surface, making it an ideal activity for both divers and non-divers alike. The best time for these encounters is typically between May and October when the whalesharks are most active in the bay.

Saleh Bay is not just about whalesharks; it also offers stunning coral reefs and a variety of marine life. The bay's calm and protected waters make it an excellent location for underwater photography. Besides the marine attractions, visitors can also explore the cultural and natural beauty of Sumbawa Island, including its traditional villages and scenic landscapes.