Why March Is a Fantastic Time to Dive in Candidasa
- saltyfinnsdivingba
- Mar 2
- 4 min read
If you’ve been wondering whether March is a good time to go diving in Bali, the short answer is: yes — especially if you’re heading to Diving in Candidasa.
March sits in that quiet window at the tail end of rainy season. It’s not peak dry season crowds. It’s not mola madness. It’s just really solid, enjoyable, honest diving. And for a lot of experienced divers, that’s actually better.
Let’s break down why diving in Candidasa in March is so underrated.
Fewer Divers, More Ocean
One of the biggest advantages of diving in Candidasa in March? Space.
You’re not dealing with peak July/August tourism. Boats aren’t stacked on top of each other. Sometimes you will even have a boat all to yourself! Dive sites feel calm and personal. You often have more room to move, more time to observe, and less pressure underwater.
For divers who enjoy taking their time, dialing in buoyancy, and actually watching marine life behave naturally — March is gold.
If you want to explore what our daily trips look like, you can check out our instagram for a better idea of how we run things.
What About the Weather?
Let’s be honest.
March is technically still part of Bali’s rainy season. That doesn’t mean it rains all day. Most rain comes in bursts — often overnight or in short tropical showers.
Morning boat departures are usually calm. Most days the wind is manageable and the surface is pretty smooth — though now and then it can get a little choppy. Off course some rainy season are worse then others.
Is it guaranteed sunshine every day? No.
But diving here rarely shuts down because of rain. Underwater, fish don’t care if it rained last night.
Visibility in March
Visibility can range anywhere from 7–20+ meters depending on tides and recent weather.
After heavier rain, you might see reduced visibility near the surface. But once you descend — especially around sites like Gili Tepekong and Gili Mimpang — visibility can improve quite a bit.
This time of year brings nutrient-rich water movement, which means slightly greener water sometimes — but all these nutrients are great for the reef and sea life, as a matter of fact it is one of the reasons the reefs in Candidasa are so healty and teeming with life.
Schools of fusiliers
Trevallies cruising through
Reef sharks patrolling drop-offs
Macro life tucked into coral formations
Cleaning stations active and busy
The reefs here don’t feel overworked or stressed. They feel like ecosystems doing their thing.
Current Conditions in March
Candidasa is known for currents — and yes, they can be strong.
In March, currents can vary day to day. Some dives are relaxed drift-style explorations. Others remind you why buoyancy control and awareness matter.
We plan dives around tides and conditions. Some days we choose sheltered sides of the islands. Some days we go where the action is.
March isn’t about extreme conditions — but it’s not “beginner lagoon diving” either. It’s honest East Bali diving.
If you’re unsure whether your experience level fits simply contact our team for honest advice.
Or if you want to upgrade your skills to the next level check out our course options.
Who Is March Perfect For?
Divers who prefer fewer crowds
Photographers who want space and love macro
Divers building confidence in mild-to-moderate currents
People who want real diving without peak season chaos
If you’re expecting bathtub-warm, no-current reef cruising — Candidasa probably isn’t your spot any month of the year.
But if you enjoy dynamic diving with character, March delivers.
A Typical March Dive Day
You meet early. The air is warm but not blazing hot. Coffee in hand. Gear loaded.
Boat ride is usually calm in the morning. Light breeze. East Bali coastline behind you.
Briefing is honest:“This is what we expect. Here’s the plan. Here’s the backup.”
You drop in. Maybe a light thermocline. Maybe 26–28°C water. Maybe a bit cooler at depth.
Then the reef opens up.
It’s not chaos. It’s not a circus. It’s just good diving.
And when you surface, there’s space. No boat traffic jam. Just ocean.
Why We Love March at Salty Finns
March feels local. It feels real.
It’s not about chasing headlines. It’s about enjoying solid diving with good people and experienced guides who know how to read conditions.
If you’re planning Bali diving and wondering whether March is “too early” — it isn’t.
If anything, it’s one of the most relaxed times to experience Candidasa diving with Salty Finns properly.
A Quick Note About Nyepi (Bali’s Day of Silence)
In March, Bali observes Nyepi, the island’s annual Day of Silence. This year, Nyepi falls on 19 March.
For 24 hours, the entire island comes to a complete standstill. Everyone is required to remain inside their home or hotel, there are no flights, no traffic, no lights at night, and no ocean activities — including diving.
It’s a unique and deeply meaningful cultural experience to witness, but it does mean we do not operate dives on that day. If you’re planning a March trip, we’ll happily help you schedule your dives around 19 March so everything runs smoothly and you make the most of your time in Candidasa.
Ready to Dive in March?
If you’re looking for honest advice about conditions, site selection, and what to expect this time of year, we’re always happy to chat.
Explore your options for diving in Candidasa or book your dives with Salty Finns and experience East Bali the way it’s meant to be — calm mornings, healthy reefs, and no unnecessary hype.
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