In July 2023, the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries officially declared the Karangasem Marine Protected Area (MPA) — a new conservation zone covering more than 5,478 hectares along Bali’s northeast coastline from Tulamben to Padangbai
This landmark decision, outlined in Ministerial Decree No. 123/2023, designates the area as a Taman di Perairan (Marine Park) to protect coral reefs, reef fish, and marine biodiversity while promoting sustainable tourism and fisheries. It’s one of Bali’s most important steps toward a healthier ocean ecosystem — yet few divers even realize they’re already exploring within it.
The Marine Protected Area (MPA) consists of five key zones across renowned dive sites. The Tulamben area spans 1,308 hectares, safeguarding the USAT Liberty wreck and nearby reefs.
To the south, the Amed and Seraya region is the largest at over 2,200 hectares, featuring a 179-hectare core conservation zone prohibiting diving and fishing, while allowing sustainable tourism and community fishing in the remaining area.
Further along, Candidasa’s marine territory covers approximately 1,755 hectares, preserving both shallow coral gardens and deeper ecosystems. Lastly, the southern tip with Padangbai includes a small 12-hectare rehabilitation zone for coral restoration and scientific monitoring.
Each area is precisely mapped with official coordinates, ensuring clear management boundaries and accountability. The Bali Provincial Government now oversees this Marine Park, balancing conservation with local livelihoods.
The Karangasem Marine Protected Area includes some of Bali’s most celebrated dive sites, all accessible from Bali Dive Resort and Spa Tulamben and Bali Dive Resort Amed.
USAT Liberty Wreck (Tulamben) – A world-famous shore dive site rich in coral, sponges, and schools of jackfish.
Amed & Jemeluk Bay – Calm conditions ideal for beginners, snorkelers, and photographers.
Seraya & Melasti – A paradise for macro lovers, featuring ghost pipefish, frogfish, and mimic octopus.
Candidasa & Padangbai – For advanced divers, with reef sharks, turtles, and vibrant coral slopes.
Tulamben Night Dives – Experience the reef’s nocturnal side with octopus, cuttlefish, and tiny critters under torchlight.
Each dive you make here supports the marine protected area’s goal of protecting Bali’s marine biodiversity for generations to come.
The Karangasem Marine Protected Area is not about limiting access — it’s about managing use sustainably.
Within the MPA, core conservation zones are completely protected from extractive activities, allowing coral and fish populations to recover naturally.
Sustainable-use zones permit diving and traditional fishing, provided they follow eco-friendly guidelines.
Rehabilitation zones serve as living laboratories for coral planting and habitat restoration, ensuring damaged areas can heal over time.
By combining environmental protection with community benefits, the MPA strengthens both reef health and the livelihoods of local fishermen and dive operators.
At Bali Dive Resort and Spa Tulamben, we are proud to be the only PADI Eco Center and Green Fins member in the Tulamben–Amed region.
Our eco initiatives perfectly align with the MPA’s objectives — promoting responsible diving, education, and active reef stewardship.
Our efforts include:
Organizing underwater and beach clean-ups throughout the year.
Training divers in perfect buoyancy control to avoid coral contact.
Using reef-safe cleaning products and minimizing plastic waste.
Encouraging the use of reef-safe sunscreen and refillable water bottles.
Partnering with local conservation programs and reef restoration teams.
When you dive with us, you’re not just exploring Bali’s best sites — you’re helping to protect them.
Every diver, snorkeler, and visitor has the power to make a difference. Here’s how:
Respect MPA zones – only dive and snorkel where permitted.
Perfect your buoyancy – keep your fins off the reef.
Choose eco-certified operators like PADI Eco Centers.
Refuse single-use plastics and refill your bottle.
Spread awareness – tell others about the Karangasem MPA and its importance.
These small actions add up, helping ensure that the coral reefs of Tulamben, Amed, and Candidasa remain Bali’s most vibrant underwater treasures.
Diving in the Karangasem Marine Protected Area is more than just a breathtaking experience — it’s an act of conservation.
At Bali Dive Resort and Spa, we invite you to explore responsibly, learn more about Bali’s marine ecosystems, and be part of this exciting new chapter in ocean protection.
💙 Book your eco-friendly dive holiday today and discover the underwater beauty of the Karangasem MPA — Bali’s newest marine park.
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