Green sea turtles swimming over coral reef near the Gili Islands
Home / Gili Islands / Diving and snorkelling
Diving and snorkelling

Enter the
turtle world.

Warm water, sea turtles and closely spaced dive sites make the Gilis one of Indonesia's most accessible marine destinations. The best experience begins with the right operator and respect for current, coral and wildlife.

Updated 17 July 2026

Snorkelling from shore or by boat?

Shore snorkelling offers freedom, but the safest and clearest entry changes with tide, wind and current. A guided boat can match the site to conditions and visit more than one island. Shared tours are social and economical; a private trip gives more control over timing and crowd avoidance.

Scuba diving for every level

New divers can try a supervised introductory experience or complete an internationally recognised course. Certified divers can choose from sloping reefs, walls, drift dives and deeper sites. Conditions can include current, so a responsible centre will ask about recent experience and choose the site accordingly.

How to choose an operator

  • Recognised training affiliation and clear safety briefing.
  • Well-maintained equipment and appropriate group size.
  • Honest discussion of medical forms, current and diver experience.
  • No touching, feeding or chasing turtles.
  • Clear price including equipment, boat and applicable park fees.

Protect the reef

Use reef-conscious sun protection, keep fins above coral, maintain good buoyancy and do not collect shells. The Gili Matra marine park supports important turtle habitat, and local organisations work on reef restoration, waste and environmental education.

Information checked 17 July 2026. Useful official and specialist references: Gili Matra turtle monitoring · Gili Eco Trust reef work. Schedules, prices, entry rules and conditions can change; verify before booking.

Visual guide

See what the trip can feel like.

Frequently asked

Practical answers.

Will I definitely see a turtle?

Turtles are common, but wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. Never crowd or chase an animal.

Can non-swimmers snorkel?

Discuss this honestly with an operator. A flotation aid is not a substitute for comfort in open water, and some conditions are unsuitable.

Do I need certification to try scuba?

A supervised introductory programme may be available without certification, subject to medical and age requirements. Independent recreational diving requires certification.

What should certified divers bring?

Bring certification details, logbook information if requested, insurance and any personal equipment you prefer. State the date of your last dive honestly.

Planning an island event?

Turn the trip into a beautifully easy celebration.

Tell us your plans →