By Blaise Jaeger — diver based in Nusa Penida – Updated on June 22, 2026
Yes, there are sharks in Bali — and after years of diving here, I’ve seen plenty. Most are harmless reef sharks such as blacktips, whitetips and bamboo sharks, with rare visits from whale sharks and even a great white once filmed at Nusa Penida. Shark attacks are extremely rare, so sharks shouldn’t keep you out of the water.
Bali and Nusa Penida are world-famous for their incredible diving experiences, particularly for encounters with majestic Manta rays and the awesome Mola Mola (ocean sunfish). However, these waters also host a variety of shark species, which, although less commonly spotted, provide thrilling and unique encounters for divers. Whether you are an experienced or a first-time diver, the chance to see these fascinating predators in their natural habitat makes for an unforgettable underwater adventure. In this guide, we will explore the different types of sharks found in Bali, particularly around Nusa Penida, the best locations to see them, and essential safety tips.
Types of Sharks in Bali
Bali’s waters host a variety of shark species, including:
- Bamboo Sharks – Commonly spotted at Manta Point, Nusa Penida, these small, bottom-dwelling sharks are harmless to humans.
- Whitetip Reef Sharks – Commonly seen around coral reefs, these sharks are curious but harmless to humans.
- Blacktip Reef Sharks – Frequently spotted in shallow waters, they are known for their distinctive black-tipped fins.
- Grey Reef Sharks – More elusive but often found in deeper waters near drop-offs and underwater pinnacles.
- Wobbegong Sharks – Also known as carpet sharks, they camouflage well among the reefs.
- Hammerhead Sharks – Occasionally spotted near the Gili Islands and around Nusa Penida, especially between June and November.
- Thresher Sharks – Occasionally sighted in deeper waters, especially around Nusa Penida and Lombok, known for their long tails and deep-water habits.
- Whale Sharks – Though rare, these gentle giants have been spotted in Bali’s waters, particularly near Nusa Penida.
- Great White Shark – Very rarely seen in Bali; the last recorded sighting was on March 12, 2025, at Ped dive site, Nusa Penida.
The Great White Shark Spotted at Nusa Penida (March 2025)
Bali’s most extraordinary shark sighting in recent memory happened on March 12, 2025, at the Ped dive site in Nusa Penida. A roughly 5-metre great white — heavily scarred and believed to be a pregnant female — glided past a group of divers at around 22 metres. It was filmed by Swedish divemaster Fabian Clinton, who kept eye contact and stayed calm as it passed, ready to gently deflect it with his fin if needed. It wasn’t the island’s first: a great white was also seen at Crystal Bay, on the other side of Nusa Penida, in September 2019. Encounters like these are exceptional — divers should not expect to see a great white in Bali, and most shark sightings here are with smaller, reef-dwelling species.
Best Places to See Sharks in Bali
If you’re looking to encounter sharks in Bali, here are some of the top dive sites:
- Nusa Penida – Known for strong currents, this area attracts pelagic species, including occasional hammerhead sharks, whale sharks and thresher sharks.
- Gili Tepekong Biaha & Mimpang – Located off Padang Bai, these sites are famous for sightings of whitetip and blacktip reef sharks.
- Menjangan Island – While more famous for its stunning coral reefs, reef sharks are sometimes seen here.
- Tulamben & Amed – Although known for the Liberty Shipwreck, these sites also offer occasional shark sightings.
Where I’ve personally seen sharks around Nusa Penida: bamboo sharks on dives at Manta Point (the most recent on 18 June 2026), whitetips and a wobbegong at Crystal Bay (regularly, lately), a thresher shark once at Ped, and a whitetip inside the White Tip Cave at Gili Biaha. My most memorable encounter, though, was a whale shark at Manta Point — the kind of moment you dive for years hoping to see.
Bamboo sharks — like almost every shark you’ll meet around Nusa Penida — are harmless. But the one I filmed at Manta Point on 18 June 2026 was actively hunting and swam right below me and then alongside me. Even knowing it posed no danger, I’ll admit it got my heart racing — and yes, I kept filming the whole time.
Are Sharks in Bali Dangerous?
Shark attacks in Bali are extremely rare, and the species commonly found in its waters are not considered a threat to humans. Most sharks are shy and avoid human interaction. When diving or snorkeling, it’s essential to respect their space, avoid sudden movements, and never attempt to touch or chase them.
When was the last shark attack in Bali? Very few have ever been recorded. Bali has seen only around five shark incidents since 1990, none of them fatal, and almost all near the surf breaks of Uluwatu and the Bukit peninsula — not at the calm dive sites around Nusa Penida. The last serious incident was in 2016 at Balian Beach, on the island’s west coast. For divers and snorkellers around Nusa Penida, the risk is effectively negligible.
Tips for Diving with Sharks in Bali
My own rule, after many encounters, is simple: stay calm, keep looking directly at the shark, and kick gently backwards to give it space. It’s exactly what divemaster Fabian Clinton did when the great white approached at Ped — composure, eye contact, no panic.
- Always dive with a certified and experienced guide.
- Stay calm and keep your eyes on the shark — don’t turn your back or thrash; if one comes close, face it and back away with slow fin kicks.
- Do not feed or provoke sharks.
- Be mindful of your body position to avoid startling them.
- Stay calm and enjoy the experience of observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Final Thoughts
Bali offers incredible opportunities for shark encounters, making it a must-visit destination for divers and marine enthusiasts. By understanding the behavior of sharks, respecting their environment, and supporting conservation efforts, you can enjoy a safe and responsible experience while witnessing one of nature’s most fascinating predators in action.
Additional resources
If you’re interested in learning more, be sure to check out our additional resource about Bali and our Nusa Penida Travel Guide. You can also dive deeper into the incredible marine life of the region with our dedicated pages on manta rays, mola mola (ocean sunfish), and nudibranchs, all commonly encountered around Bali and Nusa Penida. And if you have any questions about scuba diving in Bali or Indonesia, don’t hesitate to reach out—we love connecting with divers and aspiring divers alike and sharing our passion for these extraordinary underwater worlds.
Nusa Penida Diving Guide
Complete Nusa Penida Diving Guide : best dive sites, manta rays, Mola Mola season, drift dives, conditions, PADI courses and practical travel advice.
Best dive sites in Bali
20 best dive sites in Bali around Nusa Penida, Padang Bai and North Bali : discover manta rays, oceanic sunfish, sharks, drift dives and vibrant coral reefs.
Nusa Penida travel guide
Complete Nusa Penida Travel Guide : how to get there, where to stay, best beaches, temples, viewpoints and practical tips to plan your island adventure.
Frequently asked questions
Are there sharks in Bali?
Yes. Bali’s waters are home to several shark species — mostly harmless reef sharks (blacktip, whitetip and grey reef), plus bamboo sharks, wobbegongs and occasional whale sharks, especially around Nusa Penida. Shark attacks are extremely rare.
What types of sharks can you see in Bali?
The most common are reef sharks (blacktip, whitetip, and grey reef), especially around Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands. Divers may also encounter bamboo sharks, wobbegongs, and occasionally whale sharks. A great white shark was once spotted in Nusa Penida.
When was the last shark attack in Bali?
Shark attacks in Bali are extremely rare — only about five since 1990, none fatal. The last serious incident was in 2016 at Balian Beach, on the west coast. Almost all have occurred near Uluwatu’s surf breaks, not around the Nusa Penida dive sites.
Can you see whale sharks in Bali?
Yes, whale sharks are sometimes spotted in Bali waters, though not on a regular basis. The best chances are in Nusa Penida.
Are there great white sharks in Bali?
Great white sharks are extremely rare in Bali. One was filmed at Ped, Nusa Penida in March 2025, and another was seen at Crystal Bay in 2019 — but sightings are exceptional and not something divers should expect. Most shark encounters are with smaller, reef-dwelling species.
Is it safe to dive with sharks in Bali?
Yes, diving with sharks in Bali is generally safe. The species commonly found here are not aggressive toward humans. As with all marine life, divers should respect the animals and maintain a safe distance.
About the author
Blaise Jaeger lives and dives in Nusa Penida, Bali, where he has logged countless dives across the island’s best sites. All the shark photos and videos in this guide are his own, except the great white shark footage, which was filmed by divemaster Fabian Clinton.