Seasonal Pelagic Encounters in Belongas Bay
Belongas Bay is renowned for its seasonal hammerhead shark encounters — one of the most sought-after diving experiences in Lombok. During peak months, cooler nutrient-rich currents attract schooling hammerheads closer to the legendary dive site known as The Magnet.
THE HAMMERHEAD
SHARK SEASON
Belongas Bay is internationally known for its seasonal hammerhead shark encounters, attracting experienced divers seeking one of Lombok’s most thrilling underwater experiences.
The peak hammerhead season typically runs from July to September, when cooler nutrient-rich upwellings create ideal conditions for pelagic marine life. During this period, schooling hammerheads are most often encountered at The Magnet — a legendary offshore pinnacle famous for strong currents, deep blue water, and dramatic pelagic action.
Conditions at The Magnet can be challenging and are best suited for advanced divers or confident intermediates diving with professional guides. While sightings are never guaranteed and depend heavily on ocean conditions, Belongas remains one of the very few locations in Lombok known for seasonal hammerhead activity.
For divers seeking raw ocean energy, powerful currents, and unforgettable encounters in the deep blue, the hammerhead season in Belongas offers a truly extraordinary diving experience.
Overall Best Period
June to September — Best for pelagic encounters and marine action.
April to October — Best overall conditions for luxury Lombok diving experiences.
Visibility, Temperature & Current Strength
Condition
Details
Understanding the Conditions of Belongas Bay
Belongas Bay reveals its finest underwater conditions from March to November, when calmer seas, improved visibility, and warmer waters create the perfect setting for unforgettable Lombok diving experiences. From dramatic reef formations to thrilling pelagic encounters, each season offers a different side of Belongas.
Best Period
VISIBILITY
Average underwater visibility ranges from 10–20 meters depending on weather and tidal conditions.
July - October
LOWEST
VISIBILITY
Seasonal rain runoff and stronger winds may reduce clarity
December – February
WATER
TEMPERATURE
Tropical water temperatures range between 23°C – 28°C year-round.
March – November
COOLEST
WATER
Temperatures may drop to 23–24°C at deeper dive sites due to upwellings.
June – August
WARMEST
WATER
Warm tropical temperatures averaging 26–28°C.
March – May & September – November
CURRENT STRENGTH
Currents can be strong and dynamic, attracting rich pelagic marine life.
July – September
RECOMMENDED LEVEL
Best suited for advanced divers or confident intermediates with guide supervision.
Year-round depending on conditions
SIGNATURE DIVE SITES
Legendary sites include The Magnet and Cathedral.
Peak season: June – September
Marine Sightings
(Hammerhead Season & Pelagics)
Belongas Bay is famous for one major highlight: hammerhead sharks.
Hammerhead Shark Season
Peak sightings: July to September
Most often seen at The Magnet, where cooler, nutrient-rich water brings them closer to divers.
Sightings are not guaranteed, but this is the only place in Lombok with seasonal schooling hammerheads.
Other Pelagic Life
Mobula Rays
(May–September)
Giant Trevally, Tuna, and Barracuda
(year-round, most active mid-season)
Eagle Rays and Reef Sharks
Occasional
Large schools of Snapper and Fusiliers
In calmer months
If pelagics are your priority, aim for June–September.
Currents
Currents can be strong and unpredictable, especially at sites like The Magnet and Cathedral.
Stronger currents typically occur from July to September, coinciding with peak pelagic activity.
This region is recommended for advanced divers or confident intermediates with guidance.
Safety Notes and Weather Overview
Belongas Bay is known for challenging, open-ocean conditions. Safety considerations are essential:
Safety Tips
Only dive with operators experienced in Belongas Bay’s unique environment.
Be prepared for negative entries, downcurrents, and surge—standard at top sites.
A minimum Advanced Open Water level is highly recommended.
Use proper exposure protection; temps can drop unexpectedly.
Weather Overview
Dry season (April–October)
Best overall diving. Calm seas, good visibility, and predictable weather.
Rainy season (November–March)
Rougher seas, higher winds, and lower visibility. Trips may be canceled last-minute.