Best Places for Diving in Payakumbuh, Indonesia

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of West Sumatra with a variety of underwater treasures waiting to be explored in and around Payakumbuh. Known as the diving capital of West Sumatra, this region offers divers of all skill levels an unparalleled experience beneath its waves.

Discover the Bountiful Marine Life

Payakumbuh’s dive sites are home to a diverse array of marine life that will captivate even the most seasoned diver. From colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish to unique underwater landscapes, each location provides a distinct and unforgettable experience. The region is particularly renowned for its abundance of soft corals, giant clams, and occasional sightings of larger species like manta rays and whale sharks.

Top 20 Places for Diving in Payakumbuh

1. Batu Katak (Frog Rock)

   • A popular site with abundant marine life and well-known for its vibrant coral formations.

2. Sekatan Island

   • Offers a tranquil setting perfect for beginners, with clear waters and gentle currents.

3. Lembah Pauh (Pauh Gorge)

   • Known for its stunning underwater topography and rich biodiversity, especially during the rainy season.

4. Kuta Bay

   • A sheltered area with calm waters, ideal for families or those seeking a relaxed diving experience.

5. Padang Island

   • Famous for its spectacular dive sites featuring walls, caves, and strong currents.

6. Cikotok Point

   • Home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles and various species of fish.

7. Pasir Panjang (Long Sand)

   • A picturesque site with soft corals and an abundance of colorful fish, perfect for macro photography.

8. Teluk Bungur (Bungur Bay)

   • Offers a wide range of dive sites from shallow reefs to deeper walls, suitable for all skill levels.

9. Lembah Pauh II

   • A continuation of Lembah Pauh with its own unique features and marine life.

10. Kali Bungur (Bungur River) Mouth

    • Known for its interesting underwater caves and tunnels, suitable for advanced divers.

11. Sekatan Point

    • Features dramatic cliffs and an array of marine species, making it a must-visit site.

12. Lemahabang Beach

    • A more exposed site with strong currents and potential sightings of pelagic species like manta rays.

13. Padang Selapan (Sweetwater)

    • Renowned for its soft corals and clear waters, ideal for photographers.

14. Koto Bungur

    • Home to a vibrant coral garden and diverse marine life, including sea turtles.

15. Bukit Kuning (Yellow Hill)

    • Offers an underwater landscape of yellow corals, creating a mesmerizing scene for divers.

16. Cempaka Point

    • Known for its strong currents and potential encounters with whale sharks or manta rays.

17. Pasir Putih (White Sand)

    • A popular site with clear waters and abundant marine life, including reef fish and turtles.

18. Kampi Bungur

    • Features an underwater garden of corals and a variety of small fishes, suitable for beginners.

19. Lembah Pauh III

    • An extension of Lembah Pauh with its own unique set of dive sites and marine life.

20. Bukit Karang (Rock Hill)

    • A site known for its dramatic rock formations and an array of pelagic species, ideal for those seeking adventure.

These top 20 diving spots in Payakumbuh offer a thrilling exploration into the underwater world, ensuring that every dive is both memorable and unforgettable. Whether you're a novice or an experienced diver, there's always something new to discover in these captivating waters.