Top 5 must-see guide to diving/snorkelling at Bawah Reserve

As an archipelago with rich marine life, Bawah's 6 islands and 3 lagoons are the perfect sanctuary for busy underwater activity.  Aside from the usual colourful fish often found in tropical waters, divers and snorkelers alike, can spot many more unique fish such as Bumphead Parrotfish and Eagle Rays. 

Here is our guide to the top 5 marine life to look out for whilst enjoying the 12 reefs that make up the Bawah Marine Conservation Reserve.  Happy spotting. 

1) Turtles

Six of the seven species of sea turtle in the world can be found here in Indonesia. Their existence has been a threat either from natural disturbance or human activities. These conditions mean that all of the sea turtle species in Indonesia are now protected by the government and globally the sea turtle is classified by conservation status in IUCN red list.

The Bawah Anambas Foundation  is working hard to protect eggs and to release baby turtles once hatched. Last month over 80 baby turtles were safely hatched and released into the lagoon.

Where to find them?

Often seen around the end of the Jetty and also around Turtle Beach. See here for our guide to turtles on Bawah Reserve.

2) Bumphead Parrotfish

Travelling in large schools, the colourful Bumphead Parrotfish use their head to “bump” against coral to break it into small pieces to make it easier to eat. They can grow up to 4 ft long. Schools of 30-plus Bumphead Parrotfish can be found around many dive sites on Bawah Reserve but you’re more
likely to get the shot early in the morning when the fish are calmer.

Where to find them?

Look for splashing. Often found between Muerba and Bawah.

3) Eagle Ray 

Most commonly found in shallow coastal waters on reefs or in bays down to depths of 30m.  Generally shy, Eagle Rays are wary of divers and are difficult to approach. However, it is considered potentially dangerous to humans due to the venomous tail spines that can inflict serious wounds - so watch from a distance.

Where to find them?

Around the shoreline of Bawah. Move slowly they swim away quickly!

4) Moray Eel

Moray eels open and close their mouths in a threatening looking manner!  Don’t be alarmed, it's just breathing.  We have one or two resident Moray Eels on Bawah Reserve to look out for.

Where to find them?

Between Sanggah and Elang Islands

5) Black Tip Reef Shark

A common sight around Bawah - Especially in shallow waters.  Completely harmless and beautiful to watch glide around the lagoon.  They eat small fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and invertebrates and love gliding around the edges of the reef.  Whilst they hunt solo, they often hang around in small groups of 2-3 - so when you spot one, look out for the rest of the group.

Where to find them?

Often around the Jetty in shallow water, also around the Overwater Bungalows on the East and West.

*Look out for our infamous Blue Starfish that can be seen from above and below the water, and all over the lagoons - a beautiful striking blue colour.  Often found in tropical waters and usually in shallow and sunny parts of reefs and reef fringes.

Book your Bawah Scuba diving experience now with our experienced scuba industry professionals, Orca Nation.  We have all the scuba gear, equipment and diving knowledge you will need for all your diving and snorkelling needs. 

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