Dive-site story
Located directly off Panagsama Beach in Moalboal, this world-renowned marine phenomenon centers on a massive, permanent school of millions of sardines hovering along a steep reef drop-off. The baitball morphs continually into shifting geometric formations as predatory jacks and tuna dart through the mass. Divers step directly from the beach or take a quick boat hop across calm shallows before descending along the coral wall, where sea turtles feed peacefully among soft corals.
Massive resident school of sardines forming shifting baitballs directly off the reef wall
Hunting pelagic fish like giant trevally and mackerel making lightning-fast runs through the school
Frequent encounters with green sea turtles resting on the shallows and wall crevices
Dramatic wall topography covered in hard and soft corals just a few fin kicks from shore
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
The sardine ball is present all year, but the dry northeast monsoon brings the calmest seas and clearest overhead light.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bali SardinellaSardinella lemuru | Common | ||||||||||||
| Giant TrevallyCaranx ignobilis | Common | ||||||||||||
| Green Sea TurtleChelonia mydas | Common | ||||||||||||
| Bigeye TrevallyCaranx sexfasciatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Banded Sea KraitLaticauda colubrina | Common |
Marine forecast
