Mola Season at Blue Corner Dive
Diving with Giants: Mola alexandrini in Nusa Penida Marine Park
If you’re looking for a world-class scuba diving experience in Bali, few encounters rival the thrill of seeing the elusive Mola alexandrini, also known as the giant ocean sunfish. And there’s no better place to witness this deep-sea marvel than in the nutrient-rich waters of the Nusa Penida Marine Park — a short boat ride from Blue Corner Dive’s eco-conscious dive centers in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
Meet the Mola alexandrini: The Ocean’s Gentle Giant
The Mola alexandrini is the heaviest bony fish on Earth, weighing over 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs) and stretching up to 3 meters across. Often confused with its cousin, Mola mola, this species was only recently identified as distinct thanks to advances in marine biology.
These prehistoric-looking fish typically live in the deep ocean, but during certain months they rise to shallower depths to be cleaned by smaller reef fish — offering a rare and unforgettable sight for divers.
When to See Mola in Bali
The best time to go diving with Mola Mola in Bali is between June and October. During these months, the Indonesian Throughflow brings cold, nutrient-rich currents up from the deep, encouraging the molas to visit the reef-based cleaning stations around Nusa Penida.
Top Mola dive sites include:
Crystal Bay the most famous sunfish cleaning station
Blue Corner known for strong currents and deep sightings - great for a sunrise dive and experience for skilled divers
Toyapakeh home to spectacular coral and pelagic life
SD a favorite for scuba divers of all experience levels
All of these sites are easily accessed through daily dive trips with Blue Corner Dive.
Diving in Nusa Penida Marine Park
Designated a Marine Protected Area in 2010, the Nusa Penida Marine Park spans over 20,000 hectares and is home to some of Indonesia’s best dive sites. With visibility ranging from 15 to 30 meters, vibrant coral reefs, manta ray cleaning stations, and thrilling drift dives, it’s no surprise that this region is a top destination for scuba diving in Indonesia.
Blue Corner Dive offers:
PADI dive courses from beginner to Instructor
Daily guided fun dives with experienced local instructors
Eco-diving programs and marine research initiatives
Small group sizes and custom dive plans
Expect water temperatures to drop to 16–22°C during mola season, so be sure to bring a 5 mm wetsuit with a hood.
Responsible Diving with Mola alexandrini
Why Dive with Blue Corner?
With eco-focused dive centers on Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Sanur, Blue Corner Dive is one of the most respected names in scuba diving Bali. Whether you’re a beginner taking your PADI Open Water course or a seasoned diver chasing your first Mola encounter, you’ll be diving with passionate professionals committed to safety, sustainability, and marine education.
Witnessing a Mola alexandrini in Nusa Penida is one of the most awe-inspiring dive experiences imaginable — a true “bucket list” moment. Add to that the vibrant reefs, abundant macro life, manta ray cleaning stations, and world-class facilities at Blue Corner Dive, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable dive holiday in Bali.
So if you’re planning your next dive trip to Indonesia, make it count. Come for the Mola season, stay for the adventure, and dive with purpose.
