Diving in Ambon, Indonesia. Our 5 favorite dive sites

Ambon is considered one of the best macro diving destinations in the world. But what many divers don’t realize is how incredibly diverse Ambon really is. The famous muck dive sites inside Ambon Bay are only one part of the story. Just outside the bay, completely different underwater landscapes are waiting. Dramatic walls, caves, healthier reefs and a totally different atmosphere.

During our dives around Ambon, we explored both areas extensively. The contrast between critter-packed black sand slopes and the wild, open-coast dive sites is exactly what makes Ambon such a special destination.

In this article, we share our 5 personal favorite dive sites in Ambon. A mix of legendary muck dives and scenic sites outside the bay.

Kampung Baru, Ambon Bay

Kampung Baru is a classic Ambon muck dive and one of the best places to experience true critter hunting. Dark volcanic sand, gentle slopes and an unbelievable amount of hidden life define this site.

Here you can regularly find frogfish in all sizes, rhinopias, flamboyant cuttlefish, ghost pipefish and countless nudibranch species. Slow fin kicks, excellent buoyancy control and patience are essential. Kampung Baru is made for underwater photographers and macro lovers.

Hairy Frogfish

Rhino City, Ambon Bay

Rhino City is legendary and for good reason. It is one of the most famous dive sites in Ambon and one of the best places to encounter rhinopias.

The bottom consists of typical muck terrain. Volcanic sand, rubble and small debris fields. But hidden in this seemingly empty landscape are some of the most spectacular macro subjects imaginable. Rhinopias, hairy frogfish, pipefish, tiny shrimps and strange juvenile fish are regularly discovered here.

A must-dive for anyone passionate about macro photography.

Rhiniopias Frondosa

Middle Point, Ambon Bay

Middle Point combines the best of both worlds. You still get the intense critter action Ambon Bay is famous for, but with additional coral blocks, sponges and small walls.

This variety makes Middle Point ideal for wide-macro compositions. It is also a great site if you want a break from pure black sand without leaving the bay. We often encountered frogfish, scorpionfish, octopus and an impressive diversity of nudibranchs here.

Harlequin Ghost Pipefish

Pintu Kota, Outside Ambon Bay

Pintu Kota is one of the most spectacular dive sites outside Ambon Bay. Above water, a massive rock arch dominates the coastline. Underwater, the scenery becomes even more dramatic.

Here you will find walls, swim-throughs, huge boulders and beautiful light effects. Marine life changes noticeably compared to the bay. Expect healthier corals, more reef fish, schooling species and often better visibility. Macro life is still present, but this site adds a strong scenic element to Ambon diving.

Pintu Kota

Hukurila Cave, Outside Ambon Bay

Hukurila Cave is another highlight on Ambon’s open coast. The main attraction is a large cavern where sunlight enters from above, creating stunning light beams.

The dive usually combines a sloping reef, walls and the cave itself. Inside the cavern you often find glassfish, soldierfish and other cave-dwelling species. Outside, colorful reef life, soft corals and sometimes pelagic visitors complete the dive.

This site brings adventure and atmosphere to any Ambon dive itinerary.

Hukurila Cave

Why diving Ambon is so special

What makes Ambon truly unique is the combination of two completely different diving worlds in one destination.

Inside Ambon Bay you experience world-class muck diving with extreme critter density and rare species. Outside the bay you enjoy scenic dives with caves, walls, arches and healthier reef structures.

Together, they create an incredibly diverse dive destination that appeals to underwater photographers, macro lovers and divers who value variety.

If Ambon is on your bucket list, make sure to plan dives both inside and outside the bay.

👉 Save this guide for your next dive trip to Ambon.