Learn to breathe underwater in three days with a PADI Open Water course based in Sanur. Pool training in calm waters is followed by bay dives and an exploration day at Padang Bai or Tulamben.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Salted air and the soft slap of small waves set the scene as you stand on Sanur’s calm beachfront ready to learn to breathe underwater. On day one the pool becomes a classroom of movement: regulators, buoyancy practice, and the strange peace of weights sliding off. By day two the bay’s gentle reef dares you to look deeper; by day three the current and coral of Padang Bai or Tulamben teach you how the ocean rewards respect.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (total course; daily sessions vary)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — comfortable swimming ability and basic stamina for multiple surface swims and equipment handling.
Wildlife
History
Tulamben hosts the WWII USAT Liberty wreck that became a reef dive icon, while Sanur’s coast reflects Bali’s long coastal fishing and temple traditions.
Conservation
Operators encourage reef-safe sunscreens, buoyancy control, and no-touch policies; protecting coral and reducing anchor damage are local priorities.
Reserve your spot on the Sanur Open Water Course learn diving in 3 Days - Get certified & Dive everywhere today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Complete e-learning before arrival
Finishing the PADI e-learning ahead of time reduces classroom hours and gives more time for in-water practice.
Control buoyancy early
Practice neutral buoyancy during the pool session — good control protects coral and reduces air consumption on ocean dives.
Watch for sea conditions
Sanur bay is usually calm, but currents at Padang Bai or Tulamben can change; follow instructor briefings and get a surface marker buoy.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Choose mineral-based sunscreen to limit chemical damage to coral and apply it well before entering the water.
Mask & snorkel
A well-fitted mask shortens learning time and a snorkel conserves air on the surface.
Fins
Proper fins improve propulsion and reduce leg fatigue during boat-to-site swims.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the coral—apply before arriving to the water.
summer
Wetsuit (2–3mm) or shorty
Thin protection for cooler early mornings or boat rides; many operators provide suits if needed.