One of the biggest surprises for many divers visiting the Gili Islands is learning that sharks are actually common around the islands.
For years, shark sightings were relatively rare.
Today, thanks to conservation efforts, improved marine protection, and growing awareness about the importance of healthy marine ecosystems, reef sharks are being seen frequently at several dive sites around the Gilis.
No dive site can ever guarantee sharks.
After all, these are wild animals.
But if you are hoping to maximize your chances, a few sites consistently stand out above the rest.
1. Shark Point — The Name Says It All
Let’s start with the obvious one.
Shark Point has become the most famous shark dive site in the Gilis.
And honestly, the name is not just marketing.
White-tip reef sharks are regularly encountered here, particularly along the deeper sections of the reef. The site’s healthy coral formations, deeper slopes, and nutrient-rich currents create ideal conditions for marine life.
Even when sharks are not present, Shark Point remains one of the best dives in the region thanks to its turtles, schools of fish, and beautiful reef scenery.
2. The Glenn Nusa Wreck
One of Shark Point’s hidden treasures is the Glenn Nusa Wreck.
The wreck has gradually transformed into an artificial reef, attracting large numbers of fish and creating shelter for marine life.
And where there is fish, predators often follow.
Sharks are regularly spotted cruising around the wreck or patrolling the nearby reef slopes.
Big pregnant (female) white tip reef sharks also can be found resting in the sand around the wreck.
The combination of wreck diving, deep blue water, coral growth, and shark encounters makes this one of the most exciting dives on the islands.
For many Advanced Open Water divers, the Glenn Nusa quickly becomes a favorite.
3. Halik Reef — Healthy Reefs, Healthy Sharks
Located off the northern side of Gili Trawangan, Halik Reef is famous for its stunning coral gardens.
But it is also known as one of the better shark sites around the Gilis.
The reef features some little cave systems in which baby white tips can be found.
In the deeper waters black-tip reef sharks are often encountered slowly cruising along the reef edge.
And honestly, the combination of healthy coral and almost guarranteed shark sightings makes Halik one of the most complete dive sites in the area.
It is also a fantastic dive site for introduction divers because who doesnt want to see a shark on the first dive ever at rather shallow depth?
4. Shallow Turbo — Small Site, Big Surprises
Shallow Turbo does not always get the same attention as Halik.
But this site regularly produces shark sightings. Perfect for beginners, since the sharks here are found in rather shallow waters.
5. Sunset Reef — More Than Just Sunsets
Many divers know Sunset Reef for its beautiful coral formations (and the non existent mantas since it is sometimes falsely called Manta Point).
But sharks are seen here more regularly than many divers realize.
Both black tip and white tip reef sharks are often spotted moving along the reef edge or passing through the blue water surrounding the site.
The site also offers excellent chances to see turtles, making it one of the most enjoyable all-round dives around the Gilis.
Can Sharks Be Seen Elsewhere?
Absolutely.
One of the most encouraging developments in recent years is that sharks are increasingly being reported across a wider range of dive sites throughout the Gili Islands.
Sightings can happen almost anywhere.
Turtle Heaven.
Deep Turbo.
Bounty Wreck.
Hans Reef.
The ocean loves surprising people.
But if your goal is specifically to find sharks, we would agree that Shark Point, the Glenn Nusa Wreck, Halik Reef, Shallow Turbo, and Sunset Reef currently offer the highest chances of success.