Pertamina Pier

Pertamina Pier is a great site when the visibility is good. Since it is close to the mouth of the river, it is advisable not to dive right after a rain. Long shore currents can be rather strong in this area. Do not dive when a fuel boat is parked for fueling at the end of the pier. Make sure you take a dive knife with you are here are nets and fishing line caught amongst the pillars of the pier. The end of the pier is a fantastic place for marine life. The closely spaced pillars are covered in soft corals hosting all kinds of nudibranchs, eels, lionfish, octopus and harlequin ghost pipefish. Given the density of animals in this area, the pier is visited by schools of barracuda, trevally and sweetlips hunting for food. Drive along the ocean front road in Dili. Once at the end of the oceanfront you will have to dog leg to the left around the Pertamina fuel facility. Take the next dirt road to the right and follow it until it goes to the beach. Once on the beach turn right to get access to the pier. There is a big tree there for shade. The entry is easy with a gradual sand bottom. To get past the tidal area to the best visibility, you must swim the length of the pier to the end. It is a good distance but worth it.