Bali
I did my Divemaster training and internship in Bali and have been coming back every year since! While the mola mola and manta cleaning station are the draw in the summer months (July/August), this is an excellent time to dive macro because everyone is...well...looking for mola mola! The Eastern side of Bali (Tulamben/Seraya region) is excellent for macro and muck diving photography. Mola are found at Nusa Penida. Mantas are generally at Manta Point. Amed has a lovely wall and lots of octopus. Padangbai is great for macro but the conditions are finicky so you really need to watch the moon cycle.
The only time you may want to consider NOT planning to scuba dive in Bali is on Nyepi, the most holy Hindu holiday and day of silence for Balinese. Windows will be covered, shops will be closed, lights will be off, streets will be vacant and most people will be indoors in silence to celebrate this special quiet holiday. You can check the local calendar in advance for this and other annual holidays to ensure an active and enjoyable vacation that you will not soon forget!
