Diving in Malaysia
Malaysia isn’t just about bustling cities and lush rainforests — it's a diver’s dream hiding just beneath the surface. From the crystal-clear waters of Sabah 🏝️ to the coral-rich islands off Peninsular Malaysia 🐚, this tropical paradise offers world-class dive sites teeming with marine life.
Think swirling schools of barracuda in Sipadan, 🐢 graceful green turtles in the Celebes Sea, and vibrant coral gardens in the Perhentian Islands.
Whether you're chasing macro critters 🦐 or drifting along steep underwater walls, Malaysia delivers diversity, beauty, and some serious underwater magic — all wrapped in warm waters and tropical charm ☀️. Perfect for beginners and seasoned divers alike!
Why Dive in Malaysia?
Malaysia sits in the heart of the Coral Triangle — one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world. Its waters are home to over 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species. From big pelagics to tiny critters, there's something for every type of diver here.
And the best part? Many of these dive sites are still relatively uncrowded compared to hotspots like Thailand or Indonesia — so you get that raw, untouched feel with fewer bubbles in your frame.
🌊 Sipadan Island – The Crown Jewel of Sabah
It begins with Sipadan, a legendary name whispered with reverence among divers. As you drop into the blue, you’re instantly surrounded by the spectacular — walls that plunge into the deep, clouds of barracuda swirling in hypnotic tornadoes, and reef sharks slicing through the current with quiet grace.
You may even spot a giant bumphead parrotfish or drift past a lazy green turtle catching a nap in the current. With only 176 dive permits issued per day, it’s exclusive — and staying nearby on Mabul or Kapalai is the best way to get your fins in.
Best time to dive: April to December. Turtle fans? July and August are peak season 🐢
Perhentian Islands – Chill Vibes, Warm Waters🐡
A short ride from the mainland brings you to the Perhentian Islands — a favorite for backpackers, budget divers, and those looking for laid-back island life. Perhentian Kecil is the more social, budget-friendly island with beach bars and bonfires, while Perhentian Besar offers a quieter, resort-based escape.
The diving? Easy, warm, and perfect for beginners. You can do shore dives straight from the beach or take a short boat ride to nearby reefs. Don’t be surprised if a curious blacktip reef shark cruises by while you’re snorkeling — they’re frequent guests!
🐠 Mabul Island – Malaysia’s Premier Macro Diving Destination
Located just 15–30 minutes by boat from Sipadan, Mabul Island is a world-renowned destination for macro diving and muck diving. Unlike Sipadan’s deep walls and pelagic action, Mabul is all about the small and strange — the hidden gems that thrive in sandy bottoms, coral rubble, and artificial reef structures like sunken boats and man-made platforms.
What makes it special:
Macro biodiversity is exceptional — expect to see rare species such as nudibranchs, frogfish, pipefish, ghost shrimp, leaf scorpionfish, and the dazzling flamboyant cuttlefish.
Diving style: Shallow, slow-paced, and highly visual. Most dives are done from boats, with easy entry points and minimal currents.
Depth range: Typically between 5 to 20 meters, making it suitable for all certification levels.
Ideal for: Underwater photographers, marine life enthusiasts, and divers looking to spot critters not easily found elsewhere.
Vibe & Experience:
Mabul is a relaxed island with a mix of local villages and dive resorts, offering an authentic, laid-back feel. Many divers base themselves here not just to explore Mabul’s dive sites, but also to access Sipadan with daily permits. It’s a perfect home base for divers who want the best of both worlds — big stuff at Sipadan, and macro magic at Mabul.
💡Tip: Bring or rent a good macro lens or magnifier — many of Mabul’s stars are only a few centimeters long!
Lankayan Island – Remote and Raw
Further north lies a tiny green dot in the Sulu Sea: Lankayan Island. Remote, peaceful, and largely untouched, it’s perfect for divers looking to get off the grid. The waters here are home to wrecks, healthy reefs, and — if you’re lucky — whale sharks, especially between March and May.
There’s also a sea turtle hatchery on the island, and if your timing is just right, you might witness hatchlings making their first journey into the ocean.
Redang Island – Colorful & Calm🦈
On Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast, Redang Island offers a slice of paradise with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. The reefs here are alive with movement — parrotfish darting between coral, blue-spotted rays gliding over the sand, and even the occasional blacktip reef shark.
With a mix of vibrant coral gardens and calm snorkeling spots, Redang is a top choice for casual divers and families looking to combine underwater adventures with a relaxed beach stay.
Best time to dive: March to October (most resorts close during the monsoon season)
Tioman Island – Wrecks, Reefs, and Adventure 🐠
Rounding out the list is Tioman Island, a treasure chest of dive diversity. Whether you're weaving through swim-through caves, gliding over vibrant coral gardens, or descending onto the WWII wreck Sawadee, every dive here brings something new.
Tiger Reef, Chebeh, and Labas are top sites for spotting moray eels, turtles, lionfish, and stingrays. Tioman is also one of the most accessible dive islands, especially from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur — making it an ideal weekend dive escape.
Last updated: April 2025
Best Time to Dive in Malaysia🗓️
East Coast (Sabah / Borneo): March to October – Peak season for Sipadan and great visibility.
West Coast (Perhentian, Redang, Tioman): March to November – Avoid the monsoon season (Nov–Feb), when many resorts shut down.
Tips for Diving Malaysia💡
Book Sipadan permits in advance! They're limited and in high demand.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen – Keep those corals healthy.
Go slow – Malaysia is full of incredible macro life. Bring a dive light for night dives and take your time.
Chat with local dive shops – Malaysian dive guides are super knowledgeable and often know secret critter spots.
Dive Certification Options
If you’re looking to get certified while traveling:
Best beginner spots: Perhentian Islands, Tioman, Redang (calm conditions, good prices)
Best for advanced or specialty courses: Mabul & Sipadan area (deep, drift, night, nitrox, underwater photography)
Malaysia might not always be the first name that pops up when people talk about diving in Southeast Asia — and that’s what makes it so special. It’s a hidden gem that offers both big thrills and quiet underwater escapes. Whether you’re gliding with turtles in Sipadan, exploring wrecks off Tioman, or snapping macro shots in Mabul, diving here hits different.
So next time you're packing your fins and wanderlust, give Malaysia a spot on your dive map. The underwater world here is calling — and trust me, it’s worth answering. 🌊✨
What to Pack for Diving in Malaysia
🌡️ 3mm wetsuit (water temp: 27–30°C)
🔦 Dive torch (for night dives + spotting macro life)
📷 Underwater camera or GoPro
🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen
🩴 Dry bag & surface marker buoy (SMB)
🤿 If you have your own mask/snorkel, bring it — gear quality can vary by location
Conservation & Responsible Diving
Malaysia is working hard to protect its marine biodiversity — but reef damage, plastic pollution, and overfishing are still issues in some areas.
💙 Always practice buoyancy control to avoid touching corals
🚫 Don’t feed or touch marine life
♻️ Say no to single-use plastics
🌱 Support eco-friendly dive centers (PADI Green Star, Project AWARE, Reef Check Malaysia)
How Divers & Travelers Can Help Protect Coral Reefs
🌱 Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, which harm corals. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
🐠 Follow "Look But Don’t Touch" Rules – Never touch, stand on, or break coral. Even slight contact can cause damage.
⚓ Practice Responsible Diving & Snorkeling – Avoid stirring up sand, as it can smother corals. Always secure dive gear to prevent accidental contact.
🚤 Support Eco-Friendly Tourism – Choose dive operators committed to sustainable practices, such as reef restoration and responsible waste management.
🗑️ Reduce Plastic Use – Plastics break down into microplastics, which are harmful to marine life. Always dispose of waste properly and participate in beach cleanups.
🐟 Eat Sustainable Seafood – Overfishing depletes reef fish populations. Use seafood guides (like the WWF Seafood Guide) to make responsible choices.
🔬 Support Coral Restoration Efforts – Many organizations, like Coral Restoration Foundation and REEFCheck, are working to plant and restore corals. Consider volunteering or donating.
Where Can You Still See Healthy Coral Reefs?
While some reefs are suffering, many still thrive, especially in marine-protected areas. Here are a few of the best places to see vibrant coral reefs:
Raja Ampat, Indonesia – One of the most biodiverse marine areas in the world.
Tubbataha Reefs, Philippines – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with pristine coral.
The Maldives – Home to spectacular coral atolls and marine life.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – While parts have suffered bleaching, conservation efforts are helping reefs recover.
The Red Sea, Egypt – Warm, clear waters and incredible reef diversity.
Coral reefs are fragile but resilient—with the right actions, they can recover and thrive. As divers and ocean lovers, we have a responsibility to protect them for future generations.
Let’s keep our reefs alive! 🌊🐠
✅ Must-Haves (Don’t Skip These)
Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs. Go reef-safe (and it actually works in the humidity). This one’s great https://amzn.to/426EeAr
Universal Travel Adapter – A universal adapter is a lifesaver if you’re bouncing to other countries.
Grab a good one here: https://amzn.to/3HKZ6GH
Portable Power Bank – Keep your phone alive during long bus rides or power cuts.
Reliable option here: https://amzn.to/45Gsw1S
Reusable Water Bottle (with filter if possible) – Stay hydrated without buying endless plastic bottles.
Larq is a great pick: https://amzn.to/4mznZnP
Bug Repellent – Jungle + dusk = mosquitos. Go DEET-free or natural if you prefer.
This spray works: https://amzn.to/45NrOyo
Sturdy Footwear (Hiking Sandals or Trail Shoes) – Flip-flops will betray you on muddy trails or rough terrain.
Check these out: https://amzn.to/4p06rCW
Microfiber Towel – Sand, sweat, waterfalls… you’ll use this daily. This one dries fast: https://amzn.to/45Whe8x
Dry Bag / Waterproof Backpack – Protect your stuff during rainstorms, waterfalls, or boat rides.
Nice one here: https://amzn.to/47q02e5
Essential Packing For Your Upcoming Adventures 🎒
✨ Nice-to-Haves (Make Your Trip Way Easier)
Waterproof Camera (GoPro) – For underwater snorkeling, surf footage, and waterfalls.
Order your Gopro here: https://amzn.to/3HMH86I
📸Why it’s worth it: If you're all about waterfalls, snorkeling, and surfing — aka places you don’t want to risk a regular camera. A GoPro is waterproof, durable, and perfect for capturing underwater adventures or strapping onto your surfboard. The newer models also have killer stabilization, so even jungle hikes look smooth on video.
Camera (Good but Affordable) – If you want better photos without going pro-level, something like the Canon EOS R50 or Sony a6400 with a kit lens is a solid travel pick: https://amzn.to/3HAU67w
📷Why it’s worth it: Not everyone wants a bulky DSLR. If you want high-quality photos without spending thousands, something like the Canon EOS R50 or Sony a6400 is a great balance. Both are lightweight, great in low light (hello, jungle sunsets), and come with decent kit lenses for beginners.
DJI Mini Drone – Capture epic coastlines and jungle views without carrying a giant drone.
This one is travel-friendly: https://amzn.to/45FeY6O
✈️Why it’s worth it: Imagine flying over the jungle canopy or filming a sunset on the Pacific coast — a drone completely changes how you capture your trip. The DJI Mini series is lightweight (under 250g, so no license hassle), packs easily in a day bag, and gets amazing shots without pro-level skills.
Headlamp / Compact Flashlight – Jungle nights get dark fast.
This compact one is perfect: https://amzn.to/3VnMFUd
Earplugs – Between howler monkeys and surf towns with late-night music, you’ll want them.
These block noise very well: https://amzn.to/4npqzNp
Travel Hammock (lightweight packable) – Perfect for chilling on the beach or jungle stays.
Popular one here: https://amzn.to/4p328qG
Sun Hat/Cap – Foldable ones pack easily. This one works well: https://amzn.to/4pfaAmP
By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost.
Thank you for your support ♥️
📸🌎 Follow Our Journey on Instagram! ✈️✨
Want daily inspiration and breathtaking glimpses from around the globe? Join our adventure on Instagram, where we share stunning photos, exclusive travel stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and travel tips you won't find anywhere else.
Connect, explore, and dream alongside fellow travel enthusiasts. Let's inspire each other to discover the world's hidden treasures!
👉 Follow us on Instagram: @Wanderersplaces
Join Our Exclusive Travel Community! ✈️🌴
We're building something special—a vibrant, passionate community of travelers who share a love for adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. ✈️🌴
By joining our Patreon, you gain exclusive access to:
✅ Insider Travel Tips & Guides – Discover hidden gems, local secrets, and personalized itineraries.
✅ Live Q&A Sessions – Get real-time answers, advice, and inspiration for your next journey.
✅ Private Community Chats – Connect, collaborate, and share stories with fellow travel enthusiasts from around the globe.
✅ Exclusive Content & Updates – Be the first to hear about our adventures, upcoming trips, and exciting projects.
Become part of the journey today, and let's explore the world together!
👉 Join us on Patreon: patreon.com/Wanderersplaces
