Malaysia is one of Asia’s best destinations for scuba diving any level of diver can enjoy. Many who have already visited the country comment favorably on the rich coral reefs, wreck sites, and the unique marine life they saw during their excursions.
If you are looking for a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of working in Kuala Lumpur or other Malaysian cities, here are 10 of the best scuba diving spots in the country you should check out, regardless of your diving experience.
Amazing Scuba Diving Sites
Sipadan
Sipadan is well-known for having one of the best coral reef and wall formations in the country.
When scuba diving, you will spot amazing much marine life, such as pelagics, rays, turtles, schooling fish and biomass.
Because of these features, the diving site is one of Malaysia’s marine protected areas.
Redang Island
Within Terengganu Marine Park in Kuala Terengganu lies Redang Island, another favorite for scuba diving. It is said that the dive sites around the island offer divers perfect dive conditions, which allow people to see many species of marine life like manta rays, whales and tuna swimming around. Pulau Lima is the most popular dive site on the island because of its beautiful coral boulders of up to around 100 feet.
Lankayan Island
This small island in eastern Sabah is a popular destination for people looking for diving and vacation opportunities. Divers love the variety of diving spots and lovely diving conditions in the area. But they also recommend staying somewhere else because there’s only one resort on the island.
Lang Tengah Island
Lang Tengah Island is tucked between Perhentian and Redang Islands and offers perfect diving opportunities for people looking for a quieter diving experience. Like its neighbors, there are high chances of encountering rich marine life. It is also one of the best diving sites to visit for every level of diver because of its safe diving environment.
Tenggol Island
Tenggol Island is on the peninsula’s eastern coast and is a must-diving site for intermediate and advanced divers. It also offers reasonable accommodations to choose from. However, the island is closed for divers during the monsoon season.
Tioman Island
Tioman Island is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike for its white-sand beaches and clear waters. The island’s Tiger Reef is a must-visit for divers because of its colorful sights and diverse marine life. It also has amazing canyons where divers will get to see spotted stingrays, lionfish and moray eels.
Perhentian Island
For a relaxed diving experience, Perhentian Island’s diving sites will not disappoint.
They are well-known to locals for the turtle and reef fish sightings and their calm waters.
For wreck divers, the Sugar Wreck is a spot to check out while on the island.
Layang-Layang Island
Unlike other Malaysian islands, Layang-Layang is not a tropical island but a landing strip with a resort and marine base. Many love diving in this area because it is in a remote location.
Pulau Aur
Pulau Aur is famous for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. Outside diving and snorkeling, the island offers other great opportunities, like island hopping and angling.
Sibuan Island
This diving site is located within the Semporna Marine Park and will not disappoint, especially if you want to enjoy marine life and coral reefs with only a few people around. Sibuan Island is home to many Southeast-Asian marine life, such as mandarin fish and various cephalopods, crustaceans and nudibranch.
Ready to take the plunge and explore these sites? Schedule your trip today and enjoy Malaysia’s unique coral reefs that will inspire you to check the other sites on this list. Happy travels!
by: Kally Tay
