Best Diving Locations In Malaysia For Once In A Lifetime Experiences

Clear blue waters
By: agnes
November 16, 2021

Did you know that Malaysia is one of the best places to dive? In fact, many tourists plan trips specifically to Malaysia’s islands just to obtain their diving certifications. And have you ever seen those clear blue waters in pictures of Maldives? Well, what if we told you that Malaysia actually has those kinds of waters too – would you believe us? No? Then you’ll have to plan a trip to one of these best diving locations in Malaysia to see it for yourself.

Read also from Glitz: Top Aquariums in Malaysia & Best Buffet Restaurants in KL.

10 Best Diving Locations In Malaysia

1. Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is the only oceanic island in Malaysia and is one of the best diving locations in Malaysia. In fact, it has been ranked as one of the best diving destinations in the world. Sipadan island is 600 metres above sea level and was formed when living corals started to grow on an extinct volcano cone. This took thousands of years to form, making it an island that is full of history. Aside from that, Sipadan is also an island that is famous for the abundant amount of sea turtles. If you’re planning to go on a dive at Sipadan, don’t fret as there are many diving packages available. Most of them come complete with places to stay and personal diving trainers. 

For more information on Sipadan Island, click here

The best time to visit: March to October

2. Mabul Island

If you’re diving in Sipadan Island, it’s no surprise that you may stay in Mabul Island. This tiny island off the coast of Sabah is home to the clearest and bluest waters you’ll ever see. This makes it one of the best diving locations in Malaysia. Another fact about Mabul Island is that it is actually a fishing village and has been since the 1970s. At Mabul Island, you will get to see an abundance of macro marine life. From beautiful coral reefs to breathtaking colourful fishes, it’s an island you will have to visit. Plus, we also recommend this beautiful island for anyone planning a local honeymoon. I mean, who needs the Maldives when you have Mabul Island? 

For more information on Mabul Island, click here

The best time to visit: March to October

3. Redang Island

Located in Kuala Terengganu, Redang Island is one of the biggest islands in Malaysia. It is also one of the best diving locations in Malaysia. The island features some of the prettiest clear waters and white sandy beaches. This is why many tourists flock to Redang Island, especially to do snorkeling and diving activities. The waters surrounding the island are full of beautiful fishes in which you can admire just by snorkeling. This makes it perfect for people who are afraid of the deep waters. But if you’re feeling adventurous, we definitely recommend going all the way with diving. 

Book a stay at Redang Island by clicking here

The best time to visit: April to August

4. Tioman Island

Tioman Island is located in Pahang and has actually won awards for being one of the best diving locations in Malaysia. Tioman Island features seven villages, a beautiful forest, and crystal clear waters. In the waters surrounding the island, you can find endless coral reefs and astonishing fishes. This makes it the perfect place for scuba diving, snorkeling, and even surfing. The best part is that weather conditions in Tioman are usually consistent. It’s typically calm with occasional showers. However, it is recommended that you avoid traveling to Tioman Island from October to January due to the monsoon season. But if you’re looking to surf then January is a great month to visit. 

For more information on Tioman Island, click here.

The best time to visit: March to October

5. Lankayan Island

Lankayan Island is a very tiny island in the Sulu sea at Sabah. It is one of the best diving locations in Malaysia due to its beautiful blue sea that houses an abundance of marine life. The island only has one resort, also known as the Lankayan Island Dive Resort. It was built in 1997 and has become a home away from home for many tourists who come to Lankayan Island to dive. Other than the beautiful marine creatures you can find while diving, the island is also a nesting spot for green and hawksbill sea turtles. But fret not as the turtle eggs are well-protected by the local marine preserve staff. So if you enjoy admiring these beauties, Lankayan island is the place for you. 

Book a stay at Lankayan Island by clicking here.

The best time to visit: Month of June and September

6. Perhentian Island

Perhentian Island is probably one of the best diving locations in Malaysia. In fact, it’s one of the most popular islands that both locals and tourists flock to. On this island, you will find extremely clear water with a hint of turquoise. Even from above, you will be able to see the beautiful fishes that live beneath the surface of the sea. Due to its popularity, Perhentian Island features a wide array of hotels to choose from. Depending on your budget, there will surely be a hotel suitable for you. It is good to note that the island is typically closed from November to February as they experience the monsoon season. 

Book a stay at Perhentian Island by clicking here.

The best time to visit: March to October

7. Layang-Layang Island

Layang-Layang Island is also known as the Swallow Reef and is actually an atoll of the Spratly Islands. An atoll is when an island is shaped in a ring, which is how Layang-Layang Island looks like from above. It is one of the best diving locations in Malaysia, especially if you enjoy seeing sharks. In May, the island is full of hammerhead sharks as it is the mating season during that month. Aside from hammerhead sharks, you can also admire lots of macro marine life. 

Book a stay at Layang-Layang Island by clicking here.

The best time to visit: February to October

8. Tenggol Island

Located in Terengganu, Tenggol Island is the last island in the string of islands that also feature Perhentian Island and Redang Island. While this island does not feature crystal clear waters, it still exudes a beautiful blue hue. Tenggol Island is one of the best diving locations in Malaysia if you want to escape the tourist crowds. You can find beautiful marine life here alongside beautiful sea turtles. If diving is not something that interests you, then try snorkeling. Through snorkeling, you can enjoy watching smaller fish that are sure to delight you. 

Book a stay at Tenggol Island by clicking here.

The best time to visit: October to February

9. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park 

Only three kilometres offshore from Kota Kinabalu, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a state park in Gaya Bay. It features five islands that are abundant with fauna and flora. The five islands include Gaya Island, Manukan Island, Mamutik Island, Sapi Island, and Sulug Island. The park was named after Malaysia’s first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. It is also the second state park of Sabah that was given in 1974. The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is one of the best diving locations in Malaysia as it features the most beautiful coral reefs and marine life. 

For more information on Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, click here.

The best time to visit: All year round

10. Mataking Island 

Located in Sabah, Mataking Island is home to the first ‘Underwater Post Office’ in Malaysia. This island is a private island that belongs to the Reef Dive Resort. This resort has a specific dive center, making Mataking Island one of the best diving locations in Malaysia. When diving at Mataking Island, you can find beautiful manta rays, sharks, and breathtaking sea turtles. Of course, you can also find astonishing macro marine life in many different colours and shapes. 

Book a stay at Mataking Island by clicking here.

The best time to visit: February to November

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