Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Sabah, Malaysia, and discover the breathtaking underwater landscapes of its pristine islands. From vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to mesmerizing underwater seascapes, Sabah offers unparalleled diving and snorkeling experiences for both novice and experienced adventurers alike.
The order/number on the list does not indicate rating or ranking; all are equivalently ranked as must-try island for diving and snorkeling in Sabah, Malaysia.
12 Best Islands for Diving and Snorkeling in Sabah
1. Sipadan Island
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Nestled in the Celebes Sea, Sipadan is a world-renowned dive destination, offering unparalleled underwater landscapes. Divers can explore vibrant coral walls, encounter schools of barracudas and trevallies, and witness turtles gracefully gliding through the crystal-clear waters. The island is surrounded by rich biodiversity, making it a top choice for both snorkelers and divers seeking encounters with sharks, rays, and diverse marine life.
2. Mabul Island
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Mabul Island is celebrated for its macro diving opportunities and pristine coral reefs. Divers can marvel at the intricate details of underwater life, from colorful nudibranchs to elusive seahorses. The island’s shallow waters make it an ideal spot for snorkelers, offering the chance to witness the beauty of vibrant coral gardens and encounter small marine creatures that inhabit the diverse ecosystems beneath the surface.
3. Kapalai Island
Credit : dive-malaysia.com
Situated on a sandbar, Kapalai Island is a unique destination known for its “muck diving” sites. Divers can explore the sandy seabed to discover rare and fascinating critters such as flamboyant cuttlefish and mimic octopuses. The island’s shallow waters are also suitable for snorkelers who can enjoy the diverse marine life and coral formations found in the surrounding area.
4. Lankayan Island
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Lankayan Island offers a secluded escape with its pristine coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. Divers can explore underwater landscapes teeming with vibrant fish, while snorkelers can witness the beauty of colorful coral gardens and encounter sea turtles. The island’s clear waters make it an ideal destination for both diving and snorkeling enthusiasts looking to experience the wonders of Sabah’s marine ecosystems.
5. Pom Pom Island
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Known for its stunning coral gardens and diverse marine life, Pom Pom Island is a haven for snorkelers and divers alike. Beneath the surface, visitors can explore vibrant reefs adorned with an array of marine species. Snorkelers can enjoy the shallow waters, while divers can venture deeper to discover underwater landscapes rich in biodiversity, including encounters with turtles and reef sharks.
6. Mengalum Island
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Mengalum Island is located in the state of Sabah which borders the South China Sea. This holiday location is often attended by tourists from China and Korea. From Kota Kinabalu jetty, you will travel 56Km for 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to Mengalum Island. The island was first opened to foreign tourists in 2010. Visitors have the opportunity to see the blue ocean and clear water, in addition to seeing swimming turtles and other marine life in front of their eyes.
7. Sibuan Island
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Sibuan Island is renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Divers can explore the diverse marine life found in the surrounding waters, including colorful reef fish and coral formations. Snorkelers can enjoy the clear shallow waters, spotting turtles and other marine creatures while surrounded by the natural beauty of the island.
8. Mataking Island
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Mataking Island offers a blend of luxurious resorts and stunning underwater landscapes. Divers can explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater caves, while snorkelers can witness the beauty of the island’s marine life. The clear waters surrounding Mataking make it an ideal destination for both snorkeling and diving, providing opportunities to encounter sea turtles, rays, and various fish species.
9. Timba Timba Island
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Timba Timba Island is a hidden gem with pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. Divers can explore the diverse underwater ecosystems, encountering schools of fish, rays, and other marine creatures. Snorkelers can enjoy the shallow reefs, witnessing the vibrant coral formations and the rich marine biodiversity that thrives in the warm waters surrounding the island.
10. Manukan Island
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Part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Manukan Island is a popular destination for both snorkeling and diving. The island features vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life, providing opportunities for underwater exploration. Snorkelers can enjoy the clear waters close to the shore, while divers can venture to deeper dive sites to discover the beauty of the underwater world surrounding Manukan.
11. Sulug Island
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Sulug Island, located near Manukan, offers a tranquil setting for snorkelers to explore its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Divers can venture into the deeper waters to discover unique underwater formations and marine life. The island’s serene environment makes it a delightful destination for those seeking a peaceful snorkeling and diving experience.
12. Pulau Tiga Island
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Pulau Tiga Island, also known as Survivor Island, is a pristine destination off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. Famous for being the filming location of the first season of “Survivor,” it offers stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving, and lush tropical rainforests for jungle treks. Visitors can also experience natural mud volcanoes believed to have therapeutic properties. With rustic beach resorts and eco-friendly lodges, Pulau Tiga promises a unique island getaway immersed in nature’s beauty.