THE KING OF DIVE SITES
Sipadan: Borneo's Legend
Hailed as one of the best dive sites in the world. Barracudas, turtles by the dozen and 600-metre walls.
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2026 Edition
The Ultimate Guide to Diving in Malaysia
Explore some of the richest marine sanctuaries on Earth, from the abyssal walls of Sipadan to the coral gardens of the Perhentian Islands.
An underwater paradise at the heart of the Coral Triangle
Located at the heart of the famous "Coral Triangle", Malaysia offers unrivalled marine biodiversity. Whether you are a seasoned diver chasing pelagics or a beginner looking to earn your PADI Open Water, the country is brimming with submerged treasures. In 2026, Malaysia remains one of the most sought-after destinations thanks to the careful protection of its marine parks and its accessible infrastructure.
From the crystal-clear waters of the Peninsula to the mysterious depths of Borneo, every dive tells a different story. For expats, diving often becomes far more than a hobby: it is a gateway to a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem. It is the perfect complement to exploring the different regions of Malaysia.
3000+
Fish species
600+
Coral species
The 5 Must-Dive Spots
Each site has a personality of its own. Here is our selection of exceptional destinations for your next dives.
Layang Layang
The realm of hammerhead sharks. A remote atoll for experienced divers.
Perhentian Islands
Perfect for beginners. Calm waters, lively nightlife and unbeatable prices for certifications.
MACRO & MUCK
Mabul & Kapalai
A photographer's paradise. Nudibranchs, frogfish and blue-ringed octopuses.
Spotlight on Sipadan: The Experience of a Lifetime
"As I rolled off the boat, I didn't see the water, I saw thousands of jacks. A silver vortex blocking out the sunlight. That's Sipadan."
1
The Permit System
To protect the ecosystem, only 250 permits are issued per day. It is essential to book your dives several months in advance through a certified centre in Mabul or Semporna.
2
Barracuda Point
The iconic site. Expect to see schools of thousands of barracudas forming impressive underwater tornadoes.
3
Turtle Tomb
A fascinating limestone cave where you can find the skeletons of turtles that got lost in the labyrinth. For specialised divers only.
2026 Diving Budget Calculator
Estimate the cost of your next dives in Malaysia based on the area and your level.
Total estimate (approx.)
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Select your options to get an estimated quote covering dives and basic equipment rental.
Tip: In Malaysia, certification prices are among the lowest in the world, especially on the East Coast.
When to Go? The Diver's Calendar
| Region | Jan - Feb | Mar - May | Jun - Aug | Sep - Oct | Nov - Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Coast (Perhentian/Tioman) | Closed (Monsoon) | Excellent | Optimal | Variable | Closed (Monsoon) |
| Sabah (Sipadan/Mabul) | Good | Excellent | Optimal | Excellent | Rainy |
| Layang Layang | Closed | Hammerheads (Peak) | End of season | Closed | Closed |
Check out our guide to the climate in Malaysia for more details on the seasons.
"Take only photos, leave only bubbles."
Malaysia has made enormous efforts to restore its reefs. As a diver, your behaviour matters. Strictly respect protected areas, avoid reef-harming sunscreens and support centres that actively contribute to eco-friendly living in Malaysia.
- ✓ Never touch the corals
- ✓ Perfect buoyancy control
- ✓ No interaction with wildlife
- ✓ Use reusable water bottles
Specialised Insurance
Standard insurance often does not cover diving accidents (decompression chamber). Be sure to take out specific cover such as DAN, or follow our advice on the essential insurance policies.
Inter-island Transport
Reaching Borneo takes some planning. For Sipadan, fly to Tawau via AirAsia or Malaysia Airlines, then head to Semporna. Check out our guide to getting around the country.
Local Equipment
Kuala Lumpur has excellent specialised shops. If you live here, buying your own mask and dive computer is a worthwhile investment for your everyday life.
"Living in Malaysia allowed me to turn my passion into a way of life. I earned my Divemaster in the Perhentians, and every long weekend is a chance to go back and explore the seabeds of Sabah. It is an affordable luxury."
Marc L., expat in Kuala Lumpur for 4 years
Read more testimonialsFrequently Asked Questions (Diving)
Do you need to be an expert to dive at Sipadan? +
Most centres require at least an Advanced Open Water certification and around 20 logged dives because of the sometimes strong currents and the depth of the sites.
What is the average price of a fun dive? +
On the East Coast, expect around RM 120 to RM 180 per dive. In Borneo, prices are higher, especially for Sipadan, where a day package (3 dives + permit) can reach RM 1,200 to RM 1,500.
Can you dive year-round in Malaysia? +
Yes, because when the East Coast closes (November to February), the West Coast or certain parts of Borneo remain accessible. Borneo can be dived all year round, although visibility varies.
Where can you see whale sharks? +
Lankayan and Tenggol are the best spots. The season generally runs from March to May.
Are the dive centres safe? +
The majority of centres are affiliated with PADI or SSI and follow strict international standards. Always check recent reviews and the condition of the equipment before committing.
Are there decompression chambers nearby? +
The main chambers are in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Singapore. That is why evacuation insurance is vital. See our Health in Malaysia section.
Ready to take the plunge?
Join the community of divers in Malaysia and share your favourite spots.