Scuba Diver Australasia + Ocean Planet
Sabah’s West Coast Dive Paradise
WHILE the east coast of Sabah is widely considered a prime diving destination, its lesser-known west coast counterpart is similarly well-endowed with rich marine biodiversity. Underappreciated and often overlooked, Sabah’s west coast is located just outside of the ever-busy Kota Kinabalu city and offers numerous interesting dive experiences.
TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN PARK
Just 20 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu city, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is the perfect location for day trips and muck diving. Divers can even look forward to whale shark sightings between January and April. Beyond diving sights, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park offers a plethora of thrilling water sports.
MANTANANI ISLAND
Located just off the coast of Kota Belud, crystal-clear waters and white beaches make the Mantanani Islands alluring dive destinations for those looking to wreck dive. Explore sunken WWII Japanese naval ships by day and stargaze on sandy beaches at night.
LAYANG-LAYANG
Layang-Layang is the only atoll in Malaysia and can be found 300 kilometres northwest of Kota Kinabalu. Suitable for diving between March and August, divers can expect to see a bevy of exciting marine wildlife from hammerhead and whale sharks to mantas, devil rays and sea turtles. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter orcas. A charter flight via MASwings or Layang Layang Aerospace is needed to get to Layang-Layang.
LANKAYAN ISLAND
A 90-minute boat ride from Sandakan and situated within the Sea Turtle Corridor, Lankayan Island is a marine protected area with much to offer. Close to Selingan Turtle Island, Lankayan Island is the perfect place to witness the nesting of green and hawkbill turtles. Visitors might even have a chance to release new hatchlings!