Malaysia’s 133-hectare land mass is said to resemble the shape of a pregnant woman’s belly, giving rise to the island’s name which means “big” in Malay. With over 200 beautiful islands, Malaysia is no doubt a fantastic destination when it comes to Diving and Snorkeling. The diversity of the marine ecosystem around these islands makes Malaysia an excellent area for underwater exploration and other sports such as Water Skiing, boating, cruising, and swimming.
The Most Popular Diving Destinations in Malaysia
Pulau Redang
This is located off Kuala Terengganu. Pulau Redang is often regarded as Malaysia’s premiere marine paradise. It boasts clear water and numerous dive sites. During the day, sunlight gives additional brilliance to different hues of corals, anemones, and clams, making them very pleasing to the eye. As you go deeper, you will find two historic shipwrecks – the H.M.S. Prince of Wales and the H.M.S. Repulse (sank at the start of World War II).
Pulau Redang’s marine life is truly its most famous treasure. Barrel sponges and soft corals make up the sea floor, while fish species of different colors dance through the waters.
Pulau Tioman
This is the largest of a group of volcanic islands off Mersing in Johor State. At 39 km long and 12 km wide, it is one of the world’s most beautiful islands according to TIME magazine. Aside from Snorkeling and Scuba Diving, there are a lot of things to do in this island. If you’re a nature lover, the island offers fascinating flora and fauna.
The sandy bays of Tioman are an ideal place for beach aficionados and families who want to get away from the city life. As tourism becomes the primary source of income in the island, its resorts are quite well-developed. Water sports such as Jet Skiing can be done at certain parts of Tioman. Divers will surely enjoy the beauty of groups of coral reef – a breathtaking scenery of underwater garden.
Langkawi
An archipelago of 99 islands, Langkawi is located at Kedah. Its landscape is clad with limestone hills and caves, rustic villages, and scenic paddy fields with abundant flora and fauna. Myths and legends surround the island, making it quite popular as a mystical destination and a famous spot for beach goers who are looking for a different adventure.
Great Diving spots include the islands of Dayang Bunting, Beras, Singa Besar, and Cenang. There is a wide variety of fish, corals, and other marine creatures on the waters around the island. Another island that’s not to be missed is the Payar Island, located south of Langkawi. According to records, the island supports the largest number of coral species in Malaysia. The island is also endowed with a sheer number and variety of sea squirts, sea slugs, hermit crabs, feather starfish, sea anemones, lionfish, barracudas, rainbow runners, rock fish, and ghost fish.
Pulau Pangkor
From Kuala Lumpur, you can reach Pangkor Island in just a short time. It is located off Lumut in Perak.
The island is well-known for its sandy beaches and clear waters. Aside from swimming and sun bathing, visitors can go Diving in the island. Visitors can also try Jet Skiing or speed boating around the island.
Popular beaches in the area include Nipah Bay (the most popular), Teluk Ketapang, Pantai Puteri Dewi, Pantai Pasir Bogak, and Emerald Bay. It has plenty of huts, chalets, resorts, and restaurants. It is Pangkor’s main spot for Snorkeling and Diving. It has spectacular marine life and coral reefs. On the other hand, Pantai Pasir Bogak, a crescent-shaped beach, is a great spot for Snorkeling.
Pulau Besar
This is one of the nearest Diving spots to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is located about three miles away from Umbai town. With its sandy beaches and unmatched tranquility, Besar Island is the perfect destination.
Diving in Malaysia is truly a wonderful experience. Aside from the customary relaxation in the warm, sandy beaches, Malaysia offers the thrills and excitement of Diving in its world-class islands.
