Sipadan Island
Malaysia · Sabah · 3 m
Description
Sipadan (Pulau Sipadan) is a world-renowned diving island off the coast of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo and is widely regarded as one of the world's premier underwater destinations. As Malaysia's only true oceanic island, it rises approximately 600 metres from the floor of the Celebes Sea, crowned by vibrant coral reefs. Sipadan is famous for its dramatic drop-offs, exceptional marine biodiversity, and abundant sea life, including green and hawksbill turtles, swirling schools of barracuda, bigeye trevallies, reef sharks, and countless reef fish. Thanks to strict conservation measures, a limited number of daily permits, and the absence of on-island accommodation, its pristine underwater ecosystem has been exceptionally well preserved. Sipadan Island is considered one of Southeast Asia's most exclusive diving destinations and a dream location for nature lovers and scuba divers alike.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 day
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Barracuda Point (barracuda tornado)
- Turtle Cavern
- Hanging Gardens wall dive
- South Point coral garden
- Reef sharks & jackfish schools
- Sea turtles everywhere
- Snorkelling the drop-off
- The Drop Off
- Coral Gardens dive site
- Mid Reef dive site