Sipadan Island, Sabah

Explore the breathtaking wonders of Sipadan Island, Malaysia’s only oceanic island and one of the world’s top diving destinations. Home to vibrant coral reefs, swirling barracudas, sea turtles, and over 3,000 marine species, this protected marine park offers a once-in-a-lifetime underwater experience for certified divers. Plan your dream dive today and uncover nature’s masterpiece beneath the Celebes Sea.

The Underwater Eden Every Diver Dreams Of

Tucked deep in the Celebes Sea off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia lies a pristine underwater realm that defies imagination. Sipadan Island, celebrated by ocean legends like Jacques Cousteau, is more than a dive destination—it’s a testament to nature’s untouched artistry. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting this aquatic masterpiece.

Must-Visit Paradise

A One-of-a-Kind Marine Ecosystem

• Malaysia’s only oceanic island, born from a volcanic cone and rising 600m from the seabed.
• Home to over 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species.
• Declared a marine park in 2004 and bird sanctuary since 1933.
• Accommodations on the island were closed in 2009 to preserve its natural integrity.

What You’ll See Underwater

• Vast congregations of green and hawksbill turtles.
• Swirling vortexes at Barracuda Point.
• Coral giants, stunning walls, and macro wonders in the Hanging Gardens and Drop Off.
• Rare sightings: Thresher sharks, Scalloped hammerheads, and Ribbontail stingrays.

Dive Sites Worth Drooling Over

Drop Off

A surreal experience that begins just 9 meters from the beach—welcome to an underwater cliff diving into a 600m abyss teeming with vibrant marine life.

Hanging Gardens

Think underwater Versailles—lemons, lavender, and coral arches layered with fans and sponges. A dreamscape for underwater photography lovers.

Turtle Cavern

A cave of mystery and legend, this is the final resting place of many lost turtles—equal parts haunting and awe-inspiring.

Barracuda Point

Get swept into a silvery swirl of Black-tailed barracudas. A must-dive for thrill-seekers.

Coral Garden, Midreef, Whitetip Avenue, Staghorn Crest, South Point, and Turtle Patch

Each dive spot at Sipadan Island offers a unique marine tableau—from featherstars and clownfish to barrel sponges and sweetlips.

Facilities & Visitor Information

Fees

User Reviews & Testimonials

“I have seen other places like Sipadan years ago. Now we have found again an untouched piece of art.” – Jacques-Yves Cousteau

“I’ve been diving around Southeast Asia for years, but Sipadan’s diversity and clarity blew my mind. I saw seven turtles in one dive!” – Amelia T., certified diver

“Barracuda Point in Sipadan Island is otherworldly. I felt like I was in the middle of a silver tornado. Don’t skip it.” – Daniel H., underwater photographer

Conclusion

Sipadan Island is a true destination for divers and nature lovers. Whether you’re floating past coral cathedrals or exchanging glances with a green turtle, it’s an experience that imprints itself deeply. Limited access, high conservation efforts, and unmatched beauty make Sipadan one of Earth’s last true underwater sanctuaries.

Make your dream dive happen—check permit availability with licensed Sabah Parks tour operators and plan your journey through Semporna today.