Diving in Palawan/North Borneo
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Palawan/North Borneo's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Palawan/North Borneo, ecoregion. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Palawan/North Borneo has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Palawan/North Borneo (4)
Popular Spots in Palawan/North Borneo (100+ spots)
AH KONG TONGUE
Ah Kong Tongue is located approximately 4 minutes by boat from Dreamer Island. The site features a sloping bottom with a maximum depth of around 24 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including numerous nudibranchs and different species of shrimp, such as boxing shrimp and cleaning shrimp. The name of the site is derived from a diver named Ah Kong, as the top reef resembles a tongue.
Ah Long Rock
Ah Long Rock is accessible via an 8-minute boat ride, with its orientation facing northwest. This site features a gentle slope leading to the bottom, making it suitable for beginner divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes stingrays, nudibranchs, and various shrimp species. For macro photography enthusiasts, this location is ideal for spotting boxing shrimps.
Akitsushima
Akitsushima is a sunken seaplane tender located at a depth of approximately 30 meters. The wreck is cut in two, with a large entry point in the stern, allowing divers to explore the ship's machinery and gears. Marine life around the wreck includes various fish species, and it serves as an artificial reef.
AKITSUSHIMA
Akitsushima is a wreck dive site featuring a seaplane tender that was originally constructed by the Japanese. This vessel was capable of maintaining, repairing, and supplying large aircraft at remote bases. After surviving the attack in Manila Bay, it was relocated to Coron Bay for safety. The wreck is home to various marine life, including sea fans, schools of cardinalfish, lionfish, brown-banded pipefish, nudibranchs, parrotfish, wrasse, and Moorish idols, providing a rich environment for divers to explore.
Alcatraz
Alcatraz is a solitary rocky island situated in the channel that separates Busuanga and Coron Island. The dive site reaches a maximum depth of 20 meters (82 feet) and is suitable for divers of all skill levels. The underwater landscape features a reef environment, providing opportunities to observe various marine life. Entry to the site is conducted by boat.
American Wreck
The American Wreck, a site of historical significance, sank during World War II in 1945 and is located at a depth of approximately 30 meters. This wreck is accessible from the shore and is suitable for divers with a wreck-diver specialty certification, as it allows for penetration into the structure. The area around the wreck is home to a diverse array of marine life, including schools of batfish, barracudas, snappers, and small sharks, which can often be seen in the vicinity of the broken hull.
Amos Rock
Amos Rock is characterized by a notable rock formation located at a depth of 5 meters, where divers can observe schools of midnight snapper. This site serves as an alternative diving location when strong Amihan winds prevent access to eastern dive sites. Common marine life includes rainbow runners, fusiliers, angelfish, butterfly fish, and batfish. Reports of Napoleon wrasse have also been noted by divers in the area.
Anchor
The dive site known as Anchor features an underwater hill that descends to a depth of 32 meters, where a large anchor has been resting for over 50 years, surrounded by a variety of corals. Divers may encounter strong currents during certain times of the month. Marine life includes species such as snappers, trevallys, barracudas, and various pelagic fish. At the base of the hill, a distinctive tree-like sea nettle can be observed, characterized by its all-white appearance.
Apo Island - Aladin
Apo Island - Aladin is a wall dive located on the northeast side of Apo Island in Mindoro Occidental. Accessible only by boat, this site offers divers a chance to explore a vertical drop-off adorned with a variety of hard and soft corals. The marine life here includes a diverse array of pelagic species, such as reef sharks, mackerels, tunas, and turtles. Occasionally, divers may encounter manta rays or eagle rays. The site is known for its rich biodiversity and is suitable for experienced divers due to potential strong currents.
Apo Island - North (Ego Wall)
Apo Island - North, also known as Ego Wall, is situated at the northeast corner of Apo Reef. This dive site is notable for its diverse marine life, featuring both large and small species. Divers can expect to encounter schools of Midnight snapper, unicorn fish, giant trevally, fusiliers, file fish, false anemone fish, and bluefin jacks. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater offerings.
Apo Island - South (Mabuti)
Apo Island - South (Mabuti) is accessible by boat, requiring approximately 4 hours of travel from the dive centers on Negros Island. The site features a vibrant coral reef that hosts diverse marine life, including schools of fish and occasional sightings of sharks. The underwater landscape is characterized by healthy corals and unique critters, making it a notable dive location. An entrance fee is applicable for divers visiting the area.
Australian Wreck
The Australian Wreck is a Dutch steamship that sank during World War II in 1944. It lies at a depth of 33 meters, making it a notable dive site in Labuan. The wreck's broken hull provides habitat for a variety of marine life, including barracudas, groupers, and batfish that can be seen swimming around the structure. Inside the wreck, divers may encounter smaller species such as hawkfish, angelfish, and lionfish, contributing to a diverse underwater ecosystem.
Bakungan
Bakungan is situated approximately 5 minutes from the Nunukan Islands, near the Virgin Cocoa Islands. This dive site is known for its calm conditions, making it one of the more tranquil locations within the atoll. It is suitable for snorkeling and offers a shallow dive experience. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of macro life, including turtles, which are frequently sighted, as well as leopard sharks, moray eels, nudibranchs, and crabs.
Bantukan
Bantukan is situated 20 minutes from the Nunukan Islands on the southwest side of Maratua Atoll. The dive site features a gently sloping reef with a sandy bottom at a depth of approximately 12 meters. It is recommended to dive here during high tide for optimal conditions. Marine life commonly observed includes mackerel, true squid (cuttlefish), head scallops, and various macro species, alongside both hard and soft corals.
Baracuda Point Kakaban
Baracuda Point is situated on the southwest tip of Kakaban Island, approximately 50 minutes from Nabucco Islands and 20 minutes from Nunukan Islands. The dive site is characterized by variable currents, including down and up currents, with the best diving conditions occurring during strong currents. Divers may experience negative entries at times. Marine life at this site includes gray and whitetip sharks, large barracuda, schools of spiny mackerel, mobula rays, and octopus, along with various macro species. The underwater landscape features beautiful corals, making it a notable dive location.
Barracuda
Barracuda Lake is a unique dive site in Coron, Philippines, where divers can experience a transition from freshwater to saltwater at a depth of 4 meters (13 feet). The top water temperature is about 28° C (82° F), dropping significantly at 14 meters (46 feet) due to a thermocline and heliocline. Expect to see varied marine life and the distinct grey line marking the water type shift.
Barracuda Deep
Barracuda Deep is recognized as one of the more challenging dive sites around the island. The dive features a wall adorned with a variety of hard and soft corals, with gorgonians reaching significant sizes. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of marine life, including trevallys, fusiliers, surgeonfish, Spanish mackerels, and unicorn fish. Additionally, sightings of eagle rays, Napoleon wrasse, and barracudas are common. The dive site is accessed by boat.
Barracuda Point
Barracuda Point is a dive site with depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters. It is known for large schools of chevron barracudas and other marine life such as jacks. The water temperature is between 27 to 29 degrees Celsius, with visibility reaching about 30 meters.
Barracuda Point
Barracuda Point is characterized by a reef top that reaches a depth of 25 meters, often referred to as a reef within a reef. This site is notable for its large schools of Giant barracudas, which are frequently observed. The reef floor is distinguished by the presence of Diaseris fragilis, a unique species of mushroom coral. Additionally, large groups of batfish may occasionally replace the barracudas in this area. Other common marine life includes yellowtail snapper, flatworms, and symbiotic shrimps. Access to this dive site is via boat.
Barracuda Point Udar Besar
Barracuda Point Udar Besar is situated between the southeast of Pulau Uda Besar and the northwest of Sepanggar Island. This dive site is accessible by boat, with a travel time of approximately 5 minutes from both Pulau Uda Kecil and Sepanggar Island. The site is known for its presence of schooling barracudas, which can vary depending on the season. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life in this area.
Batu Kangan
Batu Kangan is situated approximately 7 minutes northeast of the Nabucco Islands. This dive site features steep rock formations and an old fishing net that has become encrusted with coral, providing habitat for various small marine creatures. Divers should approach the wall by keeping their left shoulder towards it. The optimal time for diving here is during high tide, which enhances visibility and conditions.
Big Fish Country
Big Fish Country is a notable dive site located approximately 7 minutes northeast of Nabucco Islands. The site features a channel that transitions into a wall at a depth of 26 meters. Strong currents are prevalent, making it ideal for experienced divers. A reef hook is necessary for this dive. Marine life sightings include gray reef sharks, white tip sharks, eagle rays, turtles, black spotted stingrays, marlin, and large schools of barracuda.
Big Fish Wall
Big Fish Wall begins with a sandy coral slope that transitions into a vertical wall at depths of 40 to 50 meters. The site is best explored during moderate currents, with divers advised to keep their right shoulder towards the reef. The dive typically concludes on the reef top at an area known as Big Fish Country or within the adjacent channel. Marine life commonly observed includes nurse sharks, gray reef sharks, eagle rays, and large schools of barracuda and tuna, alongside various macro life.
Black Rock
Black Rock is recognized as one of the few cleaning stations for reef mantas in Southeast Asia, where cleaner wrasse remove dead skin from the mantas. The site features a notable rock formation at a depth of 8 meters, which is where one of the buoys is located. Divers may encounter various species including whitetip sharks, silvertip sharks, and occasional sightings of tiger sharks and whale sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Blue Water Wreck
The Blue Water Wreck is located southwest of Pulau Rusukan Besar, approximately 23 kilometers from Labuan. This site features a Philippine trawler that sank in 1981, lying at a depth of 35 meters. While coral coverage is limited, the wreck is home to a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to see cardinalfishes, sweetlips, lionfish, and batfish in the vicinity. Inside the wreck, large snappers and groupers are commonly encountered, making it an interesting dive for those exploring the structure.
Capri Point
Capri Point is located 15 minutes north of Maratua Island and features a steep reef characterized by crevices, small bays, and overhangs that are rich in macro life. Divers should approach the reef with their right shoulder facing it. Notable marine life includes pygmy seahorses, spotted stingrays, and thresher sharks, along with a variety of macro creatures and snails.
Cement Wreck
The Cement Wreck is a dive site located at coordinates 5.193300, 115.137500. This wreck sank in 1980 while it was transporting cement to Brunei for the construction of the Sultan’s new palace. The site features the upper portion of the wreck adorned with a coral garden, providing habitat for a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to see various aquatic species thriving around the structure, making it an interesting site for underwater exploration.
Cleaning Station Sangalaki
Cleaning Station Sangalaki is located north of the Sangalaki Islands, approximately 60 minutes from Nabucco Islands and 30 minutes from Nunukan Islands. The site features a shallow sandy bottom and is best explored during moderate to strong currents. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including manta rays, mabolo rays, Kuhl's rays, blue spot stingrays, leopard sharks, cuttlefish, dolphins, hawksbill turtles, and Indian walkman. This site is accessible by boat.
Clement Reef
Clement Reef is situated to the north-northwest of Sepanggar Island and features a sloping bottom characterized by a variety of hard corals. Access to this dive site is exclusively by boat. The location benefits from often clear visibility, attributed to its position between the Sepanggar mainland and Sepanggar Island. Marine life at this site includes diverse species such as moray eels, angel fish, banner fish, and various clown fish species.
Coral Garden
Coral Garden is a shallow marine area located away from Coron Town, featuring vibrant coral formations at depths of less than 2 meters. This site is recognized as a prominent snorkeling destination, showcasing a diverse array of colorful corals. Visitors may encounter various marine life, including clownfish, commonly referred to as 'Nemo'. The site is easily accessible from the shore, making it suitable for snorkelers and divers alike.
Coral Garden East
Coral Garden East offers an easy dive experience characterized by a vibrant landscape of predominantly hard corals interspersed with sandy patches. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species, including surgeonfish, triggerfish, coral trouts, and schools of fusiliers. Additionally, sightings of stingrays, moray eels, sand eels, and approximately 10 resident sea turtles are common in this area.
Coral Garden West
Coral Garden West offers an easy dive experience characterized by a vibrant landscape of predominantly hard corals interspersed with sandy patches. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including barracuda, surgeonfish, triggerfish, coral trouts, schools of fusiliers, stingrays, and both moray and sand eels. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers of all levels.
Coral Mountain Bay
Coral Mountain Bay is located 15 minutes from both Nabucco Islands and Nunukan Islands. The dive site features a reef that divers approach with their left shoulder facing the coral. The area is rich in biodiversity, showcasing various hard and soft coral species. Notable marine life includes nudibranchs, macro organisms, whitetip sharks, and larger fish that are often seen in the current. The site is suitable for divers looking to explore a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Coral Mountain Bay
Coral Mountain Bay is located 15 minutes from both Nabucco Islands and Nunukan Islands. Divers typically approach the reef with their left shoulder facing it. The site is characterized by a diverse range of hard and soft coral species, providing habitat for various marine life. Notable sightings include nudibranchs, macro life, whitetip sharks, and larger fish that are often found in the current. The entry to the dive site is from the shore.
Coral Table Dance
Coral Table Dance is located 20 minutes from the Nabucco Islands at the northern end of the Maratua Islands. This dive site features a prominent wall that descends steeply, followed by a slope and another steep wall. Divers should keep their right shoulder against the wall while exploring. The area is notable for its abundance of large table corals, as well as healthy populations of hard and soft corals. Macro life is also prevalent, providing opportunities for close-up observations.
Corner
Corner is located on the southwest side of Pandan Island and features a steep slope characterized by large rocks and canyons that provide habitat for various reef fish. This site attracts larger predators, including mackerels and trevallys. Divers can observe a diverse range of corals, including large sea fans that can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. The marine life includes groupers, snapper, batfish, trumpet fish, parrot fish, triggerfish, moray eels, and fusiliers.
Cyc beach
CYC Beach is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 11.964200, 120.180000. The area is characterized by clear water, making it suitable for both snorkeling and diving. While the sand is not as fine as at other nearby beaches, the site is known for its vibrant marine life, including colorful corals and a variety of reef fish. The presence of numerous boats and beachgoers adds to the lively atmosphere of the location.
Delsan Wreck
Delsan Wreck is a notable dive site characterized by a reef top that begins at a depth of 5 meters and gradually descends to a wall reaching 23 meters. At this depth, a crevasse extends down to 40 meters, providing shelter from strong currents. Divers can observe a variety of pelagic species, including scalloped hammerhead sharks, grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, and schools of chevron and Forrester’s barracuda, along with dogtooth tuna measuring between 1.5 to 2 meters in length.
Dreamer Shore
Dreamer Shore is situated directly in front of Dreamer Island (Sepanggar Island) and is accessible via a shore entry. This dive site is characterized by a rich diversity of marine life that can be observed year-round. Notably, divers will encounter a significant presence of Fire Corals and Sea Urchins as they descend into the water, highlighting the unique ecological features of this location.
Drop Off
The Drop Off is a popular dive site located just 10 meters from the beach. It features a vertical wall that descends to approximately 600 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, bumphead parrotfish, jacks, barracudas, and both grey and whitetip reef sharks.
Dugong Watch
Dugong Watch is located on the northwest beach of Karawite Island, accessible by a two-hour drive from Coron to the village of Quezon, followed by an hour's journey to the beach. The site features a shallow coral reef at a depth of approximately 10 meters, characterized by coral sand and an abundance of aquatic plants. Local reports indicate that around 30 dugongs inhabit the waters near the island, making this location a prime spot for observing these marine mammals.
East Wall
East Wall is situated on the eastern side of the reef, approximately 17 minutes from Nabucco Islands and 13 minutes from Nunukan Islands. This dive site features a steep wall that descends to depths of 30 to 35 meters, followed by a sandy slope. Divers should keep their left shoulder towards the wall during the dive. Notable marine life includes leopard sharks, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses, and marlins, alongside a variety of hard and soft corals.
Eve's Garden
Eve's Garden is a submerged reef located approximately 30 minutes from Miri, making it the closest dive site accessible from the shore. The reef has a depth range of 5 to 9 meters and is characterized by a diverse array of hard and soft corals, including brain coral, table coral, and whip coral. Divers can expect to encounter various marine life, such as turtles, bumphead parrotfish, and macro species.
Fantasy Wall
Fantasy Wall is located at the northern tip of the Maratua Islands, approximately 30 minutes from Nabucco Islands. This dive site features a stunning vertical wall adorned with numerous gorgonians. Divers can approach the wall from either the right or left shoulder. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including a variety of gorgonians, eagle rays, and macro organisms. However, due to strong currents, coral coverage is limited. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Fendy Rock
Fendy Rock is accessible by boat and is located approximately 5 minutes from Sepanggar Island. The site features a sandy sloping bottom, making it suitable for newly certified divers and those interested in macro photography. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including nudibranchs, snapper, schooling fish, and hawksbill turtles. The current at this site is generally mild, enhancing the diving experience.
Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is located east of the northern tip of Maratua Islands, approximately 20 minutes from Nabucco Islands. This dive site features a stunning reef top and a wall that descends to a sandy plateau at a depth of 30 meters. Divers should keep their right shoulder towards the wall while exploring. The area is home to healthy hard and soft corals, along with numerous gorgonian sea fans. Notable marine life includes schools of bumphead parrotfish, along with a variety of smaller fish and macro species.
Hanging Gardens
Hanging Gardens is a dive site off the south part of Sipadan Island featuring a wall with hard and soft corals, sea fans, and barrel sponges. Common marine life includes sweetlips, damselfish, clownfish, and lobsters, with possible sightings of sea turtles and sharks. Depth ranges from 5 to 40 meters, accessed via shore entry.
Helicopter Island
Helicopter Island offers divers the opportunity to observe a diverse range of marine life and coral structures. The site is particularly notable during the summer months when seagrass beds attract green sea turtles that come to feed. Additionally, all seven species of anemone fish found in Bacuit Bay can be seen here, alongside both small and large marine creatures. This site provides a rich underwater experience for divers.
IRAKO
The Irako is a significant wreck dive site, originally a high-speed mobile refrigerator that served as a food storage facility during wartime, capable of supplying 25,000 men for two weeks. This wreck is regarded as one of the premier sites for penetration dives in the region. Marine life around the wreck includes schools of jacks, anchovies, and smaller glassfish, alongside typical reef fish and coral. The site is accessed by boat.
Irako Maru
Irako Maru is a 147-meter Japanese refrigeration ship wreck located at a depth of 40 meters in Coron Bay. The wreck is in good condition and offers opportunities for penetration, where divers can see fridges, rice boilers, and food mixers. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to its depth and complexity.
Iyan's Place
Iyan's Place is located approximately 20 minutes from the Nabucco Islands at the northern tip of the Maratua Islands. This dive site features a distinct topography with a steep wall that transitions into a slope, followed by another steep wall. Divers should keep their right shoulder against the wall while exploring. The site is notable for its abundance of large table corals, along with healthy populations of hard and soft corals. Additionally, divers can expect to encounter a variety of macro life throughout the dive.
Jack Point
Jack Point features a steeply sloping reef that descends to depths of 40 meters, transitioning into a sandy slope. The area includes narrow bays characterized by sand and rubble. Divers should maintain their right shoulder towards the reef during the dive. Notable marine life includes feather stars, healthy corals, sponges, leopard sharks, eagle rays, and various macro organisms.
Johnnys House
Johnnys House is situated on the southwest coast of Maratua Islands, featuring a steep wall dive. This site does not showcase extensive coral formations, but divers can expect to encounter fusilier fish, snapper, and other schooling species. The presence of a limited number of hard and soft corals can also be noted. The entry to the dive site is from the shore.
Kakaban Wall
Kakaban Wall is located on the southwest tip of Kakaban Island, approximately 50 minutes from Nabucco Islands and 20 minutes from Nunukan Islands. This dive site features a long, deep wall that is generally sheltered from strong currents. Divers can observe a diverse array of healthy hard and soft corals, along with various small colorful fish. Notable marine life includes white tip reef sharks and barracudas, making it a rich environment for underwater exploration.
Kapalai House Reef
Kapalai House Reef is a shore dive site located at coordinates 4.226500, 118.685100. The site is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. Divers can expect to encounter various species of nudibranchs, as well as giant moray eels, lionfish, and pipefish. The area is particularly notable for the abundance of turtles, which are often studied by researchers due to their nesting activities in the region.
Kelapa dua
Kelapa Dua is located on the southeast tip of Kakaban Island, approximately 45 minutes from Nabucco Islands and 15 minutes from Nunukan Islands. This dive site features a prominent wall with generally good visibility. Divers may encounter unique marine life such as pygmy seahorses, electric clams, and occasionally thresher sharks. The shallower areas are adorned with soft corals, adding to the site's biodiversity. The entry to the dive site is from the shore.
Kenyalang Wreck
The Kenyalang Wreck is an artificial reef formed from the decommissioned oil rig known as Baram 8. It rests on a flat sandy bottom, with a maximum depth of 23 meters and the shallowest point at approximately 13 meters. This site is suitable for Open Water and Advanced divers. The wreck is inhabited by a variety of marine life, including giant groupers, banded coral shrimp, moray eels, white eye morays, schooling jacks, blue spotted stingrays, scorpionfishes, and banded sea snakes.
Ko-Ok
Ko-Ok is a dive site characterized by a steep wall that begins at a depth of 3 meters and descends to varying depths. The site features unique reef formations that resemble a canopy, providing habitat for a variety of marine life including snappers, sweetlips, angel fish, butterfly fish, trigger fish, fusiliers, and surgeon fish. Tiger shark encounters have also been recorded here, adding to the site's interest for divers. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Kogyo Maru
The Kogyo Maru is a sunken Japanese Navy construction supply ship located in Coron Bay at a depth of 36 meters (118 feet). The wreck is on its starboard side, with the port side accessible at around 22 meters (72 feet). It features a variety of soft and hard corals and is populated by species such as batfish, groupers, lionfish, and anemonefish.
Kogyo Maru
The Kogyo Maru, also referred to as the Ekkai Maru, is an Imperial Japanese Navy auxiliary supply ship that was targeted by US Task Force 38 on September 24, 1944. The wreck is notable for its cargo of construction materials, including a bulldozer, cement bags, and a mixer, which are still visible in the hold. Surrounding the wreck, divers can observe a variety of marine life, including groupers and barracudas, along with the typical reef fish found in the Palawan region. The site features both hard and soft corals, as well as sponges, contributing to the biodiversity of the area. The dive site is accessed by boat.
Landslide, Manukan Island
Landslide is located to the west of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and is accessible by boat near Manukan Island. The site derives its name from the unique shape of the reef, which resembles a landslide. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including cuttlefish, sea urchins, and schools of white fish, as well as bait fish, yellowtail, red snapper, and barracudas.
Langkawit
Langkawit is located at the southwest tip of Maratua Atoll, offering a dive site that caters to macro enthusiasts. The top of the reef is situated between 5 to 10 meters deep. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including soft corals, fan corals, hard corals, parrotfish, and various macro organisms such as nudibranchs and worms. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Leo point
Leo Point is situated approximately 5 minutes east of Nabucco Island. The dive site features a terraced slope that leads to a sandy plateau at depths of 27 to 30 meters, followed by a drop-off. Divers should orient themselves with their left shoulder towards the reef. Notable marine life includes blotched sting rays, leopard sharks, grey reef sharks, garden eels, and ribbon eels.
Leo Wall
Leo Wall is located approximately 10 minutes east of the Nabucco Islands. This dive site features a coral slope that transitions into a steep wall, with a sandy plateau at a depth of 30 meters. Divers are advised to keep their left shoulder towards the wall during the dive. Notable marine life includes spiny lobsters, squid, leopard sharks, spotted eagle rays, banded sea snakes, and turtles that can often be found resting in overhangs. Macro life is also present, providing additional interest for divers.
Light House - Tubbataha South Atoll
Light House at Tubbataha South Atoll features steep walls adorned with pristine coral formations. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of fish, as well as sharks and various large pelagic species. This dive site is recommended for experienced divers due to its challenging conditions.
Lighthouse
The Lighthouse dive site aligns with the lighthouse and the surrounding bay headlands. This location is often influenced by currents, making it suitable for advanced divers only. The reef begins at a depth of 13 meters and gradually descends to a maximum of 45 meters, leading into sandy areas. Visibility is generally good during high tide but can become siltier at low tide. Marine life includes large sea fan corals, barracuda, and triton triggerfish, with occasional sightings of nudibranchs and frogfish. Pods of dolphins may also be observed at the surface from time to time.
Lighthouse Maratua
Lighthouse Maratua is located 25 minutes north of the Nabucco Islands on the northern side of Maratua Islands. This dive site features a steeply sloping wall that leads down to a sandy plateau at depths of 40 to 45 meters. The site is best experienced during moderate to strong currents, which can enhance the dive experience. Marine life commonly observed here includes spotted eagle rays, gray reef sharks, thresher sharks, whale sharks, barracuda, spiny mackerel, and tuna, along with various macro species.
Lighthouse Virgin Cocoa Islands
Lighthouse Virgin Cocoa Islands features a coral reef that begins at depths of 5 to 10 meters. Below this, a steep wall descends to a sandy bottom at approximately 70 meters. The wall includes several overhangs, providing interesting structures for exploration. The site is known for its diverse coral species and abundant marine life, including various reef fish that create an aquarium-like experience for snorkelers. In the deeper blue waters, divers may encounter leopard sharks, manta rays, and dolphins.
Like Scuba Center
Like Scuba Center offers a well-equipped training pool suitable for divers at all skill levels. The facility provides a controlled environment for beginners to practice essential skills and for advanced divers to enhance their techniques. The pool area includes gear rinse stations and shaded areas for relaxation, facilitating both education and comfort during training sessions.
Lumantang
Lumantang is located approximately 10 minutes north of Nabucco Islands and features a long wall dive adorned with numerous gorgonian sea fans. Divers typically position themselves with their right shoulder against the wall. The site is known for its healthy coral formations and offers opportunities to observe macro marine life, grey reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, and various larger fish species, particularly in areas with current.
Lusong Gunboat
The Lusong Gunboat is located in Coron Bay, Palawan at a maximum depth of 15 meters (50 feet). This WWII wreck is 25 meters (80 feet) long and features a coral-encrusted structure, home to reef fish including parrotfish, anemone fish, and cuttlefish. Suitable for both divers and snorkelers.
Main Reef
Main Reef is situated at a distance from Big Fin Divers Kota Belud and is recognized for its significant size and healthy coral growth. The site is characterized by varying surface and underwater currents, which can be challenging, making it suitable for drift diving enthusiasts. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including rays and cuttlefish, enhancing the underwater experience.
Main Rock
Main Rock is located approximately 20 minutes from Big Fin Divers and is accessible by boat. The site features large boulders and rocks that provide habitat for a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see rays, schools of fish, and barracudas, which are commonly found in this area. The dive site is characterized by healthy reefs that support this diverse ecosystem.
Malayan (Wreck)
The Malayan Wreck is located on the shallow reef top at the southwest side of Tubbataha's north atoll. This fishing vessel, which met its fate during a typhoon in the 1970s, now rests at a depth of 3 to 5 meters. Divers can find a marker float indicating the site, where they are often greeted by a school of 30 to 50 adult harlequin sweetlips. The wreck provides a unique opportunity to explore marine life in a relatively shallow environment.
Malpadon
Malpadon is located on the south side of Malpandon Island, featuring a coral reef that ranges in depth from 5 to 22 meters. This site is suitable for snorkelers, Discover Scuba Divers, and Open Water Divers. Divers can observe various marine life, including turtles and a variety of reef fish such as clownfish and angelfish. The entry to the site is from the shore, providing easy access to the underwater ecosystem.
Mamutik Island, Mid Reef
Mamutik Island's Mid Reef is positioned between Gaya Island and Mamutik Island, experiencing low to moderate currents around 5 meters deep. This site features a sloping bottom rich in both hard and soft corals, providing an ideal habitat for various marine life, including angelfish and butterflyfish. The underwater landscape offers opportunities for divers, particularly those interested in photography, to capture the vibrant marine ecosystem.
Mamutik Island, Pyramid Reef
Mamutik Island's Pyramid Reef is situated approximately 10 minutes from the mainland of Kota Kinabalu and is accessible only by boat. The dive site features a sloping bottom with a distinctive pyramid-shaped reef structure. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including clownfish, nudibranchs, and triggerfish, alongside diverse soft and hard coral species, including several hydrozoan varieties.
Mandarin Lagoon
Mandarin Lagoon is located approximately 4 minutes from the Nabucco Islands and is ideal for twilight diving. The dive site features a shallow sandy bottom at depths of 5 to 6 meters. Divers can observe the mating behavior of mandarin fish just before sunset, followed by opportunities for night diving. Notable marine life includes mandarin fish, pyjama cardinals, giant nudibranchs, squid, moray eels, and flatworms.
Maniguin Lighthouse Reef
Maniguin Lighthouse Reef is situated approximately 2.5 hours by banca from Boracay Island. The site features a sandy slope that transitions into a steep drop-off reaching depths of over 65 meters. Divers can expect visibility ranging from 30 to 40 meters. The reef is home to various marine species, including red-toothed triggerfish and bannerfish, which can be observed near the edge of the drop-off. Additionally, whitetip reef sharks inhabit the crevices and overhangs at the base of the wall, providing divers with opportunities for close encounters with these species.
Manta Point Sangalaki
Manta Point, located southeast of Sangalaki Island, is a shallow dive site characterized by a sandy bottom. The site is accessible by boat and is approximately 60 minutes from the Nabucco Islands and 30 minutes from the Nunukan Islands. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including manta rays, mobula rays, cownose rays, blue spotted stingrays, leopard sharks, octopuses, dolphins, hawksbill turtles, and Indian whalemen, along with various macro species.
Manukan shore
Manukan Shore is located near the Manukan Island Jetty and features a variety of submerged artificial structures that have fostered a developing reef ecosystem. The site is primarily utilized for training new divers due to its sandy bottom, which provides a comfortable environment for learning. Depths range from approximately 1 meter to 3 meters, with a gradual slope leading north that reaches depths of up to 10 meters. This site is ideal for beginner divers looking to gain experience in a controlled setting.
Mari Mari Shore
Mari Mari Shore is located approximately 20 minutes from the mainland of Kota Kinabalu and 10 minutes from Sepanggar. This site is accessible from the shore and features a maximum depth of 18 meters during high tide. The seabed consists of a mix of sandy and muddy substrates. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including numerous nudibranchs, different species of angelfish, clownfish, John Dory, and pufferfish.
Mari Mari Wreck
The Mari Mari Wreck is situated near Sepanggar Island, accessible via a 20-minute boat ride from the Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort. Divers can locate the site by following a descent line that leads to a depth of 2 meters. The wreck itself rests at a depth of 18 meters, with a sandy bottom extending down to 25 meters. Since its sinking in March 2023, the wreck has attracted various marine life, including schools of barracuda, groupers, and lionfish, particularly around the upper sections of the structure.
Mataking Post Wreck
Mataking Post Wreck is located off the coast of Mataking Island, approximately 39 kilometers from Semporna. This dive site features the first underwater post box in Malaysia, situated at the bow of the Mataking 1, a 40-foot (12-meter) cargo shipwreck. Divers can encounter strong currents and a variety of large pelagic species, including eagle rays, mantas, hammerhead sharks, and grey reef sharks, in the clear blue waters surrounding the wreck.
Meringgis Bay, Gaya Island
Meringgis Bay is located on the backside of Gaya Island, positioned between Bunga Raya Resort and YTL Resort. This site is suitable for beginners and is often used for training purposes. The area features pristine coral reefs that host a diverse array of marine life, including numerous fish species. Divers can observe healthy coral formations and vibrant fish while hovering above the reef. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it easily accessible for divers.
Midnight Snapper Run
Midnight Snapper Run is located approximately 7 minutes from the Nabucco Islands, oriented towards the south-southeast. The dive site features a steep slope leading to a sandy plateau at depths of 23 to 28 meters, adjacent to a steep wall. Divers should position themselves with their left shoulder towards the wall for optimal exploration. Notable marine life sightings include feather tail rays, spotted stingrays, leopard sharks, gray reef sharks, and garden eels.
Morazan Maru
The Morazan Maru is a wreck of an English passenger cargo vessel that was repurposed by the Imperial Japanese Navy during wartime. It rests on its starboard side at a depth of 25 meters. The wreck features four empty cargo holds, with notable elements including two large boilers located within the engine room. This site is accessible from the shore and is suitable for Open Water divers, while advanced divers can explore the wreck's interior from bow to stern.
Nabucco Jetty
Nabucco Jetty serves as the house reef for the Nabucco Islands Center. The site features a shallow reef with a sandy bottom, reaching a maximum depth of 5 meters. Diving is optimal during high tide. It is also an excellent location for snorkeling. Marine life includes blue spotted rays, turtles, octopus, nudibranchs, anemones hosting clown fish, and mantis shrimp.
Nanshin Maru
Nanshin Maru is a wreck site believed to be an American civilian oil tanker, likely sunk by a typhoon after World War II. The wreck is situated upright on the sandy seabed at a depth of 32 meters, located near Black Island. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including large emperors, batfish, lionfish, and numerous species of angelfish and anemonefish.
Napoleon Corner
Napoleon Corner is located at the end of the Napoleon Wall, characterized by a rocky outcrop. The dive site has depths ranging from 30 to 45 meters and is subject to strong currents. When currents are active, divers can observe a variety of marine life including grouper, sweetlips, snappers, trevally, mackerel, and occasionally tuna.
Napoleon Wall
Napoleon Wall features a vertical drop that ranges from 28 to 38 meters, making it a notable site for divers. This location is known for its abundance of marine life, including schools of snappers, rainbow runners, and mackerels. Divers may also encounter the occasional napoleon wrasse. The site is accessed from the shore, providing a convenient entry point for divers.
Nat-Nat
Nat-Nat is a shallow fringing reef suitable for a second dive or night dive, located south of Cadlao Island. Divers can expect to see various marine life, including sea turtles, barracudas, snappers, and nudibranchs, among others. The site features a mix of coral structures and is accessible via a boat entry.
Neptunes Land
Neptunes Land is characterized by a flat plateau that connects Napoleon Wall to the Coral Garden to the east. The site is known for the presence of large Neptune cups and is frequented by turtles. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including trevallys, barracuda, snappers, moray eels, and various reef fish such as butterflyfish, emperor fish, and parrot fish.
Nexson Reef
Nexson Reef is a deep diving site located approximately 15 minutes by boat from Dreamer Island. Divers will perform a free descent to reach the top of the reef at a depth of 24 meters, although actual depths may vary with tidal conditions. The site features a gentle slope leading down to a maximum depth of 35 meters. Marine life at this location includes various macro species such as seahorses, pipefish, shrimp, and nudibranchs. There are also opportunities to encounter schooling barracuda.
North Rock El Nido
North Rock El Nido is a small, isolated rock that offers divers the opportunity to explore a diverse marine ecosystem. The site is characterized by its impressive hard and soft coral formations, which provide habitat for various marine species. Divers can expect to encounter schools of groupers, barracudas, and jacks, contributing to the site's rich biodiversity. The dive conditions can vary, with favorable currents enhancing the experience for those who are prepared. Entry to the site is from the shore.
North Wall
North Wall offers a vertical drop ranging from approximately 7 to 35 meters, creating a notable diving experience. While the diversity of fish may not be as high as in other locations, the presence of overhanging corals contributes to a unique underwater environment. Divers can expect to encounter pelagic species such as tuna and mackerel, along with snappers, turtles, and various reef fish in the shallower sections of the wall.
Nunukan Express
Nunukan Express is situated directly in front of the Nunukan Islands and is characterized by strong currents that can enhance the likelihood of encountering large schools of fish. The dive site features a small cave at approximately 30 meters, adorned with various corals. Towards the end of the dive, divers will find a sandy slope. Notable marine life includes schools of spiny mackerel, large groupers, and barracudas, along with hard and soft corals and macro life present in the sandy areas.
Okikawa Maru
The Okikawa Maru is a significant wreck, classified as one of at least 19 Wartime Standard Merchant Tanker 1TL vessels. It was a crucial ship in the Japanese fleet during its service. The stern of the ship sank during an air raid, while the forecastle remained above water for a period. It ultimately sank to the seabed two weeks later during a subsequent airstrike. The wreck has since transformed into an artificial reef, attracting a variety of marine life, including reef fish and Jacks.
Olympia Maru
The Olympia Maru is a World War II Japanese cargo ship wreck located at a depth of up to 24 meters (79 feet) off the coast of Busunga Island. The ship, measuring 112 meters (367 feet), is covered with hard and soft coral growth and lies on its starboard side. Visibility generally ranges from 5 to 15 meters (15 - 50 feet).
Paglugaban
Paglugaban is a dive site located near Miniloc, about 45 minutes by boat from El Nido. The dive features a flat reef that transitions into coral-covered boulders creating swim-throughs, with a maximum depth of 50 meters. Notable marine life includes porcupinefish, pufferfish, groupers, lionfish, green and Hawksbill sea turtles, and various nudibranchs.