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 149 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 (149)
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.
Paglugaban Cave
Paglugaban Cave features an underwater cave system with five chambers, starting with a 30-meter swim from the entrance at sea level. Divers can surface halfway to view a statue of the Virgin Mary, with another statue located in the second chamber.
Paglugaban Island
Paglugaban Island, situated in the Miniloc Area of El Nido, features notable rock formations and boulders that create numerous swim-through opportunities. The dive site begins in a shallow coral garden and descends to depths of approximately 30 meters. It offers a diverse underwater environment suitable for divers of all experience levels, including soft corals and a vibrant coral garden. Divers may also encounter resident turtles during their exploration.
Pala Pala
Pala Pala is characterized by an extensive wall and a large cave featuring a significant entrance. The dive reaches a depth of 36.8 meters, making it challenging to complete with a single tank. Divers should carry a reliable primary light source along with a backup and ensure they have sufficient air for a decompression stop. Inside the cave, reef sharks are commonly observed resting on the sand bed, typically swimming away upon diver entry.
Pancang
Pancang is situated north of Kota Kinabalu, approximately 20 minutes by boat from the mainland, and serves as the initial view when approaching Sepanggar Island. This dive site features a sloping bottom and is characterized by good visibility. The underwater environment is rich with diverse marine life, including resident electric clams, nudibranchs, clownfish, triggerfish, and eels, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna from micro to macro sizes.
Pandan Pandan Island
Pandan Pandan Island is located at coordinates 6.350600, 116.309900 and offers a shore entry for divers. This site is suitable for both beginner and night divers due to its low surface and underwater currents, which provide a comfortable diving experience. The surrounding reef is home to a variety of marine life, with notable sightings during night dives including cuttlefish, frogfish, rays, and squids.
Pandan South
Pandan South is characterized by a shallow reef located on the southern side of Pandan Island. This site is known for its diverse macro life, making it appealing for those interested in small coralfish and nudibranchs. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, allowing for easy access. The area is a short boat ride of approximately 10 minutes from the main diving location.
Pandanan House reef
Pandanan House Reef is a shallow dive site characterized by a gentle slope and a sandy bottom. The area is rich in colorful corals and hosts a variety of marine life, including clownfish, turtles, and reef sharks. This site is particularly suitable for beginners and is best explored during high tide. It also offers opportunities for snorkeling. Access to the site is via shore entry.
Pandoga Point
Pandoga Point is located southwest of the Nunukan Islands, approximately 35 minutes from Nabucco Islands. This dive site features a vertical wall that reaches depths of up to 35 meters, characterized by numerous craters and overhangs. At the base of the wall, divers will encounter a sandy plateau. Marine life at this site includes thresher sharks, hammerhead sharks, various soft and hard corals, turtles, and macro species such as nudibranchs and orangutan crabs.
Panglima Reef
Panglima Reef is located to the north-west of Mabul Island, with a depth starting at 5 meters from the shore and extending approximately 50 meters into deeper waters. The site may experience longshore currents influenced by tidal changes, making it suitable for beginner divers interested in drift diving. The reef is known for its macro life, featuring clusters of nudibranchs, stingrays, and turtles. Divers may also encounter schools of yellowstripe snappers, crocodile fish, and occasional sightings of whale sharks.
Paradise
Paradise is a training dive site characterized by a sandy bottom and typically calm, pool-like conditions. The maximum depth at this location is six meters, making it ideal for beginner divers. Access to the site is via boat, providing a straightforward entry point for training purposes. The absence of corals or sharp rocks further enhances its suitability for novice divers.
Paradise II, Mabul
Paradise II in Mabul is characterized by a shallow reef teeming with a diverse array of hard and soft corals. This site is suitable for both novice and experienced divers. During dives, divers can observe a variety of colorful fish species, including parrotfish and wrasse. Additionally, there is a possibility of encountering larger marine life such as reef sharks and turtles. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Preston Shoal
Preston Shoal is a dive site accessible from the shore, located at coordinates 6.363600, 116.299500. It is recognized for its rich macro life, making it a suitable location for underwater photography and training dives. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species, including nudibranchs, shrimp, and schools of fish. The site is commonly utilized for training purposes, providing an opportunity for divers to practice their skills in a diverse underwater environment.
Ranger Station - Tubbataha Reef
Ranger Station at Tubbataha Reef features steep walls adorned with pristine coral formations. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of fish, along with sightings of sharks and other large pelagic species. This dive site is recommended for experienced divers due to its depth and conditions. The entry to the site is by boat.
Santak Point
Santak Point is accessible from the shore, with a travel time of approximately one hour from Miri. The dive site features a depth range starting at 24 meters and descending to 40 meters along the slope. Divers can expect visibility between 15 and 25 meters, with mild to moderate currents frequently present. Marine life includes pelagic species such as tunas and barracudas, along with schools of yellowtail snappers and angelfish.
Sea Fan City
Sea Fan City is located near the Nunukan Islands, approximately 30 minutes from Nabucco Islands. This dive site features a colorful wall that is home to various marine life. Notable species include scorpion fish, stone fish, sea cobras, nudibranchs, turtles, crabs, shrimp, and pygmy seahorses among the fan corals. The entry to this site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers. The underwater landscape is characterized by vibrant coral formations and diverse marine ecosystems.
Sea Wall
Sea Wall is located approximately 14 minutes from Nabuco Islands and 16 minutes from Nunukan Island. This site features a coral garden where divers should orient themselves with their left shoulder towards the reef. The underwater landscape is rich with various gorgonians, hard and soft corals, and feather stars. Notable marine life includes frogfish and a variety of micro life, making it a diverse ecosystem for exploration.
Sea Wall Garden
Sea Wall Garden is located approximately 15 minutes from both Nabucco Islands and Nunukan Islands. This dive site features a steep wall that descends to depths of 20 to 25 meters, followed by a sandy slope. Divers can observe a variety of healthy hard and soft coral species, along with marine life such as lobsters, marcole creatures, and spotted stingrays.
Seafan Alley
Seafan Alley is characterized by its gorgonian fan corals, which are prominent in this northern section of the atoll. The dive site features wall drift diving, typical of the Tubbataha region. Divers can observe nurse sharks and marble rays resting on the sandy ledges within the caverns. Additionally, whitetip and grey reef sharks are often seen patrolling the area, contributing to the site's diverse marine life.
Shark Airport
Shark Airport features a sloping reef terrace located at a depth of 20 meters, where divers can observe multiple whitetip reef sharks simultaneously. This remote dive site is exclusively accessible via liveaboard boat, making it a unique location for divers seeking to encounter these sharks and potentially other shark species.
Shark City
Shark City is located 15 minutes from Nabucco Islands and Nunukan Islands, featuring a channel with a depth of 6 meters. The site is best explored during strong currents, allowing divers to navigate along the steeply sloping reef on either side of the channel. Notable marine life includes gray reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays, and small schools of large barracuda, as well as feathertail rays and bumphead parrotfish.
Siete Pecados
Siete Pecados is a well-known snorkeling and diving site characterized by its shallow coral reefs, which are home to a variety of colorful tropical fish. The area is designated as a protected marine sanctuary, ensuring a healthy ecosystem. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for beginners and amateur divers. Marine life is abundant, with numerous species of reef fish and vibrant corals visible in the clear waters.
Small Fish Country
Small Fish Country is located approximately 7 minutes from the Nabucco Islands to the north. This dive site features a sloping reef characterized by healthy coral formations interspersed with sandy patches. Divers should orient themselves with their right shoulder towards the reef. The site is notable for its diverse marine life, including large schools of small fish such as batfish, snapper, bumphead parrotfish, and rainbow runners. Additionally, there are occasional sightings of whale sharks in the area.
South Miniloc
South Miniloc is a dive site located between Miniloc and Simizu islands, featuring a depth of approximately 10 to 30 meters. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including big-eye snappers, barracudas, green and hawksbill turtles, and diverse reef structures.
South Park - Tubbataha
South Park in Tubbataha offers a dive experience characterized by 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 site is recommended for experienced divers due to its challenging conditions.
South Point
South Point is a dive site off Sipadan Island featuring a coral wall and diverse marine life. The maximum depth is 40 meters, with hammerheads and manta rays typically seen in the morning at deeper areas. In shallower sections, divers can observe sea turtles and whitetip reef sharks, while currents attract barracudas and trevallies.
Southwest Wall
Southwest Wall features a steep drop-off that descends significantly, where divers can experience mild currents. This site is known for the presence of juvenile grey reef sharks, often seen in groups ranging from 20 to 50 individuals. Additionally, whitetip sharks are commonly observed in the area. The top of the reef serves as a feeding ground for resident bumphead parrotfish, which can be found in schools of 25 to 50, displaying various sizes.
Staghorn Point
Staghorn Point features a dive that begins at a depth of 7 meters, where divers can explore expansive fields of staghorn coral that extend approximately 500 meters before meeting a steep wall that descends into deeper waters. The site is home to occasional sightings of resident eagle rays. The underwater landscape is complemented by a mix of hard and soft corals, with schools of midnight snapper often blending in with larger jacks.
Sulug Island, North
Sulug Island, located to the north of the main island, is recognized for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life within Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. The site is characterized by a healthy coral ecosystem that supports various species, including schooling fish such as Yellow Tail, Barracuda, and Snapper. Divers can access this site from the shore, making it convenient for exploration. The underwater environment is rich with marine flora and fauna, providing an engaging experience for divers.
Sutera Harbour Marina
Sutera Harbour Marina offers a training environment suitable for various aquatic activities, including swimming, mermaiding, and freediving. The facility features a pool with depths ranging from 1.2 meters to 1.8 meters, accommodating both beginners and advanced learners. The site is conveniently located just 10 minutes from the town center and is accessible for shore entry. Operating hours are daily from 7 am to 9 pm, providing flexibility for users.
T-Wreck
T-Wreck features a shallow reef top at a depth of 5 meters, which serves as a feeding area for schooling bumphead parrotfish. The site is located at the northern tip of the south atoll and includes a slanting wall that descends to greater depths. Divers may also encounter reef mantas in the vicinity, as there is a known cleaning station nearby. Occasionally, whale sharks can be spotted in the area as they move through the waters.
Tangat Wreck
The Tangat Wreck is located near the southwest side of Tangat Island, Coron, Palawan, Philippines. The average depth is 10 meters (33 feet) and the maximum depth is 22 meters (72 feet). Expect mild to strong currents, and marine life including schools of angelfish and butterflyfish around the wreck, which features soft and hard corals as well as large lettuce corals.
TERU KAZE MARU
The Teru Kaze Maru is a 35-meter-long Japanese submarine hunter that sank on September 24, 1944, during a US air raid near Sangat Island. The wreck begins at a depth of 4 meters and slopes down to a maximum of 20 meters. It remains relatively intact, with several small holds available for penetration. The site is adorned with corals and is home to diverse marine life, making it an excellent location for spotting macro critters, including frequent sightings of mandarin fish.
The Ridge
The Ridge is situated at the southwest end of Maratua Atoll, featuring a steep reef that descends to a sandy plateau at depths of 25 to 30 meters. Divers should approach the reef with their right shoulder facing it. This site is known for sightings of stingrays, and with some luck, divers may also encounter leopard sharks. The area is home to a variety of hard and soft corals, as well as diverse macro life.
The Rock, Mamutik Island
The Rock at Mamutik Island is a dive site located at coordinates 5.965900, 116.012500, accessible by boat. This site features a diverse array of marine life, including schooling yellowfin tuna, reef sharks, and nurse sharks, all thriving in the natural coral reef environment. The site is suitable for beginner divers, offering an easy entry point and a rich underwater ecosystem to explore.
Trevally Rock
Trevally Rock consists of a series of submerged rocks located at a depth of approximately 40 meters. This site is notable for its large schools of trevally and barracuda, which can often be observed during dives. Additionally, the area is characterized by the presence of significant gorgonian fans, adding to the underwater landscape.
Triggerfish City
Triggerfish City features a reef top that begins at a depth of 5 meters and extends westward. This area is known for the presence of red tooth triggerfish, which gather in significant numbers. Additionally, titan triggerfish can be encountered, particularly during their nesting season, when they may exhibit aggressive behavior towards divers. The reef is characterized by sparse staghorn coral, which supports a diverse range of marine life including surgeonfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, cardinal fish, fusiliers, blennies, and gobies.
Tukun
The Tukun dive site presents a challenging environment characterized by notable currents and waves, making it appropriate for advanced divers. The site is located at coordinates 6.703900, 116.361500 and features a coral reef that has developed over time due to the placement of cement blocks by local villagers. Divers can explore depths reaching up to 25 meters, where they may encounter schools of Jack fish, as well as rays and lobsters that inhabit the area.
Tunnel
The Tunnel dive site is located off the north side of Dilumacad Island, near El Nido. The entrance is at approximately 12 meters/40 feet and is wide enough for two divers. The 20-meter/66-foot tunnel leads to a central cavern with a narrower exit that opens to a rocky area, where you can see various marine life, including crustaceans, nudibranchs, and larger fish like pufferfish and lionfish.
Turtle Bay Maratua
Turtle Bay Maratua features a sloping reef characterized by healthy coral formations and large bays with sandy slopes and rubble. The site is mostly sheltered from currents, particularly within the bays, making it a suitable location for divers. The recommended diving orientation is to the right shoulder towards the reef. Notable marine life includes a variety of turtles, which are best observed near low tide, along with schools of fusiliers and prominent table corals.
Turtle Cavern
Turtle Cavern is a cave dive located at a depth of 18 meters (60 feet). The cave features a second chamber at 21 meters (69 feet) that includes a tunnel leading to Turtle Tomb. Divers can observe geological formations and the remains of turtles and dolphins within the cavern. This site is suitable for advanced divers only.
Turtle Trafic (Payung Payung)
Turtle Trafic, located on the west coast of the Maratua Islands, is approximately 45 minutes from Nabucco Islands. This dive site features a sloping reef that descends to a depth of 30 meters. The optimal time for diving is during low tide when turtles are often found resting. Divers should keep their left shoulder towards the reef while exploring. Notable marine life includes sleeping turtles, peacock shrimp, and various macro species such as nudibranchs, alongside both hard and soft corals.
Twin Peaks, Coron
Twin Peaks is a dive site located at coordinates 11.960100, 120.217500, accessible from the shore. The site features a variety of common reef fish and is surrounded by a vibrant coral reef. Visibility is generally good, making it suitable for both snorkeling and diving. While it may not be the most exceptional dive site in the area, it offers a chance to observe typical marine life, including the possibility of encountering sea turtles.
Twin Rocks
Twin Rocks features two rock formations located northeast of Miniloc Island. The reef slopes down to a sandy bottom at 30 meters, where you can find blue-spotted stingrays and ghost pipefish. Look for the pipefish among the corals and muddy areas as they blend into their surroundings.
Ujung Karang Tinggi
Ujung Karang Tinggi is located approximately 15 minutes from the Nunukan Islands. This dive site features a reef that begins with a gentle slope before transitioning into a steep wall. It is known for its macro life and offers opportunities to observe various marine species. Notable sightings include numerous hard and soft corals, bumphead parrotfish, trevallies, and the occasional tuna. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Ujung Nunukan
Ujung Nunukan is located southwest of the Nunukan Islands, approximately 30 minutes from Nabucco Islands. The dive site features a sandy plateau at the base of a steep wall that descends to 30 meters. A former house reef boat has been sunk between Ujung Nunukan and Pandoga Point, resting at depths of 16 to 21 meters. Divers can expect to see gray reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, large stingrays, pipefish, and turtles. The wall is adorned with whip corals, while the wreck is home to moray eels and scorpion fish.
Wall Street
Wall Street is characterized by a steep wall that descends to depths of 50 to 60 meters. The top of the wall features a colorful coral garden situated at a depth of 3 to 5 meters, making it suitable for both novice and experienced divers. The site is rich in marine life, showcasing a variety of reef fish including fusiliers, triggerfish, soldierfish, snappers, angelfish, surgeonfish, pufferfish, cardinalfish, and butterflyfish. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Washing Machine
Washing Machine is a unique dive site located in Mindoro, characterized by a series of small interlocking canyons and swim-throughs. The underwater landscape is adorned with vibrant coral formations. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including sweetlips, bannerfish, sergeant majors, and large schools of batfish. Additionally, sightings of emperors, surgeonfish, and larger pelagic species such as tuna, along with white tip and blacktip sharks, are common. The site is accessible from the shore.
Whitetip Avenue
Whitetip Avenue is a dive site located south of Barracuda Point and Coral Gardens, featuring a depth range of 15-40 meters (50-131 feet). Divers can expect to see whitetip sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles, along with a variety of fish species such as groupers, parrotfish, and butterflyfish. The site has a wall covered with diverse corals, black coral colonies, gorgonians, and sponges.
Wreck Reef TLDM
Wreck Reef TLDM is located 2 minutes south of Pulau Uda Kecil within the Sepanggar Navy Base. This site features a small shipwreck that was intentionally sunk by the Navy, making it suitable for beginner divers interested in wreck diving. The bottom consists of white sand, and while there is no coral reef present, divers may occasionally encounter sea snakes visiting the wreck. The site is accessible via shore entry.