Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu offers incredibly accessible diving within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (TARP), a cluster of five islands just a short boat ride from the city. This proximity makes it a unique destination for divers seeking convenience without sacrificing beauty. The park's 23 dive sites feature a variety of underwater landscapes, from gentle coral slopes and sandy bottoms ideal for muck diving to small, interesting wrecks. Its calm, sheltered waters and abundance of macro life, including nudibranchs, frogfish, and seahorses, make it a paradise for underwater photographers and those new to diving.
Diving conditions in Kota Kinabalu are generally favorable year-round, with warm tropical waters and typically mild currents, creating a comfortable environment for all experience levels. Visibility can vary, but the sheer biodiversity makes every dive rewarding. Divers should visit for the unique blend of city convenience and marine park adventure. It's the perfect spot to complete a dive certification, enjoy relaxed fun dives, or pair world-class macro diving with the incredible topside attractions of Sabah, from lush rainforests to the majestic Mount Kinabalu.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
The sites around Sapi Island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are extremely popular, especially for training and new divers. They offer shallow, calm conditions with pretty coral gardens and lots of reef fish. Clement's Reef is another favourite, known for its healthy coral coverage and diverse marine life, including schools of fusiliers, damselfish, and the occasional turtle or blacktip reef shark. Its accessibility and gentle conditions make it a top choice for day trips.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
Well-known sites like Police Bay and Mid Reef offer reliable dives with healthy corals and abundant fish. For a hidden gem, seek out Edgell Patches. This less-frequented site often has better visibility and features beautiful hard coral formations. Another quieter spot is Sulug Island, which can reward divers with sightings of rays and cuttlefish away from the main crowds. These sites are perfect for those wanting a more serene diving experience in the park.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
The water temperature in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is consistently warm and tropical year-round, making it a comfortable diving destination in any season. Temperatures typically range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). There is very little fluctuation between months, so you can expect balmy conditions whenever you choose to visit, with the water being slightly warmer during the dry season months from April to September.
When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
The best time for diving in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is during the dry season, from April to September. This period generally offers the calmest seas, sunniest weather, and best underwater visibility. While diving is possible year-round, the monsoon season (October to March) can bring rain and choppier surface conditions, which may occasionally reduce visibility or cause trip cancellations. However, marine life is abundant throughout the year.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
Underwater visibility in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia can be variable. During the prime dive season from April to September, it typically ranges from 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet). However, factors like recent rainfall, plankton blooms, and tidal movements can affect clarity. Visibility can sometimes drop to 5 meters, especially after heavy rain, but the focus on macro life means excellent visibility isn't always essential for a great dive.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
While large pelagic migrations are not a primary feature of Kota Kinabalu, there are seasonal highlights. From February to April, there is a higher chance of encountering whale sharks as they migrate through the waters off the coast, although sightings are rare and not guaranteed. The rest of the year is more focused on the rich resident macro life and reef species, which are present year-round. Cuttlefish mating season can also be a special sight for observant divers.
What marine life can I expect to see in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
Divers can expect a fantastic array of macro life, including various nudibranch species, frogfish, ghost pipefish, seahorses, and ornate shrimp. The reefs are home to clownfish, moray eels, cuttlefish, and schools of fusiliers and damselfish. Turtles, particularly green and hawksbill, are common sightings. While less frequent, you might also spot blue-spotted stingrays, pufferfish, and the occasional blacktip reef shark patrolling the reef edges.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
Given the warm water temperatures of 27-30°C (81-86°F) year-round, a full wetsuit is not always necessary. A 3mm shorty wetsuit is sufficient for most divers to stay comfortable. For those who get cold easily or plan on multiple dives per day, a full-length 3mm wetsuit is a good option. Many divers are also comfortable in just a rash guard and board shorts.
How do I get to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
The main gateway is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), which receives direct flights from major Asian hubs like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Hong Kong. From the airport, it's a short 15-20 minute taxi or ride-share journey into the city center. Most dive operators are located in the city or at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, from where daily dive boats depart to the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia?
Diving in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is almost exclusively shore-based. Dive sites within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are just 15-25 minutes by boat from the city's jetty, making day trips incredibly convenient and cost-effective. There are no local liveaboards that focus solely on this area. Staying on shore allows you to enjoy the city's amenities and other land-based attractions in Sabah. Liveaboards in this region typically depart for more remote destinations like Sipadan.