If you are planning to snorkel in Malaysia, you are going to have the best Snorkeling spots in Malaysia and life experience. Malaysia offers some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, you’ll find a spot that suits you.
In Malaysia, due to warm water, great visibility, and well-protected marine environments make snorkeling enjoyable and safe for anyone. From the easy-access shores of Langkawi to the rich underwater biodiversity of Sipadan Island, each location offers a unique adventure.
So, get ready to explore the best places for snorkeling in Malaysia. I will walk you through the top 10 sites where you can enjoy clear waters and vibrant marine life.
When To Go Snorkeling in Malaysia?
I’ll give you the scoop from someone who’s been there: January and February are the best months to visit the West Coast. What about the east coast? Ideally, you should aim for June or July. For those who want to experience Borneo, April is the month to do it. You won’t get those monsoon blues if you time it right.
Temperature-wise, we’re talking a comfy range from 20°C to a sunny 30°C. And the water? Just as inviting, floating between 26°C and 30°C. Perfect for those who forget to pack their wetsuits! Plus, on a good day, you can see up to 50 meters ahead in the water—like having superpowers, but underwater.
Top 10 Best Snorkeling Spots in Malaysia
Malaysia is a snorkeler’s paradise, with numerous spots offering breathtaking underwater experiences. Here are the top ten snorkeling sites you should consider for your next adventure:
#1. Mengalum Island
If you are planning a peaceful getaway, Mengalum Island in western Sabah is a great place. Known for its vibrant marine life and famous deep-sea fishing spots, the island offers a full-day snorkeling package that includes lunch and a transfer from your hotel for
You will visit two of the island’s best snorkeling spots under the guidance of an English-speaking expert. Enjoy seeing turtles, schools of fish, and other marine species in their natural habitat during your trip.
Boating through clear blue waters adds to the excitement, while the tranquility of Menglum Island, known for its pristine, uncrowded beaches, provides the perfect place to relax
The place is fast becoming a top choice for tourists looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. Plan your trip and relax in this tropical paradise.
#2. Lankayan Island
Lankayan Island, a little paradise of Malaysia located in the beautiful Sulu Sea off Sandakan, is perfect for snorkeling. It’s about a 90-minute speedboat ride from the mainland but when you reach here snorkeling here is simply amazing!
In Lankayan Island the water is crystal clear, and the sea life is super amazing. Just imagine floating above colorful corals while a group of tropical fish, and maybe even a turtle or two, swim around you. The best part? You can dive right into the water from the jetty or just in front of your chalet. It’s that accessible!
Lankayan Island is also part of a marine protected area, which means the underwater world is well-preserved. While snorkeling, you’ll notice how healthy the corals look and how lovely the underwater ecosystem is. This is great not just for us visitors, but also for the marine life that calls this area home.
Now when planning a trip, make sure you respect your surroundings. Do not touch the coral or chase the fish. It’s all about looking and enjoying without being distracted. Also, since the island is relatively remote, be prepared for no internet—it’s the perfect opportunity to ditch your phone and connect with nature instead.
Lankayan is not just snorkeling; It’s an experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and the joy of being surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you are here for a day or a longer stay, Lankayan Island promises unforgettable memories. So, are you ready to find this hidden gem?
#3. Timba-Timba Island, Semporna
Timba Timba Island in Semporna, Sabah is an ideal destination for divers looking for a peaceful getaway. Just a 40-minute speedboat ride, it’s famous for its clear waters and diverse marine life including nurse sharks, barracudas, and eels. The island’s coral reefs are vibrant and well-preserved, providing divers with beautiful underwater areas to explore.
Despite its natural attractions, Timba-Timba is sparsely populated compared to other tourist destinations, making for a peaceful and intimate experience. The island is part of a larger marine protected area, emphasizing the importance of preserving a unique ecosystem.
Timba-timba is ideal for those who enjoy adventure and the tranquility of untouched nature. It’s a simple, charming destination that promises a memorable day of snorkeling amongst some of Sabah’s finest marine spots. Timba Timba Island in Semporna, Sabah is an ideal destination for divers looking for a peaceful getaway.
Just a 40-minute speedboat ride, it’s famous for its clear waters and diverse marine life including nurse sharks, barracudas, and eels. The island’s coral reefs are vibrant and well-preserved, providing divers with beautiful underwater areas to explore.
Despite its natural attractions, Timba-Timba is sparsely populated compared to other tourist destinations, making for a peaceful and intimate experience. The island is part of a larger marine protected area, emphasizing the importance of preserving a unique ecosystem.
Timba-timba is ideal for those who enjoy adventure and the tranquility of untouched nature. It’s a simple, charming destination that promises a memorable day of snorkeling amongst some of Sabah’s finest marine spots.
#4. Pulau Mabul
Starting your snorkeling day tour to Pulau Mabul usually kicks off early with a scenic 45-minute boat ride from Semporna. It’s a quick trip that drops you right into a snorkeler’s paradise.
Once you’re there, dive into your first snorkeling adventure in Mabul’s crystal clear waters, bustling with diverse marine life, colorful corals, and the chance to see turtles.
After exploring underwater, you will have some downtime to relax on the beach, catch some rays, and enjoy a provided lunch. It’s a great moment to unwind and soak up the tropical vibe of the island.
Depending on your tour, the afternoon might offer more snorkeling or time to wander around the island and meet the locals.
The tour typically wraps up in the late afternoon with a return boat trip to Semporna, leaving you with plenty of memories from one of the world’s top snorkeling locations.
Make sure to check what your package includes, like meals and equipment, and always come prepared for a day under the sun.
#5. Sipadan Island
Snorkeling in Sipadan Island where the water is so clear that it feels like swimming in a giant aquarium. It’s a truly underwater paradise off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. It’s famous for its vivid coral reefs and the exciting variety of sea life, including playful turtles and large numbers of fish. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a majestic whale shark!
But, visiting Sipadan isn’t easy as to protect its unique environment, the number of daily visitors is limited. You’ll need a permit, and during busy times, it’s not easy to get permission.
Most visitors plan their visit through nearby resorts on the Mabul or Kapalai islands. These places handle all the permits and logistics, making your trip a breeze.
So, if you’re a snorkeling buff, Sipadan is a must-see. Just make sure to book ahead to secure your spot in this underwater wonderland. It’s a little bit of effort for a world-class snorkeling adventure that you won’t forget!
#6. Tun Sakaran Marine Park
The snorkeler’s haven Tun Sakaran Marine Park, located off the coast of Sabah in Malaysia, is famous for its dazzling clear waters and diverse marine life, the park spans several islands and is perfect for exploring underwater creatures filled with colorful corals and schools of colorful fish.
Getting to the park involves a boat ride from Semporna, which is often included in snorkeling tours along with equipment and a guide. These tours usually cover everything from transport to lunch, so you can focus fully on the beauty beneath the waves.
Before going snorkeling to Tun Sakaran Marine Park, remember to change into your swimwear at your hotel as there are no changing facilities. Also, remember to respect the underwater creatures’ life and environment to help preserve their natural beauty for future visitors.
Booking a package is recommended to ensure a hassle-free trip, complete with all necessary arrangements. This way, you can enjoy Tun Sakaran Marine Park’s natural splendor without any worries.
#7. Langkawi Island
Langkawi Island is one of the great places for snorkeling in Malaysia, especially at Pulau Payar Marine Park. It’s like a big underwater playground with lots of colorful fish and beautiful corals to see.
You can get there by a short boat ride from Langkawi, and the clear water makes it easy to see all the amazing sea life.
Pulau Payar is super popular, so remember it closes for a few months each year to keep it nice and clean. That means you can’t visit from March to May, but the rest of the year is perfect for snorkeling.
If you like the idea of swimming close to the beach and seeing fish, you can also go to Pulau Beras Basah. It’s another cool spot near Langkawi that’s easy to reach and fun to explore. Just be sure to take care of the beach and avoid littering.
When you want to snorkel, you can book a tour that takes care of everything for you like the boat ride and snorkeling gear. This way, you just have to show up and have fun exploring the underwater world!
#8. Redang Island
Redang Island is a top spot for snorkeling in Malaysia, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. It’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, offering easy access to beautiful coral reefs right from the beaches of local resorts.
Resorts on Redang often include snorkeling trips in their vacation packages, which means you can enjoy guided tours to the best underwater sites without any hassle.
These trips often come with all the gear you need and might take you to explore unique spots like a nearby shipwreck, surrounded by colorful corals.
Besides snorkeling, Redang is perfect for relaxing on its white sandy beaches or enjoying the nightlife at beachside stalls and karaoke lounges. With conservation efforts in place, the marine life and coral reefs around Redang are well-protected, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious travelers.
For the best experience, it’s recommended to visit during the peak snorkeling months when the water is clearest. Most packages from the resorts will cover everything from your stay to your meals and transportation, ensuring a worry-free trip.
#9. Tioman Island
Tioman Island is a great spot for snorkeling, thanks to its clear waters and vibrant sea life. You can see lots of colorful fish and beautiful corals just off its beaches.
Some popular snorkeling spots on Tioman include Renggis Island, where you might spot reef sharks, and Juara Bay, known for its scenic views and relaxed vibe.
Booking a snorkeling tour on Tioman is easy. You can do it through local tour operators or resorts. These tours usually provide all the snorkeling gear you need and are led by experienced guides who know the best places to see marine life.
The cost of these tours varies, with options for every budget, from cheaper group tours to more private, personalized experiences.
Besides snorkeling, Tioman also offers other fun activities. You can relax on the beaches, explore the island’s jungle, or visit local villages to learn about the culture.
It’s best to book your snorkeling trip a couple of days in advance, especially during the busy season, to make sure you get a spot. Remember to respect the ocean and marine life to help keep Tioman beautiful for everyone.
#10. Layang Layang Island
Layang Layang Island, also known as Swallow Reef, is not your typical snorkeling destination—it’s something truly special. Located about 300 km northwest of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, this remote atoll rises from the deep blue of the South China Sea, offering an extraordinary setting for adventurous snorkelers and divers.
One of the island’s biggest draws is the chance to swim with schools of hammerhead sharks, especially from April to May, which is something of a peak season here due to the sharks’ mating rituals.
The underwater visibility is phenomenal, often allowing you to see vibrant coral walls and a plethora of marine life, including various shark species, stingrays, and an array of tropical fish.
The island is accessible only by chartered flights from Kota Kinabalu, which adds an element of exclusivity and adventure to your trip. Layang Layang is particularly famous among more experienced divers due to the deep waters and the pelagic species that frequent its walls.
For those not diving, the island still offers splendid isolation and pristine natural beauty, making it a peaceful retreat away from bustling tourist spots. The Layang Layang Island Resort provides comfortable accommodations and facilitates most activities around the island, including snorkeling excursions.
While Layang Layang might not be suitable for families with young children or beginner divers due to its remote and deep-water conditions, for those seeking an unparalleled snorkeling or diving experience in one of the world’s top dive locations, it’s hard to beat. Just be sure to plan your visit outside the monsoon season, as the resort operates only from March to July.
Final words about Snorkeling in Malaysia
Snorkeling in Malaysia offers an unforgettable experience, thanks to the country’s rich marine biodiversity and beautiful coral reefs. From the clear, vibrant waters of Sipadan Island to the accessible shores of Langkawi and the exclusive reefs of Layang Layang, there is something for every level of snorkeler.
For the best experience, it’s important to consider the best times of year to visit specific regions, to ensure safety with proper gear and close supervision, especially for children or non-swimmers, and to respect the marine environment by following local guidelines and conservation rules.
Malaysia not only promises rich underwater adventures but also offers the warmth of local hospitality and the serene beauty of its islands. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended exploration of its marine parks, snorkeling in Malaysia is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s wonders.
FAQs about snorkeling in Malaysia
Does Malaysia have good snorkeling?
Absolutely! Malaysia offers some of the world’s best snorkeling spots with vibrant marine life and beautiful coral reefs. Popular destinations include the Perhentian Islands, Sipadan Island, and Tioman Island.
What is the best time of year to go snorkeling in Malaysia?
The best time to snorkel in Malaysia typically depends on the region. For the East Coast (e.g., Tioman and Redang), the ideal months are between March and September, while the West Coast (e.g., Langkawi) is best from November to April.
Can non-swimmers go snorkeling in Malaysia?
Yes, non-swimmers can enjoy snorkeling but should use life jackets and stay within shallow, safe waters. It’s also recommended to always have a guide or an experienced swimmer accompanying non-swimmers.
How deep do you need to go when snorkeling?
Snorkeling is usually done in shallow waters where you can easily see the seabed and marine life below. Most snorkeling activities occur at depths less than 5 meters (about 16 feet).
What should I wear for snorkeling in Malaysia?
It’s recommended to wear a snorkeling mask, snorkel, and fins. To protect against the sun and minor scrapes, consider wearing a rash guard or a lightweight wetsuit.
