12 Best Malaysian Resorts for Diving

Introduction

Malaysia is home to a myriad of diving destinations that cater to divers of all levels of experience. With a tropical climate, favourable water temperatures, and a rich biodiversity, Malaysia's diving destinations are a haven for adventure seekers and underwater enthusiasts. 

Now before you go ahead and book anything, do take note that Malaysia experiences monsoon seasons. It is crucial to select a diving destination that is outside the monsoon period so you can have better visibility, calmer waters, and increased safety. There are 2 types of monsoon seasons; Southwest Monsoon that starts from late May to September, and the Northeast Monsoon from November to March.

Other than that, choosing a good diving resort can provide you with comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable dive guides, and convenient access to dive sites. Make sure the resort prioritises safety, and check if their equipment is well-maintained and if their staff are certified and experienced. 

Here is a list of some diving resorts in Malaysia that you might want to check out for your next diving experience.

1. Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

Sipadan Island, Sabah: This resort is located near Sipadan Island and offers overwater chalets with easy access to the dive sites. It provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the underwater wonders of Sipadan.

Accommodation options and price

Kapalai Dive Resort offers fifty elegant and spacious wooden chalets. Every single one of them offers ocean view balcony with total privacy perfect for sunbathing or watching the marine life just a few feet below. Depending on when you visit, the price for a water chalet is around RM2,600 per night.

Diving packages 

This resort also offers diving package that includes chalet accommodation, unlimited dives in front of the Kapalai Dive Centre, buffets and you can even enjoy night dives with no extra charges! However, do take note that buying the diving package at the Kapalai Resort does not guarantee dives at Sipadan. 

Unique features 

You can find some famous local species near the resort; they are flamboyant cuttlefish, mandarinfish, blue ring octopus, dragonets, giant frogfish, gobies, gurnards, crocodile fish, giant moray eels, rays, and turtles.

2. Mabul and Smart Divers Resort

Mabul Island, Sabah: Situated on Mabul Island, this resort offers comfortable accommodations and is known for its proximity to fantastic macro diving sites.

Accommodation options and price 

Mabul and Smart Divers Resort has a selection of semi-detached bungalows scattered around the coconut grove. These mini homes range from standard chalets to stand alone chalets to suite chalets. The price per night ranges from RM1,000 - RM2,600.

Diving packages  

This resort also offers diving package that includes transfers between islands, accommodation, food and beverages, 1 day guaranteed 3 boat dives, unlimited jetty diving and the uses of tanks with air, weights and weight belt. 

Unique features  

Almost every tree on the island is numbered and is associated with a distinct individual who cares for the tree and harvests the coconuts!

3. Tioman Dive Resort

Tioman Island, Pahang: Tioman Island, nestled off the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. 

Accommodation options and price 

Tioman Dive Resort offers a wide range of room selections depending on your needs. Your choices range from dormitory to deluxe quad rooms with prices ranging from RM50 to RM440.

Diving packages  

Not to mention, they offer many different packages based on your needs. If you are a beginner at diving, you can take the Try Scuba Diving package but if you are familiar with diving, you can check out other more advanced packages as well. 

Unique features

Though it is a diving resort, you can also enjoy other activities around the area. You can try hiking up Turtle Bay or Monkey Bay, snorkelling or even rent a boat to Coral Island!

4. Tenggol Coral Beach Resort

Tenggol Island, Terengganu: Located on Tenggol Island, this resort offers simple yet comfortable accommodations and easy access to the island's impressive coral walls and thrilling dive sites.

Accommodation options and price 

Tenggol Coral Beach Resort offers male/female dorms, sea view rooms, beachfront chalets and bay view rooms. The prices range from RM100 - RM500 per night.

Diving packages 

Their diving packages are mostly for certified divers only. If you are not a certified diver, you can check out their Snorkelling package instead. :)

Unique features

In this resort, they guarantee that regardless of which room you stay in, you will never be more than 2 minutes walk away from all of your amenities! How convenient!

5. Mataking Island Resort

Mataking Island, Sabah: Set on Mataking Island, this resort offers luxurious villas and stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters. It provides a perfect blend of relaxation, diving, and snorkelling opportunities.

Accommodation options and price

Malaking Islang Resort has quite a selection of rooms available. The rooms range from villas to chalets to premium rooms if you want more privacy. The price range from RM900 - RM1,300.

Diving packages 

Their diving packages are only for licensed divers and include 3 boat dives per day with their professional Dive Master at nearby islands. However, take note that equipment rental is not included in the package. If you do not have a license, you can enjoy unlimited snorkelling activities as well. 

Unique features 

Do you know Mataking Island Resort is one of the most famous wedding destinations? They offer wedding packages for lovebirds who decided to tie the knot. They even have an underwater wedding package!

6. Paya Beach Resort

Tioman Island, Pahang: Paya Beach Resort offers a stunning beachfront location, comfortable accommodations, and access to vibrant coral reefs.

Accommodation options and price 

This resort offers beach villas, deluxe villas and deluxe suites with pricing that starts from RM350.

Diving packages

Paya Beach Resort also offers a wide array of diving packages suitable for beginners all the way to professional divers. 

Unique features 

Other than having amazing diving packages, they also have an extensive selection of spa packages to keep you relaxed throughout your vacation! 

7. Gayana Marine Resort

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah: Situated on Gaya Island, this eco-friendly resort offers luxurious villas and a private marine ecology research center. It provides a unique opportunity to combine diving adventures with learning about marine conservation efforts.

Accommodation options and amenities price 

This resort has a selection of villas depending on the views you want. They have rainforest villas if you like tropical rainforest views, ocean villas for South China Ocean view and many other more! Price starting from RM1,120 to RM1,400 per night typically.

Diving packages 

They only provide 2 different diving courses; fun dive course and dive refresher for those who have not dived for the past 6 months. 

Unique features or attractions of the resort

Do you know that each villa in this resort is designed in such a way that you can hear the lulling sounds of the surf beneath the villa?

8. Summer Bay Lang Tengah Island Resort

Lang Tengah Island, Terengganu: Set on Lang Tengah Island, this resort offers cosy accommodations and is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. 

Accommodation options and price 

Summer Bay Resort offers multiple rooms selection, most of them with pool views. They range from RM360 - RM2,300.

Diving packages 

Their diving packages are based on the number of nights you stay in their resort. For 3D2N, you get 1 shore 3 boat dives, 4D3N - 6 boat dives and 5D4N for 8 boat dives. Take note that this does not include equipment rentals.

Unique features

Staying here means that you get to access up to 16 diving hotspots around the resort!

9. Bubu Resort Perhentian Island

Perhentian Islands, Terengganu: Situated on Perhentian Besar, this resort offers comfortable beachfront accommodations and is known for its excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. 

Accommodation options and price

Bubu Resort is made up of deluxe rooms, premier rooms and deluxe garden rooms with prices ranging from RM1,000 - RM1,400.

Diving packages 

They offer snorkelling packages for their guests where you can swim in the crystal clear waters of the South China Sea to explore tropical coral reefs, and swim with black-tip reef sharks, sea turtles and more!

Unique features 

They also offer a fishing package to bring out the fisherman in you! This is truly an islander’s experience!

10. The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort

Redang Island, Terengganu: Located on Redang Island, this luxury resort provides a beautiful beachfront setting and easy access to the island's renowned diving sites. 

Accommodation options and price 

They offer a selection of rooms depending on the views you like. There are cliff views, ocean views and garden views with pricing ranging from RM1,500 - RM2,000.

Diving packages 

The Taaras offer 1 diving package with a nett price of RM3,500 per person. This includes 3 leisure dives for certified divers and pool or shore for uncertified divers.

Unique features 

If you want to bring along your children with you, fret not! Kids eat and stay for free in this resort!

11. Sipadan Water Village Resort

Kapalai Island, Sabah: This resort on Kapalai Island offers a charming and secluded experience. It provides easy access to the rich macro-diving sites surrounding the island.

Accommodation options and price

 The rooms' layout comes in a similar design with prices ranging from RM1,700 - RM2,400.

Diving packages  

They do offer diving packages for both adults and children. The package includes 3 boat dives and unlimited diving on the house reef. 

Unique features

Their resort’s building is inspired by the Bajau architectural design where they are all built over water supported with stilts.

12. Ombak Resort

Tioman Island, Pahang: Ombak Resort is a stunning beachfront retreat nestled amidst lush tropical surroundings. 

Accommodation options and price 

They offer a selection of rooms from standard layout to deluxe rooms with prices ranging from RM300 - RM550.

Diving packages

Ombak Resort also has diving courses for all levels of divers. They provide underwater photography and videography services, along with equipment rentals. Non-divers can enjoy guided snorkelling, kayaking, and personalized water exercises!

Unique features

Other than amazing snorkelling sites, you might come in contacts with wildlife, such as monitor lizards, fruit bats and even mouse deer when walking around the resort!   

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Diving Resort 

Proximity to dive sites

Check if the resort is conveniently located near dive sites. Some resorts may offer easy access, even within walking distance, allowing you to maximize your time in the water.

Diving certifications and training opportunities

Research the resort's offerings regarding diving certifications, such as PADI or SSI. Inquire about the average cost and duration of training/stay required to obtain a specific certification, as it may vary depending on the level of certification desired.

Safety measures and equipment

Ensure that the resort prioritises safety by providing well-maintained dive equipment and adhering to safety protocols. Inquire about the availability of rental equipment and its associated costs.

Dive packages and prices

Explore the dive packages offered by the resort, which often include a specific number of dives and may vary in terms of duration and pricing. Compare the prices and inclusions to find a package that suits your budget and diving preferences.

Additional activities and facilities

Consider the availability of other activities and facilities provided by the resort. Some resorts may offer amenities like spa services, restaurants, or access to other recreational activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, or hiking, enhancing your overall vacation experience.

Tip from our expert:

For beginner divers, there are three essential tips to keep in mind. First, stay calm throughout your dive to maintain clear thinking and maximize enjoyment. Second, remember to equalize your ears regularly to prevent discomfort and potential injury. Lastly, master your buoyancy control to navigate effortlessly underwater whilst protecting the delicate marine environment. With these tips, you can fully immerse yourself in the dive experience and savour every moment.

Secure the fun with Oyen Travel Insurance!

It is undeniable that Malaysia is a famous spot for diving enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking thrilling encounters with marine giants, exploring vibrant coral reefs, or capturing underwater memories through photography, Malaysia's diving resorts offer an unforgettable blend of adventure, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Take note of the factors to consider before booking your accommodation.

Most importantly, do not forget to get your travel insurance before any trips to insure yourself! Oyen travel insurance offers various insurance plans to cover different aspects of travel, including medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost baggage, and more. Check out Oyen today!