Pulau Sipadan Dive Sites

Coral Garden

Although the temptation of the drop-off is always there, this site is a haven for the underwater photographer. The health and diversity of the coral growth in the shallows atop of the wall, combined with the fact that almost every species to be seen in Pulau Sipadan’s waters is on view here, makes this site ideal for long dives devoted to both macro and wide angle compositions.

In depths between 5 and 10 metres, you can observe dozens of green turtles feed on the edges of the wall, and encounter featherstars at every turn. If you are looking for an encounter with a wrasse then the humphead wrasse will oblige. Triggerfish of the clown and titan variety are plentiful and may even allow you to take their photo without attack on their mind. Good luck!

The reef shallows here is so lively, colourful and in good shape that you don't really need to venture down the bordering wall, an ever-present at all of the Sipadan sites. Butterflyfish, such as the blackspot and teardrop, and masked and regal angelish are present at every turn. Humpback unicornfish can be found in the throws of mating in pairs.

Pulau Sipadan, it is often said, has everything that the Indo-Pacific has to offer and for the macro photographer, Coral Garden will occupy many a pleasure-filled hour.

Coral Garden Reef Basics: Coral gardens
Depth: 14 - 22m
Visibility: 20 - 30m
Currents: Gentle
Surface conditions: Calm
Water temperature: 26 - 30°C
Experience level: Beginner - advanced
Number of dive sites: 1
Diving season: All year round
Distance: 13 km (27 minutes) south from Mabul and 11 km (20 mins) southwest from Kapalai
Access: Mabul and Kapalai dive resorts

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