Kota Kinabalu diving guide

About diving at Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu (KK), the capital of Sabah, is one of very few cities where you can step off a boat at a coral reef within minutes of downtown. The five islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park — Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug — sit just offshore.

Diving in the park is shallow and relaxed, which makes KK an easy place to learn or to add a few dives to a wider Borneo trip. The city is also a gateway to Sabah's more remote dive destinations.

What makes Kota Kinabalu special

• Tunku Abdul Rahman ParkFive islands with sheltered reefs just a short boat ride from Jesselton Point, ideal for training and easy fun dives.
• Diving close to the cityHalf-day dive trips are realistic, so diving fits around city sightseeing and food.
• Gateway to the rest of SabahFrom KK, divers continue to Semporna, Sipadan and Mabul via Tawau, or to other offshore sites around Sabah.

Marine life to look for

• Clownfish
• Blue-spotted stingrays
• Nudibranchs
• Reef fish
• Hard and soft corals
• Occasional turtles

When to dive

Year-round, with conditions varying through the year. Ask your dive centre about sea conditions for your dates.

Getting there

Fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport; island boats leave from Jesselton Point ferry terminal in the city.

Who it suits

Beginners and anyone wanting easy dives; a convenient place for SSI Try Scuba or Open Water Diver.

Local tips

• If you plan to climb Mount Kinabalu, schedule the climb before your dives or leave a full day after diving before going to altitude.
• A park conservation fee applies to the islands.
• Weekends and holidays are busy at the islands — weekdays are quieter.

Learning to dive at Kota Kinabalu

Visiting divers usually join an SSI centre for guided dives or courses such as SSI Open Water Diver and Advanced Adventurer. Check each centre’s dates and what its packages include.

Part of our guide to scuba diving in Malaysia.