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Malaysia’s East Coast: Must-Visit Dive Spots for Every Diver 


(Source: Traveloka


Peninsular Malaysia boasts over 2,000 km of stunning coastline, with its east coast featuring some of the most beautiful islands. This area offers a diverse range of diving experiences, catering to all skill levels—from technical dives for seasoned pros to leisurely trips for beginners. 


Excellent visibility, top-notch dive centers, knowledgeable instructors, and competitive pricing make diving here an unforgettable holiday experience. Add to that, the vibrant marine life and incredible WWII wrecks waiting to be explored, and you have a diver's paradise.


For Singaporean divers planning their next adventure, the east coast of Malaysia offers some of the most breathtaking islands. Ready to explore further? Read on to find out more about these incredible dive spots!


  1. Tioman Island 


(Source: adriannalui


Tioman Island, tucked away in the Rompin District of Pahang, Malaysia, is a diver's dream come true. This lush, forested island is surrounded by 25 amazing dive sites, where vibrant coral reefs are brimming with colorful fishes. 


Imagine diving through huge boulder fields covered in hard and soft corals, navigating underwater caverns and crevices, and exploring impressive pinnacles. Plus, there are tons of WWII wrecks, like submarines and battleships, waiting to be discovered. 


At Tioman Island, you can expect to see everything from barracudas and rainbow runners to reef sharks, manta rays, and moray eels.


Recommended diving centers in Tioman Island 



(Source: PADI)  


Established in 1986 as Ben’s Diving Centre, B&J Tioman has grown into one of Malaysia's top dive centers. As a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Centre, they offer everything from beginner courses to instructor training. 


They expanded the Tioman Dive Resort between 2010 and 2014, and added comfy dormitory rooms in 2017. Passionate about protecting the environment, B&J Tioman is a GoEco operator, GreenFins Member, and Project AWARE award winner. 


Their facilities boast top-notch Scubapro gear, Bauer Pure Air Certified compressors, and the only Nitrox, Oxygen, and Helium tank fills on Tioman. Plus, their Air Batang location, also known as Kampung ABC has a pool for beginner divers and the B&J Beach Bar for relaxing after a day of diving.


Address: Air Batang Bay, 26800 Tioman Island, Pahang 

Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 (Monday-Sunday)



(Source: tioman_dive_centre)  


Tioman Dive Centre offers courses from Try Scuba for beginners to the Dive Master Course for professionals. They maintain high standards with a low student-to-instructor ratio of 4-5, ensuring courses aren't rushed. 


Environmental awareness is emphasized, teaching respect for marine life. Most people meet the fitness requirements, but it's good to check your comfort in the water. Contact Tioman Dive Centre for more details.


Address: Tioman Dive Centre, Salang bay, 26800 Tioman Island, Pahang 

Opening Hours: 09:00-18:00 (Monday-Sunday) 


  1. Redang Island 


(Source: meiting1618


Set in the South China Sea, just off the coast of Terengganu, Malaysia, Redang Island is a gem among the nine islands forming a marine sanctuary park on Peninsular Malaysia's east coast.


Among these islands, Redang stands out as a prime diving destination, boasting access to 30 dive sites teeming with vibrant hard and soft corals, and an abundance of marine life. Imagine encountering turtles, reef sharks, giant stingrays, octopuses, angel fish, Christmas tree worms, barracuda, rainbow runners, and nudibranchs during your dives. If you're lucky, you might even spot whale sharks towards the end of the diving season!


Keep in mind, Redang Island is closed between November and February due to the monsoon season. So, plan your visit accordingly and get ready for an unforgettable diving adventure in this tropical paradise!


Recommended diving centers in Redang Island 



(Source: thetravelingkayan


Aquarius Redang Dive Center invites you to embark on the ultimate dive adventure. Experience personalized attention, exclusive dive sites, flexible scheduling, and top-notch safety standards. 


With certified instructors and state-of-the-art equipment, they guarantee an unforgettable underwater journey tailored just for you. Dive in and discover the wonders of the ocean like never before!


Address: A 207, Kampung Baru, Pulau Redang, 21090 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu 

Opening Hours: 08:00-19:00 (Monday-Sunday) 



(Source: The Taaras


Welcome to Taaras Dive Center, nestled within the stunning Taaras Resort on Redang Island. Explore the wonders of the protected Marine Park, boasting nine breathtaking islands and over 30 dive sites. 


Encounter vibrant hard and soft corals teeming with marine life, from graceful turtles to majestic reef sharks. With the Marine & Fisheries Department's protection, you can dive knowing you're preserving the underwater ecosystem. 


Address: Pulau Redang Berjaya Resort, P.O.Box 126, Main Post Office, Kuala Terengganu 

Opening Hours: 08:00-19:00 (Monday-Sunday) 


  1. Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian Besar & Pulau Perhentian Kecil) 



These islands are a must-visit hotspot in Malaysia, and it's easy to see why! 


Nestled off the coast of Terengganu, they boast crystal-clear waters and breathtaking beaches. Learning to dive here is a breeze, with plenty of dive centers offering courses for every level.


Keep in mind, Kecil is the budget-friendly option with lots of accommodation choices, eateries, and even a hint of nightlife. On the other hand, Besar offers upscale resorts and is favored by families seeking a quieter escape. So, whether you're craving adventure or relaxation, these islands have something for everyone!


Recommended diving centers in Perhentian Islands 



(Source: firdaus_sohimi


At Octo Diver Perhentian, diving isn't just a passion—it's a way of life. Established in 2004 as Ocean Elements Dive Centre, the team has been immersed in the scuba diving world for over 15 years. The dedicated diving professionals believe in making every dive safe and, above all, fun. 


Nestled on Perhentian Island, hailed as one of Malaysia's premier diving spots, Octo Diver offers exclusive small group tours with custom-made itineraries. Picture divers unwinding on pristine, secluded beaches, soaking in the tranquility. Dive into an unforgettable journey beneath the waves and experience the thrill of diving with Octo Diver Perhentian! 


Address: Teluk Dalam Beach Perhentian Islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar, 22300 Kuala Besut, Terengganu 

Opening Hours: 09:00-20:00 (Monday-Sunday)



(Source: turtlebaydivers


At Turtle Bay Divers, every dive is an adventure! Divers plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Perhentian and discover why Turtle Bay Divers offers the best value diving in Southeast Asia. Explore vibrant reefs teeming with turtles and colorful fish. 


Join exhilarating diving trips to Redang Island and uncover three exciting new wrecks: Sugar Wreck, an easy dive on a 3500-tonne ship; Police Wreck, three boats at an 18m depth; and The Secret Wreck, a challenging dive on an old freighter at 38m. Whether a seasoned diver or eager to learn, Turtle Bay Divers invites all to dive into adventure!


Address: Pasir panjang, Pulau Perhentian Kecil, 22300, Terengganu 

Opening Hours: 08:00-19:00 (Monday-Sunday) 


  1. Tenggol Island 



Tenggol Island, a hidden gem located 26 km off the coast of Terengganu, is a paradise waiting to be discovered. As the farthest island in the Terengganu Marine Park, it holds the title of one of Malaysia's best-kept diving secrets. 


Its secluded location and position along the migratory route of elusive whale sharks have earned Tenggol quite a reputation. Explore this enchanting island and uncover its wonders beneath the waves!


Recommended diving centers in Tenggol Island 



(Source: tdbtenggol


Immerse yourself in the thrill of exploration with Tenggol Dive Buddy! Established in May 2021, the center faced initial hurdles during the pandemic but persevered with a dedicated team. 


Reopening in August 2021, Tenggol Dive Buddy entered its second year, expanding its team to include interns and freelancers. Beyond being a mere dive spot, it has transformed into a vibrant community for underwater enthusiasts. 


Address: A'king Jetty, Jalan Rajawali, 23000 Kuala Dungun, Terengganu 

Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 (Monday-Sunday) 



(Source: divetenggol


Explore the depths with Viking Scuba Tenggol! Established in 2016 as a family-owned dive center, it has blossomed into a fully equipped PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instruct 5 Star Instructor Development Centre nestled in Dungun, Terengganu, Malaysia. 


Boasting experienced PADI dive instructors and divemasters, Viking Scuba is dedicated to providing exceptional training while advocating for ocean conservation. Their innovative setup, crafted from up-cycled shipping containers, underscores their commitment to sustainability. 


Address: Permata Resort, Lot PT 14476, Jalan Pantai Sura, Sura, 23000 Kuala Dungun, Terengganu 

Opening Hours: 07:30-18:00 (Monday-Sunday) 


  1. Lang Tengah Island 



Nestled between the bustling resort islands of Redang and Perhentian, Lang Tengah stands out for its tranquil atmosphere and serene dive spots. With 12 dive sites scattered across its shores, ranging from 23 to 85 feet (7 to 26 meters) deep, this hidden gem offers a quieter underwater experience. 


Beyond the vibrant tropical fish, divers can anticipate thrilling encounters with turtles, leopard sharks, and bustling schools of jack and barracuda. Dive into Lang Tengah's untouched beauty and uncover a world of underwater wonders!


Recommended diving center in Lang Tengah Island 




Embark on an extraordinary diving adventure with Lang Tengah Scuba Adventure, your premier dive destination. Dive into the depths and discover the mesmerizing ghostwreck, vibrant blue coral gardens, and thriving fish havens that await beneath the crystal-clear waters. 


With Lang Tengah Scuba Adventure, you'll experience the pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life that make this island a diver's paradise. Encounter over 100 fish species, including enchanting baby sharks, just a short distance from the shore. 


Address: 219-E, 1st Floor, Wisma Cemerlang, Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin, 20000 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Monday-Sunday) 



Got an unforgettable diving experience waiting to be shared?


Join our travel community at GO Malaysia and tell us more about your underwater adventures! Shoot us an email at gomalaysia@uee.com.sg and subscribe to our blog to get the latest insights, stories, and travel news in Malaysia. 


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