Experience paradise underwater at these top 15 best dives sites In Malaysia.
Malaysia has long been a notable destination for diving, renowned the globe over for clear waters, diverse marine life and competitive dive rates.
Whether you want to try diving yourself or already an experienced diver, we’ve gathered these destinations below, that’ll truly appeal to the underwater adventurer in you.
Here are our top picks according to the overall experience. Discover and target your next diving destination, let’s discover one of the best short trips from Singapore!
15 Best Dive Sites In Malaysia
1. Sipadan Island & Mabul Island
The east of Malaysia, not to be confused in reference to diving in the East Coast of Malaysia, sits the lush island of Borneo, home to the top trio.
Our number one pick of best dive sites in Malaysia is hard to dispute as the trio of islands holds immense beauty above and underwater; we’re sure these islands will get you snorkelling and diving in no time after your arrival.
Accessibility: Fly into Tawau, Sabah or into Kota Kinabalu, Sabah then a land transfer is required to Semporna before a boat into the islands. Boats between the islands are available via resorts and the local dive operators, or if you’re staying in Semporna, day trips are available as well.
Good to know: You can visit these islands all year round, though special permits are required
2. Kapalai Island
Kapalai island isn’t far from Sipadan, with a mere 15km between them. This island isn’t at all big and has one resort operating on it.
A big bonus to Kapalai is that you get to snorkel and shore dive for free, not inclusive of any equipment, making it great if you’ve a party mix of divers and non-divers.
Image Credits: Leisure Tan
Accessibility: Similar route to Sipadan and Mabul above Good to know: The island is technically a sand bar, and walking along the sand is possible during low tide.
3. Layang Layang Island
Layang Layang proudly takes our third spot as the island is known for spotting of hammerhead and whale sharks, as well as its history; it was a former marine base.
What you won’t find here are beaches but the island more than makes up for it with the 12 dive spots around it.
Diving in Layang Layang however does not require permits and currently there is only one dive resort operating on the island.
Accessibility: Access point is via a chartered flight on board small cargo plane into the island from Kota Kinabalu. Do check weight limitations if you’re bringing along your diving gear and other equipment. Good to know: Island is open from March to August; remainder months closed during monsoon season
4. Pom Pom Island
A small gem, measuring less than 3 km in circumference, Pom Pom Island holds its own, largely due to its white sandy beaches and being a hatching ground for Hawksbills and Green turtles, and even one resort on the island doubles up as a turtle sanctuary and conservation centre.
If you’re visiting during turtle hatching season, ask locals how you can lend a hand.
Accessibility: Fly into Tawau and a land transfer to Semporna before taking a boat out to Pom Pom Good to know: Pom Pom North Point is also known as ‘Mini Sipadan’
5. Mataking Island
Also in Sabah, Mataking is known for having the one and only underwater post office in Malaysia.
Image Credits: aeriazlan
It is a base for turtle hatching with an active team running an eco-conservation program.Diving here is possible under the Sipadan diving permit.
Accessibility: Find your way by land transfer from Semporna and hop on a 40 minute boat ride inland Good to know: Mataking has a peacock sanctuary, open for visitors
6. Tenggol Island
Tenggol Island which is situated in the state of Terengganu, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia. One of best diving in Malaysia here is you can see the whale shark if you’re very lucky.
Image Credits: rattachain
This island is popular among more experienced divers as the waters surrounding it are wreck dive spots, and has only one resort on it. Consider the option to book via individual dive operators for best all-inclusive packages.
Diving sites are Tokong Timur, Mini Highway, Tanjung Api & many more.
Image Credits: zahryl
Accessibility: Drive up or fly into Terengannu and head on to Dungun pier, then a ferry or boat across Good to know: If hanging out at the beach, bring coconut oil to deter sand flies
7. Perhentian Island
Still in Terengganu, the two Perhentian islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil.
Accommodation choices are aplenty on both islands, from budget right up to luxury stays with the bulk of budget accommodation located on Perhentian Kecil, which is livelier come nightfall, and is the choice island for backpackers.
These islands are closed during the monsoon on the East Coast from November through to February.
Accessibility: Option to fly into Terrenganu, drive up, or take overnight busses to Kuala Besut jetty for the morning ferries Good to know: Travellers from Singapore can opt to hop on the Transnasional business class overnight bus
8. Redang Island
This island is also under Terrenganu state administration, and almost all accommodation here are resorts. While snorkelling and scuba diving is a must, other than water based activities why not enjoy Redang’s beaches which are perfect to simply relax the day away.
Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan
Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into into Kuala Terengganu then travel to Shahbandar jetty or Merang jetty Good to know: Marine fees apply for entry into island
9. Tioman Island
Tioman Island in the state of Pahang is a duty free island, and an abundance of resorts around the island, with a jungle and forestation in the middle or the island.
A small Malay village with shops and eateries is in Kampung Tekek; and to get here is only by water taxis.
Image Credits: Kai Lukoff
Accessibility: Direct flight from Subang airport via SAS airline, drive up, hire taxis and overnight busses Good to know: One ATM machine in Tekek, but does not accept all cards- do bring sufficient cash
10. Lankayan Island
Back to Sabah Borneo, Lankayan is quite the secret among divers, and less visited due to its location in the Sulu sea.
But if you make this trip, you won’t regret it anytime soon especially if you’re lucky to spot some whale sharks!
Image Credits: fotograferen.net
Accessibility: Head to Sandakan Sabah then hop on a speedboat Good to know: March- May for whale sharks sightings
11. Dayang Island
Situated in Johor, this island is practically unknown even to most Malaysians. The island is picking up in popularity in recent years so if you ask us, the best time to go is now!
Dayang Island attracts divers and sport fishermen namely for the Black Marlin which are native around its waters.
Accessibility: From Johor, travel to Mersing jetty and then a boat in Good to know: Open season is from April to September
12. Pemanggil Island
Pemanggil Island is a haven for divers and fishermen, as most fishing competitions are held here and also a spot to catch Black Marlins and mackerels.
Being small, electricity on Pemanggil Island is controlled, and switched on from 1930- 0730 daily.
Accessibility: Get in to Johor then to Mersing jetty and a boat transfer Good to know: Best to visit from March to June
13. Labuan Island
Labuan in Miri Borneo is an island with its own appeal, firstly it’s duty free throughout and offering two notable wrecks from World War II and other wrecks spots as well.
Image Credits: adlertours.files.wordpress.com
Divers with sufficient logged wreck diving experience or are certified would be able to visit some wreck spots here.
Accessibility: Fly in directly from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu Good to know: Great deals on duty free pearls
14. Langkawi Island
Malaysia’s largest duty free island is way up north in the state of Kedah neighbouring Thailand. There’s a lot to do in Langkawi it’s best to spend a few days, up to a week here.
Diving in Langkawi, Malaysia takes place mostly at the Marine Park and three other islands nearby.
Accessibility: Plenty of direct flights into Langkawi Good to know: Year round diving
15. Kapas Island
Belonging to the state of Terengganu, this less visited island is a magnet for wreck dive enthusiasts, as its home to a Japanese World War II ship wreck, and offers a chance to glimpse reef sharks and turtles who favour the waters around here.
Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into Terengganu and on to Marang jetty followed by boat transfer Good to know: Open year round but gets a lot of rain during monsoon season
All packed up to go for a dive or you’ve always wanted to get a diving license but doesn’t know where to go?
Tioman Island is the next destination in your to-dive list!
Listed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, it is best known for its famous scuba diving spots filled with sponges, sea corals and shipwrecks.
Here, we’ve provided the complete guide to diving in Tioman Island that you definitely do not want to miss.
Pack your bags and get ready to dive!
Tioman Diving Season
So, now you know one of the best islands to dive but do you know the suitable season for a dive?
Tioman Island, like the rest of Malaysia is a tropical country with low humidity, hot weather and occasional rainfall throughout the rest of the year. It is best to ensure the right season to dive.
1. November till February
Monsoon Season.
It brings strong waves and unusually high tides during those time.
Diving is not allowed.
2. March till October
Dry Season
The warm water in the seas brings out the richness of the marine life.
Possible to dive
3. Mid March till May and September till Mid October
Below is the map of the common dive sites around Tioman Island. This will give you some information of the whereabouts of the dive site and help to plan your trip effortlessly.
5 Best Dive Sites Around Tioman
Do you yearn to be surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of fish?
With so many dive sites for divers to choose from, catering to each interest; from macro diving to wreck explorations for advanced divers- you’ll be spoilt for choice! Do not miss out the best activities to do in Tioman Island!
So, you’re not sure which dive sites you should explore? Here’s what you must not miss with 5 best dive sites in Tioman, just for you!
No divers should ever miss this because it has the most impressive reefs in the area.
It is home to an abundance of beautiful hard corals, soft corals, sea fans, sea sponges and small critters attracting thousands of fishes that macro divers will fall in love.
2. Renggis Island
One of the top famous dive site and it can get really crowded. A magnificent array of beautiful corals hard and soft- surround the reefs, in a symbiotic relationship with the aquatic life (moray eel, angel fish, puffer fish and sting ray).
Also, you may spot some sea turtles and black tip reef sharks. This site is usually used for training dives and night dives due to its rather low depths.
3. Chebeh Island
Another one of the fantastic dive site, suitable for all levels of divers, the formation of rocks and underwater scenery will leave you in awe.
Home to a school of barracudas and trevallies and some sightings of manta ray and whale shark during the migration season (around April and October).
Image credit: travelblog.expedia.com.my
4. Labas Island
This site has many wondrous caverns around, thus depicting a piece of Swiss cheese- like a maze, one can swim through the deep trough or glide along with the dense corals.
As you go deeper into the site, you may spot turtles, sharks and angel fish.
5. Sawadee Wrecks
A former Malaysian Navy Warship was sunken in 2012 to create an artificial reef alongside two old fishing vessels (Sawadee Wreck), home to families of lionfish, pufferfish and also a tiny octopus.
This dive site is more suited for advanced and leisure divers, where the large openings allow divers to enter and explore the wreck from the stern to bow.
So, remember this best dive sites so you won’t miss any of the spectacular views underwater.
4 Best Dive Centre In Tioman
Are you eager to jump into the sea now after getting to know the beautiful dive sites?
Wait… you’ll need scuba tanks, scuba mask, a diving suit and a license! Where to get all this stuff, you may ask?
Here it is, the 4 best dive center that provides all your necessary diving equipment that is readily available- hassle-free!
1. Amigo Dive Centre Juara Tioman
The only 5 star PADI dive center located at the east side of Tioman Island.
Price Starting From: You can check the prices on official Facebook page. You may contact them directly to get a better price list.
Dive Centre Highlights:
The only dive operator on the east side of the island.
The less explored dive sites are suitable for macro divers.
The dive sites ranged from shore, rocky slope, sandy slope and submerged reef.
PADI Discover Scuba, a course for ‘Introduction to Scuba Diving’.
PADI Recreational Dive courses; Open Water, Advance Open Water, and Rescue Diver.
PADI Specialty courses; Altitude Diver, Night Diver, Underwater Photographer, Enriched Air Diver, Search and Recovery Diver
PADI Professional courses; Divemaster, Instructor Development, Rescue Diver, Master Instructor.
Has inbound and outbound dive tours
Provide snorkelling trips.
Amigo Dive Centre Juara Tioman
Location: Kediaman 1, Kampung Juara, Pulau Tioman, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +6014-612 2032
Email: [email protected] Facebook
2. B&J Dive Centre
The oldest dive centre in Tioman Island and provides technical wreck diving.
Provide dive course packages that include accommodation.
Provide a list of accommodation and able to assist in booking for you.
In Air Batang
Tioman Dive Resort (own accommodation)
Tioman House Bungalows
Cozy Inn
Fiqthya Chalets
In Salang Bay
Salang Pusaka Resort
Salang Indah Resort
-> Offer PADI courses, Children Scuba Diving, Fun Dive, Tec Diving Courses, PADI Professional Courses, and CCR Rebreather Course. -> Exploring the wrecks around Tioman Island in deep water between 55m and 69m depth.
HMS Repulse
HMS Prince of Wales
Submarine 016
Submarine KXVII
HMS Banka Minesweeper
MV Seven Skies Supertanker
Aur Tanker
B&J Dive Centre
Location: Kampung Air Batang (ABC) and Jeti Kampung Salang, Pulau Tioman, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +609-419 1218 (ABC) / +609-419 5555 (Salang)
Email: [email protected] Facebook
3. Tioman Dive Centre
A renowned diving centre that not only offers a full range of diving course but also leisure diving.
Price Starting From: You may direct contact them via contact below to get the exact price.
Dive Centre Highlights:
Offers a full range of diving courses.
Offers 20 spectacular dive sites for leisure diving.
PADI Bubblemaker designed for young children aged between 8-9 years old.
PADI Discover Scuba designed for beginner divers and to experience diving.
PADI Scuba Diver course, an alternative to Open Water Course if you’re short on time.
PADI Recreational Dive courses; Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver.
PADI Professional courses; Divemaster
Provide a list of accommodation options but you will need to book them by yourself.
Swiss Cottage Resort
Cheers Chalet
Tioman Cabana
Coral Reef Resort
Babura SeaView Resort
Persona Island Resort
The Berjaya Resort
Tioman Dive Centre
Location: Kampung Salang, Pulau Tioman Island, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +6013-886 2978
Email: [email protected] Facebook
4. Bayu Dive Centre
A youthful dive centre that features a look at the Snake Eels (Ophichthidae) in their natural habitat.
Provides leisure dives that includes; shore, boat and night dive.
There’s a range of PADI courses to choose from: Discover Scuba, Open Water Scuba, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response and last but not the least, Divemaster.
Get the chance to admire snake eels during one of the shore dives.
Offers course packages that includes accommodation so you don’t need the hassle to find on your own.
When you book one of the packages, it includes ferry return trip from either Tanjung Gemuk or Mersing Jetty to Kampung Genting Jetty (excludes Marine Park tax).
Bayu Dive Centre
Location: Genting Bayu Chalet, Kampung Genting, Pulau Tioman, 26800 Kuala Rompin, Malaysia
Contact: +6014-756 0092
Email: [email protected] Facebook
Tioman Diving Course Package
Do not know which diving course is suitable for you? PADI, the world’s largest recreational diving and dive training organization provide a wide range of courses from beginner to instructor level.
Here we have enlisted a few courses that cater to suit different requirements.
At the same time, PADI includes dive courses for those who wished to take a step further to become an instructor or work as a career.
The price of a divemaster course is range about MYR 3,500. You may contact the dive center directly for further inquiry on other professional dive courses.
PADI Professional Dive Courses:
PADI Master Scuba Diver
PADI Instructor Development Course
PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor
PADI Specialty Instructor
For the bold and adventurous, and ready to discover wrecks lying at the bottom of the sea. Here are some special diving courses for you.
Some courses require you to acquire certain skills and certificates.
For example, the Rescue Diver Course requires you to have the skillset and certificate in both; Advanced Open Water Diver and Emergency First Response.
You may contact the dive centre for further information on the type of course that interests you.
The island may be a stone throw away but you definitely can’t swim all the way there! Getting to the island itself still requires a ferry or a speedboat.
There are two jetties in Mersing that travels to Tioman Island; Tanjung Gemok Jetty and Mersing Jetty, but the journey from Singapore to the jetty has many different options which we’ve opted for your convenience.
1. Private Car From Singapore To Mersing Jetty
Hiring private car / taxi from Singapore to Mersing has been one of the best travelling options. Everything that may be inconvenient is well taken care of by the private car company. Your safety and comfort are guaranteed by them.
Advantage of Using Private Car Service:
Direct transfer services between Singapore and Mersing Jetty
Hassle-free, without the need to get down from the car at immigration
Pick-up at any preferred time, date & location in Singapore and drop-off at Mersing Jetty
Non-sharing rides
Experienced, friendly drivers & punctual and keep on track with customer’s schedule
Drivers familiar with local traffic conditions and alternative road
Vehicle thoroughly checked before travelling
Comfortable, spacious with ample legroom
No additional or hidden cost
Families travelling with younger children or elderly
Quick Links:
Types Of Private Car:
There’re many other private car companies offering the same transfer service. But what makes us, SGMYTAXI different from them?
We are the leading private car company and here are the benefits of riding with us.
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How To Book Private Taxi/ Private Car:
WhatsApp us directly
Click here How To Book for the step-by-step booking procedures.
Hassle-free, flexible and convenient- what’s more to ask? So, hurry, make your booking with us!
2. Bus From Singapore To Tioman Island (via Tanjung Gemok Jetty)
If you’re travelling on a budget, there are other options that don’t burn a hole in your pocket and are equally comfortable too.
Here, 3 operators that schedule coaches to Tanjung Gemok Jetty from Singapore.
We highly advise alighting at Tanjung Gemok Jetty because it has more stable ferry schedule compared to Mersing Jetty and they’re only 40 minutes apart.
The time taken to travel doesn’t differ much from self-driving and you should be able to arrive at your destination within 4 hours from Singapore.
No matter which bus/coach you pick, you’re advised to arrive at the bus/coach departure station at least 30 minutes before the departure time. Similarly, for return trip too!
Step 1: Take Bus From Singapore To Tanjung Gemok Jetty
2.1 KKKL Singapore
Singapore To Tanjung Gemok Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
Kovan Hub 206
Daily 6:00am
SGD$39/pax
Bugis MRT Exit D
Daily 6:30am
SGD$39/pax
2.2 Diamond Coach Singapore
Singapore To Tanjung Gemok Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
The Plaza Singapore
5:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Novena Square Singapore
6:00am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Serangoon Nex MRT Station Exit E
6:20am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Woodlands Singapore
6:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Step 2: Take Ferry From Tanjung Gemok Jetty To Tioman Island
Once you’ve arrived at Tanjung Gemok Jetty, you will need to take a ferry to Tioman Island.
Now only BlueWater ferry operator operate from Tanjung Gemok Jetty to Tioman Island.
Book your ticket in advance to avoid any frustration. You may book it online to secure your tickets. Check the Tioman ferry schedule to plan your itinerary and ensure you have a smooth journey.
3. Bus From Singapore To Tioman Island (via Mersing Jetty)
Another popular option for travellers to travel from Singapore to Mersing is by bus. These buses provide more timeslot, especially for those who prefer to travel at night.
The night schedule is suitable for those who wish to catch the first ferry the next morning, but you’ll need to stay one night in Mersing.
There are 2 operators that schedule buses to Mersing Jetty or Mersing Bus Terminal from Singapore.
Step 1: Take Bus From Singapore To Mersing Jetty
3.1 KKKL Singapore
Singapore To Mersing Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
Kovan Hub 206
Daily 6:00am
SGD$39/pax
Bugis MRT Exit D
Daily 6:30am
SGD$39/pax
Katong V Mall
Daily 10:30pm
SGD$39/pax
Singapore To Mersing Bus Terminal Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
Kovan Hub 206
Daily 10:00pm
SGD$39/pax
Katong V Mall
Daily 10:30pm
SGD$39/pax
Note: 6 mins walk to Mersing Jetty from Mersing Bus Terminal
3.2 Diamond Coach Singapore
Singapore To Mersing Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
The Plaza Singapore
5:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Novena Square Singapore
6:00am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Serangoon Nex MRT Station Exit E
6:20am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Woodlands Singapore
6:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
With so many online booking sites, you can get yourself a preferred seat (aisle, window, single seat) and avoid any disappointment. You may book them in advance at the various sites; redbus, catchthatbus, myexpressbus, easybook and busonlineticket.
Step 2: Take Ferry From Mersing Jetty To Tioman Island
When you arrive at Mersing Jetty, you’ll come across a Bluewater Express ferry or Cataferry that will bring you to Tioman Island.
If you prefer to drive to Tanjung Gemok Jetty or Mersing Jetty yourself, the journey is pretty straight forward.
The time taken to travel from Singapore to the jetty takes an average 3.5- 4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions, time and season.
You can either drive your own car from Singapore or rent a car from Malaysia. Although, it can be strenuous to drive long hours and requires you to pay the parking fee and petrol, but driving is leisure (to some).
From Singapore, you’ll head over to Woodlands and cross the immigration. Once you’ve cross the border and entered Johor, use the EDL highway instead of Jalan Tebrau so as to avoid any traffic congestion.
From here on, look out for the direction that leads to Kota Tinggi and then to Mersing. Follow that direction and you’ll soon see the signs directing you to Tanjung Gemok. Once you’ve reached Tanjung Gemok, you’ll be able to find the signs leading you to the jetty.
After a few minutes, you’ll find an open space carpark at the jetty where you can park for MYR10 per day.
Route: Singapore –> Woodlands Causeway –> Johor Bahru –> Kota Tinggi –> Mersing –> Tanjung Gemok –> Tanjung Gemok Jetty.
Always plan your diving trip few weeks before arriving in Tioman because the dive centres need to make all the necessary arrangements to appoint a dive master for you, hence planning everything beforehand is vital.
Enquire for more information, the friendly crew of each dive centres are always ready to assist. Speak to them over the phone or via email if you’re unsure which dive course you’re able to take.
It is better to book a full board package such as ready-made packages that include lodgings.
Some dive centres provide a list of accommodations that are within easy reach of the centre itself.
If you’re wearing glasses, it is best to have a special goggle with prescription lenses so you can have a clear vision of the underwater world. Unfortunately, not every dive centres in Tioman have it, hence is easier to purchase it at a dive shop in the mainland before heading to Tioman.
The availability of ATM are scarce and credit cards can only be used in certain areas. Instead, cash is widely used in the island, so make sure to prepare enough cash in MYR currency.
If you’re not used to the movement of the boats when it crashes into the waves- seasick- you can inform the dive instructor and they will provide some anti-motion sickness pills. However, please notify the instructor if you have any allergy.
Tioman is a duty-free zone where tobacco, alcohol and chocolates are much cheaper than mainland.
“Middle Island” is the literal meaning of Pulau Tengah.
The nature beauty and its unique history add to the charm of this island.
With approximately 16km from Mersing, this personally owned island is well-known for its white sandy beach and crystal clear water.
Nestling among the coconut trees, the only resort on the island, Batu-batu resort blends into the island perfectly.
With the serenity and tranquillity offered, Pulau Tengah is definitely an ideal tropical getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city lives.
Why stay in Pulau Tengah?
Pulau Tengah was once a popular refugee camp for Vietnamese. Due to the abundance of unique marine life and coral reefs all around the islands, Pulau Tengah and other small islands was nominated as Marine Park in 1985 after the camp was closed.
Western countries had recognized the beauty of Pulau Tengah. In 1997, a famous Swedish reality television programme, Expedition Robinson, shot its scenes in Pulau Tengah. This makes the island well-known even among international tourists.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
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Visitors get to see three different types of turtles living and breeding at the southern shore of Pulau Tengah. Those who visit the island between June and August have higher chances of watching turtles laying their eggs.
The resort on the island is ideal for perfect weekend getaways from Singapore for family vacations. By providing baby and children facilities, the resort aims at lessen the burdens of parents travelling with children. With well-trained and friendly staff, parents can leave their children at the play house and enjoy the life of two.
How to Get to Pulau Tengah
30 minutes boat ride from Mersing jetty will take you to Pulau Tengah. If you book your stay at Batu-batu resort, they will arrange a private speedboat transfer for you.
The resort also has a few scheduled speedboat transfer daily. It takes only 20 minutes to arrive at the island when the weather is good. Besides, you can also charter a boat at higher prices to get to Pulau Tengah.
For road transfers, visitors can either travel by bus or by private car.
There are a few bus companies provide direct coach transfer services from Singapore to Mersing which are One Travel & Tours and WTS Travel Singapore Flyer. The bus schedules and their pick-up point can be checked and booked online.
What to Do in Pulau Tengah
As there are lots of exciting activities offered by the island, you’ll never get bored while staying here. The activities include:
1. Scuba Diving at Pulau Tengah
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Dive season on the island falls from 15th March to 15th November. The dive team is currently running many diving programmes for youth at different ages. Experienced dive instructors will teach and guide them at close hand.
Join a snorkel trip to discover the underwater world at Pulau Tengah. It’s an attracting experience to get up close with the reefs and sea creatures. Diving mask and fins can be rent from the resort.
Kindly speak to the staff to plan a visit to the beautiful neighbouring islands. The resort offers 2 boats for island hopping, one is 24 foot boat and the other is 32 foot boat.
4. Jungle trekking at Tengah Island
There are two treks offered to hikers, one is 3km that trek around the island (1 hour journey) and the other one is 1.5km that trek through the interior of island (30 minutes journey).
5. Canoeing at Tengah Island
Ride on a kayak and enjoy paddling against the current. It can be enjoyed alone or with a group of people. The kayak can be rent from the resort.
Time spent with your loved one is always worthy. Beach volleyball enables you to enjoy quality bonding times with them. Besides sharing the fun of game, the families can enhance their relationship among themselves.
Where to Stay in Pulau Tengah
1. Batu-Batu Resort
Batu Batu Resort is the only resort in Pulau Tengah. Set admist the coconut trees and white sandy beach, it is a family-friendly resort suitable for a fantastic family holiday.
The rustic furnishings offer a nature and warm ambience to guests. All the villas are built by local carpenters.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
With a spacious pavilion overlooking the sea, the on-site restaurant offers a finest dining experience. It has a menu that change daily during lunch and dinner.
Normally, dishes served would be fresh seafood and delightful local dishes. To cater for little ones, children’s menu is available everyday.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Snorkelling, diving, kayaking, swimming and hiking are the activities offered by resort. Take pleasure at their attap-roofed beach bar. It offers fresh juices as well as cocktails and wines. Otherwise, go to the spa. Their therapists will provide different treatments and massages to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Pulau Tengah is not always available. There are a few months that are not suitable to travel. When planning a getaway to Pulau Tengah, avoid the annual monsoon season which falls from October to March especially during December to February.
Monsoon season leads to rough sea, high tides and strong winds. Hence, it is dangerous to go for water sports and even some beach activities.
To ensure your safety, travel in between April and September. Thanks to the calm water and sunny days within these months, you can fill your days with different interesting activities and you get to enjoy the island living to the fullest.
Travel Tips to Pulau Tengah
Need not to buy ferry tickets beforehand as resort will arrange boat transfer for you.
Bring your own bite creams and mosquito repellents even though the resort will provide.
Need not to bring the equipment for water sports as the resort will provide.
Seek for map and advice from staff at front desk beforehand if you wish to go for jungle trekking.
