Sipadan Island Park
Introduction
Sipadan Island Park, located in the Celebes Sea off the eastern coast of Sabah, Malaysia, is renowned as one of the world’s premier diving destinations. This oceanic island rises 600 meters from the seabed, formed atop an extinct volcanic cone covered by vibrant coral reefs. Its crystal-clear waters teem with over 400 fish species, including barracudas, hammerhead sharks, and green sea turtles, making it a must-visit for marine enthusiasts and divers.
Address
Sabah Parks Headquarters
Block H, Level 1-5, Lot 45 & 46, Signature Office, KK Times Square, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
Phone: +6088-523500
Email: hello@sabahparks.org.my
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Key Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Celebes Sea, Eastern Sabah, Malaysia |
| Established | 1996 (Marine Park status) |
| UNESCO Recognition | Not a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Area | Approximately 12 hectares (30 acres) |
| Highest Point | 600 meters (1,969 feet) above the seabed |
| Flora & Fauna | Over 400 fish species, 600+ coral species, green sea turtles, barracudas |
| Popular Activities | Scuba diving, snorkeling, underwater photography |
| Operating Hours | Daily, with access limited to 120 divers per day |
| Official Website | www.sabahparks.org.my/sipadan-island-park |
Entry Ticket Fees Table
| Category | Malaysian (MYR) | International (MYR) |
|---|---|---|
| Conservation Fee | 50 | 100 |
| Diving Fee | 250 | 350 |
| Snorkeling Fee | 50 | 100 |
| Guide Fee | 100 | 100 |
Note: Fees are per person per day. All visitors must obtain permits through authorized dive operators.
Key Highlights
- Barracuda Point: Famous for massive schools of barracudas and pelagic fish.
- Turtle Tomb: A submerged limestone cave with fossilized turtle remains.
- Drop-Off: A dramatic vertical wall drop-off, ideal for experienced divers.
- Rich Marine Biodiversity: Home to over 400 fish species and 600+ coral species.
- Protected Marine Park: A no-fishing zone ensuring pristine underwater ecosystems.
Things to Do
- Scuba Diving: Explore renowned dive sites like Barracuda Point, Turtle Tomb, and the Drop-Off.
- Snorkeling: Discover vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life in shallow waters.
- Underwater Photography: Capture the breathtaking underwater landscapes and creatures.
- Island Hopping: Visit nearby islands such as Mabul and Kapalai for additional snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Best Time to Visit
- High Season (Dry Season): March to June – Calm seas, excellent visibility (20–40 meters), and abundant marine life.
- Low Season (Rainy Season): November to February – Higher chances of rainfall and rougher seas; some dive sites may be less accessible.
How to Reach
- From Semporna: Take a speedboat from Semporna Jetty to Sipadan Island, approximately 45–60 minutes.
- From Tawau: Fly into Tawau Airport, then take a 90-minute taxi ride to Semporna.
- Note: All visitors must arrange permits and diving packages through authorized dive operators.
Accommodation Options
On Nearby Islands:
- Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort: Offers overwater chalets with direct access to dive sites.
- Sipadan Mabul Resort: Provides beachfront accommodations and dive packages.
- Mabul Water Bungalows: Luxury resort with private villas and house reef diving.
In Semporna:
- Seafest Hotel: A popular choice for budget travelers.
- Scuba Junkie Mabul Beach Resort: Offers affordable lodging and diving services.
Travel Tips
- Permits: Secure diving permits through authorized dive operators in advance.
- Clothing: Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing; bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Safety: Follow all safety guidelines provided by dive operators; ensure you have appropriate dive certifications.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Avoid touching or disturbing marine life; use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Photography: Use a waterproof camera or housing; be mindful of buoyancy to avoid contact with the reef.
Nearby Attractions
- Tun Sakaran Marine Park: A marine park encompassing eight islands, offering snorkeling, hiking, and cultural experiences.
- Bohey Dulang Island: Known for its panoramic views and hiking trails.
- Mabul Island: Offers additional diving and snorkeling opportunities.
- Kapalai Island: A sandbar island with clear waters, ideal for snorkeling.
Conclusion
Sipadan Island Park is a premier destination for divers and nature enthusiasts, offering unparalleled underwater experiences amidst a rich marine ecosystem. With its pristine waters, diverse marine life, and commitment to conservation, it remains a bucket-list location for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.
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