

Best for beginner divers, 5-30m, boat entry, strong current.
Coral Hills is a reef and drift dive site located off Mabul Island, Malaysia. The topography consists of a reef structure extending from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Divers encounter strong currents and visibility ranging from 15 to 30 metres. Marine life includes the Chromodoris nudibranch, Nembrotha nudibranch, and Crocodile fish, alongside uncommon sightings of Giant frogfish, Painted frogfish, Peacock mantis shrimp, Warty anglerfish, Ornate ghostpipefish, Leaf scorpionfish, Bluespotted fantail ray, Broadclub cuttlefish, Banded pipefish, and Ribbon eel. Access is by boat only. While suitable for beginners, the site requires careful depth monitoring and awareness of variable currents.
4.24096, 118.63917
April and December bring the most favourable conditions, so plan your permit application around those months if you have flexibility. Given the strong currents, confirm the day's conditions with your dive operator before entering and be ready to stay shallower than 15 metres if the flow picks up.
Accessed by boat from the Semporna area's dive resorts and liveaboards.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-30m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Apr, Dec
Divers regularly record Chromodoris and Nembrotha nudibranchs and Crocodile fish. Uncommon sightings include Giant and Painted frogfish, Peacock mantis shrimp, Warty anglerfish, Ornate ghostpipefish, Leaf scorpionfish, Bluespotted fantail rays, Broadclub cuttlefish, Banded pipefish, and Ribbon eels.
Yes, the site is rated for beginners, though the strong currents and depths reaching 30 metres require careful attention and close proximity to your guide.
The site ranges from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Access to Coral Hills is by boat only.
April and December offer the most favourable conditions for diving at this site.
Diving at Coral Hills in Semporna requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Coral Hills in Semporna. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
Coral Hills in Semporna can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Coral Hills in Semporna typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.