

Best for beginner divers, 5-25m, shore entry, mild current.
Kapalai Island is a sandbar site featuring a reef and artificial reef structures located in the Semporna region of Malaysia. The site is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 5 to 25 metres and an average depth of 15 metres. Divers and snorkellers access the site by boat. Conditions are generally mild, with visibility fluctuating between 5 and 30 metres and water temperatures consistently between 29 and 30 degrees Celsius. The site supports night diving and offers facilities including a dive shop, air fills, and equipment rental. Be aware of sharp coral when navigating the area. Typical dives last approximately 50 minutes.
4.22511, 118.68704
If you are staying at the resort, the reef area between the day visitors' zone and the bungalows is the most recommended for snorkeling.
Accessible by staying at the Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort or via day trips from Semporna.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-25m
Visibility
5-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Boat required
Water Temp
29-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginner divers.
The depth ranges from 5 to 25 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Yes, Kapalai Island is a popular snorkelling location with a rating of 4 out of 5.
Access is by boat, as the site is located 35 kilometres from the shore.
The site experiences mild currents and water temperatures between 29 and 30 degrees Celsius, with visibility ranging from 5 to 30 metres.
Diving at Kapalai Island in Semporna requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Kapalai Island in Semporna. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Kapalai Island in Semporna. Water temperatures range from 29°C to 30°C.