

Best for beginner divers, 3-7m, shore & boat entry, moderate current.
Mari Mari House Reef is a shallow reef located in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Malaysia. Situated directly in front of the Mari Mari backpacker lodge, the site offers convenient access for both divers and snorkellers. The reef is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 3 to 7 metres and an average of 5 metres. Divers can expect moderate currents and visibility between 15 and 40 metres. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius. Species recorded around this area include wrasses, Moorish idols, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and various anemonefish. Hazards include jellyfish, sharp coral, and stonefish. Equipment rental and a cafe are available on-site.
6.70660, 116.32130
Night diving on the house reef reveals crabs and shrimp emerging from hiding and sleeping parrotfish in mucus cocoons.
Located on Gaya Island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, accessible by boat from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-7m
Visibility
15-40m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore & Boat
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Species recorded around this area include wrasses, Moorish idols, Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish, Eastern Triangular Butterflyfish, and Ocellaris Anemonefish.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth and convenient access.
The depth ranges from 3 to 7 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres.
The site allows for both shore and boat entries.
Yes, the site is suitable for snorkelling and has a snorkel rating of 3 out of 5.
Diving at Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah should be aware of jellyfish, stonefish, lionfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Mari Mari House Reef in Sabah typically ranges from 15 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.