

Best for intermediate divers, 5-45m, boat entry, moderate current.
Mid Reef at Sipadan Island is a drift dive site featuring a reef and wall topography. Divers can explore depths ranging from 5 to 45 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. The site is suitable for intermediate divers and requires boat access. Visibility typically ranges between 15 and 40 metres, with water temperatures between 28 and 30C. Marine life commonly encountered includes Napoleon Wrasse, Emperor Angelfish, Longnose Hawkfish, Chromodoris Nudibranch, Bluefaced Angelfish, Whitetip Reef Shark, and Harlequin Sweetlips. Less frequently, divers may spot Zebra Sharks, Giant Moray, Coral Grouper, Titan Triggerfish, Leaf Scorpionfish, Regal Angelfish, and Crocodile Fish. Hazards include boat traffic, deep sections, sharp coral, and moderate currents.
4.11269, 118.63599
The site is famous for pygmy seahorses hiding in the coral, so be patient and look closely.
Access from the shore. Situated south of Mandarin Valley near Kapalai Island.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-45m
Visibility
15-40m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Apr, Dec
Divers frequently encounter Napoleon Wrasse, Emperor Angelfish, Longnose Hawkfish, Chromodoris Nudibranch, Bluefaced Angelfish, Whitetip Reef Shark, and Harlequin Sweetlips. Zebra Sharks, Giant Moray, Coral Grouper, Titan Triggerfish, Leaf Scorpionfish, Regal Angelfish, and Crocodile Fish are also recorded here.
No, Mid Reef is classified for intermediate divers due to the presence of moderate currents and deep sections.
The site offers a depth range of 5 to 45 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Mid Reef requires boat access as it is located 35 kilometres from the shore.
The best months to visit Mid Reef are April and December.
Diving at Mid Reef in Sabah requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Mid Reef in Sabah. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
Divers at Mid Reef in Sabah should be aware of sharks, stonefish. 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 Mid Reef in Sabah. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Mid Reef in Sabah typically ranges from 15 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.