

Best for beginner divers, 5-20m, boat entry, mild current.
Sapi Slope is a reef site located in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Malaysia, accessible only by boat. The reef slopes from 5 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres, making it suitable for beginners. Divers experience mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 25 metres. Marine life includes common wrasses, alongside uncommon sightings of zebra lionfish, titan triggerfish, eightband butterflyfish, clark's anemonefish, razorfish, and blacktip grouper. Rarer encounters include harlequin sweetlips, bluespotted fantail rays, giant moray, and various lionfish species. Divers should exercise caution regarding reef stonefish and lionfish, avoiding contact with the reef structure. Shore facilities at the park include toilets, a cafe, and equipment rental.
6.00634, 116.00460
Keep a close eye on where you place your hands and fins around the reef, as lionfish are present and their spines deliver a painful sting. Boat transfers are required to reach the site, so confirm departure times with your operator before gearing up.
Take a boat from Jesselton Point Jetty in central Kota Kinabalu. The journey takes 15-20 minutes.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-20m
Visibility
5-25m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Divers regularly encounter wrasses, while uncommon species include zebra lionfish, titan triggerfish, eightband butterflyfish, clark's anemonefish, razorfish, and blacktip grouper. Rarer sightings include harlequin sweetlips, bluespotted fantail rays, giant moray, and reef stonefish.
Yes, the site is well suited to beginners due to the manageable depth range of 5 to 20 metres and mild currents.
The reef slopes from 5 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres.
No, boat transfers are required to reach this site, which is located 2000 metres from the shore.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling activities.
Diving at Sapi Slope in Kota Kinabalu requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Sapi Slope in Kota Kinabalu. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Sapi Slope in Kota Kinabalu. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
Divers at Sapi Slope in Kota Kinabalu should be aware of lionfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Sapi Slope in Kota Kinabalu typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Sapi Slope in Kota Kinabalu typically ranges from 5 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.