

Best for intermediate divers, 5-30m, boat entry, moderate current.
Sweetlips Rock at Mataking Island is a reef and wall site suited for intermediate divers. The topography features a sharp drop-off with depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres, averaging 18 metres. Divers experience moderate currents, requiring careful buoyancy control and positioning. Visibility is typically 20 to 30 metres, with water temperatures between 28 and 30C. Boat access is mandatory, and divers must use a surface marker buoy due to boat traffic. Species recorded around this area include peacock mantis shrimp, blue-ringed octopus, emperor angelfish, Indian lionfish, and various nudibranchs. Hazards include deep water, strong currents, and sharp coral formations along the wall.
4.58689, 118.94541
Current at Sweetlips Rock can strengthen quickly and without much warning, so plan your dive to start up-current and signal your skipper before descending. Keep well clear of the wall to avoid contact with sharp coral and rock, particularly when the current pushes you laterally.
Accessed from Mataking Island's resort and included in daily dive programs.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-30m
Visibility
20-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Species recorded around this area include peacock mantis shrimp, blue-ringed octopus, emperor angelfish, Indian lionfish, and various nudibranchs.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the presence of moderate currents and depths reaching 30 metres.
The site ranges from 5 to 30 metres in depth, with an average depth of 18 metres.
Boat access is required for this site, and divers must maintain a surface marker buoy at all times due to boat traffic.
The site is primarily a dive location with depths reaching 30 metres and moderate currents, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.
Diving at Sweetlips Rock in Semporna requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Sweetlips Rock in Semporna. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
Divers at Sweetlips Rock in Semporna 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.
Expect moderate currents at Sweetlips Rock in Semporna. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Sweetlips Rock in Semporna typically ranges from 20 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.