Top 10 Scuba Diving Spots in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is a scuba diver’s paradise — warm waters, diverse marine ecosystems, and an abundance of world-class dive sites make it a bucket-list region for underwater adventures. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, these top 10 scuba diving spots will take your breath away.
- Sipadan Island, Malaysia
Often ranked among the best dive sites in the world, Sipadan is famous for its walls teeming with turtles, barracuda tornadoes, and reef sharks.
Highlight: The Barracuda Point — imagine a swirling wall of thousands of barracuda.
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia
This remote paradise is home to over 1,500 fish species and 600 coral types — more than anywhere else on Earth.
Highlight: Misool Island, with its spectacular soft coral gardens and manta rays.
- Nusa Penida, Indonesia
Known for the elusive oceanic sunfish (mola mola) and graceful manta rays.
Highlight: Manta Point, where you can see these gentle giants up close.
- Koh Tao, Thailand
Affordable dive courses and beginner-friendly sites make Koh Tao the scuba training capital of the world.
Highlight: Chumphon Pinnacle for whale sharks.
- Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines
UNESCO World Heritage Site with pristine coral reefs and rare marine species.
Highlight: Shark Airport — yes, you’ll meet lots of white-tip reef sharks here.
- Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Strong currents attract big pelagics, making it a thrill for experienced divers.
Highlight: Batu Bolong, a coral-covered rock alive with fish.
- Moalboal, Philippines
Home to the spectacular sardine run — millions of sardines swimming in unison.
Highlight: Pescador Island for colorful walls and caves.
- Similan Islands, Thailand
Crystal-clear waters and massive granite boulders create dramatic underwater landscapes.
Highlight: Richelieu Rock, often considered Thailand’s best dive site.
- Coron Bay, Philippines
A paradise for wreck divers — sunken WWII ships covered in corals.
Highlight: Irako Wreck for incredible marine biodiversity.
- Pulau Weh, Indonesia
An untouched gem with a mix of vibrant reefs and thrilling drift dives.
Highlight: The Canyon, famous for its big fish action.
Southeast Asia offers a kaleidoscope of underwater experiences — from schooling sardines in the Philippines to drifting with manta rays in Indonesia. Whether you crave vibrant coral gardens, thrilling pelagic encounters, or haunting wreck dives, these top spots promise unforgettable adventures beneath the waves.
