Having a love for all things aquatic as well as backpacking and inexpensive trips means that you’re surely in search of some diving on your journey through Asia. What are some of the diving spots that you just have to check out for yourself? I can’t speak for everyone, but here are my list in no particular order.
Top 10 Diving Spots in Asia
1. Pulau Sipadan, Malaysia
This place is amazing. Even CNN’s article, “10 Best Dive Sites in Asia,” notes this place as the top one in the region. According to this article, one of the main attractions is the “turtle tomb, an underwater limestone cave that features many narrow tunnels and chambers containing the remains of green sea turtles…that have become trapped and drowned.” I wasn’t hardy enough to check that out, but my friends were.
2. Similan Islands, Thailand
Everyone goes to the like of Phuket and Krabi, and then they forget to venture into any other Andaman hot spot. Well, I’m here to tell you that’s mistake numero uno. These isles are absolutely gorgeous, and though they’re a bit isolated, Thailand is easy enough to get around that you can still get there and have it be more than worth the trouble. If you’ve never heard of them, do a quick Google image search to see why I would head back there in a heartbeat.
3. Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar
Sometimes, when an area is popular with divers, the industries are able to be more flexible with prices. Sometimes it means crowds and skyrocketing scams, but Myanmar is one of the lone remaining places to find a true bargain and an amazingly cultural experience.
4. Andaman Islands, India
The ribboned sweetlips is quite a popular attraction to this place, and will certainly thrill and delight both new and experienced divers. Getting to these is truly a slag, so you’ll most likely want to fly. You need a special permit to visit them from mainland India first, so keep that in mind before making any plans.
5. Similan and Surin
The Schooner Raja Laut’s article “Top 10 Scuba Diving Spots in Southeast Asia” points to this area as a great place for diving. It has countless beaches, so whether you want to stay for two days or two months, you will definitely get your money’s worth.
6. Mergui
All right, I’ve never been to this one, but with 800 islands in the region, you will never be at a loss for diving activities in this area that is highly ranked by The Schooner Raja Laut’s piece as well. You’ll be delighted to hear that some of these islands have never before been explored, and all of my diving buddies claim that this venue is a favorite, so I’m confident including it on my list.
7. Komodo
One last recommendation from The Schooner is Komodo. If you have been dreaming all of your life about seeing a Komodo dragon, then this place is the one where you want to be. You’ll find these wonders in Indonesia (careful though – they can be dangerous). While you’re there, check out the likes of Bali and Jakarta for an amazing ride.
8. Jeju Island
You may not think of Korea as diving central, but it definitely has some spots that hold their own. If you find yourself on the Korean peninsula, you are going to find this gem, noted as one of the best by Squidoo’s article “Top Dive Sites in Asia.” The article notes that this region is well-known for the corals. I can also testify that nowhere in Asia is as easy to travel in as South Korea, so if that’s a plus for you, book a ticket now.
9. Malapascua Island, Philippines
Yes, you are going to have to travel a bit to get to this one, but if you’re about bang for your buck, then you are going to be getting plenty. I’ve never met a diver who didn’t love every day spent in the Philippines, so I promise it’ll be worth it! You can even catch a glimpse of Thresher Sharks.
10. Secret Bay, Anilao
According to Underwater Photography’s Guide “Diving Anilao for Underwater Photography,” Secret Bay, also known as “Mainit Muck” is one of the most famous, yet “secretive” muck-diving dive sites in Anilao,” so you are sure to find some hidden treasures that you can bring back to loved ones when you return home.
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Author Pam Johnson is nurse with a dangerous side. She enjoys diving and has a passion for diving in Asia.
*Thank you author for this great tips about diving spots in asia. Hope to hear from you again soon.
