Explore Penang
When people think of Penang, it is usually culture, history and food which enter their minds as to why to visit this area. However, Penang is also a region which is great to visit some great diving locations. One of the main regions visit when divers are in the Penang region is Pulau Payar National Park. This park is location around an hour from Penang Island and has many dive sites for divers to explore via dive centres either in Georgetown or from Penang Island. Due to it being a national park the marine flora and fauna here are in pristine condition so creates a vibrant experience for divers. The best time to dive in this region is from November to April, which is the dry season. During this time, the lack or rain and wind means better visibility, with 25 metres being an average. During the rainy season the visibility does decrease. The water temperatures are luckily warm throughout the year ranging between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius. Warm weather, sparkling waters and pristine marine life is what makes this area attractive to divers of all levels and definitely makes it worth a visit.
Top Dive Sites Map
Diving in Penang
Penang, a hidden gem for divers in Malaysia, offers a captivating mix of shore and liveaboard diving adventures. Popular dive sites include the vibrant Pulau Payar Marine Park, renowned for its colorful coral gardens and abundant marine life. Here, divers can enjoy both day and night dives, with the latter offering a chance to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton. Among the wreck dives, the "Kapal Jepun" stands out as a must-visit. This sunken Japanese warship, accessible via liveaboard, teems with marine life, providing an exciting exploration for advanced divers. The island's diverse underwater offerings, from the easy access of shore dives to the deeper mysteries of wrecks, make Penang a versatile destination catering to divers of all levels.
The best Months to dive in Penang
Penang offers year-round diving opportunities, with conditions varying across seasons. Water temperatures remain comfortable, ranging from 27°C–30°C/81°F–86°F throughout the year. Visibility can vary significantly, typically ranging from 5 to 20 meters/16 to 66 feet, influenced by seasonal changes and weather conditions.
The northeast monsoon from November to March brings stronger winds and currents, potentially reducing visibility and making diving less favorable. However, the calmer southwest monsoon from April to October offers more stable conditions, with reduced wind impact, making this period ideal for diving enthusiasts. Divers can explore Penang's underwater treasures at any time, though it's advisable to plan around the monsoon seasons for the best experience.
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