Redang Island
Redang is part of a marine sanctuary park and a perfect place for all levels of divers.
Explore Terengganu
Terengganu is a state located on the east coast of Malaysia and off the coast of this state there are numerous islands which provide some of the best diving in Malaysia. What makes these islands such popular diving destinations is firstly due to the tropical paradise elements; they have white sandy beaches which meet the turquoise, crystal clear, warm waters which have a high abundance of different marine species which inhabit the flourishing reefs and rock formations. What makes this an even more idyllic diving destination are the weather conditions. Malaysia has two seasons, the rainy season and the dry season, but the rainy season is only 3 months long, which means 9 months of ideal diving conditions. The water temperatures here are only 27 degrees Celsius at its coldest, so still very pleasant temperatures. The type of diving here is incredibly varied meaning something for everyone. There are a collection of wrecks, there are unique rock formations, there are flourishing reefs, and there are an abundance of marine species to admire on every dive.
Top Regions to Explore
Dive Activity
Diving in Terengganu
Terengganu, Malaysia, offers a captivating mix of dive sites, perfect for both novice and seasoned divers. Among the top sites, the Bidong Island stands out with its fascinating wreck dives. The remains of Vietnamese refugee boats create intriguing artificial reefs teeming with marine life, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
For those preferring shore dives, the beaches of Perhentian Islands provide easy yet rewarding access to vibrant coral gardens and bustling aquatic life. Additionally, Terengganu offers unique night diving experiences, especially around Redang Island, where divers can witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent spectacle. With a variety of shore and liveaboard options, Terengganu ensures a perfect balance, catering to diverse diving preferences.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Terengganu
Terengganu, located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, boasts a rich marine ecosystem that divers find enchanting. The region's coral reefs are teeming with vibrant life, including common reef fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. These species are easily spotted throughout the year, contributing to the colorful underwater scenery. Seasonal highlights include the sightings of green and hawksbill turtles, particularly around the Perhentian and Redang Islands, from May to August. During this period, divers may also encounter blacktip reef sharks, which frequent these waters. Rays, such as the blue-spotted stingray, are often seen gliding gracefully over sandy bottoms, providing an exhilarating experience for those exploring Terengganu's underwater treasures.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 27
iStock-Global_Pics
Barracuda
1.4k Sightings
J
0
F
25
M
59
A
186
M
183
J
127
J
304
A
255
S
228
O
57
N
2
D
2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
Moray Eel
1.3k Sightings
J
2
F
3
M
64
A
168
M
161
J
129
J
210
A
308
S
218
O
55
N
2
D
5
Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
Green Turtle
723 Sightings
J
2
F
8
M
67
A
75
M
97
J
58
J
102
A
149
S
101
O
43
N
12
D
9
Shutterstock-Andrey Armyagov
Hawksbill Turtle
629 Sightings
J
1
F
1
M
14
A
90
M
60
J
70
J
102
A
128
S
132
O
24
N
7
D
0
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
Wrasse
515 Sightings
J
3
F
1
M
21
A
25
M
38
J
90
J
117
A
105
S
92
O
19
N
3
D
1
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 28
Udo Kefrig
Clownfish
4.8k Sightings
J
7
F
26
M
276
A
542
M
588
J
571
J
862
A
899
S
791
O
242
N
30
D
7
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 80
iStock/Extreme-Photographer
Stingrays
3.7k Sightings
J
7
F
29
M
150
A
488
M
498
J
406
J
699
A
761
S
506
O
128
N
2
D
3
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 100
iStock-burnsboxco
Parrotfish
3.5k Sightings
J
5
F
11
M
217
A
359
M
421
J
390
J
698
A
637
S
553
O
196
N
16
D
3
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 90
Shutterstock-Rich Carey
Angelfish
3.4k Sightings
J
5
F
20
M
184
A
377
M
380
J
348
J
661
A
656
S
512
O
190
N
24
D
4
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 130
AdobeStock-JirinaVFR
Pufferfish
2.5k Sightings
J
4
F
28
M
153
A
308
M
310
J
292
J
443
A
498
S
348
O
114
N
3
D
2
The best Months to Dive in Terengganu
Diving in Terengganu is available year-round, offering a unique experience in Malaysia's waters. The best diving conditions are typically from March to October when water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C. During this period, visibility can reach up to 30 meters, providing clear views of the vibrant marine life. The calm seas make it an ideal time for divers of all levels to explore the underwater beauty.
From November to February, the northeast monsoon brings rougher seas and stronger winds, which can reduce visibility and make diving more challenging. Water temperatures during these months slightly drop to around 26°C to 28°C, and some dive operators may close due to unfavorable conditions. While diving is still possible, divers should be prepared for these less favorable conditions and plan accordingly.
