Snorkeling in Kota Kinabalu cuts right to the chase with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life just minutes from the city. The best spots are scattered across the nearby islands, accessed through half-day and full-day boat tours. I’m especially fond of the guided tours to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where beginners get proper instruction and quality gear without the tourist-trap feeling.
For a real treat, head to Mantanani Island – it’s a bit further out but rewards snorkelers with untouched coral reefs and fewer crowds. The private island-hopping tours earn my vote for combining snorkeling with local fishing spots and peaceful kayaking breaks.
Let’s explore the stand-out snorkeling tours that make Kota Kinabalu a water-lover’s paradise.
Good To Know
- The Guided Snorkeling Day Trip offers a comprehensive 6-hour snorkeling experience with equipment, life jackets, and a tropical island lunch.
- The Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit provides guided snorkeling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park with hotel pickup and a lunch stop.
- Mantanani Island Snorkeling Tour offers snorkeling with PADI-certified guides, including equipment, BBQ lunch, and transportation from Kota Kinabalu.
- The Kota Kinabalu Cove Fishing & Snorkeling Tour combines snorkeling with fishing and optional kayaking, along with a BBQ lunch and hotel transfers.
- Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving Tour allows exploration of the island’s marine life, including coral reefs and tropical fish, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
Guided Snorkeling Day Trip, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Embarking on a guided snorkeling day trip in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, allows travelers to enjoy the vibrant marine life of the region. Recommended by 99% of travelers, this tour is operated by Borneo Dream Travel Tours Sdn Bhd and offers an exceptional experience. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, a life jacket, and drinking water onboard the boats. Travelers will also enjoy a delicious lunch served on a tropical island, with vegetarian options available.
The tour departs at 9:00 AM sharp from the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, ending at the same meeting point. With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, this tour provides a personalized and intimate experience. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. The tour is also conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
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Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit From Kota Kinabalu
For those seeking an exhilarating snorkeling adventure in Kota Kinabalu, the “Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit From Kota Kinabalu” tour offers an exceptional experience. Priced at 34 reviews, this full-day excursion includes hotel pickup, boat transfers, and access to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands.
Snorkelers will be guided by PADI-certified instructors, ensuring a safe and memorable journey. The tour also includes a lunch stop on a nearby island, providing a chance to relax and recharge. With all necessary fees and gratuities covered, travelers can focus on soaking up the natural beauty of the marine environment.
While personal expenses and outskirts transportation surcharges are excluded, the tour’s comprehensive inclusions make it a convenient and enjoyable option for those wanting to explore Kota Kinabalu’s stunning underwater world.
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Mantanani Island Snorkeling Tour
The Mantanani Island Snorkeling Tour, offered by Asni Global in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, provides visitors with a chance to explore the pristine underwater world of this idyllic island. Included in the tour are the use of snorkeling equipment, a BBQ lunch, and pick-up and drop-off from Kota Kinabalu City hotels. The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
During the tour, guests can enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation to and from the meeting point in Kota Kinabalu. While food and drinks, other than the BBQ lunch, as well as gratuities, aren’t included, the tour offers excellent value for money. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. With confirmation received at the time of booking, this snorkeling experience is a must-try for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu and seeking to enjoy the region’s stunning marine life.
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Kota Kinabalu Cove Fishing & Snorkeling Tour With BBQ Lunch
Offering an unparalleled opportunity to take in Kota Kinabalu’s coastal wonders, the Kota Kinabalu Cove Fishing & Snorkeling Tour with BBQ Lunch whisks travelers on a day-long adventure. Led by English-speaking guides, the tour begins with convenient hotel pickups and delivers participants to the serene coves surrounding the city.
Donning snorkeling gear, guests can explore the vibrant underwater world, marveling at the diverse marine life. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the tour also includes a fishing excursion, where participants can try their luck at catching their own meal. Afterward, everyone gathers for a delectable BBQ lunch, complemented by the option to kayak.
The tour’s intimate group size of a maximum 2 travelers ensures a personalized and immersive experience. With roundtrip hotel transfers and all necessary equipment provided, this tour offers a seamless and enjoyable way to discover Kota Kinabalu’s picturesque coastal treasures.
Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu Cove Fishing & Snorkeling Tour With BBQ Lunch Review
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Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving From Kota Kinabalu
Situated just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Mantanani Island presents travelers with a captivating snorkeling or diving experience. The full-day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all necessary snorkeling or diving equipment. Visitors can explore the island’s vibrant marine life, from colorful coral reefs to a variety of tropical fish. The boat transfers provide a seamless transition between the mainland and the island.
Lunch is included in the tour, allowing guests to refuel after their underwater adventures. However, the boat ride may not be suitable for all individuals, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or pregnant women. Children under 5 are also not encouraged to participate, while the diving age limit is 12 years and above. A PADI release and liability form is required for diving. The Mantanani Island snorkeling or diving tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Kota Kinabalu’s stunning natural beauty beneath the waves.
Read our full review: Mantanani Island Snorkeling or Diving From Kota Kinabalu Review
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The Sum Up
Kota Kinabalu offers some of the best snorkeling experiences in Malaysia. With guided day trips, island visits, and BBQ lunches, there are plenty of options to explore the vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, Kota Kinabalu’s clear waters and diverse coral reefs provide unforgettable underwater adventures. Visitors can choose from various tour packages to find the perfect snorkeling experience that suits their interests and budget.