Sipadan

Sipadan is a small island located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. The island covers roughly 12 hectares and sits atop an extinct volcanic cone. It is part of the Semporna District and lies near the islands of Mabul and Kapalai.

The island is a limestone outcrop that rises from deep water, with steep vertical walls that drop into the surrounding reef. The surrounding reefs are highly productive and host a diverse array of corals, invertebrates, and fish, making Sipadan a renowned destination for divers.

Sipadan is famed for its biodiversity and diving opportunities. Notable sights include large schools of reef fish and pelagic species. Green sea turtles frequent the area, and reef sharks are commonly observed. Barracuda Point is a well-known site within Sipadan, where dense schools of barracuda can be seen. The walls and channels also support macro life and occasional sightings of hammerhead sharks during certain seasons.

Conservation and access: Sipadan is a protected marine park administered by Sabah Parks. To protect the ecosystem, fishing is prohibited and visitor numbers are managed through a permit system and licensing of dive operators. Overnight stays on the island are not allowed; most visitors come via day trips from Semporna or Mabul, using licensed operators.