Kota Kinabalu isn’t just a gateway to Mount Kinabalu and lush rainforests; it’s also a fantastic spot for snorkeling. The area’s clear waters and vibrant marine life make it an ideal destination for underwater explorers. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler, you’ll find options that suit your style. We particularly like the Guided Snorkeling Day Trip for its well-organized itinerary and the Mengalum Island tour for its pristine reefs and relaxed pace. Both offer memorable experiences with professional guides and plenty of marine life to see.
In our list, you’ll find full-day tours, island-hopping excursions, private island adventures, and even some that include volcanic mud baths. Each experience is designed to give you a taste of Sabah’s underwater world, but with different focuses—some emphasize relaxation, others adventure or exclusivity. For a rundown, check out the list below.
1. Guided Snorkeling Day Trip, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
This full-day tour takes you to the famous Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. The tour includes visits to three distinct snorkeling spots, making it perfect for those wanting variety. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers because a PADI professional guide leads small groups and provides all the necessary equipment, including snorkel, mask, and fins. Optional wetsuits and life jackets are available for extra comfort.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on safety and personal attention, with group sizes limited to 12. Guests rave about the chance to see turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations. The included lunch on an island complements the water activities, and unlimited purified water keeps you hydrated all day. The reviews highlight how well-organized and relaxing this trip is, with multiple travelers mentioning the professional guides and the chance to see turtles.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, guided experience that balances marine adventure with good service and safety, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit from Kota Kinabalu
Spending a day exploring the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park on a boat cruise gives you the flexibility to snorkel at two different spots. This 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. The first snorkeling location offers a quick immersion into exotic marine life, with refreshment onboard to keep you energized. Afterward, you’ll head to a tropical island for lunch and more snorkeling or relaxing on the beach.
The tour’s strength lies in its easygoing pace and the chance to explore multiple locations without rushing. The itinerary is straightforward, with visits to Sutera Harbour and the two snorkeling points, followed by free time on Pulau Gaya. The review quotes recommend the experience for its friendly crew and beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one day with snorkeling, island exploration, and a comfortable boat ride.
3. Kota Kinabalu: Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan
This island-hopping adventure combines snorkeling, beach relaxation, and scenic boat rides around Sapi and Manukan Islands. Starting from Kota Kinabalu, the tour provides beautiful views and plenty of opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Besides the underwater experience, guests can relax on soft sand beaches, walk along nature trails, or opt for optional activities like jet skiing or parasailing.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance between active exploration and leisure. It’s suitable for those wanting to experience Sabah’s marine environment without a whole day dedicated to just snorkeling. The reviews mention the scenic boat rides and relaxing beaches as highlights, appealing to those who prefer a slower pace with good scenery.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a mix of snorkeling and beach time in a well-organized day.
4. Kota Kinabalu Snorkeling Tour at Manukan and Sapi Island
For around $59, this full-day snorkeling tour offers visits to two of the most popular islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Starting with a scenic speedboat ride, you’ll explore Manukan Island, famous for its pristine beaches and nature trails, and then proceed to Sapi Island, renowned for its vibrant reefs and lively marine life. The itinerary allows plenty of time on each island to snorkel, relax, or enjoy the natural surroundings.
What makes this tour compelling is its simplicity and focus on two iconic islands. The reviews highlight how well-organized the trip is, with travelers appreciating the friendly guides and the quality of the snorkeling. The balance of free time and structured activities makes it a good option for those who prefer to go at their own pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers looking for a focused, day-long experience on two of Sabah’s best islands.
$59.00 per person
5. Kota Kinabalu: Manukan & Sapi Islands Snorkeling with Lunch
At $62, this half-day tour offers a quick yet satisfying visit to Manukan and Sapi Islands. Starting with pickup from your hotel, the trip includes transfers, boat rides, and ample time for snorkeling and relaxing on the beaches. The itinerary features free time for snorkeling, sunbathing, and optional watersports.
While the reviews are limited, the positive comments about the generous provisions and relaxing pace suggest it’s suitable for travelers who prefer a shorter outing but still want a taste of Sabah’s marine life. The inclusion of lunch on the island adds value, especially for those wanting a local meal after swimming.
Bottom Line: For those with limited time but wanting to experience Sabah’s marine parks, this is a solid, value-packed choice.
$62 per person
6. Kota Kinabalu: Island Hopping with Snorkeling & Meal
This full-day island-hopping tour covers the main islands in Sabah’s marine park. Starting from Jesselton Point, you’ll enjoy crystal waters and coral reefs along the way, with stops at Manukan and other islands. The schedule emphasizes leisure, allowing plenty of time to snorkel, swim, or relax on the beach. Lunch is included, giving you a chance to refuel amid the stunning scenery.
The tour’s relaxed approach and focus on free time make it suitable for travelers looking for a casual, scenic day in the water. The review mentions the generous provisions and the opportunity to explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic day exploring Sabah’s island waters with minimal rushing.
$59 per person
7. Kota Kinabalu : Snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island
This exclusive experience at Ara Dinawan Island costs about $102 and offers a private island escape with top-tier amenities. The tour includes scenic boat rides through lush surroundings, plus the chance to snorkel in pristine waters with abundant marine life. The island itself is an eco-friendly retreat, perfect for travelers seeking privacy and high-end comfort.
While the reviews are few, those who’ve tried it highlight the spectacular sunset views and the delicious beach picnic. Its private setting makes it suited for special occasions or travelers wanting to avoid crowds.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a quiet, luxury snorkeling experience on a private island.
$102 per person
8. Kota Kinabalu | Snorkeling Sapi Island/Manukan Island
This 7-hour tour is perfect for those who want more relaxation and less activity. It focuses solely on enjoying the beaches and warm sun on Sapi Island, without island hopping or packed schedules. It’s ideal for sunbathers who prefer to lie on the beach, swim, or snorkel at their own pace.
The reviews highlight the crystal-clear waters and soft sand, making it clear that this option is for those who want a quiet, scenic day by the sea, rather than a busy tour.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a laid-back day with minimal structure, just enjoying Sabah’s beautiful coastline.
$64 per person
9. Kota Kinabalu: Mengalum Island Snorkeling
At $141, this premium tour combines snorkeling at two different sites with a buffet lunch and relaxing on the beaches. The boat ride is longer—about 75 minutes each way—but it rewards travelers with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. The scenic views on the way are a highlight, and the tour’s focus on quality snorkeling makes it stand out.
Guests have praised the guided tours and the relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of a buffet and optional activities like ATV rides make it suitable for those wanting a full-day, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best for serious snorkelers and nature lovers willing to travel a bit further for rich marine environments and comfort.
$141 per person
10. Sabah: Pulau Tiga Snorkeling Day Trip with Lunch
This day trip to Pulau Tiga offers a mix of crystal-clear snorkeling and volcanic mud baths. While reviews are missing, the experience promises a unique combination of marine exploration and relaxation in mineral-rich mud pools. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a bit of everything—marine life, mud baths, and island scenery.
The trip is best suited for those wanting a varied day in Sabah’s natural settings, especially families or couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a diverse island experience that combines snorkeling with spa-like mud baths, this is a worthwhile, distinctive option.
$194 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Snorkeling Experience in Kota Kinabalu
When selecting the ideal tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a comprehensive full-day adventure, the Guided Snorkeling Day Trip offers great value with safety and professional guidance. If relaxing on beautiful beaches appeals more, then the Sapi Island or Manukan Island-only tours provide quiet, scenic options.
Travelers on a budget should look at tours around $59, which focus on two main islands, while those seeking a more luxurious experience might prefer the private Ara Dinawan Island or Mengalum Island tours. For adventurers wanting variety, the full-day island-hopping or the tour combining snorkeling and mud baths are excellent choices.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (June to September), to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Kota Kinabalu offers a broad spectrum of snorkeling experiences. Whether you want a guided tour with detailed marine insights, a relaxed day lounging on Sapi Island, or an exclusive escape to a private island, there’s something for every traveler. The full-day tours provide comprehensive adventures, while shorter trips are perfect for those with limited time.
For active marine life lovers, the Mengalum Island trip is a standout, but if you just want to unwind with the sun on your face and the waves lapping at your feet, the Sapi Island-only tours won’t disappoint. Be sure to book early, especially during peak seasons, and prepare for memorable underwater moments in Sabah’s clear waters.