If You Like to Dive, Sipadan Islands Deserve a Visit

Malaysia's name already suggests white sandy beaches, clear blue water and a relaxed day in the sun. If under water sports are something you are familiar with, then the Sipadan name should be known to you as one of the best locations in the world. Whether you are looking for a week away from the rest of the world, or just a quick dive, Sipadan will be able to fulfill all your needs, bringing you face to face with one of the most diverse under water environments available. Turtles, parrotfish and sharks, have all taken advantage of the nutrient-rich currents and have made the waters in the surrounding area their home.

A protected environment, kept at its best state for people who specifically like to dive, Sipadan no longer offers lodging capabilities, but is situated close enough to the nearby resorts; therefore, reaching the diving sites will not be an issue. Whether you just want a roof over your head or want to go all out and book a place in a luxurious bungalow, there are many options available for all pocket sizes and the most restrictive requirements. A daily fee needs to be paid for entering Sipadan, in the amount of $13 - which will then allow access to all of Sipadan's best diving points.

Depending on the type of sights you would like to check out when you dive, Sipadan will provide you with plenty of attractions:

• The Barracuda Point, named so because of the staggering number of barracudas (so many, in fact, that it is said that sunlight is blocked by them). On top of the barracudas, one can also spot turtles, bannerfish, jacks and snappers in the location.
• The South Point will provide you with sights of reef sharks, large groups of bumphead parrotfish and passing trevallies.
• The Turtle Cavern was a very popular location back when Sipadan hosted its numerous resorts. It is a unique site, sporting hordes of parrotfish and, naturally, turtles.

Rodale's Scuba Diving Magazine Gold List included a Top Dive Destinations in the World issue, and on its list of recommendations for places to dive, Sipadan was included on the top position, sharing it with the Galapagos Islands and the Micronesian Truk.

It is recommended that you visit the Sipadan islands from April to December, since the winter months can occasionally present rainy days, which may hinder the diving pleasure and the under water visibility. The most popular months amongst tourists are July and August so - if you decide to visit then - it is recommended to try and book a long time in advance, to make sure you have a place to lodge in. The New Year and the Chinese New Year are also exceedingly popular.

Please note, if you have decided to come and dive, Sipadan is usually recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. Nearby resorts will provide you with diving lessons and guides are available for all levels - so if you do not have much experience in the field, taking advantage of that would be advisable.