Borneo is an area that is made of parts of Malaysia, Brunei, Sabah, and Indonesia, and it lies in the South China Sea. Along the western coast in Sabah is the capital city of Kota Kinabalu, known throughout Borneo as KK. The coast and these waters are ideal for vacationers and tourists. Diving in Kota Kinabalu is a popular pastime and provides a memorable experience for anyone who tries it.

Kota Kinabalu is a thriving area that gives tourists an idyllic view of Malaysian Borneo. Of course, Borneo diving holds a great appeal for many aficionados, both because there are so many dive sites located around the edge of the island, and because of the beauty of the reefs and underwater life in the warm waters of the South China Sea.

However, Kota Kinabalu is a particularly inviting area. Top class hotels overlook the quiet town with the bustling markets, the beautiful stretches of land and exotic wildlife, and the inviting warm waters of the sea, only a short drive from anywhere in the town. Shopping, hiking, and sightseeing are all unsurpassed in this paradise, and divers have a real treat in store. Just a short boat ride off the coast, you will find the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, which is a cluster of five beautiful, idyllic islands. In the waters among these islands are areas that are ideal for shallow diving. Divers will enjoy swimming around the reefs and underwater formations, watching the undersea life thrive and skitter about.

If you did not bring your scuba gear, you need not fret because you can visit a scuba shop or dive shop in town. If you are new at scuba diving, this is a great place to learn. You can experience safe, shallow diving, not too far from land. Stop in at a scuba shop to find out what gear you will need to get started. Yachts and diving boats are available for rental all along the coast of Kota Kinabalu, and each boat comes with its own captain and first mate, both of whom will be knowledgeable of the island, the national park, and the waters in the area. Diving instructors and coaches are also available. It is easy to find a diving center to find the resources you need.

Seasoned divers will be pleased to know that there are several local dive groups that use Kota Kinabalu and the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park as a base; become acquainted with one of these groups, and you will be able to find spots that are not so heavily touristed and perhaps see some sights you would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience.

Whether you are a seasoned diver looking for a new adventure, or a rookie just looking for some new experiences, you will find diving in Kota Kinabalu enticing and thoroughly enjoyable. The warm, shallow waters offer a safe haven for those just starting out, and even experienced divers will enjoy the sights and sensations of diving in these inviting waters.