Sipadan is regarded as one of 'those' diving destinations, a must-see place on any divers hit-list. It become a diving legend after it was discovered by Jacques Costeau. In the past there were several dive resorts on Sipadan, all clustered together on an arc of pure white sand. However, in late 2005 all accommodation was closed in the hope that the island would achieve World Heritage status. Diving on the surrounding reefs is allowed but is restricted.
When you see the way the turquoise water changes sharply to deep blue, you understand why Sipadan became so famous. The house wall slips away to incredible depths and the currents that sweep across it support some impressive pelagic life. Turtles are so prolific you see them on every dive and, if such a thing is possible, they almost get to be annoying as there are so many. Considering how endangered they are, that may sound churlish – and it is a pleasure to see so them – but they do like to get in the way!
Equally impressive are the schools of pelagic fish. Huge numbers of barracuda, jacks and tuna are always hangiing over the reef wall. Reef sharks are common and hammerheads are spotted at certain times of year.