Kota Kinabalu: Leisure Diving TARP with Island Lunch & 3 Dives

Summary

Three easy dives in TARP marine park with lunch stop

You’ll spend your day diving three different sites in Kota Kinabalu’s TARP marine park, led by a local guide who knows every reef nook. Enjoy lunch on a tropical island between dives and soak up both underwater calm and surface laughter. Expect easygoing dives, small group vibes, and those little moments that stay with you long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to feel so warm when I first rolled off the boat at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. It was early but already busy at Jesselton Point Jetty—locals chatting, someone selling iced Milo, our guide Li grinning as she checked our C-cards. She kept things light (“no heroics today!”), but you could tell she knew every inch of these dive sites. The boat ride was quick—maybe 20 minutes?—and the sea was that weird blue-green you only get around Borneo.

The first dive was gentle, just drifting over soft coral gardens. I remember the faint sound of parrotfish crunching coral and a waft of engine oil from a passing boat above. Li pointed out a nudibranch I’d have missed (she called it “sea confetti”—which made me laugh into my regulator). No strong currents, just slow exploring. By the second dive I’d stopped checking my air every two minutes and started noticing little things—like how the sunlight flickered through the water or how calm everything felt down there.

Lunch came after two dives—on an island with sand that squeaked underfoot and a menu where even the veggie option tasted good (I went for nasi lemak; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Malay). Sitting under palm trees drying off, we swapped stories about weirdest things seen underwater. The last dive after lunch was slower—everyone moving a bit heavier, but somehow more relaxed. Saw a turtle gliding by; it barely noticed us. Back at DBKK Jetty by four, salt still on my skin and hair sticking up everywhere. I still think about that view back toward Kota Kinabalu from the boat—city skyline blurred by sea spray. Not sure why that stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Three dives in TARP marine park

• Meet at DBKK Jetty
• Do first dive
• Do second dive
• Have lunch on tropical island
• Do third dive
• Return to DBKK Jetty

Top questions

Do I need to be certified for leisure diving in TARP Kota Kinabalu?

Yes, this trip is only for certified divers—you’ll need to bring your C-Card or diving license on the day.

How many dives are included in this day trip?

The tour includes three guided dives in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.

Is lunch provided during the diving trip?

Yes, lunch is served on a tropical island with menu choices including vegetarian options.

What time does the diving trip start and end?

You’ll be collected at Jesselton Point Jetty in the morning and return to DBKK Jetty around 16:00.

Are diving equipment and transfers included?

Yes, full diving equipment and boat transfers are included in your booking.

How deep are the dive sites in TARP?

Dive depths range from about 8 to 25 meters, suitable for most certified divers.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or non-divers?

No, this activity is only open to certified scuba divers—not recommended for beginners or non-divers.

Are small children allowed on this trip?

Infants and small children can ride along but must sit on an adult’s lap; strollers are allowed onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes collection from Jesselton Point Jetty, all diving equipment provided, three guided dives in TARP marine park with a maximum group size of five per guide, boat transfers aboard wide trimaran boats, park fees and permits covered, plus lunch served on an island with drinking water before returning to DBKK Jetty by late afternoon.