Best Diving in Asia: Where I’d Spend My Underwater Time

Asia has some of the world’s best diving — here’s the honest shortlist

The Coral Triangle — encompassing Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia — contains roughly 75% of the world’s coral species. The diving here is genuinely world-class, and it’s accessible at prices that would be impossible elsewhere.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia: the pinnacle

The most biodiverse marine area on the planet, at the northwest tip of West Papua. Over 1,300 fish species and 600 coral species in one protected marine area. Remote and expensive to reach — but the diving is simply unlike anything else. Liveaboard boats from $200–500/person/night; shore diving also possible from the homestay villages. Check SeaRadar for liveaboard options.

Koh Tao, Thailand: best value for learning

Open Water certification for $280–350, with instructors who’ve trained thousands of students. The diving is good rather than spectacular — visibility 10–20m, good reef fish variety, occasional whale sharks. The value for beginner and intermediate divers is unbeatable anywhere in the world.

Tubbataha Reef, Philippines: remote perfection

Liveaboard-only UNESCO reef in the Sulu Sea. Hammerhead sharks, manta rays, whale sharks, pristine coral. $200–400/day on a liveaboard. The effort required to get there (fly to Puerto Princesa, join a boat to a reef 150km offshore) keeps crowds minimal.

Komodo, Indonesia

Famous for the dragons but the diving around Komodo National Park is equally extraordinary — strong currents bring nutrients that support remarkable marine life. Manta rays year-round. More accessible than Raja Ampat with flights to Labuan Bajo from Bali.