Best diving destinations in Asia
Best diving destinations in Asia
Deep sea drop-offs and tropical marine sanctuaries across Asia
Southeast Asia holds some of the most biodiverse reefs on earth, regularly cited by marine biologists as having more coral and fish species than anywhere else in the world. Neighbouring countries add their own celebrated wreck and reef diving traditions.
The destinations on this list range from remote liveaboard-only reef systems to shore-accessible dive resorts built specifically around a single famous site. Visibility and current strength vary considerably by season and location across the region.
Choosing the right season matters enormously here, since monsoon patterns affect visibility and safe conditions differently across each country's coastline. Many liveaboards also include marine biologists or experienced dive guides on board. Booking dives through operators with strong safety records also matters considerably, particularly at sites with stronger current.
Lists by region
Country
Maldives
Coral atolls, lagoons and overwater villas
Spread over 34,700 square miles of ocean, 1,192 coral islands form 26 atolls. Land totals just 115 square miles and the highest natural point is 7.9 feet. Reefs host 187 coral species and whale sharks. Bleaching in 2016 killed up to 95 percent of coral around some islands.
Country
Indonesia
Volcanoes, temples, rice terraces and coral reefs
About 130 active volcanoes mark an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands on the Ring of Fire. Its reefs form part of the Coral Triangle, which holds more than 76 percent of the world's reef-building coral species. Pollution and destructive fishing have reduced coral diversity on some reefs. Coastline totals 33,999 miles.
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