Layang Layang

Layang Layang: A Diver's Paradise in Sabah

Layang Layang, also known as Swallow Reef, is a remote oceanic atoll located in the South China Sea, approximately 300km northwest of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. This isolated location offers pristine reefs, extraordinary visibility, and abundant marine life, making it a sought-after destination for experienced divers.

Dive Details

Depth, Visibility, and Temperature

• Typical Depth Range: 5 meters to beyond 40 meters (15 to 130+ feet)
• Average Visibility: 30 meters to over 50 meters (100 to 165+ feet), often exceptional.
• Water Temperature: Consistently warm, ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) year-round.
• Difficulty Level: Generally intermediate to advanced. Strong currents can be present, especially around the outer walls of the atoll.

Marine Life

Layang Layang is renowned for its diverse and abundant marine life. Divers can expect to encounter:

• Hammerhead sharks (seasonal, typically April-May)
• Scalloped hammerheads forming large schools
• Grey reef sharks, white tip reef sharks
• Manta rays
• Eagle rays
• Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles
• Giant schools of barracuda and jacks
• Colorful reef fish, including clownfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish
• Macro life like nudibranchs and various crustaceans

Best Time to Visit

The diving season in Layang Layang is relatively short, running from March to August. This period offers the calmest seas, best visibility, and the highest chance of encountering hammerhead sharks during their mating season (April-May). Outside of these months, the sea conditions can be unpredictable and the resort is usually closed.

What Makes It Special

Layang Layang's unique appeal lies in its:

• Remoteness: The atoll's isolation has preserved its pristine coral reefs.
• Pelagic Encounters: The opportunity to dive with schooling hammerhead sharks is a major draw.
• Wall Dives: Dramatic drop-offs surrounding the atoll offer exciting diving experiences.
• Extraordinary Visibility: Consistently excellent visibility makes for incredible underwater photography.

Practical Tips

Planning a dive trip to Layang Layang requires some preparation:

• Book in Advance: Due to the limited accommodation and the short diving season, it's crucial to book your trip well in advance.
• Consider Dive Experience: Assess your diving skills and experience honestly, as currents can be strong.
• Bring appropriate gear: A reef hook can be useful in currents, and a wetsuit of 3-5mm is recommended.
• Altitude Sickness: The flights to Layang Layang involve rapid altitude changes, so be mindful of potential altitude sickness, especially if prone to it.
• Limited Facilities: Be aware that facilities on the island are limited to the resort.