Rawa Island, located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is a hidden gem for scuba diving. This small, picturesque island offers pristine waters, stunning coral reefs, and a range of diving experiences suitable for all skill levels.

While Rawa Island itself does not have specific sites known for advanced diving, its proximity to other islands allows experienced divers to explore a broader range of dive sites.

Pinang Seribu (Aur Island): A 40-minute boat ride from Rawa, Pinang Seribu, also known as Thousand Island, is an excellent spot for experienced divers. It features steep walls, large boulders, and an abundance of marine life.

Rayner's Rock (Dayang Island): This dive site, approximately an hour away from Rawa, is renowned for its large boulders and strong currents that attract bigger marine species like trevallies and barracudas.

Rawa House Reef: The island's house reef, just steps away from the beach, provides an ideal environment for beginner divers. It's a shallow site with calm currents, and you can find a myriad of colorful reef fish and occasional turtles.

Sandy Bay (Rawa Island): Another site perfect for beginners, Sandy Bay offers mild currents and vibrant marine life. Here, divers can spot schools of yellowtail fusiliers, parrotfish, and even blacktip reef sharks.

Rawa Island and its nearby dive sites offer a wealth of marine life. Expect to encounter vibrant corals, reef fish in all colors and sizes, sea turtles, and with a little luck, blacktip reef sharks. In the deeper sites around Aur and Dayang Islands, divers may also spot barracudas, trevallies, and large groupers.

The water temperature around Rawa Island averages around 82°F (28°C) year-round. Visibility typically ranges from 30 to 60 feet (10 to 20 meters) but can extend further on good days. The best time to dive is during the dry season, which runs from March to October, avoiding the northeast monsoon season from November to February.

The cost of diving in Rawa Island is relatively affordable. A single dive can cost between $30 to $40, while a full PADI Open Water Diver course may range from $300 to $400, inclusive of equipment rental. Be sure to choose a reputable dive operator that prioritizes safety and marine conservation.

While Rawa Island might not be the first name that springs to mind when thinking of diving in Malaysia, it offers some undeniably charming underwater experiences. Whether you're an experienced diver seeking new adventures or a beginner ready to dip your toes into the diving world, Rawa Island welcomes you with clear waters and vibrant marine life.