Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities on this tropical island, and it’s easy to see why. As the waters are clear and calm, it is an ideal spot for beginners or those who have not yet developed their sea legs.
Countless species of marine life abound in Redang Island, including clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, and more. There is also plenty of opportunities to observe turtles. It is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers alike, with its beautiful coral reefs and pristine beaches.
In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best snorkeling spots in Redang. Some of these spots can be found directly off the beach from your resort or a short boat ride away to the nearby islands.
Beach access
From the beach, you can easily access the following snorkeling spots:
Tanjung Tengah
In the middle of Long Beach (Pasir Panjang) is Tanjung Tengah, an easily distinguished cape that serves as one of Pulau Redang’s many house reefs. The area is popular with snorkelers who swim out directly from Long Beach.
Tanjung Tengah’s southern end is known as Shark Bay because the reefs here act as nurseries for baby blacktip sharks.
From April to August is the best time to see them. Blacktip sharks are usually harmless to humans, they cruise by without causing problems, but they become dangerous when provoked. A baby blacktip shark can grow up to 60-80 centimeters long.
Due to the easy access to the reefs, it can get crowded. The reefs are easily damaged by accidental physical contact, especially during low tide when some snorkelers accidentally step on or kick the reefs. Not only does this damage the reefs, but it can also cause injuries.
You can swim around the white buoys surrounding the cape. However, you should not go beyond the marker as it will get in the way of boats.
Tanjung Mak Cantik
This long rocky cape south of Long Beach (Pasir Panjang) is one of the best snorkel spots easily accessible from the shore. Some sand spots lead into the water if you walk across the wooden bridge towards Redang Reef Resort.
There’s a good chance you’ll spot stingrays hiding among the rocks and corals when snorkeling in the area. While swimming around the cape tip and into the bay, you may see coral reefs on the seafloor, but visibility may be low because it is about 10 meters below the surface.
Water may look inviting, but many rocks can cause injury. If it’s windy, the water can be very choppy, so people who aren’t good swimmers should not go into these waters without an experienced guide or friend nearby.
Additionally, there is a quiet bay behind the resort called Teluk Mak Cantik. Use caution when exploring this area. Due to its many slippery flat stones, it is nearly impossible to walk barefoot during low tide.
It is best to wear swim boots with easy-grip soles if you explore this bay.
Teluk Kalong
Telok Kalong is a white sand beach with clear blue ocean waters that has two sections, Telok Kalong Kecil and Telok Kalong Besar. If you stay at one of the resorts in the area, you will have easy access to these snorkeling spots, which are great for seeing colorful fishes.
Even if you don’t get in the water, you can see baby sharks swimming near the jetty. This area also houses the island’s blacktip shark nursery. Near Teluk Kalong Kecil, you can access the house reefs from shore at slightly deeper waters. The reef can be reached from the beach with minimal effort.
Teluk Dalam
Teluk Dalam is a tranquil U-shaped bay divided into two parts by a rocky headland. Taaras resort occupies the smaller section on the west side called Teluk Dalam Kecil. On the east side of the headland is the Teluk Dalam Besar, a secluded bay dotted with local eateries and shacks. Teluk Dalam has soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, which are perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Snorkeling near Teluk Dalam Besar’s east end can be quite rewarding since you will likely see turtles and colorful fish that live on the coral reefs.
It’s easy to get here from Long Beach either by walking through the forest for about 2km or hiring a boat.
Boat access
Here are some snorkeling sites accessible by boat:
Pulau Ekor Tebu
Pulau Ekor Tebu is a small island known for its rocky coasts and its colorful coral reefs. Located in the southeast of Pulau Redang, this snorkeling spot hosts some of Malaysia’s vibrant marine life. There are frequently snorkeling trips organized here, and you can get a close look at beautiful corals.
You can see gorgeous coral reefs at the bottom of the island’s east side. Eagle rays and shovelnose guitarfish have also been sighted on the island. At the northeast tip of the island lies a large boulder that drops down to 24 meters deep, and there is a cave at the bottom, making it one of the most popular diving sites on the island.
Pulau Pinang (Marine Park Centre)
Pulau Pinang is a small island south of Redang Island that is known for its great snorkeling spots. People often call it ‘Redang Marine Park’ because the Marine Park Centre is located here. Visitors must pay a marine conservation fee to enter.
The boat drops you off at the pier, where you can walk along it to see all the beautiful fish below. The reef outside the Marine Park Headquarters is a great place to snorkel for beginners. It is easy to see all the colorful fish and the coral that live here because the water here is clear. The depth is about 3 to 6 meters.
On the east side of a jetty, a shipwreck rests partly submerged. Corals cover the ship structure, and the water depth here is 8-10 meters. This is an exciting area to explore, but be careful of stinging hydroids and metallic objects. If you are swimming to the shipwreck, be aware of and avoid currents. If there are currents, avoid going; also, stay within areas marked with white marker buoys.
Pulau Pinang has another snorkeling spot called Pasir Akar on its west side. Coral and aquatic life abound here, making it a fun place to explore as well. As part of excursions to the marine park headquarters, many boat trips stop here before dropping you off at the pier.
Fish feeding is a growing trend in the marine park, but the practice is discouraged because it will disrupt the balance of the reef ecosystem. Fish-feeding leads to an overgrowth of algae since herbivorous (plant-eating) fish eat human-fed food instead. This, in turn, chokes corals and leads to coral death. Thus, observing the fishes should suffice, and if you must feed them, then do so responsibly and in a manner that does not disrupt their natural habit.
Pulau Lima
Pulau Lima is a small paradise located east of Redang Island. Pulau Lima gets its name from the five islets that make up the island, and its name comes from the Malay word “Lima,” meaning five.
According to a well-established study, Pulau Lima and its surrounding seamounts represent a good sample of the entire Renang marine ecosystem. Diverse marine life, including whale sharks and lionfish, can be spotted while snorkeling here.
With a depth of around four meters, the shallow water along the west side of Pulau Lima is ideal for snorkeling. The island has a sandy shoreline that you can swim to from your boat. However, beginners should be careful as currents can sometimes be very strong in this area.
Pulau Kerengga
Pulau Kerengga, located east of Telok Kalong, is divided into a large island with a rocky top on the southern part and a smaller island on the northern side. There is a lush coral garden between the two islands of this island, which consists mainly of flat rock boulder tops.
You can see many different species of fish swimming around the shallow reefs when snorkeling. Here, you may see stingrays basking on the sandy ocean bottom, which is an incredible experience. Also, you can swim to the shoreline and climb up jagged, rocky stone boulders. Be careful of your footing when climbing; the rocks may be unstable.
Pasir Chagar Hutang
Redang Island’s north is home to Pasir Chagar Hutang, a sheltered bay surrounded by rocky cliffs perfect for watching turtles. There is no public access to the beach, which has been the prime location for turtle sanctuaries, so only researchers and volunteers from SEATRU are allowed.
Occasionally, resorts organize trips to see sea turtles at the turtle sanctuary through SEATRU. The boat may pull up a few kilometers from this bay if you want to snorkel in this area. These waters are home to turtles, but the water is too deep for a beginner swimmer.
Teluk Mak Kepit and Mak Simpan
Redang’s west coast has two small beaches known as Teluk Mak Kepit on the north side and Teluk Mak Simpan on the south side. As with Pasir Chagar Hutang, these areas are turtle nesting bays and are overseen by the Department of Fisheries.
Most of the coast here is rocky with minimal reef formation. You can find fewer marine species in front of Pasir Mak Kepit and Pasir Mak Simpan than Redang’s east side. The site still has plenty of fish species, and you may see turtles here as well. As these beaches are turtle nesting beaches, you should observe the nest quietly without disturbing it if you’re fortunate to see one.
Snorkeling Packages
Several resorts offer snorkeling day trips included in the vacation packages, taking you to the best spots on the island to snorkel. Other options include finding independent operators at Long Beach or villagers who will lead excursions starting at RM50 per person. The cost of snorkeling tours is often cheaper than resort packages, so these can be negotiated depending on how many people are in your group and where you want to snorkel.
Snorkeling Gear
Snorkeling equipment can be rented at most resorts for RM30 per set of a mask, a snorkel, and a life jacket. However, some resorts do not rent out snorkel sets but sell them to curb covid-19. Bringing your own set is a good idea for hygiene, and in case this happens. For a reasonable price, you can buy snorkel sets online or at a sports shop. Due to coral reef damage caused by snorkelers wearing fins, fin rental is not permitted. Only divers are allowed to use fins.
Safe & Responsible Snorkeling
The popularity of snorkeling activities and other water sports has unfortunately led to the destruction of reefs, which poses a threat to marine life. Being responsible in the water is paramount for your safety and the safety of marine life.
The following tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable underwater experience while protecting marine life.
Do’s of Snorkeling
1. Make sure you have the right snorkel gear, which includes a mask and tube. It should be comfortable to wear, and the mouthpiece should sit comfortably between your teeth and lips. Additionally, backcomb your hair so that no leaks will occur if it gets trapped on the mask. Make sure the mask fits perfectly on your face.
2. It’s a good idea to practice near shore or in a pool before going out into the open sea. This helps you build your confidence and familiarize yourself with the equipment.
3. Wear a life jacket at all times, especially if you are new to snorkeling. A life jacket can be a lifesaving device when you are tired or encounter heavy currents. Be sure that it fits properly.
4. When snorkeling, your head and shoulders should be horizontal to the water. Don’t tilt them too much; otherwise, salty seawater will enter the snorkel tube. When diving and ascending while snorkeling, hold your breath. Before submerging, take a deep breath to avoid accidentally inhaling water. Exhale through your mouth if you accidentally inhaled water. Before taking a second breath, ascend to the surface and blow out all the excess water.
5. When snorkeling, get to know the location and stay in a designated area. Ask locals or guides about riptides or strong currents if you’re going on an exploration trip by yourself; they can point you in the right direction. Don’t get too far from the group or boat if you’re on the open sea. Keep an eye on your surroundings, and do not get into deeper waters where no one else is.
6. Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays with waterproof sunscreen. It is advisable to be extra careful when it is hot and sunny outside. This is because you may not realize that you were burned until it is too late. Wet skin burns more quickly. Consider using biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreens. More info: https://savethereef.org/about-reef-save-sunscreen.html
7. Know how long you can stay in the water. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the snorkeling experience and lose track of time. Dehydration may not be noticed until the symptoms become severe enough or it is too late. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated if you plan on spending a lot of time in the water. Take a break every half hour or so.
8. Relax and enjoy the experience. As long as you have access to a snorkel, you will be able to float and glide. Kick gently if necessary but do not splash too much. To keep warm, try holding your hand across your chest.
Don’ts of Snorkeling
1. Don’t touch or disturb anything, even if it looks harmless. Do not pick up or handle marine life. You can get hurt by some sea creatures if you get too close to them. Even some corals, anemones, and fish can be dangerous because of their sensitive nature.
2. Coral reefs can be damaged if you stand or step on them. The use of fins for snorkeling in Redang is prohibited since they can cause more harm to this delicate marine ecosystem.
3. You shouldn’t snorkel alone. It’s a good idea to notify someone whenever you’re venturing out into deeper waters since there can be hidden dangers. If you’re swimming near reefs, for example, make sure your buddy stays nearby.
4. Avoid rapid breathing. Avoid inhaling and exhaling too fast when snorkeling, as this will exhaust you and make you feel drained.
5. Keep your trash and plastic pieces out of the water and the beach. It can harm marine life, such as turtles, who may mistake it for jellyfish and choke on a piece. Before leaving, pack up all garbage and dispose of it in designated bins so that none floats around.
6. Don’t overfeed the fish. Although feeding is not explicitly prohibited in the marine park, it is generally prohibited elsewhere, as it contributes to coral decline and disrupts coral habitats. Overgrowth of algae often causes the coral to die away in areas where fish feeding is frequent. If you must feed, do not overdo it.
7. Do not catch or provoke any fishes or marine life. Even if you intend to release them afterward, catching them can cause stress that could cause injury or even death.
8. Don’t take or collect any living or dead marine life. Shells that you find on the beach or underwater are unique in their way and play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Living corals can protect other sea creatures, while empty shells may be home to many species of invertebrates.
9. Do not leave any valuables behind, whether on the beach or the boat. Please put it in an area that is supervised and safe, such as a resort, or store it securely.
10. If you panic while snorkeling, do not grab anyone nearby. Whenever you feel unsafe or in a panicked situation, raise your head and float on your back. Take a deep breath and call for help. Stay calm. Keep your breathing steady so as not to hyperventilate.