Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
JSK Scuba isn’t just a dive shop—it’s your gateway to adventure. With expert guides leading you through sunken shipwrecks and thriving reef ecosystems, swim alongside curious sea turtles and darting tropical fish, where every breath feels like freedom beneath the waves.
Everything you need to know about JSK Scuba
JSK Scuba offers top-tier diving and snorkeling experiences just off Kota Kinabalu's coast. Popular spots include Manus Island and Tanjong Aru, where divers can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The center provides certified guides, full gear rental, and multilingual support. Choose from shallow reef dives or deep-sea adventures for unforgettable encounters with marine life, making it a must-try for any underwater enthusiast visiting Sabah.
The Marriott Resort Kota Kinabalu is an ideal choice, located just 10 minutes from JSK Scuba with complimentary shuttle service. Situated along the beachfront, it features private beaches, outdoor pools, and rooms offering panoramic views of the South China Sea. Its central location allows quick access to downtown amenities, making it perfect for pre-dive preparations and post-dive relaxation—combining comfort, convenience, and proximity to prime dive sites.
Yes, JSK Scuba offers the PADI Open Water Diver (OWD) certification course designed specifically for beginners. Trained international instructors guide students through theory, pool sessions, and real-water dives in a small-class setting, ensuring personalized attention. All equipment is high-quality and included. Upon completion, divers receive globally recognized PADI certification—perfect for first-timers eager to explore the underwater world safely and confidently.
Divers on JSK Scuba trips frequently encounter reef sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and vibrant schools of tropical fish. Near Tanjong Aru, sightings of pink dolphins swimming among coral formations are not uncommon. Deeper sites also reveal large grouper fish and vivid soft corals. These encounters offer a rare glimpse into Sabah’s rich marine biodiversity, making every dive a thrilling adventure for nature lovers.
It’s recommended to book your JSK Scuba dive trip at least two weeks ahead, especially during peak seasons like March to June or holidays. Limited boat capacity and instructor availability make early reservations essential. You can book online or in person, but early bookings often qualify for early-bird discounts, helping you save money while securing your preferred time slot.
Yes, JSK Scuba provides full rental gear including regulators, masks, fins, wetsuits, and weight systems. All equipment is regularly sanitized and maintained for safety and hygiene. Daily rental costs around MYR 150, ideal for travelers without personal gear. Additional options include underwater photography accessories, allowing divers to capture stunning footage of the marine world beneath the waves.
Cordyceps Beach Resort is a top choice, just a 10-minute drive from JSK Scuba, offering ocean-view rooms and free dive gear rental. The resort features a private snorkeling dock for immediate access to vibrant coral reefs and hosts regular night diving tours, showcasing Sabah’s rich marine life.
Another excellent option is Kapuas Bay Resort, with direct beach access to dive sites and an on-site diving training center, ideal for both beginners and advanced divers. Both properties provide airport transfer services and 24-hour multilingual support, ensuring seamless travel and diving experiences.
Yes, JSK Scuba offers Open Water Diver courses specifically designed for beginners, taught by internationally certified instructors. The program includes classroom sessions, pool training, and real-world dives in the calm waters of Kota Kinabalu Bay. All equipment is safety-tested and provided, with professional lifeguards present throughout. With water temperatures ranging from 28–30°C and visibility up to 25 meters, conditions are ideal for first-time divers. Upon completion, participants receive a PADI certification, opening doors to future underwater adventures.
The easiest way is to take a pre-booked taxi or ride-hailing service like Grab or DiDi—just 15–20 minutes away, costing RM30–40. Many nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle services; simply book through reception. For public transport, take Bus 101 to "Tanjung Manis" stop, then walk about 10 minutes. Using local ride apps ensures accurate navigation directly to JSK Scuba’s entrance, avoiding confusion and saving time.
Beyond standard diving, JSK Scuba offers unique activities: Sea Walking, where guests walk on the ocean floor in special gear to observe corals and tropical fish up close; snorkeling tours along the natural reef lines of Mantanani Islands, spotting schools of snapper and sea turtles. Monthly night diving expeditions use lights to attract deep-sea creatures, revealing the mysterious nocturnal marine world. All experiences come with certified guides and full safety gear, making them suitable for all ages.
Diving at JSK Scuba is possible year-round, with optimal conditions from March to September, when seas are calm, visibility exceeds 25 meters, and wave activity is minimal. During the rainy season (October to February), brief showers may reduce visibility to around 15 meters, but diving remains feasible with minor schedule adjustments. Advanced courses often align with tidal and weather forecasts for safety. It’s recommended to book at least 72 hours in advance, especially during peak season (June–August), to secure your spot.
Yes, all standard diving courses include full gear sets—mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, and regulator—cleaned and maintained to high hygiene standards. For advanced gear like twin tanks or underwater cameras, rentals are available for RM50 per day. Personalized fitting is also offered to ensure proper size and comfort, enhancing performance and safety. All rented equipment is insured, so damage incidents are covered without additional charges.
See what other travelers say about JSK Scuba
Staying at Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Gaya Street, Jesselton Jetty, and Suria Mall. There’s even a supermarket right downstairs, which made our stay incredibly convenient. The room was spotless, and the housekeeping team went above and beyond to keep everything tidy and fresh. The staff were warm, welcoming, and always ready to help—genuine hospitality that made us feel at home. We truly loved every moment of our stay. The only minor suggestion would be upgrading the gym facilities, as it’s functional but could use some modernization. Other than that, we have nothing but praise for this hotel. A perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and great service—highly recommended!
The value for money here is outstanding! The room was much larger than the photos suggested—especially the bathroom, which felt spacious and well-designed. Right across from the hotel is a convenience store, and there are several restaurants nearby that look promising. I especially loved the retro-inspired design with exposed concrete and brick walls—it gives the place a unique, cozy atmosphere. At night, it’s incredibly peaceful and relaxing, making it feel like a quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Cleanliness, layout, and attention to detail are all top-notch. This is definitely a standout choice if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’d absolutely stay here again.
Staying at Sunset Seaview Vacation Condos @ Infinity Avenue was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to IMAGO Shopping Mall, and the ground floor is packed with great dining options, so you can grab a meal without even stepping outside. The sea views from the rooms are stunning, especially at sunset. Everything was clean, modern, and well-maintained, making it a perfect base for exploring Kota Kinabalu. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of coastal charm.
This was our first stay at Hotel Five 2, and it absolutely exceeded our expectations. We arrived early at 8:00 AM, and the front desk staff were incredibly welcoming—they happily stored our luggage without any hassle. During checkout, a kind staff member even offered us complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, which added such a warm, personal touch. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was simple but spotlessly clean, and the overall atmosphere felt cozy and well-maintained. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk to Centre Point, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers great value and genuine hospitality. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.
Arrived in Kota Kinabalu late at night after an early flight, and chose this apartment hotel as a convenient overnight stop. I got a taxi right outside the airport for just MYR 30—only about 15 minutes to reach the property. Since it was so early, the security staff hadn’t arrived yet, but luckily ran into another guest heading out who helped me access the unit using the password provided by the host. The apartment itself is clean, well-equipped, and perfect for a quick layover. Everything you’d need is there—kitchenette, bedding, Wi-Fi—no complaints at all. The location is fantastic: right below Imago Shopping Mall, so dining and shopping are just steps away. And in under 5 minutes on foot, you’re at the beach—beautiful views, gentle sea breeze, ideal for relaxing after a long trip. Honestly, the value-for-money here is outstanding. I’d definitely come back if I ever visit Kota Kinabalu again.
Staying at Green Apple Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a modern and clean design that made me feel right at home. The view from the window was stunning—perfect for watching the sunrise or enjoying the city lights at night. Location-wise, it's convenient and close to everything I needed: great restaurants, shopping spots, and local attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the entire experience even better. It’s clear this hotel values guest comfort and quality. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’ll definitely be back.
My stay at Lintas View Hotel was absolutely delightful. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. The room was clean, well-maintained, and offered a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Located just minutes from the city center, it's incredibly convenient for getting around by public transit. The hotel’s modern design and quiet ambiance made it a great base for both business and leisure travelers. I especially appreciated how responsive and genuine the team was throughout my visit. It’s clear they truly care about guest satisfaction. I’d happily return and recommend this hidden gem to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu.
This stay was absolutely fantastic! The location is unbeatable—right next to a convenience store, making late-night snacks and essentials super convenient. Public transit access is just steps away, and everything in town is within easy reach. The staff were incredibly responsive—any request I had was handled promptly and with great care. The room itself was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The pool area is stunning—serene, beautifully designed, and perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun. One standout feature? The hot water—it’s consistently hot and the flow is strong, which is rare in this type of accommodation. Overall, this was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. Will definitely be returning.
Staying at Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from both Gaya Street and the waterfront, perfect for hopping on island tours without any hassle. The building has a Korean restaurant, convenience stores, a laundry facility, and even a charming cat mascot who runs the front desk—such a cute touch! Getting around is super easy too; taxis are always quick to arrive, whether you're heading to the airport or exploring the city. I actually misplaced my wallet once, and the staff returned it untouched—truly heartwarming and incredibly reassuring. This place offers comfort, convenience, and genuine hospitality. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu!
I can't say enough good things about my stay at Riverson Soho KK - Home Suite. From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and thoughtfully planned. The management sent a clear message beforehand with instructions to download and save the self-check-in PDF—reading it in advance made the process smooth and stress-free. Though there was no staff waiting to greet us personally, the setup was so intuitive that we never felt overlooked. My room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a deep, restful sleep—truly felt like home. The on-site facilities were excellent: my car was safely parked in the reserved underground lot, and I enjoyed using the pool and gym, both well-maintained and inviting. Location-wise, this hotel is perfect. Just a short walk to The WALK, where you’ll find a great variety of dining options, and only a few minutes away from the popular IMAGO shopping mall. Whether you're here for leisure or business, this place offers convenience, comfort, and luxury all in one. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and hassle-free stay—and I’m already planning my next visit!
Everything was great overall! The hotel was spotlessly clean, and the staff were very friendly. The only downside was that the pool was closed—apparently due to an unknown reason—which was a bit disappointing since my kids were really looking forward to swimming. Still, the room was comfortable, the location was convenient, and the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to families traveling with children.
The room was extremely comfortable and perfect for a family stay. The location is fantastic—just a short walk to the beach and surrounded by great local restaurants. Everything was clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough for our group. A few small upgrades would make it even better: a taller ironing board, pool-friendly slippers, and maybe a microwave in the room would be a nice touch. But honestly, I couldn’t be happier with the overall experience. The staff were prompt and friendly, always ready to help whenever we needed something. Great value for money, and I’d definitely book again. Highly recommend this place if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu!
Explore more amazing destinations