Kota Kinabalu: Seawalking, Snorkelling, Leisure Beach

Are you dreaming of a day exploring the vibrant underwater world of Sabah without the need for advanced diving skills? This 7-hour Kota Kinabalu tour offers an exciting mix of seawalking on the ocean floor, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing beach time on a private island. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to experience marine adventures easily, with plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy good food.

What really makes this experience shine are the friendly guides, the delicious buffet lunch, and the chance to walk on the seabed with a helmet and oxygen. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the day’s activities—so flexibility is key. This tour suits adventure lovers, families with children over 8, and anyone keen to see Sabah’s marine life in a comfortable, guided setting.

Good To Know

• No diving experience needed: Seawalking is safe and accessible for everyone.
• Small group sizes: Ensures more personal attention and safety.
• Multiple water activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and optional add-ons like parasailing.
• Delicious buffet lunch with live music: A highlight after underwater adventures.
• Flexible booking options: Full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for ages 8 and up: Suitable for families and first-time snorkelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Easy Access and Friendly Transfers

The tour begins at Star Marina in Tanjung Aru, where your crew will meet you. The pickup point is straightforward—just follow Google Maps to the Shangri-las Tanjung Aru Resort. The transfer to the private island involves a roughly 45-minute speedboat ride, which adds a sense of adventure right from the start. Expect the boat ride to be lively and scenic, offering views of Kota Kinabalu’s coastline and the surrounding islands.

Sepanggar Island and the First Stop

The first stop on the itinerary is Sepanggar Island, which serves as a quick photo opportunity and sightseeing point. Here, you’ll get a brief safety briefing before heading out into the water. Reviewers mentioned that the guides are helpful and attentive—something you’ll appreciate especially if you’re new to marine activities.

The Heart of the Experience: Seawalking on the Ocean Floor

The highlight is, of course, the Seawalking activity. Equipped with a helmet connected to an oxygen supply, you walk along the sandy seabed, marveling at the vibrant marine life. Reviewers like Aria from Vietnam highlighted that even with less-than-ideal water clarity, the guides’ professionalism made the experience enjoyable. The small group sizes and guides on site ensure safety and allow for personalized attention, making it a fantastic opportunity for first-timers or those who want a relaxed, guided experience.

You’ll see colorful fish swimming freely, darting around the underwater rocks and coral formations. It’s a rare chance to walk among marine creatures without needing any swimming skills or diving licenses. The helmet system means you’ll breathe naturally and stay dry, which is particularly reassuring if you aren’t accustomed to water-based activities.

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Snorkeling and Free Time

After the seawalk, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the clear waters, exploring the marine environment more closely. Reviewers noted that snorkeling gear is included, and the water, while sometimes less clear, still offers a vibrant display of marine life. You can also indulge in kayaking, included in the package, or simply relax on the beach.

One of the few drawbacks mentioned was water clarity, but this didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment. Plus, the guides’ efforts to ensure safety and fun made the experience smooth regardless of conditions.

Lunch and Beach Relaxation

Post-activity, the tour offers a buffet lunch featuring local and international dishes, which guests rave about for being delicious and plentiful. As one reviewer noted, the live music enhances the laid-back vibe, making it a perfect way to unwind after the underwater adventures.

Following lunch, you’ll have some free time on the beach. Whether you want to soak up the sun, sip a cold drink, or take some photos, this is your moment to relax and enjoy the tropical scenery.

Optional Add-Ons and Extra Activities

For adrenaline junkies, there’s the option to try water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boat rides—additional charges apply. These activities are perfect for those who want to extend their adventure but should be booked separately.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up with a speedboat ride back to Star Marina, completing a fully-packed but well-balanced day of adventure and leisure. The entire experience is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, with the guides handling all logistics and safety concerns.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 7 hours, making it a half-day adventure that fits easily into your Sabah itinerary.
• Pricing: Offers flexibility with the reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Group Size: Smaller groups mean more personalized care and less crowding in the water.
• What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera—protect yourself from the sun and capture memories.
• Age & Health Restrictions: Suitable for ages 8 and up. Not recommended for pregnant women, those with heart or respiratory issues, or individuals with claustrophobia.
• Weather Dependence: Activities are weather-dependent; if sea conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with children over 8, solo travelers eager for a beginner-friendly underwater adventure, or couples looking for a unique way to enjoy Sabah’s marine beauty. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining exciting activities with delicious local food and beach relaxation.

If you’re seeking a safe, guided, and well-organized marine activity that requires no prior experience, this tour hits the mark. Remember that the water clarity can vary, but the guides’ professionalism ensures a fun and safe experience regardless.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this Kota Kinabalu tour offers a genuine, accessible introduction to Sabah’s marine environment. The combination of seawalking, snorkeling, and beach leisure makes it a well-rounded, value-packed day. The friendly guides, delicious buffet lunch, and the unique experience of walking on the sea floor create memorable moments for any traveler.

It’s ideal for those who want a low-stress, guided adventure with a focus on safety and fun—perfect for first-timers or those who prefer not to dive deep into technical equipment. The optional water sports can add a splash of adrenaline, making it suitable for a variety of thrill levels.

If you’re looking to enjoy Sabah’s marine landscapes without the fuss of advanced training or equipment, this tour offers an enjoyable, well-organized way to do so. Just be prepared for the weather, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories and photos to share.

FAQ

Is seawalking safe for beginners?
Yes, seawalking is designed for all skill levels and requires no prior experience. The helmets allow you to breathe normally, and guides are always present to ensure safety.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera to capture your underwater moments. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.

Can children participate?
Yes, the activity is suitable for ages 8 and above. Children should be comfortable in water, but no swimming skills are necessary.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on sea conditions. If weather or sea safety standards aren’t met, you’ll be offered a full refund or rescheduling.

Are there any additional costs?
Basic activities like seawalking, snorkeling, and kayaking are included. Extra charges apply for optional water sports like parasailing or jet skiing.

How long does the tour take?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including transfers, activities, lunch, and leisure time.

This tour offers a fantastic way to get close to Sabah’s underwater life with minimal fuss. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed beach day or an adventurous marine experience, it provides memorable moments in a safe, guided environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby