PULAU PAYAR MARINE PARK — SNORKELING & CORAL CONSERVATION

PULAU PAYAR MARINE PARK: CORAL CONSERVATION ZONE

Located approximately 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi, Pulau Payar Marine Park is the oldest and best-preserved marine sanctuary on Malaysia’s West Coast. Established in 1985, the park encompasses four emerald islands—Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang, and Pulau Kaca—surrounded by sheltered coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.

MARINE BIODIVERSITY

The park is a vital nursery for various marine species and serves as a primary site for coral reef research and protection.

• Coral Gardens: The "Coral Garden" section at the southwestern tip of Pulau Payar features a spectacular array of hard and soft corals, including massive brain corals and delicate staghorns.
• Fish Populations: Crystal-clear waters provide sightings of Black-tip Reef Sharks, Moray Eels, Butterflyfish, Parrotfish, and large schools of Jacks.
• Endangered Species: The park provides a safe haven for various invertebrates and shellfish that are protected under the Fisheries Act 1985.

VISITOR EXPERIENCE

• Snorkeling & Diving: Excellent visibility (varying by season) makes it the premier spot for underwater photography. There are designated zones for beginners and advanced divers.
• Nature Trails: Short hiking trails on the island offer a chance to explore the coastal forest and observe resident monitor lizards and sea eagles.
• Observation Deck: A floating platform (for specific tour operators) allows non-swimmers to view the reef through glass-bottom chambers.

VISITOR GUIDELINES (STRICT CONSERVATION)

To preserve the fragile ecosystem, visitors must adhere to strict Marine Park regulations:

• No Feeding: Fish feeding is strictly prohibited as it disrupts the natural ecological balance.
• No Collection: The collection of shells, coral fragments, or any marine life is a serious offense.
• Sunscreen Awareness: Visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreens to prevent chemical damage to the coral polyps.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Access: Accessible only by boat from Kuah Jetty, Langkawi. The journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes via high-speed catamaran.
• Facilities: The island features basic amenities including picnic tables, pit toilets, and a visitor information center.

---

DIVE INTO LANGKAWI’S MARINE WONDERS