Reputed to support the largest number of coral species in the country, Pulau Payar's crystal clear waters make it suitable for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and underwater photography.

At the rocky southwest end of the island, not too far offshore, is a breathtakingly beautiful dive spot called 'Coral Garden'. The rocky slopes here are almost completely covered with brightly-hued soft coral. Deeper waters offer the dark green dendroid, or tree-like hard corals and a multitude of sea fans and cone shell. The waters are also home to a prolific variety of sea squirts, sea slugs, hermit crabs, feather starfish, sea anemone, lion fish, barracudas, rainbow runners, rock fish and ghost fish.

Visitors wishing to enjoy a quiet picnic on Pulau Payar's sandy white beaches will find picnic tables and bathroorn facilities thoughtfully provided. No hotels are available on the island, although camping is permitted with prior approval from the Department of Fisheries.

How To Get There
Pulau Payar is accessible from Langkawi and Kuala Kedah by speedboat and catamaran. It takes approximately an hour to reach the island. Tour operators can organise cruises and diving tours to the neighbouring islands in the Marine Park.