Mandarin Lagoon
Protected Area
Pulau Sangalaki
Why dive here
With 118+ marine species recorded in the area - including manta rays, mobula rays (devil rays), orcas, sea turtles and sperm whales - Mandarin Lagoon offers some of Derawan Islands's richest reef diving.
Mandarin Lagoon sits at a comfortable 13 metres, making it a great spot for newer divers finding their fins or anyone looking for a relaxed session. We often spend our bottom time here just drifting over the sandy patches, keeping an eye out for the small stuff. You’ll frequently spot juvenile reef fish darting between the coral heads, and it’s a good place to find those shy mandarin fish peeking out, especially if you get there in the late afternoon. It’s not a thrill-a-minute dive, but it’s a calm, pretty introduction to Derawan’s shallows.
Typical Mandarin Lagoon Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
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