Turtle species in Tioman

Green turtle (Chelonia mydas): larger, herbivorous, can reach 1.5m and 200kg. The most common turtle you'll see in Tioman. Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata): smaller, beak-shaped jaw, eats sponges. Critically endangered globally. Loggerheads visit occasionally but rarely seen.

Best dive sites for turtle sightings

Tiger Reef — strong currents bring large pelagics including turtles. Soyak Wreck — turtles rest inside the wreck structure. Renggis Island — reliable shallow sightings, often during open-water training dives. Salang Wall — multiple turtle cleaning stations. Labas Island — large green turtles in the channel.

Best time of year

Turtles are year-round residents. June-September is nesting season when adult females come ashore to lay eggs — the best chance of seeing larger individuals. March-May offers the clearest visibility for turtle photography.

Ethical interaction rules

Maintain 2m minimum distance. Never touch, never chase, never block escape routes. Approach from the side, never head-on. Keep your fins below the turtle to avoid scraping its shell. No flash photography within 1m. If a turtle approaches you (it happens), stay still and let it choose the interaction.

Conservation status

Both species are protected under Malaysian law (Wildlife Conservation Act 2010). Hawksbills are listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN. Pahang state operates a turtle hatchery near Tekek — TDB SunBeach contributes annually and arranges optional visits during the nesting season.