Compare Semporna and Mabul Island to choose the best destination for your next trip

Oleh LunarQis

4 Ogos 2026

Planning an island getaway in Sabah but unsure whether to choose Semporna or Mabul Island? Both are among Malaysia's most beautiful coastal destinations, yet they offer very different travel experiences. Semporna is a lively seaside town that serves as the gateway to world-famous islands and diving spots, while Mabul Island is a peaceful tropical island known for its crystal-clear waters, luxury water villas, and exceptional diving. Whether you're travelling for beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving, or a relaxing holiday, here's how the two destinations compare.

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Beaches and Island Experience

Semporna

Semporna is the perfect base for travellers who want to explore Sabah's famous islands. Rather than spending time in the town itself, most visitors join island-hopping tours to discover nearby beaches, coral reefs, viewpoints, and marine parks. Its convenient location makes it easy to experience several islands and activities within a single trip.

Attraction	Opening Hours	What It Offers
Bohey Dulang	8:00 AM–3:00 PM (subject to park regulations)	Scenic hiking trail with panoramic views over Tun Sakaran Marine Park
Tun Sakaran Marine Park	Open daily	Island hopping, snorkelling, crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life
Mataking Island	Open daily	White sandy beaches, snorkelling, diving, and relaxing island scenery
Kapalai	Open daily	Famous overwater resort, snorkelling, and shallow coral reefs
Sibuan Island	Open daily	Soft white sand, turquoise waters, swimming, and photography

Mabul Island

Mabul Island is a destination where visitors can slow down and enjoy the tropical surroundings. Most activities revolve around the island's beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it an excellent choice for relaxing, snorkelling, diving, and watching spectacular sunsets without needing to travel between multiple islands.

Attraction	Opening Hours	What It Offers
Mabul Beach	Open 24 hours	White sandy beach, swimming, relaxation, and sunrise or sunset views
House Reef	Open daily	Easy snorkelling and shore diving with colourful marine life
Mabul Water Villages	Open for resort guests	Overwater accommodation, sea views, and direct access to snorkelling and diving
Local Village	Open daily	Cultural experience, local seafood, and insight into island community life
Dive Sites Around Mabul	Daily (tour schedules vary)	World-famous macro diving, turtles, colourful reefs, and underwater photography

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Diving and Snorkelling

Semporna

Semporna is widely regarded as the gateway to some of Malaysia's best diving and snorkelling destinations. From here, travellers can easily join day trips to world-class dive sites and marine parks, making it an ideal base for both beginners and experienced divers looking to explore the rich marine biodiversity of the Celebes Sea.

Dive Site	Opening Hours	What It Offers
Sipadan Island*	Daily (permit required)	World-class wall diving, turtles, reef sharks, barracudas, and vibrant coral reefs
Kapalai	Daily	Shallow coral reefs, snorkelling, macro diving, and overwater resort experiences
Mataking Island	Daily	Colourful coral gardens, clear waters, diving, and snorkelling
Pom Pom Island	Daily	Sea turtles, healthy reefs, snorkelling, and beginner-friendly dive sites
Tun Sakaran Marine Park	Daily	Snorkelling, coral reefs, tropical fish, and island-hopping adventures

*Sipadan is only accessible with a daily diving permit, and visitor numbers are strictly limited.

Mabul Island

Mabul Island is one of the world's top destinations for macro diving, attracting underwater photographers and marine enthusiasts from around the globe. The island also offers excellent snorkelling close to shore, allowing visitors to enjoy colourful reefs and diverse marine life without travelling far from their resort.

Dive Site	Opening Hours	What It Offers
House Reef	Daily	Easy shore snorkelling and diving with colourful coral and tropical fish
Froggy Lair	Daily	Famous macro diving site with rare nudibranchs, frogfish, and other small marine creatures
Paradise Reef	Daily	Coral gardens, turtles, reef fish, and beginner-friendly diving
Lobster Wall	Daily	Wall diving with soft corals, lobsters, and diverse marine life
Nearby Sipadan (by boat)	Daily (permit required)	Access to one of the world's most famous dive sites for advanced diving experiences

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Accommodation

Semporna

Semporna offers a wide range of accommodation to suit different budgets and travel styles. Staying in the town provides convenient access to restaurants, shops, and daily island-hopping or diving tours, making it a practical choice for travellers planning to explore multiple islands.

Accommodation Type	What It Offers	Best For
Budget Hotels	Affordable rooms with essential amenities	Budget travellers
Guesthouses	Simple, comfortable stays with a local atmosphere	Backpackers
Boutique Hotels	Stylish accommodation with modern facilities	Couples and leisure travellers
Family-Friendly Hotels	Larger rooms and convenient amenities	Families
Dive Lodges	Accommodation with dive packages and equipment services	Divers and snorkellers

5 star

SKY Resort Timbun Mata & Reef, Semporna

9/10Great11 Ulasan

Semporna|14.22km dari pusat bandar

”Semporna Waterfront Resort is a dreamlike destination that captivates the soul! Waking up in the morning, I opened the window to a breathtaking sapphire-clear water, so clear that I could see the swaying corals on the seabed. This breathtaking blue, contrasting with the lush green mountains, creates a breathtakingly beautiful painting. Most captivating here isn't just the breathtaking natural scenery, but the impeccable service—from the minty welcome drink upon entering the lobby to the stunningly creative cuisine in the restaurant, every detail showcases meticulous attention. Special mention must go to the smiling staff, who seemed to anticipate our needs like a telepath. They not only accompanied us throughout our entire trip, but also used their professional photography skills to capture countless cherished moments under the azure sea and sky. This trip not only feasted my eyes on the world's most beautiful scenery, but also deeply moved my heart. This resort is definitely my top recommendation for any traveler who values quality of life!”

DariNZD 713

Pearl Island Resort

8.4/10Very Good48 Ulasan

Semporna|22.13km dari pusat bandar

Exceeded expectations, the scenery is comparable to the Maldives! From our overwater bungalow, we could see schools of fish and even turtles. Snorkeling directly from the hotel was also super convenient. This is one of the best hotels in Semporna, and I'll definitely be back.

DariNZD 595

Mabul Water Bungalows

9/10Great49 Ulasan

Semporna|25.98km dari pusat bandar

The views are absolutely stunning, and all three meals were delicious. Especially the tuna and sashimi available every day—it was much better than I expected. The Bajau people wait under your room daily to sell seafood; you can buy it or not, but make sure to bargain. Bargaining is part of the fun!

DariNZD 1,801

Seafest REGENCY

7.7/10Good505 Ulasan

Semporna|0.62km dari pusat bandar

If I had a choice, I wouldn't stay here again. This is the first time I've encountered such a long wait for check-out, even with a deposit. Those who paid with credit cards also had to wait. Check-in and check-out were all mixed together... the management is just too chaotic. Plus, the gym had an extremely strong, pungent plastic smell, making it impossible to use. The downstairs restaurant was absolutely terrible. The only good thing was that the room's cleanliness wasn't bad, after all, it's a 5-star hotel, and its location is superb.

DariNZD 254

CUPID RESORT

8.9/10Very Good52 Ulasan

Semporna|9.52km dari pusat bandar

The front desk service was very warm and welcoming. This was my first time traveling abroad with my child, and they absolutely loved staying here! The facilities are incredibly rich and diverse; there's a transparent boat, opportunities for sea fishing, paddleboarding, and when you're tired, you can just relax in your room's private pool while enjoying the breathtaking, endless ocean views. The real blue sea and sky here are truly stunning – I was amazed the moment I arrived! The hotel's hygiene is also excellent; the bedding is clean and tidy. The staff are super responsive; they brought whatever we needed in no time. I highly recommend everyone come and stay here!

Business travel

Seafest Hotel

6.7/10685 Ulasan

Semporna|0.66km dari pusat bandar

I chose this hotel for a one-night stay before heading to the overwater bungalow the next day. Although the room facilities were a bit old, they were very clean. There's a convenience store right downstairs, and it's very close to the pier. The sea breeze was a bit loud at night, but the breakfast was excellent and plentiful.

DariNZD 95

TD Mutiara Hotel

7.4/10426 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

The room was decent, mostly because I'd prepared myself for hotels in this town not being great. It had hot water, AC, and toiletries. It's not as accommodating as hotels back home; early check-in wasn't an option. I bought some flip-flops locally that gave me blisters, and they didn't have any bandaids. Friends visiting should definitely bring their own comfy slippers. After island hopping, I wanted to shower but couldn't get a day-use room. There's a public restroom next to the lobby on the first floor, but you can't shower there – apparently, there's a 200 MYR fine if you do. Guess it just shows how competitive the hotel industry is back home!

DariNZD 54

Together Palm Resort

8.7/10Very Good160 Ulasan

Semporna|4.05km dari pusat bandar

I have mixed feelings about this hotel. The location is beautiful, set in a jungle with lush greenery and flowers all around and it feels peaceful the moment you arrive. The staff were generally nice, especially the Chinese-speaking lady. The rooms are quite spacious, with two large double beds that were very comfortable, and relatively clean given the remote location. They also offer shuttle buses to and from town, though these are limited and require advance booking. On the downside, the remoteness creates some challenges. The shuttle requires early wake-ups and long waits as the day tours start later, and there isn’t much to do in town once you arrive. Prices at the resort are very high compared to town, and they charge extra when paying with Alipay or WeChat in Chinese yuan as instead of local currency they charge in Chinese yuan with elevated rates, which felt unfair. Also the room’s roof material made the rain extremely loud. During our stays,it rained all nights during, and even earplugs didn’t fully help with the sound. Breakfast was also limited and not great in quality. Overall, the hotel has a lovely setting and comfortable rooms, but advertising it as 5-star felt misleading. It’s more like a 3–3.5 star experience. Worth visiting if you want the location and nature, but be aware of the extra costs and limitations.

DariNZD 118

Summer Holiday Semporna

9.3/10Great341 Ulasan

Semporna|0.43km dari pusat bandar

The room is quite spacious and very clean. Check-in is on the first floor. When you go upstairs to the second floor where the rooms are, you first change into slippers, then walk down a hallway to your room. On the first floor, in the morning, there are self-service options for breakfast like coffee, milk tea, bread, and jam. On the second-floor balcony, there's a sink for washing things and a washing machine. There's also a long open-air balcony where you can dry clothes after a trip to the sea; hangers and racks are provided, which is great. The location isn't too remote either; it's about a 15-minute walk to the pier. Do note that the front desk staff doesn't speak Chinese, so you'll need to communicate in English. Also, the rooms on the second floor have private bathrooms, but you have to take a somewhat steep staircase, which might not be ideal for guests with children or the elderly. The rooms on the first floor can be a bit noisy, and it seems they all have shared bathrooms.

DariNZD 65

Grace Hotel Semporna

7.7/10Good297 Ulasan

Semporna|0.25km dari pusat bandar

I had a pleasant stay at this hotel. Although I encountered a room issue upon arrival, the hotel staff handled the situation professionally and efficiently. They took immediate action and arranged a room change without delay, which greatly improved my experience. I would like to especially commend the staff for their friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to help. They listened to my concerns, responded promptly, and ensured that I was comfortable throughout my stay. Excellent customer service can make all the difference, and this team truly demonstrated their commitment to guest satisfaction. Thank you for the great service. I would gladly stay here again and recommend this hotel to others. 这次入住酒店的整体体验非常不错。虽然刚入住时遇到了一些房间问题，但酒店工作人员迅速采取行动，第一时间为我安排了更换房间，处理效率非常高。特别感谢酒店员工，他们态度友善、专业且乐于助人。在了解我的情况后，立即给予协助，并积极解决问题，让我感受到他们对住客的重视与关怀。优质的客户服务让这次住宿体验大大提升。感谢酒店团队的努力与专业服务，我愿意再次入住，也会推荐给其他朋友。

DariNZD 64

Family friendly

BarraCuda Den (previously known as Jono's Place)

9.4/10Amazing243 Ulasan

Semporna|0.24km dari pusat bandar

It was clean, hygienic, and felt very safe. I could even do laundry and it would dry by the next day. I traveled alone for diving and overall, I think it's great value for money. There's also a communal bar area where you can cook your own noodles and eggs. Just a heads up, there are often kids at the entrance trying to sell things and offering to help – try to ignore them, as they'll keep asking you for money.

DariNZD 55

Perfect Forest Eco-Resort

9.2/10Great313 Ulasan

Semporna|4.31km dari pusat bandar

A garden-style hotel with a professionally designed garden, a warm-hearted owner, sunny and cheerful staff, a variety of delicious breakfasts, complimentary afternoon tea, clean and tidy rooms, and peaceful sleep accompanied by birdsong and the fragrance of flowers, making the trip more comfortable. This was my second stay, and it's almost the best choice in Semporna.

DariNZD 128

Chan Living

9.3/10Great89 Ulasan

Semporna|4.03km dari pusat bandar

We stayed in new rooms at the back of the resort which were very nice and practically new. There real downside of the new rooms is that the new pool in that area has no filtered water entering so the water is stagnant and a green colour - to be avoided. The water in the older pool at the front of the complex looked fine although there was no filter that was apparent to our eyes. The complex is slightly out of town but that was a positive in our view as Semporna Italy was not very appealing. A major plus was the on-site laundry which guests can use. The resort is slightly outof town but that was a positive in our view as downtown is not particularly attractive.

DariNZD 109

Hua Qiao Home

9/10Great142 Ulasan

Semporna|0.63km dari pusat bandar

A wonderful place! It's a guesthouse like somewhere in the Krasnodar region. The owner is Chinese. The two young girls at reception are amazing, caring, and speak excellent English. Upon arrival, they immediately set up my laundry and explained everything about the area, excursions, and shopping. I asked a lot of questions, expressed my interest, and the owner himself was welcoming, pouring me tea, bringing me fruit, and checking in to see if everything was okay. Semporna is a place mostly visited by Chinese; you rarely meet Europeans. But I recently visited China, and everything there is amazing and delightful for the people, their culture, etc., so this place appealed to me when choosing. I think it's a safe place for open-minded people. The goal is island excursions for diving, snorkeling, and photography. So, you either live on the island, which is boring, or you can live like this in the city, with excursions from 8 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., wandering around in the evening, and eating street food. Overall, I really enjoyed it!

DariNZD 55

Amina Holidays

8.9/10Very Good35 Ulasan

Semporna|26.06km dari pusat bandar

Here are three pros of Amina Resort Water Bungalows on Mabul Island: First, the environment is absolutely beautiful, with jelly-colored seawater. There's also a world-class, super-large overwater resort next door that you can visit. Second, the proprietress manages the place strictly, and the service is incredibly attentive. Third, the dive instructor is excellent, patient, and speaks Chinese. It's close to Sipadan, but you need to apply to go there. Overall, Amina is only a 40-minute transfer away, which isn't far at all. It's perfect for diving enthusiasts, families, and friends.

DariNZD 273

Hot spring

Sipadan Inn 2

7.7/10Good193 Ulasan

Semporna|0.21km dari pusat bandar

A great transit hotel. But if you need to stay longer won't be a problem. Located at the center of Semporna commercial area. Lots of shops and restaurant nearby. The jetty is also very near to this hotel. You won't have problems walking around the area. Choose the room with the view and you will never regret it.

DariNZD 41

Wave View Hotel

7.3/10117 Ulasan

Semporna|0.28km dari pusat bandar

the house was clean and tidy. Complete with all facilities and the view from balcony was superb.

DariNZD 64

Ocean Inn Semporna

7.7/10Good105 Ulasan

Semporna|0.23km dari pusat bandar

Stay in here for exam purpose. Overall very satisfied with the services and the room cleanliness. Staff are friendly as well. Other than that, I think the renovation still in progress. I just can’t stand the drilling sound some constructions noises. Quit irritable during day time. I love to stay here btw. Will choose to stay here again next time. Thank you!

DariNZD 51

Sipadan Inn 3

7.7/10Good165 Ulasan

Semporna|0.29km dari pusat bandar

There were a lot of birds circling overhead near the hotel, so there was bird droppings and a pungent smell. Environment: The facilities are a bit old. Hygiene: The room was tidied up quite well. Service: The service attitude was not very good, they lacked patience.

DariNZD 54

Luna Guesthouse

8.3/10Very Good60 Ulasan

Semporna|0.74km dari pusat bandar

The room was spacious and comfortable. The owner was a lovely and friendly young lady who spoke fluent Chinese. There were several small supermarkets nearby, making things very convenient. The ice cream was also delicious and inexpensive. If you're interested, you should definitely check it out!

DariNZD 41

Gym

POM POM Island Resort

8.9/10Very Good85 Ulasan

Semporna|30.86km dari pusat bandar

This used to be called Pom Pom Island Dragon Pearl Resort, but now it has a new name. It's a 45-minute speedboat ride from Semporna jetty. This is a private island, free from tour groups and local disturbances. There are very few people on the island, so it feels like you have the whole island to yourself for three days, with only the sound of the waves for company. The 'jellyfish sea' lives up to its reputation. The shallow waters are vast and incredibly clear, even at two to three meters deep, where you can easily see coral and schools of fish. Every photo you take looks like a wallpaper. Sea turtles and clownfish are frequent visitors. The beach is spacious, and there are sun loungers and hammocks right outside the beach bungalows, giving you a true private beach experience. This time we stayed in a beach bungalow. The facilities are indeed dated – wooden structure, and electricity relies on its own system, with two short power outages every day (something to consider if this bothers you). However, the cleaning was very thorough. The ant problem was quite prominent, so remember to put away all food. The room comes with life jackets, and upon arrival, guests are reminded to wear them when swimming and that swimming is prohibited after 6 PM. Safety warnings are visible everywhere. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are buffet-style, with very limited choices and ordinary taste. The only fruits available are watermelon and papaya, rotated daily. Perhaps because there are so few guests, the food replenishment is also slow. Don't go with high expectations; just consider it as a way to refuel. Tips: There's no WiFi on the island, and mobile signal is sporadic. The service is neither good nor bad, not particularly enthusiastic. The facilities are old, but the scenery and tranquility are its strong points. If you're looking for luxury and comfort, I'd advise against it.

DariNZD 401

Jelly Sea Resort

9.1/10Great286 Ulasan

Semporna|9.58km dari pusat bandar

The room was incredibly tidy and well-equipped, and the bathroom was spotless. Directly facing the bed was a stunning view of the shimmering 'jellyfish' sea. The private balcony had lounge chairs and a net bed, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the ocean's atmosphere and even clearly spot fish and starfish in the water – it was an absolutely wonderful memory! The food at the overwater resort was also delicious, especially the shrimp and chicken, which were fantastic no matter how they were prepared. The local staff at the resort were very warm and enthusiastic, always willing to help take photos. You could often hear their lovely singing and guitar playing, truly a group of people who love life! If I ever get the chance to return to Semporna, I would definitely want to experience the Jellyfish Sea Overwater Resort again!

Meili Resort Hotel

/100 Ulasan

Semporna|27.01km dari pusat bandar

Semporna MEILI Resort Hotel: A luxury water villa resort hotelThe world's largest waterfront wooden villa resort hotel, covering an area of hundreds of acres, is constructed with century-old ironwoodMichelin seafood buffet restaurant, diving centre, and one of the top three diving destinations in the worldPremium natural building materials, high-quality and luxurious supporting facilities, and 24-hour butler serviceMaritime aristocratic realm, encountering beautiful secret places

Rich Villa Resort Semporna

9/10Great66 Ulasan

Semporna|5km dari pusat bandar

The room was nice, but there were a lot of mosquitoes around the outdoor plants. Mosquito repellent is necessary. Overall, it's good value for money!

DariNZD 80

Together 2 Holiday Resort

9/10Great123 Ulasan

Semporna|6.62km dari pusat bandar

We spent one night on the island after returning. The nice environment was a plus; we even saw squirrels. Breakfast was so-so, the facilities were okay, and the room was quite large, but the soundproofing was poor. Next door was a mother with two or three children, and they were very noisy. We could hear the children's alarm clock and the lights switching on and off before bedtime. The cleaning seemed neglected; the trash can in the bathroom hadn't been emptied when we entered the room. The location is rather remote, and it's difficult to hail a Grab taxi. We tried to hail one for 15 minutes around 10 AM to go to the airport, but couldn't get one, and finally had to pay extra for a six-seater.

DariNZD 135

Swimming pool

Anggun Lodge Private Room with Sharing Bathroom

8.7/10Very Good27 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

Overall, it is good value for money. It is less than 10 meters away from my dive shop (cooldivive). The public bathroom is clean and not crowded. There is a place to dry clothes. The room does not have air conditioning but it is not hot. The sound insulation is indeed poor, but the neighbors are civilized. It is a good choice for those who have not booked a dormitory for diving students.

DariNZD 18

Sagittarius Resort

8.8/10Very Good64 Ulasan

Semporna|13.82km dari pusat bandar

Our stay at the Sagittarius Water Bungalow was absolutely fantastic! From our butler Xiao Gu to all the staff on the water bungalows and even the owners, everyone was incredibly nice. The rooms are equipped with smart Xiaomi home devices, clean and tidy. Opening the curtains reveals the beautiful 'jellyfish sea,' and the scenery is simply captivating. The food at the water bungalows is also delicious; breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are all included in the price. Airport transfers and boat rides to the island are also covered, making it excellent value for money! We stayed for five days and four nights and didn't want to leave. The atmosphere on the island is also great, with KTV and song requests every night – the owner and his wife sing really well, by the way! The water bungalows offer a lot of entertainment, including sea fishing, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and drone photography. The local staff (Xiao Hei) are also happy to help with photos 📸. You can even get your diving certification and go on island-hopping day trips, keeping you thoroughly entertained. We came to Semporna specifically to get our diving certification, and the water bungalow's own dive shop is highly recommended. The instructors are very responsible and dedicated. I'd like to thank Xiao Li and Instructor Mohd Rizal Baba Selleh. The prices are fair, and the teaching focuses on the safety and skills of the students, which is very reassuring. The dive shop owner's wife is also super nice. All in all, this trip was incredibly worthwhile, and we'll definitely be back! I'll also be recommending it to my friends and family 😊

DariNZD 596

Amber House

8.2/10Very Good2 Ulasan

Semporna|3.13km dari pusat bandar

1️⃣地理位置距離碼頭差不多1.2km左右，走路20來分鐘，或者坐酒店班車過去都可以，但過去的路非常破，甚至沒有人行道，晚上有點危險。 2️⃣酒店位於一個院子裏，辦理入住以及酒店工作人員都在院裏，如果外面有人講話，室內基本沒有隔音會聽到，同樣室內講話室外路過也可以聽到，追求私隱和安靜的慎入 3️⃣房間內部非常簡陋，窗簾都沒有，衹有一個羅馬簾，廁所甚至沒有窗簾😰 如果住一樓的話晚上基本沒有私隱了，為啥窗簾都不捨得整一個，屬實難受 4️⃣晚上會很吵，會有各種蟲鳴鳥叫，然後摩託車經過的聲音，並且我住的房間外面一直有莫名的持續的機械嗡嗡聲，非常吵，然後凌晨四點旁邊還開始用大喇叭誦經禱告了，一晚上基本就是在各種噪音中度過，非常折磨😩 5️⃣早飯就是一個蛋一碗拌麪，吃完就可以去跳島了總之這個價位不推薦入住，真的太吵太吵了，本身住酒店最重要的就是休息，而且房間沒有窗簾私隱性差，這邊經常下雨，一樓還會有水臭味和黴味，很一般的酒店，對不起這個價位，個人認為反正都是吵還不如住碼頭邊得了。

DariNZD 116

Amber Villa

8.1/10Very Good3 Ulasan

Semporna|0.67km dari pusat bandar

I was really disappointed with this hotel experience. (The staff were very friendly, but the hotel facilities and soundproofing were poor.) The bathroom facilities were extremely basic, and the overall room amenities felt cheap and ordinary. Perhaps due to the materials used in the renovations, you could hear everything going on upstairs. This definitely needs improvement, especially considering it costs 700 RMB per night. 🫪

DariNZD 207

MY Rainforest Semporna

0/100 Ulasan

Semporna|0.54km dari pusat bandar

At first glance, I feel that the homestay is not very good, but after staying, it feels great, very warm, and very warm. It is a caring homestay with a clean and quiet environment. There is no shortage of restaurants around. The yard is breezy during the day and the flowers are scented at night. Behind the center of the sea, I feel that the tropical rain forest is the right choice. The handsome and handsome manager speaks Cantonese. The hotel also has two fixed-point vehicles to pick up and drop off to the town center. Breakfast is different for three days. The free afternoon tea is simple, but delicious. The room Not big and clean. The first time I went to Semporna, I only booked a room. It turns out that the tropical rain forest can also be booked for a day trip to island hopping. Compared with the Internet, the site will be similar to the online booking. So I booked three islands for a day. I thought it was with other people. After joining the group, we found that it was a group of 4 of us, and three of us served us. Among them, diving guides and professional underwater photography of the thin brother Big Fei from the fat world, regardless of snorkeling and snorkeling, all followed to help take pictures, and the little black brother pulled it. The lifebuoy is always taken to watch the underwater world, and the service is extremely considerate. The next day, I reported the deep diving experience to the child. Fortunately, I haven't booked an island hopping tour online before. When booking on the spot, Brother Dafei will patiently explain to us how to play. Summarizing the tropical rain forest, I booked a homestay for two more days.

Breakfast

A° Hotel Semporna

8.4/10Very Good69 Ulasan

Semporna|0.32km dari pusat bandar

I booked this hotel for a friend, and based on their feedback, the stay was very satisfying. The booking process was smooth, and the staff were friendly and helpful during check-in. The location is also convenient, whether for vacation or business. Thank you to the hotel team for the good service. I’d consider staying here myself in the future.

DariNZD 62

Mango Inn

8.1/10Very Good15 Ulasan

Semporna|0.2km dari pusat bandar

Very good, very good, very good. The boss can speak fluent Chinese. He helped us introduce the island hopping tour, reminded us of the precautions for the island hopping tour, and also helped us with the guide to charter a car to the airport. He sent a message in the middle of the night early the next morning. Just replied, very warm and friendly, the room is also very clean and beautiful, there are no bugs or mosquitoes, it has air conditioning and TV, and the location is easy to find and locate. Boss, good👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

DariNZD 49

Sipadan Inn 1

7.8/10Good233 Ulasan

Semporna|0.2km dari pusat bandar

I stayed at Sipadan Inn in a room with a queen-size bed, which was sufficient for two people to stay comfortably. The room space was quite limited, but it was still cozy and suitable for a short stay. The bathroom functioned well, and overall room service was acceptable. I would rate the facilities around 8/10, mainly because the staff were not very friendly, though still okay and professional. This hotel is suitable for travelers looking for a budget-friendly stay, especially for 3–4 days, as the price matches what is offered. There are plenty of food options around the area, and you can easily find souvenirs either below the hotel or nearby. Watsons is conveniently located right next to the hotel, which is very helpful. However, do be cautious around the sidewalks, as there are sometimes children asking for money. Overall, I was satisfied with my stay.

DariNZD 35

The Wizard of Oz Resort Semporna

7.2/1046 Ulasan

Semporna|4.35km dari pusat bandar

Good reviews. It's a rare opportunity to go with my parents. It's my first time to Malaysia and I don't have much experience. I arrived early in the morning and although it's not time to check in, the boss immediately arranged for us to check in and personally took us to the town. This place basically covers all the activities of island tours. For a novice like me, this is the right choice. Also, the town is really small and the environment is a bit dirty and messy. I should book all the rooms in a homestay. The environment is beautiful and the atmosphere is leisurely. I will book this place again next time. Also, they also provide seafood processing here. The price is very affordable. The seafood bought in the town is directly processed. The taste is very nice and it cures our Chinese stomach

DariNZD 96

Mabul Backpackers

7.6/10Good20 Ulasan

Semporna|26.3km dari pusat bandar

It takes an hour by boat from the Dragon Inn Pier in Semporna to get to Mabul Island. The hotel you booked includes a round-trip ticket. You can get on the boat to this homestay by registering at Dragon Inn R2. This is a private homestay on Mabul Island. The cost-effectiveness is relatively high. One room can accommodate three adults. It is suitable for families with children. It is much more affordable than the Mabul Island Resort Hotel next to it. There are simple meals for breakfast and some free lunch at noon. We buy fresh seafood from the Bajau people on the sea every day and let the kitchen of the homestay process it. The seafood is super cheap and fresh. The processing fee is 15-20 Malaysian ringgit. It's still good. It's also good to use the money saved from staying in the resort to buy more seafood. If you want to go to the Mabul Island Resort next to it, you can enter for 50 Malaysian ringgits per person. It's right next door. It's quite comfortable to check in, take pictures, and swim. It's a good trip to save money with children.

DariNZD 205

Mabul Island

Accommodation on Mabul Island focuses on beachfront and overwater stays, allowing guests to enjoy direct access to the sea and diving sites. Most resorts offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, boat transfers, and diving or snorkelling activities.

Accommodation Type	What It Offers	Best For
Water Villas	Overwater rooms with panoramic sea views	Honeymooners and luxury travellers
Luxury Island Resorts	Premium facilities, private beaches, and full-board packages	Couples and families
Dive Resorts	Accommodation with diving packages and equipment rental	Certified and beginner divers
Beach Chalets	Comfortable stays close to the beach at a lower price	Travellers seeking a relaxed island getaway

Hotels Near Mabul Island

5 star

SKY Resort Timbun Mata & Reef, Semporna

9/10Great11 Ulasan

Semporna|14.22km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 713

Pearl Island Resort

8.4/10Very Good48 Ulasan

Semporna|22.13km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 595

Mabul Water Bungalows

9/10Great49 Ulasan

Semporna|25.98km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 1,801

Seafest REGENCY

7.7/10Good505 Ulasan

Semporna|0.62km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 254

CUPID RESORT

8.9/10Very Good52 Ulasan

Semporna|9.52km dari pusat bandar

Business travel

Seafest Hotel

6.7/10685 Ulasan

Semporna|0.66km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 95

TD Mutiara Hotel

7.4/10426 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 54

Together Palm Resort

8.7/10Very Good160 Ulasan

Semporna|4.05km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 118

Summer Holiday Semporna

9.3/10Great341 Ulasan

Semporna|0.43km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 65

Grace Hotel Semporna

7.7/10Good297 Ulasan

Semporna|0.25km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 64

Breakfast

Sipadan Inn 2

7.7/10Good193 Ulasan

Semporna|0.21km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 41

BarraCuda Den (previously known as Jono's Place)

9.4/10Amazing243 Ulasan

Semporna|0.24km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 55

Wave View Hotel

7.3/10117 Ulasan

Semporna|0.28km dari pusat bandar

the house was clean and tidy. Complete with all facilities and the view from balcony was superb.

DariNZD 64

Ocean Inn Semporna

7.7/10Good105 Ulasan

Semporna|0.23km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 51

Perfect Forest Eco-Resort

9.2/10Great313 Ulasan

Semporna|4.31km dari pusat bandar

DariNZD 128

Accessibility

Getting to Semporna

Semporna is the main gateway to Sabah's world-famous islands and is easily accessible from Tawau Airport. After arriving in Tawau, travellers can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer to Semporna before joining island-hopping or diving tours.

Transport Option	Travel Time	What It Offers
Flight to Tawau Airport	Varies by departure city	The nearest airport to Semporna with regular domestic flights
Taxi or Private Transfer	About 1–1.5 hours	Direct and convenient transport from Tawau Airport to Semporna
Airport Shuttle	About 1–1.5 hours	Budget-friendly shared transfers to Semporna town
Speedboat to Nearby Islands	15–60 minutes	Access to islands such as Mabul, Kapalai, Mataking, and Bohey Dulang

Getting to Mabul Island

There are no direct flights to Mabul Island. Visitors must first travel to Semporna before boarding a speedboat to the island. Most island resorts arrange return boat transfers for their guests, making the journey straightforward.

Transport Option	Travel Time	What It Offers
Flight to Tawau Airport	Varies by departure city	The nearest airport serving Mabul Island
Transfer to Semporna	About 1–1.5 hours	Taxi, shuttle, or private transfer from Tawau Airport
Speedboat to Mabul Island	About 30–45 minutes	Scenic boat journey from Semporna to Mabul Island, often included in resort packages

Sehala
Pergi Balik

Best Time to Visit

Both Semporna and Mabul Island are year-round destinations, with warm tropical weather throughout the year. The best months for diving and snorkelling are generally from April to September, when the seas are calmer and underwater visibility is at its best. Even during the wetter months, many marine activities continue to operate, although occasional rain showers may affect outdoor plans.

Season	Semporna	Mabul Island
January–March	Excellent for island hopping, diving, and sightseeing with generally calm seas.	Calm waters and good underwater visibility, ideal for diving and snorkelling.
April–June	One of the best periods for outdoor activities, with sunny weather and clear sea conditions.	Excellent conditions for snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
July–September	Peak diving season with outstanding underwater visibility and favourable weather.	Best time for macro diving, underwater photography, and marine life encounters.
October–December	Occasional rain showers, but island tours, diving, and snorkelling remain available.	Warm tropical weather with occasional rainfall and generally good sea conditions for water activities.

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FAQs

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Semporna or Mabul

LunarQis

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A passionate writer who enjoys creating simple, helpful, and easy-to-understand content. She has a strong interest in travel and practical guides, aiming to share useful information that helps readers plan better and travel with confidence

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