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

Name: Perfect Forest Eco-Resort
Address: Semporna, Malaysia
Price range: SGD 90
Rating: 9.1

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

9.3/10Great12 Ulasan

Semporna|14.22km dari pusat bandar

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Sky Resort Timbun Mata & Reef. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the breathtaking views, the pristine nature surrounding the resort, and the warm hospitality of the staff. The rooms were spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, with stunning ocean views that made every morning feel like a dream. Every corner of the resort is picture-perfect — whether you’re relaxing on the deck, snorkeling by the reef, or enjoying a peaceful sunset. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and memorable. Every activity was well organized, and the food was fresh and delicious. Special thanks to the team for making us feel so welcomed and cared for throughout our stay. If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Semporna, far from the crowds and close to nature, this is the place. We will definitely be back! Highly recommended — 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

DariSGD 563

Pearl Island Resort

8.5/10Very Good50 Ulasan

Semporna|22.13km dari pusat bandar

One of the reason I love this resort is that it's not just about clear water and marine life it's also surrounded by lush green mountain.It is a perfect place to relax with family. The room are very large, featuring a balcony and a bathtub They provide all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable stay. I would like to express my special thanks to a lifeguard at the resort named Najil who helped us during our snorkeling trip.He was wonderful and took great care of my 7 year old daughter,ensuring she had a very relaxing and enjoyable snorkeling experience. As for the dining,even though the food wasn't perfect, it was delicious to me.There was plenty of food,and the restaurant surrounded by beautiful view.

DariSGD 439

Seafest Hotel

6.8/10680 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.

DariSGD 65

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.

DariSGD 88

Perfect Forest Eco-Resort

9.1/10Great315 Ulasan

Semporna|4.31km dari pusat bandar

We stayed for three consecutive nights, and it was absolutely fantastic! I highly recommend this place for families or couples. It boasts a beautiful tropical jungle setting, perfect for nature walks where you can spot plenty of wildlife. This is a truly excellent hotel that provides complimentary city shuttle service, making everything incredibly convenient and hassle-free. They offer personalized butler service, and the kitchen excels at preparing various seafood and delicious Cantonese cuisine – simply superb! Semporna itself is amazing! You can go hiking and take in stunning views of the emerald-green sea; make sure to seize every opportunity. Booking island hopping tours through the hotel was very cost-effective. We got two snorkeling sessions, each lasting about half an hour, and it was incredible! We saw countless fish and vibrant coral reefs. We ended up staying in Semporna for eight or nine days. The sea fishing was fantastic! We actually caught fish – small groupers and redfish, medium-sized, and plenty for a delicious dinner! We even added an arm-long mantis shrimp to our meal. It was a perfect experience! I haven't fished in ages, and I was so surprised to actually catch fish here, especially since I'd rented a fishing boat on another island in a different country before and caught absolutely nothing.

DariSGD 90

Business travel

TD Mutiara Hotel

7.5/10422 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

The overall experience was pretty good. The first room had a broken door lock, so I went downstairs and they switched me to a room on the third floor with a sea view. It was clean and tidy, though the breakfast was a bit small. Overall, I was quite satisfied with my stay.

DariSGD 40

Grace Hotel Semporna

7.6/10Good295 Ulasan

Semporna|0.25km dari pusat bandar

Environment: The room was small and quite old, like a small guesthouse in a third-tier city in China. You could see the sea from the room, though. The bathroom was tiny. Service: The front desk was very slow when checking us in; people who arrived after us were already done. It said they offered Chinese service, but it was just a tiny bit, really just a tiny bit. However, they did provide breakfast vouchers which you could redeem on the first floor. Hygiene: When we pulled back the covers, the bedding was wrinkled. We initially thought it hadn't been changed, but even after they supposedly changed it, it was still wrinkled. Maybe that's just how it is.

DariSGD 48

Sipadan Inn 2

7.8/10Good192 Ulasan

Semporna|0.21km dari pusat bandar

The hotel is in a good location, close to the jetty and surrounded by many restaurants. The room itself is a bit old and shows its age, but the bathroom is still in decent condition. Overall acceptable for a short stay.and tv not function at all

DariSGD 28

BarraCuda Den (previously known as Jono's Place)

9.4/10Amazing239 Ulasan

Semporna|0.24km dari pusat bandar

I booked this guesthouse based on a recommendation from a Xiaohongshu blogger. It's very clean and doesn't have any strange odors. I'd say it's one of the cleaner accommodations in town. The showers are communal, and you need to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, but towels are provided. Just be aware that during busy times, you might have to wait for hot water, and the water pressure isn't very strong. The location is excellent and quite safe; you need a key card to enter the main gate. It's very convenient to walk to the pier, and right next door is the tour agency for 'Conch Diving' guides. The owner is very nice, and I really like Malaysian people. Thank you! It was a very pleasant experience.

DariSGD 41

Wave View Hotel

7.3/10114 Ulasan

Semporna|0.28km dari pusat bandar

Accommodations in Semporna town are generally quite basic. This time, traveling with my kids, I booked the Sipadan Inn 2. The hotel's location is excellent, very close to the Marine Tourism Center, with plenty of restaurants and attractions nearby. However, there's a bar next door where many young people sing, and there are lots of dogs in town that fight at night, making it a bit noisy. Breakfast is very simple, and I won't go into detail about the hotel's facilities – they're considered decent for Semporna, but don't set your expectations too high. I brought my own disposable bedding. The hotel staff's service was excellent overall; they were very friendly when I asked for water or information during my stay. Oh, and the hotel is very close to the seafood market, so you can buy fresh seafood and have it prepared – it's incredibly tender and delicious.

DariSGD 246

Family friendly

Hua Qiao Home

9/10Great144 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!

DariSGD 47

OPINE.VILLAS

9.2/10Great224 Ulasan

Semporna|4.24km dari pusat bandar

Unlike most guesthouses, which are typically large houses with several rooms, Pineapple Resort feels more like a hotel. It consists of a dozen small, standalone wooden cottages nestled among palm trees. The management is also quite hotel-like, and while breakfast isn't extensive, it offers a good variety. Although the resort is about five kilometers from Semporna town, considering the town's general disarray (especially near the jetty with seafood vendors and Bajau beggars), which can easily spoil a good mood, it's better to stay a bit further out in a quiet resort. Pineapple Resort offers free shuttle buses to and from Semporna jetty from morning to midday and in the evening, making transportation very convenient. What's more, it provides a warmer experience than a star-rated hotel, giving me a home-away-from-home feeling. For foodies, if you're a good cook (the resort doesn't yet have a professional chef), Pineapple Resort is happy to provide a cooking area for seafood bought from the town market, which is incredibly convenient for those of us who love beautiful views and good food.

DariSGD 116

Sagittarius Resort

8.9/10Very Good69 Ulasan

Semporna|13.82km dari pusat bandar

It took a 30-minute speedboat ride from Haifeng Pier to reach the overwater bungalows. The surroundings are beautiful, with clear blue waters, and sitting in the lobby feels incredibly serene and comfortable. The room was also nice, facing the ocean, which was a real treat. Although the facilities were a bit old, it's understandable – being out at sea, exposed to wind and sun, things are bound to age faster than usual! The service was excellent, and the owner was very helpful. My child left their phone in the pick-up car, and it was quickly found and returned to us, which we really appreciated! The overwater bungalows were a memorable and wonderful part of our family's trip!

DariSGD 406

Starz Water Village

8.7/10Very Good126 Ulasan

Semporna|12.24km dari pusat bandar

first is the floor, it is sticky, it is sticky in the room and also at the gathering or public area where we take our meals. Next is the issue with the toilet, the shower head is broken, it's leaking and the water is too strong and thin, it is hurting me when i try to bathe. Thirdly, the floor mat is dirty and too thin, it is not absorbing water as it should. Fourth, the floor also has a lot of dust and sand. Fifth, the hotel does not have enough electrical plug, we only have two plugs and it is on the most left of the bed, it is better if it is in the middle of both beds. Sixth, the air conditioner is too weak for a room with 3 people, it is hot even at night. Seventh, the music is too loud, i cannot even rest properly at night, you can prepare earplugs at least. Eighth, the gathering or public area is too hot because there is no fan, please prepare some ceiling fans so guests can dine properly. Ninth, should have a table for a big room at least. the floor is wide enough, but it is so dirty that we do not dare to sit on the floor to play games or cards, we also do not want to play games or cards at the gathering or public area because it is too hot and loud. Tenth, rubbish in the sea or hotel area, i saw a huge pile of rubbish such as bottled water, food container, plastic bag just floating in the sea in the resort. Here are some good things about the hotel, first, very nice scenery, the water is nice and clean in the morning. Secondly, the balcony area for each room is nice because we can look at the scenery while sitting on the chair and resting. Thirdly, the staff is very friendly and very responsible, they do their work fast, they carry our luggage, refill food fast, and are very nice. Fourthly, the overall atmosphere of the hotel is very comfortable. Fifth, the food is ok, breakfast is ok, it is not the best but it is edible, the dinner is the best, and the seafood is a very nice touch. Sixth, we can dry our wet cloth on the balcony too. Overall i give it a 2 out of 5 stars. The price of your hotel does not match the pros and cons of your hotel. I would not want to stay in the hotel another day if the problems still stay the same. Please do your best to improve better. This is my honest review as a Malaysian.

DariSGD 356

POM POM Island Resort

8.9/10Very Good89 Ulasan

Semporna|30.86km dari pusat bandar

This is such a relaxing island, perfect for a vacation! 🌴 We went during the rainy season, which is considered off-peak, so there weren't many people. Every day at noon, there's a boat to pick up and drop off guests. We stayed for three days, and compared to peak season, it felt like there were never more than 20 guests in total. It's incredibly suitable for families with children, with shallow beaches, 🏖️ turtles, lush greenery, and an exceptionally beautiful natural environment! There are three hotels on the island, and Dragon Pearl seems to have the best facilities. They offer water villas, beach villas, and garden villas. The rooms are spaced appropriately, so you won't be bothered by neighbors. The beach villas have loungers on the porch and under the coconut trees in front, as well as hammocks, giving it a private beach feel. All rooms are equipped with life jackets 🦺, and upon arrival, there are clear signs in both Chinese and English advising guests to always wear a life jacket when in the water and to avoid swimming after 6 PM. The beach is large, the shallow water area is extensive, and the water is incredibly clear – like jelly! You can see the bottom even in two to three meters of water, making it perfect for snorkeling. Every day, island-hopping boats come to snorkel near the pier, where there's a clownfish nest. You can spot turtles daily from the pier, and the island even has a dedicated turtle hatching program, with occasional lectures and release events for baby turtles. The front desk and dive center can also arrange activities like scuba diving 🤿 and snorkeling. This was my first time trying scuba diving here, and because there were so few guests on the island, I got one-on-one instruction from the coach. I saw two turtles up close, truly within arm's reach! I even swam alongside a turtle during the ascent – incredibly lucky! For snorkeling, a dedicated staff member accompanied us with a swim ring 🛟, actively searching for turtles throughout the sea. The service for these small, boutique groups was fantastic! The island's front desk has Chinese-speaking staff, and while the dive center coaches speak English, you can always understand them through gestures and simple explanations. The reception area has a restaurant and a small shop, so the facilities are quite complete and convenient. Perhaps because it was the off-season and there were so few people, the meal options were a bit simple, but the food was delicious and definitely plentiful enough to fill you up. Finally, regarding the season, the rainy season wasn't bad at all. It didn't rain every day. We stayed for four full days, and it rained twice. The first time was at noon, a heavy downpour, but it was a thunderstorm that passed quickly and didn't disrupt our afternoon island-hopping and snorkeling. The second time was on the day we left; the rain was quite heavy, starting around 4 or 5 AM with loud pitter-patter sounds and thunder and lightning ⛈️ that you could hear from inside the room. It rained on and off for most of the morning. The temperature dropped a bit, but it was actually quite comfortable without the scorching sun. The waves were a bit stronger than usual, but I have to commend Dragon Pearl Hotel's location; as we walked along the beach, we could clearly see that the wind and waves calmed down significantly in front of the hotel. Even with the rain, the island-hopping boats for snorkeling kept coming. It was an incredibly comfortable trip! It's definitely worth visiting and worth revisiting!

DariSGD 317

Hot spring

Ocean Inn Semporna

7.9/10Good105 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!

DariSGD 39

Sipadan Inn 3

7.8/10Good170 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.

DariSGD 40

Luna Guesthouse

8.3/10Very Good58 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!

DariSGD 30

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.

Sipadan Inn 1

7.8/10Good232 Ulasan

Semporna|0.2km dari pusat bandar

I read a lot of Semporna travel guides that said the hotels in town are pretty much like guesthouses in China, but our actual experience was much better than expected. The hotel is very close to the pier and there are plenty of food options nearby. Although the facilities aren't brand new, it's very clean. We booked a quad room that had two bathrooms, which was great after island hopping – no need to queue for the shower! The front desk staff were also very friendly and helpful during check-in. We were even able to store our luggage there when we came back to town to buy souvenirs after staying at a water villa.

DariSGD 25

Gym

Jelly Sea Resort

9.2/10Great292 Ulasan

Semporna|9.58km dari pusat bandar

Our overall stay was absolutely wonderful! The environment around the overwater bungalows was simply stunning, with the 'jellyfish sea' offering incredibly therapeutic views. The water was crystal clear and transparent, and we had sea views right from our doorstep. The room was meticulously cleaned and everything was spotless. All the amenities were complete and in excellent condition, making our daily life very comfortable. The staff provided thoughtful and attentive service, responding quickly to any issues, and gave practical advice for our excursions. This Semporna trip was a fantastic experience, highly recommended. I would definitely choose this place again on my next visit!

The Wizard of Oz Resort Semporna

7.2/1043 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

DariSGD 71

Semporna Seaview Hotel

7.6/10Good230 Ulasan

Semporna|0.48km dari pusat bandar

I really appreciated the kindness, availability, and attentiveness of all the staff. The room is small, but since I'm alone, it's perfectly fine. It's very clean and well-maintained; the housekeeping staff comes every day, changes whatever you need, and restocks water, coffee, toilet paper, etc. The location is good, and the hotel itself is very quiet, but since it's made of containers, the insulation isn't great. You can hear music from the restaurants and the calls to prayer. The Wi-Fi and air conditioning work very well.

DariSGD 44

SKY Water Villas

8.1/10Very Good278 Ulasan

Semporna|10.18km dari pusat bandar

whats very good: Staff Service Excellent Easy access - down ladder - to sea whats good: good WiFi signal Rooms, Main Area, Jetty food - breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner - too much actually in-room fridge quiet rooms** 3 meals + tea included in-room snacks and soft drinks included what could improve: we expected total privacy - vendors in outboard motorboats and sampans kept approaching our unit when they see us sitting on the deck or swimming; they hassle us into buying stuff - from coconuts to live lobsters - and don't leave easily - we weren't interested in as we have meals and tea covered in our package. a boat with 2 sampans in tow always directly in front of our unit - eventhough approx 500-600 meters away - made us feel uncomfortable and invading our privacy No Emergency Protocols in place 7.9 or 8.2 earthquake with epicentre in Mindanao - across the Sulu Sea - there was no information or updates from staff on the situation - we were having breakfast when we felt the main area swaying when there were no waves we only got news on our mobile when back in the room we delayed our morning swim and went into water around 9.50 am. Had a few very strong waves hitting us. Asked a passing staff regarding the quake, he said no problems. after the swim we got news on our mobile that there was a Tsunami warning out and 0.4m wave could be hitting the shores of Semporna, Tawau and few other coastal cities of Eastern Sabah between 9.30am and 12.30pm 🤷🏾♂️ thankfully we survived to be able to write this.

DariSGD 283

Cube Bed Station & Tours Sdn Bhd

8.6/10Very Good169 Ulasan

Semporna|0.22km dari pusat bandar

The location was great, nearby fish markets and restaurants and easy to get back from snorkeling trips. Door access with Password to get back to the lobby especially the beggars or the outsiders can't come in. Table and chairs for eating but never clean up the room for the following stay..

DariSGD 15

Swimming pool

Anggun Lodge Private Room with Sharing Bathroom

8.7/10Very Good26 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.

DariSGD 15

Amber House

8.2/10Very Good4 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。

DariSGD 87

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. 🫪

OYO 90166 Bubul Village Stay

0/100 Ulasan

Semporna|4.44km dari pusat bandar

The OYO 90166 Bubul Village Stay is an ideal spot for travelers wanting to discover the city. Visitors to Semporna will find that the OYO 90166 Bubul Village Stay is a fantastic accommodation choice. From the hotel, Tawau Airport is approximately 54km away. Tawau Airport is the closest option for those who prefer to fly, approximately 54km away. This hotel is located near many of Semporna's attractions including Masjid Hj Ahlindal, The 7K and Kompleks Taman Marin Tun Sakaran. When guests have some time on their hands they can make use of the onsite facilities.

Casa Casa Guesthouse Semporna

8/10Very Good730 Ulasan

Semporna|0.16km dari pusat bandar

There are so many hotels nearby, the price/performance ratio and the environment are better, but the room is a bit small, but there are pros and cons. Generally speaking, staying in is very safe, and it is worth recommending

Breakfast

Neo Paly Hotel

8.9/10Very Good172 Ulasan

Semporna|0.11km dari pusat bandar

Shirley was incredibly helpful. We had initially booked another hotel, but the formaldehyde smell was too strong, so I quickly found this place. I asked if they could pick me up, and they said the manager would be there in 15 minutes. Super efficient! This hotel turned out to be excellent – very clean with incredibly warm and welcoming staff who made us feel right at home. We stayed for four consecutive nights, and they were always accommodating. For someone visiting a new country, this is truly a fantastic hotel; you don't have to worry about a thing. There are plenty of restaurants downstairs, and it's very close to the pier, which is super convenient.

DariSGD 64

Perfect Hub Semporna

7.3/1042 Ulasan

Semporna|0.43km dari pusat bandar

I stayed at this hotel last night and was pleasantly surprised. Although the bathroom is shared, it was very clean and well-maintained. The room itself was also clean and comfortable, with a cold air-conditioner that made the stay even more pleasant. For the price, it’s definitely worth it. A great option for budget travelers looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay.

DariSGD 19

The Nest Hostel Semporna

9.8/10Outstanding79 Ulasan

Semporna|0.23km dari pusat bandar

Great location. Easy to walk to anywhere. I am a solo female traveller and feel safe here. Night time can be noisy, so recommend to bring earplugs for light sleeper. The owner was so kind. He helped send me to klinic at night due to food poisoning. They do provide hairdryers, towels, and bath amenities.

DariSGD 30

HAN Palace Hotel Semporna

7/1035 Ulasan

Semporna|3.16km dari pusat bandar

The location is easy to find, next to the road, it is noisy at night with motorcycles, the price is affordable, and the rest is the same as domestic hotels

7 Inn Semporna

8.3/10Very Good263 Ulasan

Semporna|0.82km dari pusat bandar

The value for money is decent, and it's not too far from town. If you're looking for a quieter stay, this could be a good option. The owner speaks a little Chinese. The service wasn't overly enthusiastic but perfectly adequate. No deposit was required for the stay.

DariSGD 24

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

9.3/10Great12 Ulasan

Semporna|14.22km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 563

Pearl Island Resort

8.5/10Very Good50 Ulasan

Semporna|22.13km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 439

Seafest Hotel

6.8/10680 Ulasan

Semporna|0.66km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 65

Together Palm Resort

8.7/10Very Good160 Ulasan

Semporna|4.05km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 88

Perfect Forest Eco-Resort

9.1/10Great315 Ulasan

Semporna|4.31km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 90

Business travel

TD Mutiara Hotel

7.5/10422 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 40

Grace Hotel Semporna

7.6/10Good295 Ulasan

Semporna|0.25km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 48

Sipadan Inn 2

7.8/10Good192 Ulasan

Semporna|0.21km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 28

BarraCuda Den (previously known as Jono's Place)

9.4/10Amazing239 Ulasan

Semporna|0.24km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 41

Wave View Hotel

7.3/10114 Ulasan

Semporna|0.28km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 246

Breakfast

Ocean Inn Semporna

7.9/10Good105 Ulasan

Semporna|0.23km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 39

Sipadan Inn 3

7.8/10Good170 Ulasan

Semporna|0.29km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 40

Luna Guesthouse

8.3/10Very Good58 Ulasan

Semporna|0.74km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 30

MY Rainforest Semporna

0/100 Ulasan

Semporna|0.54km dari pusat bandar

Sipadan Inn 1

7.8/10Good232 Ulasan

Semporna|0.2km dari pusat bandar

DariSGD 25

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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