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.

🔥 Hotel Coupons: Exclusive Hotels Deal for New Users

Discover the world with trip.com! Book the perfect hotel anywhere in the world and get an unbeatable 10% discount if you're a first-time user! If this is your second time using it, you will receive a 5% discount! Download our app now and start planning your next trip with ease.

Just click this link and download the Trip.com App, after successfully registering as a member, use it when you place an order!

Book hotels now!

🔥Save More with Up to 10% Off

Use our promo code to enjoy up to 10% OFF on your attraction tickets, tours and eSIMs! There is also a 5% OFF for new users!

🔥New User Coupon: Save More with an Extra 5% Off

Use our promo code to enjoy an extra 5% off on your attraction tickets, eSIMs, and tours! ⏳Redeem within 3 days of claiming

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

Super Lokal! Best Malaysia Travel & Hotel Deals

Grab Super Lokal Deals Now!

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

HSBC Premier Credit Cards

Get HSBC Premier Deals Now!

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

8.6/10Very Good9 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!”

DariJPY 59,409

Pearl Island Resort

8.7/10Very Good40 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.

DariJPY 59,479

Mabul Water Bungalows

8.9/10Very Good48 Ulasan

Semporna|25.98km dari pusat bandar

We had a great time. People are friendly. Dinner was nice. Very easy to strike up conversations with strangers. We bought abalone (and fish, too!) from the local fishermen. A Chinese family treated us to fish at dinner. Divemaster Haris was super helpful. We travel from KL and would come back here again for vacation.

DariJPY 155,948

Seafest REGENCY

7.6/10Good469 Ulasan

Semporna|0.62km dari pusat bandar

First of all, there is not welcoming assistance when we arrived, no one helping carrying luggage for check in and after check in also no one help sending luggage to room. Secondly, the front desk is not well trained to attend to tourist asking for local attractions, locations to restaurants , Jetty etc . Not able to provide any assistance. Thirdly, the hotel is location at the busiest sea logistics area, the boat and jet engine sound are enormously high. Hence, hotel have to making more effort in room sound insulation effect. Forth, the entrance room that we stayed already sagging causing the door having difficulties in open and close. Fifth, the bidet water pressure in our room is low. And good things are strategic locations and good room view. Fifth, the mini refrigerator is not cold and smelly. Frankly, the overall packages and experiences seemed not fitted for the room rate we paid for.

DariJPY 30,195

CUPID RESORT

8.8/10Very Good49 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

6.6/10696 Ulasan

Semporna|0.66km dari pusat bandar

Very outdated design hotel but still comfortable to stay..the centralized aircond is not cold enough that we had to switch on the fan which was too windy because the fan speed not ajustable....the breakfast has lot variety but doesnt taste great...overall good stay.

DariJPY 11,022

TD Mutiara Hotel

7.2/10441 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

I had to switch rooms twice. The hotel, from the elevator to the rooms, had a peculiar smell. The bedsheets and pillows were old and had an unpleasant odor; it was the first time in all my years of traveling that I had to lay my own clothes over the hotel pillows – that's how bad the smell was! I also had to sleep in my clothes. The charging outlets were behind the TV. On the plus side, the soundproofing was decent, and the service was quite good. Breakfast was included, and it was about an 8-minute walk to Semporna Jetty. I started looking for a different hotel for the next day almost immediately after checking in. Even though it was a hassle, I had no choice for hygiene reasons.

DariJPY 4,834

Together Palm Resort

8.7/10Very Good165 Ulasan

Semporna|4.05km dari pusat bandar

My stay at 'Fairy Tale Wonderland Resort' in Semporna completely exceeded my expectations. Let's start with transportation: the hotel offers a shuttle service that picks you up directly from the airport, which was a huge convenience. The driver was incredibly friendly and even gave us tips on where to exchange money and reliable dive shops. The accommodation was fantastic. The room had wooden floors and a high ceiling, and it felt clean and dry. The bed was super soft, and the pillows weren't flat at all. The big sea turtle plushie on the bed was absolutely adorable. Both the fan and air conditioning were quiet at night, ensuring a very restful sleep. The courtyard felt like a small garden with coconut trees, flower walls, and colorful signs. It was incredibly relaxing to just sit on the woven hanging chair and zone out; every photo I took turned out beautifully. The food deserves a special mention. For dinner, we ordered steamed crab, mantis shrimp, soy-sauce steamed fish, and a plate of water spinach. The freshness was undeniable, and the cooking was perfectly executed, bringing out the natural flavors of the seafood without being overly salty or greasy. Overall, the hotel's attention to detail in service was excellent: convenient transfers, clean and comfortable rooms, and high-quality food. If you're looking for a relaxing holiday in Semporna, I highly recommend staying here.

DariJPY 16,323

Summer Holiday Semporna

9.4/10Amazing350 Ulasan

Semporna|0.43km dari pusat bandar

This hotel really made me feel at home. Everything was very clean and new, and the owner even left thoughtful snacks outside. My room was cleaned and towels replaced daily. The environment here is much more comfortable than by the pier, and it's very quiet at night. All the restaurants nearby are local favorites, so you can't go wrong. Plus, there's an amazing massage place just a street away! 🥹🥹 I'd love to come back next time!

DariJPY 5,418

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。

DariJPY 8,921

Family friendly

BarraCuda Den (previously known as Jono's Place)

9.3/10Great249 Ulasan

Semporna|0.24km dari pusat bandar

Five-star review, highly recommend Barracuda Den! Semporna is notorious for its dirty and messy accommodations, but Barracuda Den has no real competition at its price point. The location is excellent, just 700 meters from Hai Feng Pier, making it a 10-minute walk to catch boats for island hopping. Right outside the door, you'll find all sorts of food options, which is super convenient. It's safe, with card access required for entry and exit. It's clean; I even saw staff doing a thorough cleaning. Every time you close the door to the guesthouse, you can completely disconnect yourself from the chaotic and dirty environment outside. The guesthouse offers free toast, instant noodles, and cooking utensils. As a fan of simple meals, it was great to have fried eggs, toasted bread, and hot tea every day! The washing machine is free to use, which is a big plus since many accommodations in Semporna charge for laundry. The staff are very friendly, and the seafood restaurant they recommended next door was also very affordable. Absolutely no complaints!

DariJPY 6,165

Perfect Forest Eco-Resort

9.1/10Great329 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.

DariJPY 13,194

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.

DariJPY 10,859

Hua Qiao Home

9/10Great145 Ulasan

Semporna|0.63km dari pusat bandar

I'm going to write a short essay. My writing isn't great, so please be patient and read through it. I originally chose this place for the cheapness and convenience, and my English is poor. Since the landlord is Chinese, communication is easy. Objectively speaking, if you want a superb room, service, and cleanliness, then choose a star-rated hotel, even a five-star one. I have a bad temper and am skeptical of all hotel bedding. I always bring my own bedding when I go out, but now disposable bedding is so convenient. When I go out to play, I'm not just going to hang out in a hotel, so a clean bathroom is enough for me. After all, I only go back at night to take a shower and sleep (I bring my own bedding). But for this trip, choosing this B&B was a wise decision. I misremembered the time of my flight from Tawau to Shanghai (18:5 We had mistakenly recorded our flight to Shanghai after connecting in Kota Kinabalu at 21:45. Three hours before takeoff (3:50 PM), we were still enjoying ourselves on Mabul Island, taking photos and having fun. When we realized what had happened, we were utterly terrified. We quickly contacted the host to let them know and ask for advice. We then braved traffic and drove all the way to the guesthouse to pick up our luggage. The host had already brought our luggage outside. As we loaded our luggage and headed to the airport, the host, worried we'd miss our flight, instructed us on WeChat how to check in and download our boarding passes via mobile. Unfortunately, in our panic, we couldn't find where to download our boarding passes on our phone. The host then asked me to check my email for boarding passes, but there was no place to download them, except on the itinerary. I sent the host the itinerary in the email, and when I saw the Grab app showed our arrival time at the airport at 6:51 PM, I was about to give up. But I refused to let the driver turn around. After a while, the host actually downloaded our boarding passes and sent them to me! The host downloaded our boarding passes and sent them to me on WeChat. I was so touched! Hope suddenly returned! It was already 6:49 PM when we arrived at the airport. With trepidation, we rushed in, only to find that check-in and baggage check-in had already closed. However, since we had boarding passes, the staff allowed my friend to swap our large suitcase for a smaller one and board the plane directly (the previous flight was eight minutes late). I really don't know what to say. Without the host's help downloading our boarding passes, we'd have been completely ruined on our entire trip back to Shanghai. I have to say: How lucky are you to have a B&B owner who genuinely supports you when you're away from home? You can't go wrong choosing this B&B when you're in Semporna! With a B&B owner like him, you can be completely confident. I'd like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the host again! (I never review anything except for requests from hotels.) These are all from the bottom of my heart! Thank you, host! I'll definitely stay at your place again if I go back!

DariJPY 5,021

The Firefly Resort Semporna

9.4/10Amazing262 Ulasan

Semporna|4.36km dari pusat bandar

This resort is absolutely amazing! I personally tried it out! Although it's a bit far, the environment is fantastic, like a natural oxygen bar. Transportation: If you're coming from the airport by taxi, it might be a bit far and remote. The driver might have trouble finding it or ask for extra money. You can add the hotel's WeChat and book an airport transfer in advance (a small cost for a big convenience). Service: Incredibly good! The boss is a young guy who is very hands-on from the moment you arrive. He's very nice and chatty, and even told us how to bargain for seafood! Food: Their chef's seafood! Unbeatable, so delicious!!!! And in the evenings, the restaurant has music (KTV), and the boss sings 🎤 – the atmosphere is great! Cleanliness: I expected a lot of bugs (because it's in the mountains), but it was surprisingly clean, with no mosquitoes or insects at all!!!!! You won't get bitten. It's truly amazing!!! Plus, their shampoo smells super good! Oh my goodness! I'll be back next year! It's so comfortable! A place for complete joy and relaxation for both body and mind!!

DariJPY 13,871

Hot spring

Sipadan Inn 2

7.7/10Good202 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.

DariJPY 4,110

Wave View Hotel

7.4/10115 Ulasan

Semporna|0.28km dari pusat bandar

Nice view from the hotel balcony, near with shops and eateries. The room is medium size and can fit with 2 children. Value for money. Good place to stay if you plan to have day trip to nearby island.

DariJPY 6,492

Ocean Inn Semporna

7.5/1097 Ulasan

Semporna|0.23km dari pusat bandar

This was my second time staying here, and it's a decent transit hotel for trips to Scuba Junkie. The cleanliness and facilities are pretty good. However, this time the balcony area smelled awful, and I'm not sure why. Also, there's no elevator, which makes carrying a large suitcase upstairs quite a hassle.

DariJPY 4,694

Sipadan Inn 3

7.6/10Good172 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.

DariJPY 4,927

Luna Guesthouse

8.4/10Very Good63 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!

DariJPY 3,736

Gym

POM POM Island Resort

8.9/10Very Good80 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!

DariJPY 55,999

Jelly Sea Resort

9/10Great277 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

Overall, for a guesthouse in Semporna, I was very satisfied. The room was cleaned thoroughly. Just be careful not to leave any drinks or food in the room, as it can attract small ants. When I went for breakfast, it wasn't very extensive yet because the place had just opened, so there weren't many options.

DariJPY 7,940

Together 2 Holiday Resort

9/10Great129 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.

DariJPY 18,192

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.

DariJPY 1,868

Sagittarius Resort

8.7/10Very Good54 Ulasan

Semporna|13.82km dari pusat bandar

The scenery is beautiful, surrounded by the 'jellyfish' sea. The in-room facilities are complete and kept very clean. The Xiaomi smart home system in the room is a nice touch, but it's a bit unstable. They provide life jackets and snorkel masks, so you can enjoy free snorkeling. We pre-booked the 45-minute complimentary essential oil spa, and they came to our room, which was very relaxing. My only minor complaint is that the food was the same every day and got a bit boring. If you bring your own snacks, I'd recommend not eating them in the room as it can attract bugs.

DariJPY 90,818

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。

DariJPY 10,649

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. 🫪

DariJPY 19,056

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

very convenient in terms of location. rate per night is also reasonably affordable. friendly and helpful staff. cleanliness is very good. room is quite spacious. facilities is good. only have to walk up the stairs for those with luggage is quite a hassle. overall is really recommended.

DariJPY 6,095

Mango Inn

8.1/10Very Good17 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👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

DariJPY 3,806

Sipadan Inn 1

7.7/10Good235 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.

DariJPY 3,690

The Wizard of Oz Resort Semporna

7.2/1047 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

DariJPY 10,275

Mabul Backpackers

7.8/10Good20 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.

DariJPY 4,997

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

8.6/10Very Good9 Ulasan

Semporna|14.22km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 59,409

Pearl Island Resort

8.7/10Very Good40 Ulasan

Semporna|22.13km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 59,479

Mabul Water Bungalows

8.9/10Very Good48 Ulasan

Semporna|25.98km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 155,948

Seafest REGENCY

7.6/10Good469 Ulasan

Semporna|0.62km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 30,195

CUPID RESORT

8.8/10Very Good49 Ulasan

Semporna|9.52km dari pusat bandar

Business travel

Seafest Hotel

6.6/10696 Ulasan

Semporna|0.66km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 11,022

TD Mutiara Hotel

7.2/10441 Ulasan

Semporna|0.42km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 4,834

Together Palm Resort

8.7/10Very Good165 Ulasan

Semporna|4.05km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 16,323

Summer Holiday Semporna

9.4/10Amazing350 Ulasan

Semporna|0.43km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 5,418

Grace Hotel Semporna

7.7/10Good297 Ulasan

Semporna|0.25km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 8,921

Breakfast

Sipadan Inn 2

7.7/10Good202 Ulasan

Semporna|0.21km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 4,110

BarraCuda Den (previously known as Jono's Place)

9.3/10Great249 Ulasan

Semporna|0.24km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 6,165

Wave View Hotel

7.4/10115 Ulasan

Semporna|0.28km dari pusat bandar

Nice view from the hotel balcony, near with shops and eateries. The room is medium size and can fit with 2 children. Value for money. Good place to stay if you plan to have day trip to nearby island.

DariJPY 6,492

Ocean Inn Semporna

7.5/1097 Ulasan

Semporna|0.23km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 4,694

Perfect Forest Eco-Resort

9.1/10Great329 Ulasan

Semporna|4.31km dari pusat bandar

DariJPY 13,194

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.

Exclusive Stays, Handpicked by Triptastic Creators

Discover stays and experiences personally tried and recommended by our creators.

Trip Tastic Creators Deals

FAQs

Is Semporna or Mabul better for first-time visitors?
Which destination is more budget-friendly?
Which destination is better for scuba diving?
Is Mabul worth staying overnight?
Can you visit Mabul as a day trip from Semporna?

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.

Produk berkaitan

Semporna or Mabul

LunarQis

Digital Writer

Lihat profil

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

133 artikel

Travel

Trip.com

Hotel

Semporna or Mabul