The waters around Sipadan Island are home to more than 3,000 fish species, including sharks, huge sea turtles, swirling schools of barracudas and bumphead parrotfish, along with hundreds of species of colorful, pristine corals. Isn’t that amazing?
Pulau Sipadan is not just a destination; it’s a slice of paradise where luxury meets adventure beneath the waves. Pulau Sipadan stands as one of the world’s premier diving destinations, offering luxury seekers and diving enthusiasts an unforgettable experience amidst pristine waters teeming with vibrant marine life. The locals refer to this paradise as “Pulau Sipadan,” where “Pulau” translates to “island” in English.
The diving community consistently ranks Pulau Sipadan among the top 5 snorkeling and diving spots in the world . The surrounding islands distinguish themselves from other South East Asian destinations through exceptional underwater muck diving opportunities. Divers encounter an abundance of macro and micro critters, and these waters serve as a nursery for numerous rare fish species such as frogfishes, mandarinfish, octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, nudibranchs, shrimps, etc.
After exhilarating diving adventures, quality resorts provide essential relaxation. Since Pulau Sipadan maintains protected status, all resorts operate from the neighboring islands of Mabul and Kapalai. Let me introduce you to the finest resorts that deliver memorable stays and world-class diving experiences near Pulau Sipadan.
Mabul Water Bungalows
Imagine waking up in a luxurious overwater bungalow, the gentle sound of waves lapping beneath you, and the sun rising over the horizon. Mabul Water Bungalows offers just that—a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. With 19 overwater bungalows and 9 luxury water villa suites, you’ll enjoy stunning views and immediate access to some of the best diving spots. The resort is a certified 5 stars PADI and NAUI Dive Resort, providing unlimited diving opportunities right from the jetty, including night dives..
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a treatment at the luxury spa after a day of diving. The expansive snorkeling deck and open-air pavilion restaurant create a perfect setting for memorable dining experiences.
Sipadan-Mabul Resort
Nestled in a serene coconut grove, Sipadan-Mabul Resort is your gateway to luxury and
tranquility. The beautifully crafted wooden chalets offer breathtaking views of Sipadan Island, and each unit is designed with modern amenities for your comfort. As a PADI and TEC dive center, it boasts a state-of-the-art dive center where you can embark on thrilling underwater adventures.
The resort offers specialized courses, including technical diving certifications, ensuring that every diving enthusiast finds their perfect fit. After an exhilarating day, unwind at the refreshing swimming pool or indulge in a soothing spa treatment.
Mataking Island Resort
Located on a private island surrounded by one of the clearest marine ecosystems, Mataking Dive Resort offers a new take on tropical luxury. It features 63 roomy villas and chalets just a short walk from beaches with soft white sand. This spot is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Underwater, divers get a mix of Sipadan’s deep-sea spectacle and Mabul’s detailed marine life. There are over 30 special dive locations, including untouched coral reefs near Pandanan, Timba-timba, and the islands of Tun Sakaran Marine Park. Recognized as a PADI 5 Star Dive Centre, Mataking provides opportunities to explore for novices and seasoned divers alike. You will find dive sites free from crowds and home to large sea creatures and hard-to-spot marine species. On land, enjoy Malaysian-Western dishes by the ocean, relax with spa sessions, or admire sunsets from the wide sundeck. The resort prioritizes conservation by backing reef restoration projects and eco-friendly methods to protect this marine paradise. Whether you crave thrilling dives or a relaxing escape, Mataking creates an unforgettable experience.
Pom Pom Island Resort
Pom Pom Island Dive Resort provides a private island getaway with incredible marine life all around. Guests can pick from five unique stay options: Beach Villas, Water Villas, Garden Villas, Hexa Villas, or the traditional Kampung Houses. Each place includes a private balcony attached bathroom, and conveniences like free coffee and tea.
The resort, a licensed PADI 5 Star Dive Centre, offers diving activities for everyone—from first-time Discovery dives to Rescue-level certifications for advanced divers. They provide e-learning options to help you spend more time diving in the water. The waters around the resort located in the Coral Triangle, are packed with marine life offering over 20 dive sites like Mataking, Timba-timba and also Pulau Sipadan as starting this year, the resort has 6 daily Sipadan permits. From April to August, you can join their patrol program to see Hawksbill and Green turtles nesting, an effort tied to their conservation work.
After exploring underwater, enjoy tasty food at the open-air Calyx Restaurant, which serves Malay, Chinese, and Western dishes with fresh seafood. Wrap up your day by relaxing with soothing massages to pamper yourself at the Yin & Yang Spa.
Pom Pom Island offers a mix of top-notch diving and peaceful escapes. It combines simple luxury with stunning nature in one of Malaysia’s cleanest marine areas.
Borneo Divers Mabul Resort
For those seeking a blend of tradition and modern luxury, Borneo Divers Mabul Resort is a must-visit. The resort has 30 Deluxe semi-detached Beach Chalets, each reflecting local culture through handcrafted décor. Here, expert instructors provide personalized guidance, ensuring your diving experience is both safe and unforgettable.
Beyond diving, enjoy spa treatments, beach volleyball, and even a mini-soccer field! The welcoming atmosphere and professional underwater photo services make it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Sipadan Water Village
Experience luxury like never before at Sipadan Water Village, where 40 elegantly designed water cottages await you. This resort extends over water on sturdy stilts, providing a unique perspective of the Celebes Sea. The exclusive house reef is just a swim away, offering vibrant underwater gardens teeming with marine life.
The dive center is equipped with top-notch facilities, ensuring that divers have everything they need for an unforgettable experience. After a day of exploration, relax in your water cottage and soak in the serene surroundings.
Kapalai Dive Resort
Kapalai Dive Resort is a hidden gem perched above the Ligitan reefs, perfect for honeymooners or anyone looking for a romantic getaway. With elegant wooden chalets featuring private ocean-view balconies, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery right from your room.
The resort is known for its exceptional macro diving opportunities, where you can encounter unique species like the flamboyant cuttlefish and blue ring octopus. After diving, indulge in delicious meals at the on-site restaurant while soaking in the stunning sunset views.
These resorts not only provide luxurious accommodations but also serve as gateways to some of the most incredible diving experiences in the world. Whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant underwater life or simply relax in a serene setting, Pulau Sipadan’s luxury resorts have it all.
So, are you ready to dive into this tropical paradise? Your unforgettable adventure awaits!
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