Pulau Mabul, Kapalai and world-famous Sipadan are located so close to each other (15-20 minutes by speedboat) that they are often visited together.
Mabul Island accommodation caters to every budget. Most homestays, lodges, hotels and resorts are situated on the island itself while one is located on a modified, offshore oil rig about 500 meters from the beach.
There are no hotels or resorts on the diving mecca that is Sipadan, all visitors stay in Mabul, Kapalai, Mataking or Semporna town.
Sipadan permits are required for visiting the island, a marine park gazetted in 2009.
The legendary Bajau Laut people, nicknamed the ‘nomads of the sea’, live in and around Mabul.
The main activities here are snorkeling and diving. Other popular activities include ocean kayaking and island hopping – more things to do in Mabul Island.
Day tours to Tun Sakaran Marine Park and other nearby islands, i.e. Siamil, Kulapuan, etc. can be organized (check with your resort/dive operator).
If you visit around April, be sure to check out the Regatta Lepa festival. If you’re coming in November, you’ll be arriving just in time for the Miss Scuba International competition.
