Find the best Semporna hotels to make the perfect base for exploring nearby islands.
Semporna, a charming town in Sabah, Malaysia, is your gateway to some stunning islands, including Sipadan, Mabul and Kapalai. Whether you’re an avid diver looking to explore vibrant coral reefs or a traveler seeking a serene escape, finding the right accommodation in Semporna to start off your journey is key to an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best hotels in Semporna, catering to all types of travellers and budgets.
Why Stay in Semporna?
Semporna is renowned for its proximity to spectacular diving spots and its rich cultural heritage. Semporna town itself offers a variety of attractions, from fresh seafood markets to traditional Bajau Laut villages. Staying in Semporna gives you the convenience of daily island hopping boat trips while enjoying the local vibe and amenities on the mainland.
Top Types of Hotels in Semporna
When it comes to Semporna hotels, you’ll find five main types of accommodations:
Choosing the right Semporna hotel depends on your plans. For island exploration, budget or mid-range hotels near the jetty are convenient. If you want to explore Semporna itself, resorts located further inland offer a comfortable base. For a distinctive “water holiday” experience, the floating resorts in Semporna or nearby Bum Bum Island offer an unforgettable stay over the sea.
We always recommend choosing a water chalet/floating resort or at least a hotel with ocean views — after all, you’re in a coastal town, and the beautiful sea vistas are a huge part of the experience.
To help you find the best fit for your stay, here are the top Semporna hotels in each category:
Semporna Water Chalets
Found along Semporna’s coastline and on Pulau Bum Bum (a large island just one kilometer from the mainland), these lodgings are built on stilts over the sea, providing a distinct “floating” experience with breathtaking views, direct access to the ocean, and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to beat.
Dragon Inn Floating Resort
A massive structure built on stilts over the sea, the traditionally designed Dragon Inn is made of quality Cengal wood. Has its own private jetty and many seaview, air-conditioned rooms.
Singamata Reef Resort
A floating resort offering direct access to the sea, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Located slightly further out from Semporna mainland.
WB Shun Shun Water Bungalows
WB Shun Shun Water Bungalows is located next to Singamata, offering overwater stays with direct access to snorkeling spots.
Larapan Water Village
The furthest out from Semporna mainland of all the hotels listed on this page, this exclusive accommodation offers just a few private wooden chalets with stunning sea vistas.
Ocean view hotels
Situated right by the seafront and near the jetty, these hotels offer calming ocean views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the seaside without staying directly over the water.
Sipadan Inn 1, Sipadan Inn 2 and Sipadan Inn 3
All of these popular Semporna budget hotels feature sea-view rooms. Great location near the jetty and seafront with a good variety of F&B outlets nearby. Discounts available during off-peak season.
Cube Bed Station
Capsule-style dorm rooms and double rooms available with great views of the surrounding lagoon.
Ocean Inn
Ocean Inn in Semporna is a budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, conveniently located near local attractions.
Semporna Seaview Hotel
Located right by the jetty, is creatively decorated with repurposed containers, and rooms with balconies offer views of ships passing by.
Pacific Inn
A very decent accommodation in a comfortably renovated building, offering a waterfront location and unobstructed sea views.
Lighthouse Hotel
This Semporna hotel offers modern rooms, a prime location beside the jetty, and excellent views from its tall structure, living up to its namesake.
Grace Samudera Hotel
This hotel offers deluxe seaview or garden rooms and a great waterfront location near Semporna’s town center.
Mid-range to 5-star Semporna Hotels
These cater to families and those seeking extra comfort. Some are conveniently located near the jetty for easy access to boat services and a chance to explore Semporna town. While there are no true 5-star Semporna hotels, these mid-range options provide the closest experience to luxury accommodation in the area, making them the top choice for those seeking a Semporna 5-star hotel.
Seafest Hotel
Large hotel with an outdoor pool and excellent location on the seafront. Rooms include honeymoon and presidential suites. Seafest Hotel is likely the nearest thing to a five-star hotel in Semporna.
Wing Tat Grand
Indeed one of the grander options in Semporna, featuring spacious rooms and a building with balconies, along with a served breakfast.
Green World Hotel
Offering various room types suitable for families and other travelers, this accommodation is housed in its own building with a dedicated breakfast hall.
Wook Wook Homestay Semporna
Housed in repurposed containers with modern furnishings, this accommodation offers a range of options from bunk beds to queen rooms. Located about 2km from the jetty.
Semporna Budget hotels
Starting from RM50-55 (US$11-12) per night, these options are perfect for solo travelers or backpackers. Most budget options are located near the bus station or jetty, making it easy to catch early morning boats for island hopping in Semporna Archipelago.
Anggun Lodge
A cozy lodge with basic amenities, providing affordable and clean accommodation close to the town center.
My Space Capsule Hotel
Modern capsule-style accommodation offering compact, efficient spaces for budget-conscious travelers.
Ocean House Semporna
A budget-friendly option with simple rooms, located near the jetty for easy access to boat trips.
See You Hotel
An affordable option with basic rooms and facilities, located in a convenient spot near local eateries.
Perfect Hub
Clean, affordable accommodation with ensuite or shared bathrooms are available here.
Memory Boutique Hotel
Offers great value for money with clean rooms — an ideal place to make lasting memories.
A° Hotel
A minimalist boutique hotel themed entirely around the famous Japanese anime One Piece.
Luna Capsule Hotel
Luna Capsule Hotel offers both capsule and standard room options making it suitable for a wide array of travellers.
BoxInn The Kontena Home
Creatively housed in repurposed containers, featuring a pool and BBQ area for a unique stay experience.
Casa Casa
Offers a homey atmosphere with cozy lighting and charming decorations, especially during the festive season.
Halo Hotel
Conveniently located near Semporna town, this hotel offers easy access to a variety of amenities, including supermarkets, restaurants, a self-service laundry, and a convenience store,
Summer Holiday Semporna
Summer Holiday Semporna is a budget hotel located within Semporna town, offering a variety of rooms ranging from bunk beds to loft rooms and king-size beds.
Inland Retreats
These larger establishments are located much further from the seaside, offering a more expansive and tranquil setting. Ideal for those looking to experience the local charm of Semporna, these retreats provide a relaxing stay with amenities suited for longer visits and a chance to explore the town and its surroundings.
The Firefly Resort
With its rustic atmosphere, excellent value for money, and a delicious breakfast, this accommodation stands out among similarly priced options.
Timba Garden
This accommodation in Semporna offers a tropical garden-themed retreat with a forest pool, and some rooms even include free motorcycle rental.
Opine Villas
Features hexagonal-shaped chalets with a cozy blend of wooden interiors and brick wall exteriors, creating a uniquely charming stay.
Manju Semporna Resort
Offers spacious wooden chalets set in a large garden compound, providing a true tropical resort experience.
Mushroom Inn
Semporna’s Mushroom Inn offers a unique stay with its charming mushroom-shaped huts, providing a cozy and memorable experience.
How to Choose the Best Hotel in Semporna
When choosing the best hotel in Semporna for your needs, consider the following:
- Proximity to the Jetty: If you plan to do a lot of island hopping, staying close to the jetty can save you time and hassle.
- Amenities: Think about what’s important to you — whether it’s Wi-Fi, on-site dining, or a swimming pool.
- Type of Experience: Do you want to wake up to ocean views, or would you prefer a spacious room surrounded by nature? Choose an accommodation that matches your travel goals.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly hotel close to the jetty, a luxurious ocean-view resort, or a peaceful inland retreat, Semporna offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for your adventure in this tropical paradise.