The Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART), established in 1992, is a cluster of 40 semi-detached bungalows surrounded by a picturesque coconut grove in Mabul’s southeast.
| At a glance | |
| Location: | South Mabul |
| Pricing: | Mid-range |
| Type: | Beach |
| Classification: | PADI 5 Star Dive Resort |
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Taking up almost the entire southeastern quarter of Mabul, the exclusive ambience of Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART) is on par with the island’s two luxury resorts.
Each of the wooden chalets here boasts rooms with two oversized single beds, ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, ceiling fan, a couch, shelves, flyscreened windows, free-flowing hot and cold fresh water and verandah at the front.
Featuring sun loungers, lawn chairs and leaf umbrellas, the resort’s vast beachfront recreation area, where the bar is also located, is a wonderful place to relax with a cocktail and watch the sun retire for the evening.
Snorkelling & diving
Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART) is a PADI and NAUI Dive Center. Its fully-equipped dive shop runs several diving courses, including NAUI and PADI Basic Nitrox/Enriched Air Diver certification courses. Technical diving divemasters are also available as guides.
The Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART) is one of 12 dive operators granted Sipadan permits from the state (full list here).
It is also one of several resorts in the area that offer unlimited shore/house reef diving.
Facilities & activities
Other facilities here include a swimming pool, jacuzzi whirlpool bathtub and underwater videography center.
Activities range from ocean kayaking to beach volleyball and basketball.
Guests may also make use of the facilities or partake in activities at next-door Mabul Water Bungalows, a sister property to Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART).
Meals are served at an open-air pavilion near the TV and reading room, which is equipped with satellite TV sets and comfortable seating.
The orientation and training workshops of the Miss Scuba International pageant have been organized and held at both Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART) and Mabul Water Bungalows since 2011.