Mabul Island

Tourist sight
★ 4.6 (50+ reviews) • 1K+ booked
Mabul Island is a hidden gem in Malaysian Borneo, offering a tranquil escape from the crowded tourist spots. Nestled in the Celebes Sea, this enchanting island is a paradise that echoes the allure of the Maldives without the commercialization. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, explore the village life, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the sea gypsies and Suluk people. Mabul Island is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of enchanting marine life and cultural richness. Nestled near the renowned Sipadan, this small island boasts an underwater world teeming with endangered sea turtles, rays, and sharks, making it a diver's paradise. Above the water, Mabul is home to the Bajau Laut and Suluk tribes, known as sea gypsies, residing in stilt villages that dot the island's coastline. Despite its beauty, Mabul also presents a poignant reminder of environmental challenges, with trash pollution posing a significant threat to its delicate ecosystem. Welcome to Mabul Island, a hidden gem off the coast of Semporna that offers a unique paradise experience for travelers seeking crystal-clear waters and stunning bungalows along the beach. Dive into the underwater world of Sipadan, renowned as one of the best dive spots globally, where you can witness a vibrant marine ecosystem unlike any other.
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Mabul Island, Sabah, Malaysia

The best of Mabul Island

Bucket-list experiences

Mabul and Kapalai Island Snorkeling Tour in Semporna

Mabul and Kapalai Island Snorkeling Tour in Semporna

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★ 4.3 (17)
NZ$ 75.59
Mabul and Kapalai Island Snorkeling or Diving Tour in Semporna

Mabul and Kapalai Island Snorkeling or Diving Tour in Semporna

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From NZ$ 52.65
Semporna Islands Day Trip

Semporna Islands Day Trip

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★ 3.2 (21)
From NZ$ 48.29
Semporna | 3 Islands Hopping, Snorkeling & Hiking Tour

Semporna | 3 Islands Hopping, Snorkeling & Hiking Tour

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★ 5.0 (2)
NZ$ 138.09
Leisure Diving Experience in Semporna Island

Leisure Diving Experience in Semporna Island

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★ 5.0 (1)
NZ$ 160.89
Discover Scuba Diving Experience in Semporna Island

Discover Scuba Diving Experience in Semporna Island

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★ 4.5 (4)
NZ$ 161.85
Mabul's Marine Magic: Full-Day Dive Trip with PADI 5* Dive Center
NZ$ 156.85
Mabul's Marine Magic: E-Learning Open Water Dive with PADI 5* Center
NZ$ 623.25
Mabul Dive Mastery: Advanced Open Water with PADI 5* Dive Center
NZ$ 522.69
Semporna Snorkeling Escape Day Trip
From NZ$ 80.75

More to explore

Mabul Backpackers

Mabul Backpackers

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From NZ$ 141.45

Nearby places to go

50+ visitors
2M+ visitors
2M+ visitors
2M+ visitors
2M+ visitors
2M+ visitors

FAQs about Mabul Island

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What to know before visiting Mabul Island

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Diving at Mabul Island

Explore the diverse marine life around Mabul Island with its famous muck diving sites. Encounter rare sea creatures like giant cuttlefish, flamboyant cuttlefish, and nudibranchs. Dive at top sites like Paradise 1 and Kapalai House Reef for an unforgettable underwater experience.

Village Life Exploration

Experience the slower pace of life on Mabul Island by wandering around the village. Witness the simple yet resourceful living conditions of the locals, interact with the sea gypsies, and observe traditional activities like boat building and village games.

Local Cuisine Experience

Indulge in fresh seafood caught by local fishermen and prepared by talented chefs. Negotiate with passing boats for a variety of seafood options like giant lobsters, conchs, and sea urchins. Enjoy delicious meals with a mix of local dishes and freshly grilled seafood.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Mabul Island was once a simple fishing village for the sea gypsies, known for their free diving and fishing skills. The island's transformation into a diving destination is linked to its neighbor, Sipadan Island. Explore the cultural practices and historical roots of the Bajau Laut people.

Local Cuisine

Savor the unique flavors of Mabul Island with its fresh seafood offerings. Try dishes prepared with freshly caught seafood like grilled tuna steaks, sashimi, and local delicacies. Experience the authentic taste of the island's cuisine.

Cultural Heritage

Discover the cultural heritage of Mabul Island through interactions with the indigenous Bajau Laut and Suluk tribes. Explore the stilt villages and learn about their traditional way of life, deeply intertwined with the sea.

Environmental Conservation

Gain insights into the environmental challenges facing Mabul Island, including the impact of plastic pollution on marine life. Engage in sustainable tourism practices and support initiatives aimed at preserving the island's natural resources.

Diving and Snorkeling

Embark on thrilling diving and snorkeling adventures in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Mabul Island. Witness the vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and other marine creatures that call this underwater paradise home.

Cultural and Environmental Contrasts

Experience the stark contrast between the water resorts built by a Chinese company and the impoverished living conditions on Mabul Island. Learn about the local Malay population's concerns regarding the lack of investment in the island's infrastructure and environmental conservation.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in popular local dishes on Mabul Island, offering a unique blend of flavors that reflect the cultural diversity of the region. Sample fresh seafood and traditional Malay delicacies for a true culinary experience.