Sipadan Islands: A short Tourist Guide to Practical Aspects

If you are a diver, the name Sipadan Islands is sure to ring a bell. It is, if not the best, one of the best diving places in the world, with an impressive oceanic habitat and some of the loveliest landscapes available. But, as it happens, tourists can occasionally harm the exact things they visit, which is why the islands in themselves are now a protected site. The Malaysian government closed all the resorts in the area, so it is impossible to find anywhere to stay on the actual islands. But, where there is a will, there is a way, and this article is meant to show you exactly that.

Where to stay?

Since you ca not stay on the islands, you have to find a place nearby. Most visitors reach Sipadan Islands by flying to Tawau, where they can take a car to Semporna; this is where you can rent a fast boat to the islands.  Therefore, the most practical option would be staying in Semporna.

Hotels in Semprona are quite affordable – the best rated one is Hotel Seafest (3*) which has the advantage of offering seaside view, just in case you plan to be there at hours when you can enjoy it.

Other good options include the Dragon Inn, Sipadan Inn, placed also on the seaside. If you prefer being lodged in the city center (and therefore having access to more options), the City's Inn, Lee's Resthouse and the Singamata Reef Lodge Adventures are available. In all cases, do bare in mind that while conditions are decent, if luxury is something you expect, you may need to search for other options.

Nearby islands of Mabul and Kapalai offer a pretty good alternative – both are relatively close, at a maximum 30-minutes drive away. If you are interested in visiting the Sipadan Islands and staying in a luxurious resort at the same time, Mabul Winter Bungalows and the Sipadan Water Village Resort will provide you with that in Mabul, while the Kapalai resort in itself was built specifically for that.

Diving equipment and training options

While experienced divers will most likely bring in their own equipment and will not need much training, people who are still beginners will be able to find all they need either on or near the Sipadan Islands.

If you decide to stay in Semporna, you can find numberless dive shops, like the Blue Sea Divers or the Scuba Junkies. The Mabul Resort and the Sipadan Water Village Resort in Mabul will also provide you with diving equipment and trainers, if needed.

What to do (except diving)

The best place to go to have some fun – outside diving – is the Mabul island. Whether or not you actually lodge on it, you should attempt at least a trip in the area. The high end lodging possibilities ensured the opening of various entertainment options for the tourist, and everyone in need of good fun after a dive in the Sipadan Islands will more than likely find something to their taste there.