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Pom Pom Island Malaysia

4.2
·160 reviews·Semporna, Malaysia

A serene island paradise in Sabah, Malaysia, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry Season (March-October)

Best weather for island activities

CrowdMedium
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水上别墅外观

Pom Pom Island Malaysia

Best Time

Dry Season (March-October)

Best weather for island activities

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene island paradise in Sabah, Malaysia, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

4.2
(160 reviews)

"The island is pure paradise – turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and unforgettable snorkeling and diving!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Transfers Early

Arrange your boat transfer from Semporna to Pom Pom Island in advance to ensure smooth travel. ⛴️

Manage Resort Expectations

While beautiful, the resort can be outdated. Focus on the island's natural beauty. 🏝️

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Quick Facts

Rating

4.2 · 162 reviews

Type

Resort hotel

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turquoise Waters & White Sands

Turquoise Waters & White Sands

Island-wide

Experience the quintessential tropical paradise with stunningly clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches.

Vibrant Underwater World

Vibrant Underwater World

House Reef & surrounding dive sites

Snorkel or dive to discover a rich marine ecosystem, including colorful fish and even sea turtles.

Spectacular Sunsets

Spectacular Sunsets

Western side of the island

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the calm sea.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Paradise Awaits

Pom Pom Island offers a serene escape with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. It's a less crowded alternative to more popular Malaysian islands, perfect for relaxation and diving. Plan your transfer in advance as it's a boat ride away from Semporna.

Resort Realities

While the island is beautiful, reviews suggest the resort can be outdated and service inconsistent. Manage expectations regarding luxury and dining. Consider visiting during the low season for potentially lower prices, but be aware of service levels.

Best Times

When
Dry Season (March-October)
Why
Best weather for island activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Low Season (November-February)
Why
Fewer crowds, potential deals
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you know Malaysia has islands like this one? 🇲🇾 This beautiful paradise island is called Pom Pom island and is located in Sabah. It’s not very popular with foreign tourists and we only found it by chance while looking at Google Maps. So glad we went there because the island is just surreal! 🤩 📹 @jumpingplaces . . . #Malaysia #pompom #pompomisland #sabah #semporna #island #islandlife #reel #r...
tourismmalaysia_india
23 likes • 622 views

Book Transfers Early

Arrange your boat transfer from Semporna to Pom Pom Island in advance to ensure smooth travel. ⛴️

Manage Resort Expectations

While beautiful, the resort can be outdated. Focus on the island's natural beauty. 🏝️

Cuti Cuti Malaysia #财务视界 #个人ip #招募人才 #work life balance #Sammie # Pom Pom Island Resort
teesammie
14 likes • 164 views
Good morning Island 🏝️ #timbatimbaisland #matakingisland #pompomisland #islandsemporna #sempornasabah #starbucksemporna #semporna #islandsabah #malaysia #islandmalaysia #mataking #timbatimba #pompom
hajar_almedwahi
0 likes • 2.2K views

Pack Light & Smart

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable beachwear. :sunwithface:

Explore the Reef

The house reef is excellent for snorkeling, with a good chance of spotting turtles. 🐢

🇲🇾 Pom Pom island - Mussah Poteh Resort 在仙本那拍到人生中的大片 烙跑新娘系列(? 太喜歡這片玻璃果凍海了🩵 _ #malaysia #semporna #pompomisland #mussahpotehresort #馬來西亞 #仙本那 #白珍珠度假村
betty_1203_
0 likes • 6.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Transfers Early

Arrange your boat transfer from Semporna to Pom Pom Island in advance to ensure smooth travel. ⛴️

Manage Resort Expectations

While beautiful, the resort can be outdated. Focus on the island's natural beauty. 🏝️

Pack Light & Smart

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable beachwear. :sunwithface:

Explore the Reef

The house reef is excellent for snorkeling, with a good chance of spotting turtles. 🐢

Stay Hydrated

Carry a reusable water bottle; staying hydrated is key in the tropical climate. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(160 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pom Pom Island is lauded for its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and turtle spotting. However, the resort experience receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding it outdated and service inconsistent, while others praise the staff and relaxing atmosphere.

"I spent 3 days at Pom Pom Island Resort and everything was absolutely perfect! The place is paradise ! Crystal clear turquoise water, white sand beaches, and stunning sunsets. The staff were incredibly kind, always smiling and helpful. The food was delicious, and the villas were clean. ( +1 for the garden villa) comfortable, and perfectly located right by the sea.
An unforgettable experience!!
the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Highly recommend! A hidden gem"

Shana Tlk

"We had the most amazing 4 days at Pom Pom Island Resort! The island is pure paradise – turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and unforgettable snorkeling and diving (we even saw turtles!). A very special thanks to all the staff, who were absolutely wonderful and made our stay truly perfect. We can’t wait to come back!"

Oscar Abarquero Llopart

"They advertise this place as a honeymoon resort. I would not go near this place for such a trip. While the bungalows are nice and large, the resort is in desperate need of an upgrade. Everything is old, and it does not convey luxury. When we were there, 90% of the resort was empty (probably has something to do with the travel advisory of this region) which made it weird.

The island itself is beautiful, and with a good reef where you can spot many fish. It is also cleaned daily which is a good thing.

Due to it being low season (again weird as almost every other place in malaysia we visited was rather full), we got a lower price. However even at this lower price this resort is not worth it. The food is just not good, and it is mostly the same each day.

Overall dont recommend going here.

Pros:
+ Beautiful island
+ Very good snorkeling
+ Helpful staff
+ Nice place to relax

Cons
- Very outdated
- Food is not good
- Overpriced for what it is"

Micha Gast

What People Like

Stunning natural beauty
Excellent snorkeling & diving
Peaceful, relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

Outdated resort facilities
Inconsistent service
Mediocre food quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary way to reach Pom Pom Island is by boat from Semporna, Sabah. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. You'll need to arrange your transfer with your resort or a local tour operator in Semporna. Some visitors mention the boat ride can be expensive. Reddit

Most travelers fly into Tawau Airport (TWU) and then take a taxi or bus to Semporna town, which is about a 1.5-hour drive. From Semporna, you'll catch your boat to the island. Instagram

No, there are no direct flights to Semporna. You'll need to fly into Tawau and then arrange ground transportation. Instagram

Pom Pom Island is small and easily walkable. The main mode of transport is by foot or by boat for excursions. Instagram

Transfer costs can vary, but some reviews indicate they can be quite expensive, especially for the return trip. It's advisable to confirm pricing when booking your accommodation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't typically buy 'tickets' to visit the island itself, but you will need to book accommodation at one of the resorts, which includes the boat transfer. Instagram

Pom Pom Island is accessible year-round. Resorts operate based on guest arrivals and departures, and activities are scheduled daily. Instagram

There isn't a specific entrance fee for the island itself, but your resort stay will cover access and amenities. Instagram

Day trips are generally not common as the island is primarily accessed via resort stays. Most visitors stay overnight to experience the island fully. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned for Pom Pom Island, Sabah Parks often have conservation fees for marine protected areas. It's best to check with your resort for any applicable charges. Reddit

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

Activities include snorkeling, diving, swimming, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying the sunset. Some resorts may offer kayaking or guided treks. Instagram

Yes, Pom Pom Island is highly recommended for snorkeling. The house reef is vibrant and easily accessible, with many reviewers spotting turtles and diverse marine life. Reddit

Reviews are mixed. While Pom Pom Island Resort is frequently mentioned, some guests found it outdated. Mussah Poteh Resort is another option. Research current reviews for the best fit. InstagramReddit

It can be, but some reviews suggest it's more geared towards couples or those seeking quiet relaxation. Activities might be limited for very young children. Reddit

Accommodation typically includes beach villas and water villas, offering varying levels of comfort and proximity to the sea. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food quality receives mixed reviews. Some find it delicious, while others describe it as basic, repetitive, and not good value for money. Reddit

No, dining options are limited to the restaurants within the resorts on Pom Pom Island. Instagram

Some resorts may charge a corkage fee if you bring your own alcohol, as noted in one review. It's best to check resort policies beforehand. Reddit

Pom Pom Island Resort typically offers buffet-style meals, with some guests finding the variety lacking. Reddit

It's advisable to inform your resort in advance about any dietary restrictions to see if they can accommodate your needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The beaches, clear waters, overwater villas, and sunset views offer fantastic photo opportunities. The underwater world is also a photographer's dream. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The island's natural beauty, from the vibrant coral reefs to the stunning sunsets, makes it a paradise for photographers. Instagram

Yes, if you have an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case, you can capture the amazing marine life. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and portrait photography. Instagram

Generally, no specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of other guests' privacy. Instagram

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