Pom Pom Island 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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best weather for island activities
Pom Pom Island Malaysia
Best Time
Best weather for island activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island paradise in Sabah, Malaysia, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.
"The island is pure paradise – turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and unforgettable snorkeling and diving!"
Book Transfers Early
Arrange your boat transfer from Semporna to Pom Pom Island in advance to ensure smooth travel. :ferry:
Manage Resort Expectations
While beautiful, the resort can be outdated. Focus on the island's natural beauty. :island:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters & White Sands
Island-wide
Experience the quintessential tropical paradise with stunningly clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches.
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
Western side of the island
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the calm sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Paradise Awaits
Resort Realities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Transfers Early
Arrange your boat transfer from Semporna to Pom Pom Island in advance to ensure smooth travel. :ferry:
Manage Resort Expectations
While beautiful, the resort can be outdated. Focus on the island's natural beauty. :island:
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. :turtle:
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. :ferry:
Manage Resort Expectations
While beautiful, the resort can be outdated. Focus on the island's natural beauty. :island:
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. :turtle:
Stay Hydrated
Carry a reusable water bottle; staying hydrated is key in the tropical climate. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
No, there are no direct flights to Semporna. You'll need to fly into Tawau and then arrange ground transportation.
Pom Pom Island is small and easily walkable. The main mode of transport is by foot or by boat for excursions.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Pom Pom Island is accessible year-round. Resorts operate based on guest arrivals and departures, and activities are scheduled daily.
There isn't a specific entrance fee for the island itself, but your resort stay will cover access and amenities.
Day trips are generally not common as the island is primarily accessed via resort stays. Most visitors stay overnight to experience the island fully.
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.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Activities include snorkeling, diving, swimming, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying the sunset. Some resorts may offer kayaking or guided treks.
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.
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.
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.
Accommodation typically includes beach villas and water villas, offering varying levels of comfort and proximity to the sea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food quality receives mixed reviews. Some find it delicious, while others describe it as basic, repetitive, and not good value for money.
No, dining options are limited to the restaurants within the resorts on Pom Pom Island.
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.
Pom Pom Island Resort typically offers buffet-style meals, with some guests finding the variety lacking.
It's advisable to inform your resort in advance about any dietary restrictions to see if they can accommodate your needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches, clear waters, overwater villas, and sunset views offer fantastic photo opportunities. The underwater world is also a photographer's dream. 
Absolutely! The island's natural beauty, from the vibrant coral reefs to the stunning sunsets, makes it a paradise for photographers.
Yes, if you have an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case, you can capture the amazing marine life.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and portrait photography.
Generally, no specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When traveling with family, consider booking a beach villa for easier access to the sand and sea. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent, as these are essential in the tropical climate.
While the island offers a peaceful escape, ensure your family is comfortable with a more laid-back pace and potentially limited dining variety. 💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider bringing some of your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, though be mindful of any resort corkage fees for alcohol.
💖 Couples & Honeymooners
Enjoying sunset cocktails and leisurely strolls along the beach are perfect ways to spend time together. While some reviews suggest the resort might not meet luxury honeymoon expectations due to being outdated, the island's natural charm and tranquility can still provide a memorable experience.
Booking a package that includes romantic amenities or activities could enhance the honeymoon experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Diving and Snorkeling Paradise
For certified divers, the surrounding waters provide access to more advanced dive sites, often explored through organized trips from the resorts. The clarity of the water, especially during the dry season, enhances the visibility and overall experience of exploring this vibrant underwater ecosystem. Many travelers highlight the ease of snorkeling directly from the beach, making it a convenient activity for all skill levels. The shallow areas are perfect for beginners, while more experienced snorkelers can venture further out to discover deeper coral gardens. The presence of turtles is a consistent highlight, offering a magical encounter for many visitors.
While the island itself is beautiful, the true magic of Pom Pom Island lies beneath the waves. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, the underwater world here promises an unforgettable adventure. Remember to book any diving excursions through your resort and inquire about the best dive spots based on current conditions.
Resort Experience: Mixed Reviews
Negative reviews often point to the resort being outdated and lacking luxury, despite high prices. Issues raised include unfriendly staff, slow or unresponsive service, inconsistent amenities (like life jackets and wine glasses), and a lack of housekeeping.
On the positive side, many reviewers commend the helpful staff and the island's beauty as major draws. The villas are described as comfortable and well-located by some.
Capturing the Island's Beauty
The island's relatively undeveloped nature means you can capture authentic tropical scenery without the clutter of mass tourism. The sunsets on Pom Pom Island are particularly spectacular, painting the sky with a palette of warm colors that create magical moments for photography.
For those interested in wildlife photography, the opportunity to capture sea turtles in their natural habitat while snorkeling or diving is a major highlight. Remember to bring an underwater camera or a waterproof case for your phone if you plan to document the marine life. When planning your photo sessions, consider the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic and flattering light.
While there are no specific restrictions on photography, always be mindful and respectful of other guests' privacy. The island's serene atmosphere is best enjoyed by all, so a balance between capturing memories and soaking in the moment is key. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit