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Semporna Family Island Hopping Tour: 3 Routes + Overwater Bungalows|Explore the Underwater World with Kids

Semporna’s sea is so healing! Take the kids island hopping, dance with the fish, and stay in stunning overwater bungalows~ Taking kids to Semporna, island hopping is a must-try! Here are 3 practical family-friendly routes with moderate difficulty, plus hidden gem homestay recommendations, so the whole family can have fun~ 🗺️Route 1: Semporna Town - Tun Sakaran Marine Park (Pearl Island - Navy Ship Island - Mandabuan Bay Island) ⭐️Depart from Semporna jetty, 40 minutes by boat, perfect for starting an island adventure with kids -Pearl Island, a lagoon formed by a collapsed extinct volcano, surrounded by lush green hills, with gentle hiking trails; kids can climb to the top for breathtaking sea views -Navy Ship Island, shallow and crystal clear waters, a great spot for snorkeling; kids can wear life jackets to try snorkeling and see the Bajau water village -Mandabuan Bay Island, colorful soft corals are eye-catching, with high water visibility, suitable for kids to try simple diving 🗺️Route 2: Mabul Island - Kapalai Island Hopping -Mabul Island: Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Bajau tribe’s original settlement with kids; excellent snorkeling environment with abundant marine life for close encounters -Kapalai: Almost submerged by the sea, with dreamy sandbanks and rows of overwater villas; high water visibility, perfect for taking photos with kids 🗺️Route 3: Mataking - Bang Bang Island - Timbatimba + Bantandanan Island ⭐️This route is farther from town, with clearer waters; the 4 small islands each have unique features, ideal for families with ample time -Mataking, connected by a sand bridge between Big Mataking and Small Mataking; transparent jelly-like water; underwater post office where kids can send postcards as souvenirs -Bang Bang Island, white fine sand and coconut groves create a beautiful scene; beach quality comparable to the Maldives; surrounding waters are a turtle breeding area, possibly spotting baby turtles -Timbatimba, shallow blue lagoon with crystal-clear water; the narrow “tail” sandbank is stunning; kids will have a blast playing on the beach -Bantandanan Island, relatively few tourists, clear water, well-preserved coral, dense fish population, excellent snorkeling experience 🏨Accommodation: Island hopping tours depart from Semporna Town; recommended hidden gem Airbnb “Sense Mabul Oceanfront Villa Twin Room” 🛏️1 bedroom, 2 beds, 1 bathroom, accommodates 2 adults and 1 child 💰1000 RMB/night (price may vary), excellent value for money ✅Homestay located in Semporna Town, convenient for island hopping departures; in the evening, take kids to explore the night market and enjoy seafood ✅Nearby are restaurants, night markets, bars, cafes, supermarkets—very convenient for shopping and dining; stable WiFi signal ✅Hidden among seaside coconut groves, rooms offer beautiful sea views, fully equipped and clean, comfortable for family stays
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Posted: Nov 20, 2025
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Mabul Island

4.8/5519 reviews | Diving
Tawau Division
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Sabah
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