10 Luxury Overwater Bungalows in Malaysia for Under $500

Are you looking for overwater bungalow resorts for families without cost a huge? Semporna’s turquoise waters rival the Maldives, but with one game-changing difference – luxury overwater bungalows in Malaysia here cost up to 50% less.

If you love the ocean, desire romance, or seek adventure, Semporna Malaysia overwater bungalows are your answer. Imagine lounging in a stunning water villas offer luxury without the heavy price tag in Maldives. I’ll prove how to experience Borneo’s marine wonders without breaking the bank. 

Exclusive Reveal: Best Water Resorts You’d Never Know in Asia

This guide features 10 all-inclusive Malaysia overwater resorts! With 8 offering direct access to the water. Each resort allows unlimited snorkeling and shallow-water experiences without needing a diving certificate, ensuring you can fully enjoy breathtaking ocean views. Prices start as low as $120 per night, reaching up to $250 for the most luxurious stays.

But navigating Semporna’s hidden diving paradise and luxury requires insider knowledge. This guide cracks the code with:

Why Choose Semporna Overwater Bungalows ?

Before my trip, I compared many destinations. I weighed Maldives, Bali, and Phuket. Finally, I chose Malaysia’s Semporna water house. My experience was so delightful that I plan to return with my diving certificate next time!

Semporna’s overwater bungalows offer an enchanting blend of natural beauty and luxury, making them an ideal escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Here’s what you can expect:

• Natural Beauty:
  • Pristine surroundings with clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
  • Comparable luxury to the Maldives at a fraction of the cost.
  • Authentic charm from local villages and unique marine culture.
  • Easily accessible from many Asian countries.
• Ambiance:
  • Experience rustic charm paired with modern amenities.
  • Enjoy direct ocean access and private decks that evoke tranquility.
• Activities:
  • Snorkel with turtles and dive near the famous Sipadan Island.
  • Kayak through crystal-clear waters or embark on island-hopping adventures.
• Local Flair:
  • Savor fresh seafood and immerse yourself in cultural village tours.

What Defines “Luxury” in Semporna’s Overwater Bungalows as Alternatives to Maldives?

Unlike Maldives resorts charging $500+/night, Semporna’s luxury focuses on untouched ecosystems and diving-first amenities. Think: 

Multiple Offers from Semporna water resorts

✅ Private speedboat transfers to Sipadan Island (\$0 extra charges) 

✅ On-call dive guides until 6PM at Mabul Water Bungalows 

✅ All-inclusive buffets with 360° coral views balcony

Rich Ecological Conservation and Family-Friendly Activities

The Sustainability Twist: Semporna’s overwater resorts are deeply committed to ecological conservation, offering guests a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful activities.

One highlight is the turtle conservation base, where visitors can participate in releasing baby turtles back into their natural habitat. Additionally, you can explore coral planting initiatives aimed at restoring vibrant coral reefs. Guests can witness firsthand the rich marine life in its natural environment, all while staying within a marine protected area. This blend of luxury and sustainability allows travelers to enjoy their stay while contributing to vital conservation efforts.

Best Water Resorts in Southeast Asia for All Kinds of Tropical Travelers

In January 2025, I traveled to Semporna, Malaysia. I stayed at a charming water villa on Mabul Island. I fell in love with the blend of affordable luxury, local flavor, and natural beauty.

Families, couples, and solo travelers found plenty to do. Many kids donned jellyfish suits to snorkel at any time. Tropical flowers and Southeast Asian décor graced every corner. Enjoy a fresh coconut on your balcony or shop with a friendly Bajau vendor. Even a spa session brings extra relaxation on your break from the daily grind.

10 Picked Overwater Villas in Semporna for Every Traveler

Below is my curated list of 10 overwater bungalows in Semporna for any traveler. These 10 family-friendly Semporna overwater bungalows, all for under $500, deeply introduced in 7 perspectives with their unique features and practical tips:

10 Best Semporna Water Villas Breakdown (2025 the latest)

Mabul Water Bungalows (MWB) – A Luxury Semporna Overwater Resort

Mabul Water Bungalows is a top choice for a luxury overwater bungalow for families. Nestled on Mabul Island, this resort features modern amenities and stunning views. Every villa comes with air-conditioning, a private bath and shower, and a full-view sea terrace. Some villas even boast Jacuzzi bathtubs!

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Family trips, honeymoons, recreational holidays, and dive enthusiasts. 
• Views: Enjoy uninterrupted ocean views from your private sea terrace. 
• Advantages: High privacy and all-inclusive access to snorkeling.

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$590 for 3D2N (off-peak)
• Package Inclusions:

• Round-trip transfer (Tawau Airport ↔ Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• Three meals and afternoon tea buffet daily (non-alcoholic drinks included)
• Unlimited snorkeling with free equipment rental
• Three daily snorkel and diving trips with fast boat transfers
• Extra bed available for children (plus fees)

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2004 with modern equipment and authentic Southeast Asian décor. 
• Air-conditioning available 24 hours a day. 
• Hot water is supplied all day; note it may cool slightly after 17:00. 
• Freshly updated bedding ensures no damp feeling. 
• The resort offers strong mobile phone signals with wide coverage.

Dining and Culinary Experience

• 3 daily buffet meals including Western and Malaysian options
• Fresh seafood with processing by staff (kitchen closes at 17:30)
• Specialty: Butter milk flavored lobster
• Malaysian or Chinese hot pot options available

Marine Activities & Service

• English and Chinese speaking butlers
• Unlimited snorkeling (15-minute early arrival recommended)
• Shallow dives available for non-certified divers (RM300+ per session)
• Complimentary glass boat ride
• Note: Guests must bring their own photographing gear

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 10:00, 13:00, and 16:00
• 45 minutes from Semporna town, 15 minutes from Sipadan
• Emergency medical paramedics available
• Safety warning: Avoid leaving resort after 17:30
• Peak hours: tourists come in early morning and midday affecting privacy slightly.

Chelsea’s POV: For family-oriented travelers who appreciate quality and ease, Mabul Water Bungalows is a standout choice. Enjoy a balance of luxury, cultural charm, and water-trading scenes with Bajau vendors on a paddling boat. If you prefer a laid-back atmosphere with top-notch snorkeling, this overwater bungalow for families is ideal. Book early—it’s highly popular during peak season!

Kapalai Dive Resort – Your Serene Semporna Water Villa Experience

Kapalai Dive Resort sits on a sandy islet between Sipadan and Mabul islands. Each overwater house here is built in traditional Malaysian style. The resort features 90 villa chalets. Stroll along one of its three man-made beaches or watch a stunning sunset from your balcony. This Semporna water villa is perfect for honeymoon couples and those seeking a quiet staycation.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: couples, quiet holiday seekers, and staycation enthusiasts.
• Views: Rooms 1-50: Close to restaurants and the snorkeling center; Rooms 51-70: Modern style with open views; After Room 70: Near the man-made beach, which is ideal for swimming during low tide.
• Advantages: High privacy and a unique “floating resort” experience on a coral reef. Enjoy direct views of marine life—from sea turtles and colorful corals to starry night skies on your balcony.

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$490 for 3D2N (off-peak)
• Package Inclusions:

• Round-trip transfer (Tawau Airport ↔ Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea buffet daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling with paid equipment rental
• Daily shuttle boat transfers
• Mabul Island Hopping Tour

Room Facilities

• Opened in 1997 with vintage charm; newer rooms (from #51) offer modern touches
• Air conditioning is available, though it may be milder. 
• Hot water is maintained all day, though it tends to be lukewarm. 
• Rooms do not offer WiFi. WiFi is available in the restaurant; consider using a Celcom phone card.

Dining and Culinary Experience

• 3 daily buffet meals including Seafood and various options
• Specialty: a roasted whole sheep dinner, adding a rare local twist.

Marine Activities & Service

• English and Chinese speaking butlers
• Enjoy unlimited snorkeling; equipment is available to rent. 
• Certified divers can dive, or others can fun dive with guidance with an extra fee. 
• activities include beach walks, glass boat kayaking, and paddling. 
• Honeymoon setups are available for about $40 per session
• Service: luggage handling and room change requests.

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 10:30, 13:30 toward resort; 9:30 and 13:30 for returns
• 45 minutes from Semporna town, 15 minutes from Sipadan
• Police presence on the island and rooms are equipped with an emergency bell;
• Island hopping tours require separate booking and depart from the jetty. 
• Safety warning: pregnant guests is not allowed

Chelsea’s POV: If you value a serene, detached water villa experience with ample opportunities for snorkeling in the nearby Jelly Sea, Kapalai Dive Resort is a strong contender. Although the meals and facilities are modest compared to other resorts, the overall experience feels cost-effective and charming. For travelers comparing overwater resorts, Kapalai may remind you of entry-level options in the Maldives—but with a uniquely intimate Semporna twist.

Pom Pom Island Resort & Spa – Eco-Friendly Semporna Water Villas

Pom Pom Island Resort & Spa is the largest overwater bungalows resort on Pom Pom Island. It has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence five years in a row. Enjoy your stay among 49 rooms spread across four room types: 5 Water Houses, 23 Beach Houses, 21 Garden Houses, and 3 Hexagonal Houses.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Families and eco-conscious travelers.
• Views: Enjoy a 360° sea view to immerse in sunrise & sunset
• Exclusive features:

• Ecological protection: A turtle hatchery with marine scientists stay here. Guests may participate in release baby turtles. 
• Diversified room types: Semporna is the only resort that offers water houses, sand houses, and garden villas. 
• WiFi: The resort invests in 4G network in all rooms. Public areas boast a strong WiFi signal.

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$480 for 3D2N
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer (Tawau Airport ↔ Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling around PomPom island
• Daily shuttle boat transfers
• Free Mabul Island Hopping Tour
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Seafood processing fee (MYR100 per once).

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2017 with modern yet natural touches. 
• Only five exclusive water houses are available. 
• Choose from Beach Houses that face the glassy sea or private Garden Villas among tropical flowers. 
• All rooms are air-conditioned and offer hot water all day. 
• Enjoy stable 4G and public area WiFi connectivity.

Dining and Culinary Experience

• 3 daily buffet meals including Seafood and various options
• Meals feature a mix of local and international dishes with seafood
• Specialty: a roasted whole sheep dinner, adding a rare local twist.
• Basic orange juice is on offer. Alcoholic beverages and ice cream are available at extra cost.

Marine Activities & Service

• English and Chinese speaking butlers
• Enjoy unlimited snorkeling; equipment is available to rent. 
• Island hopping to Mabul Island and Sipadan (advance booking is required)
• Kayaking, beach volleyball, and cycling around the island.
• Ecological tours such as visiting a sea turtle hatching base and coral planting
• Service: Honeymoon setup, luggage handling and room cleaning.
• Paid extras include diving, spa, and equipment rental.

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 12:30, 16:30 toward resort; 10:30, 14:30and 17:30 for returns
• 45 minutes from Semporna jetty, 50 minutes to Sipadan
• No water activities after 18:00 to avoid encounters with sea snakes or jellyfish.
• Coral reef protection is enforced. Snorkel only in designated areas.
• Pregnant guests are not recommended due to limited medical facilities.

Chelsea’s POV: If you value deep ecological experiences and varied room types, this resort is ideal. Enjoy stable Internet access, incredible water views, and firsthand encounters with nature. Pom Pom Island Resort & Spa is a top choice for families and eco-conscious travelers seeking Semporna overwater bungalows with an authentic twist.

Pom Pom Mussah Poteh Resort – Value-Driven Overwater Resort for Families

Although it lacks a true water house, it features sea view villas and sand houses offer exceptional value on Pom Pom Island. The resort is famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and serene environment. Enjoy spectacular sea views, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and even watch turtles at the Turtle Conservation Centre.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Families, couples, eco-conscious travelers, and beginner divers.
• Sea View Villa: Faces the pristine sea, riding the waves at low tide. 
• Garden Villa: Surrounded by tropical plants with high privacy and sights
• Exclusive features:

• Ecological protection: A turtle hatchery with marine scientists stay here. Guests may participate in release baby turtles. 
• The resort features Semporna’s first infinity-edge pool, water swings, and a double-decker sea-view restaurant.
• Daily trips to Tun Sakaran Marine Park, including Pearl Island and Mataking Island.

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$220 for 3D2N
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer ( Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling around PomPom island
• One free Island Hopping Tour daily
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Seafood processing fee and SPA fee is not included

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2017 with modern amenities.
• Rooms come with basic toiletries.
• All rooms are air-conditioned and offer hot water all day. 
• Public areas have stable WiFi. Rooms may have a weak signal;

Dining and Culinary Experience

• 3 daily buffet meals and afternoon tea.
• Meals focus on chicken and Southeast Asian flavors.
• you’ll find delicious prawns and fresh fruit joining the mix.
• Additional meal options include BBQ on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
• Beverage: lemon tea; alcoholic drinks and ice cream cost extra.

Marine Activities & Service

• Butler service is available and responds in simple English with enthusiasm.
• Unlimited snorkeling around PomPom; equipment is available to rent. 
• Karaoke (KTV) and BBQ events.
• Visits to the turtle hatchery and coral planting conservation programs. 
• Paid extras include diving, island mini-bar access, and OW/AOW diving certification services.
• One free island hopping trip per day. Trips cycle throughout the week:

• Monday: Timba-Timba Island  
• Tuesday: Mataking Island 
• Wednesday: Mabul Island 
• Thursday: Pearl Island
• Friday: Timba-Timba Island 
• Saturday: Mataking Island    
• Sunday: (Pearl Island)

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 12:30, 16:30 toward resort; 10:30, 14:30and 17:30 for returns
• 45 minutes from Semporna jetty, 50 minutes to Sipadan
• Alternatively, you can hire a private boat from as little as RM371.
• No water activities after 18:00 to avoid encounters with sea snakes or jellyfish. 
• Coral reef protection is enforced. Snorkel only in designated areas.
• Pregnant guests are not recommended due to limited medical facilities.

Chelsea’s POV: Pom Pom Mussah Poteh Resort is a top choice for families and couples seeking value and variety. With a unique blend of sea view and garden villas, it offers daily island hopping adventures. Its vibrant eco-activities and stunning natural scenery make this resort a refreshing alternative for eco-conscious travelers looking to enjoy Semporna’s overwater bungalows.

Mataking Reef Resort

If you’re looking to stay on Mataking Island, your only option is the Mataking Reef Resort. Although the water house is still under construction in 2025, the resort is secluded and offers easy access to the water. Known for its well-rated meals, this high-end four-star dive resort features an activity center with a variety of experiences, making it perfect for tourists seeking luxury and unique island charm.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: families/couples/diving enthusiasts
• Most rooms offer stunning views of the Celebes Sea, with some providing direct sunrise or sunset vistas.
• Exclusive features:

• High Privacy: Enjoy an exclusive experience on a private island with a tranquil environment, pristine sandy beaches, and rich marine life.
• Underwater Post Office: Experience the unique charm of underwater postcard delivery.
• Island Weddings: Celebrate with a romantic wedding that blends Western traditions and Malay elements.
• Sea Turtle Conservation Base: Engage with and support local sea turtle conservation efforts.

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$500 for 3D2N
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer ( Tawau↔ Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling till 18:00
• Free honeymoon decoration with proof
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Diving charges and SPA fee is not included

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2003 and rated as a 4-star resort in 2005.
• The resort features 63 rooms across 6 different types.
• All rooms come with air conditioning and include a private balcony, minibar, satellite TV, Jacuzzi, bathrobes, and all-day hot water supply.
• Stable Wi-Fi is available in public areas;

Dining and Culinary Experience

• Enjoy 3 meals plus afternoon tea, all served buffet-style.
• The buffet features a mix of international and Asian dishes, with fresh fruit available at every meal.
• On Thursdays, enjoy a BBQ featuring kebabs, seafood, and more.
• Wine and ice cream are available for an additional fee.

Marine Activities & Service

• English and Chinese speaking butlers, including wake-up calls, security, and small gift offerings.
• Unlimited snorkeling, access to the gym, glass boat rides, and BBQs.
• Participate in turtle release in the afternoon in specific period.
• Participate in activities, including sunset yacht cruises, stand-up paddleboarding, Pearl Island hiking, batik painting, and Malaysia-meal cooking.
• Scuba diving and OW/AOW certification, private dive guides, spa treatments, kayaking, and fishing are available for an additional fee.

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 09:30, 12:00, 15:30 toward resort; 11:00 and 14:00 for returns
• 60 minutes from Semporna jetty
• Mataking Island is part of the National Marine Sanctuary. Tourists must comply with regulations to protect the marine ecology.
• No air travel is allowed within 24 hours of diving to ensure safety.
• Pregnant guests are not recommended due to limited medical facilities.

Chelsea’s POV: For travelers seeking luxury and seclusion, Mataking Reef Resort offers the perfect water house experience. Ideal for couples wanting a romantic wedding or families with older children, the island boasts a diverse range of activities. Solo adventurers interested in island hopping and Sipadan diving may find more budget-friendly options elsewhere.

Jelly Sea Overwater Bungalows

Nestled near Pom Pom Island, Jelly Sea is a haven of relaxation, boasting Netflix-worthy hammocks akin to Bali’s best. Offering panoramic views of Celebes’ jelly sea, this retreat is a haven for Instagram enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Couples, friends, photography enthusiasts
• View: providing a 360° ocean vista with transparent glass floors to witness marine life 
• Instagram-ready net pocket beds for picture-perfect moments
• Activities as glass-bottom boat rides, sea fishing, and snorkeling adventures

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$300-400 for 3D2N all-inclusive
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer ( Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling around PomPom island & fishing
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Diving extra charges

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2023 with spacious overwater villas
• Rooms come with large terrace, hammocks, and toiletries provided
• All rooms are air-conditioned and offer hot water all day. 
• Limited WiFi

Dining and Culinary Experience

• 3 daily buffet meals and afternoon tea.
• A blend of Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisine with fresh fruit served at every meal
• Beverage: orange juice

Marine Activities & Service

• Chinese butlers available for bookings and inquiries
• Unlimited snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and sea fishing 
• Public singing performances

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 12:00, 15:00 toward resort; 10:30 and 13:30 for returns
• 45 minutes from Semporna jetty, 50 minutes to Sipadan
• Coral reef protection is enforced. Snorkel only in designated areas.
• Avoid air travel within 24 hours post diving for a safe exp.

Chelsea’s POV: If you’re looking for a beautiful space with a relaxed vibe, Jelly Sea Water House is a cost-effective choice. It’s conveniently located near Semporna pier, making transportation easy. The vacation house offers free activities like sea fishing, karaoke, and mahjong, along with Chinese butlers—perfect for Chinese travelers.

Crystal Overwater house

Discover the allure of this new Netflix sensation, offering a retreat with a bird’s nest roof in a secluded sea location. Experience a vacation ambiance like no other, complete with a cozy balcony for peaceful relaxation.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for first-time waterfront travelers seeking serenity and nature
• View: Surrounded by the sea, each room is a standalone sanctuary with a simple balcony
• Bird’s nest room design providing shade on the balcony
• Activities as glass-bottom boat rides, sea fishing, and snorkeling adventures

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$200-350 for 3D2N all-inclusive
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer ( Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling & glass-bottom boat paddling
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Diving extra charges

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2022 with 14 overwater houses and spacious rooms with balconies
• Rooms come with large terrace, hammocks, and toiletries provided
• All rooms are air-conditioned and offer hot water all day. 
• Limited WiFi

Dining and Culinary Experience

• 3 daily buffet meals and afternoon tea.
• Indulge in Sabah flavor with the option to purchase and prepare your own seafood with a Chinese twist

Marine Activities & Service

• Chinese butlers available for bookings and inquiries
• Unlimited snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and TV rooms
• Embark on island-hopping tours for an additional fee (average RM200)

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 12:00, 14:30 toward resort; 10:30 and 13:30 for returns
• 20 minutes from Semporna jetty
• Coral reef protection is enforced. Snorkel only in designated areas.
• Fishing is prohibited near the resort

Chelsea’s POV: For those seeking a birdhouse design, privacy, and affordability, Crystal Waterhouse is a great option. Its island-hopping package is budget-friendly, making it ideal for young travelers looking for a unique water house experience in Semporna.

Shun Shun Waterhouse – Where Serenity Meets Affordability

Shun Shun Waterhouse offers great value for money with its Scandinavian minimalist design. Just a 10-minute boat ride from the marina, it features free flipper and mask rentals, a sea-view restaurant for gourmet meals, and spacious 40 sq. ft. accommodations with oversized balconies—a perfect choice for diverse travelers.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Small groups of friends or family with limited budget
• Surrounded by the sea with expansive balconies for ocean views
• Convenient location for exploring the town, spacious accommodations, and a tranquil water house setting

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$300-400 for 3D2N all-inclusive
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer ( Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling & glass-bottom boat
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Diving & island hopping extra charges

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2019 with 12 rooms featuring standard amenities
• Rooms come with toiletries provided
• All rooms are air-conditioned and offer hot water all day.
• WiFi available 

Dining and Culinary Experience

• Enjoy a variety of dishes with sea views at the on-site restaurant, offering refreshing drinks and snacks
• Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring both meat and seafood options.

Marine Activities & Service

• Friendly and attentive butlers ready to cater to guests’ needs
• Engage in unlimited snorkeling & glass-bottom boat tours
• Embark on island-hopping tours for an additional fee (average RM200)

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 12:30, 14:30, 17:30 toward resort; 08:30, 10:00, 14:00 and 16:00 for returns
• 10 minutes from Semporna jetty
• Respect for the local ecology and avoid damaging coral reefs and marine life
• Watch out for sea urchins, corals, and other marine life by wearing appropriate protective gear in the water

Chelsea’s POV: Shun Shun Waterhouse is a popular choice in Semporna, thanks to its sleek white exterior, spacious rooms, and affordable rates. Just a 10-minute boat ride from the pier, it offers easy access to town. With roomy accommodations and a restaurant on-site, it’s ideal for budget travelers seeking comfort without luxury, earning solid ratings overall.

Danglai Resort – A Sanctuary of Romance and Luxury

Indulge in the Mediterranean charm of Danglai Resort, a secluded haven where luxury meets tranquility. With just five exclusive rooms, each featuring private pools and stunning ocean views, this retreat promises an intimate escape for couples.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Couples seeking a romantic getaway / Small groups of 4-5
• View: Surrounded by the sea, enjoy 360-degree views with transparent glass decks and direct access to the sea
• Santorini-style design with private pools and Mediterranean vacation aesthetics
• Fishing Gear Rental available for outdoor enthusiasts
• Romantic experiences like candlelit dinners and room decorations

Price and Package Details

• Price: ~$450-500 for 3D2N all-inclusive
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• Round-trip transfer ( Semporna Jetty ↔ Resort)
• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling & glass-bottom boat & kayaking
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Diving extra charges

Room Facilities

• Opened in 2023 with 5 spacious overwater houses and large balcony spaces
• Rooms come with toiletries provided
• All rooms are air-conditioned and offer hot water all day. 

Dining and Culinary Experience

• Savor Southeast Asian flavors with 3 meals a day and Sabah-style pastries for afternoon tea
• Guests can catch their own seafood for the kitchen to prepare with a personalized touch

Marine Activities & Service

• Dedicated attendants available for guest assistance and inquiries
• Unlimited snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and kayaking
• Embark on island-hopping tours for an additional fee (average RM200)

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 12:00, 14:30 toward resort; 10:30 and 13:30 for returns
• 20 minutes from Semporna jetty
• Coral reef protection is enforced. Snorkel only in designated areas.
• Watch out for sea urchins, corals, and other marine life by wearing appropriate protective gear in the water

Chelsea’s POV: Danglai Resort offers a romantic escape with its Santorini-style villas, private pools, and exclusive services, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a luxurious retreat in Semporna.

Maglami Waterhouse

Embrace the simplicity and warmth of Maglami Waterhouse, where the focus is on providing a genuine local experience. With a room rate of only $120 per night for a triple room, this accommodation caters to groups seeking value and an immersive cultural encounter.

Key Features and Positioning

• Best for: Small groups of 3-4 seeking for local experience.
• View: offering stunning sea views, particularly overlooking the natural beauty of Bohey Dulang Island.
• Hospitable owner who serenades with a guitar to perform
• Terrace loungers for stargazing and turtle-watching
• Authentic Malaysian-style meals that tantalize the taste buds

Price and Package Details

• Price: $120-150 per house for an all-inclusive stay
• Package Inclusions & Exclusion:

• 3 meals and afternoon tea daily (non-alcoholic drinks)
• Unlimited snorkeling
• Government tax, jetty tax, and island fees are not included
• Not include diving charges, island hopping and boat transfer fares

Room Facilities

• Featuring a total of 6 rooms with a mix of air conditioning and electric fans to complement the sea breeze on the balcony
• Hot water available but temperature may drop after 5:00 PM
• limited Wi-Fi access in common areas

Dining and Culinary Experience

• buffet-style meals featuring a range of local dishes, seafood, meats, and refreshing beverages
• Diverse culinary options with a focus on local Malaysian flavors, offering a cost-effective dining experience

Marine Activities & Service

• Friendly attendents with basic English communication skills
• Dive into unlimited snorkeling experiences
• Engage in island-hopping tours with a discounted rate of RM50 for an enriching adventure

Accessibility and Safety 

• Daily boat trips: 14:00 toward waterhouse; 17:00 for returns
• 20 minutes from Semporna jetty
• Respect for the local ecology and avoid damaging coral reefs and marine life
• Some tourists mentioned that there may be ants in the room.
• Watch out for sea urchins, corals, and other marine life by wearing appropriate protective gear in the water

Chelsea’s POV: For travelers seeking an authentic experience in Semporna, Maglami Waterhouse is the perfect choice. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the jelly sea, enjoy snorkeling adventures, and embark on island-hopping tours. Interact with locals, listen to the guitar-playing owner, and savor the essence of life at Maglami Waterhouse for a truly enriching stay..

Semporna’s overwater bungalows offer an ideal mix of affordability, stunning beauty, and unique charm that appeals to all types of travelers. Picture waking up to gentle waves beneath your bungalow, with breathtaking views of turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs—paradise without the hefty price tag.

As you plan your next getaway, explore our curated list of 10 remarkable Semporna overwater bungalows, each with its own allure. Don’t forget to check out our other posts on Semporna and Sabah for more travel inspiration and tips for your unforgettable adventure!

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Semporna Water Villas