Heading to Semporna, Sabah? Lucky you! It’s a beautiful part of the world. The next step after deciding to go is to find the best hotel in Semporna, Sabah. And that’s what we will help you with here!
Most tourists head to Semporna to visit its islands including the Tun Sakaran Marine Park. Semporna’s diving reputation is world renowned, and its waters are thriving with marine life. The city centre of Semporna has a few interesting attractions, great seafood restaurants and a number of comfortable hotels. If you’re diving or island hoping, you’ll want to be near the public jetty, and there are plenty of options.
In this article, I will help you find the best hotels Semporna has to offer no matter what your budget or what exactly you are looking for.
So whether you are looking for a resort Semporna, Sabah offers, the top hotel Semporna, Sabah option or a budget hotel in Semporna, we have you covered with the best accommodation Semporna has for you.
Here is our list of the best Semporna, Sabah hotel options as well as some information about exactly where to stay in Semporna.
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Contents
Comparison Of The Best Hotels In Semporna
| Hotel Name | Stars | Price | Top Features | Book |
| Sea Star Resort Semporna | ★★★★ | $$$ | Private water chalets, meals and boat trip from jetty included | Click here |
| Semporna Seaview Hotel | ★★★ | $ | Clean and comfortable, great location, affordable | Click here |
| Jono’s Place Semporna | ★ | $ | Homely atmosphere, well stocked communal kitchen | Click here |
| Ocean Inn | ★ | $ | Desk in room, massage services on-site, great location | Click here |
| Green World Hotel | ★★★ | $$ | Rooftop bar, well equipped rooms, late checkout | Click here |
| Sky Water Villas Semporna | ★★★★ | $$$ | Water chalets, all inclusive stay, beautiful setting | Click here |
| Seafest Hotel | ★★★ | $$ | Resort facilities like pool, spa, sauna, fitness centre and two restaurants | Click here |
| Wave View Hotel | ★★ | $$ | On-site bar and restaurant, strategic location | Click here |
| A Hotel | ★★★ | $ | Unlimited drinking water, communal kitchen, breakfast included | Click here |
| Rich Villa By Amina Holidays | ★★★★★ | $ | Peaceful location, villa style accommodation, breakfast included | Click here |
Top 10 Best Hotel In Semporna, Sabah
Sea Star Resort Semporna Review
Address: Kampung Labuan Haji, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: 5 to 10 minute boat ride from the Public Jetty in Semporna
Room Types: Double/twin water chalets
Top Features:
- Private water chalets with balcony
- Meals included
- 24-hour front desk that can organise island hopping tours
- Free WiFi
Semporna is among the top places to stay in a water chalet, and this is exactly what you’ll find at Sea Star Resort Semporna. This is the best resort in Semporna for those looking to get away. This is a small resort located fairly close to the jetty. It takes just 5 – 10 minutes to reach the resort by boat. The boat is free for guests.
All accommodation is either double or twin water chalets, each with comfortable beds, a nice sitting area, a private bathroom, and your own balcony overlooking the water in this tropical paradise. There is no fridge or TV in the rooms, but there is air-conditioning, free WiFi, daily housekeeping and laundry services available.
As its name suggests, there are lots of starfish around the resort. This makes it a great area for snorkelling, with the resort offering equipment for partaking in water activities. It’s also a great spot for starting your island hopping tour. The friendly staff at the 24 hour front desk can help you to organise this, as well as airport transfers.
When it comes to food, there are three meals offered per day in the restaurant, with buffet meals available. They also offer a café, afternoon tea and a bar at night.
Whilst the accommodation is expensive and you’ll need to book in advance, it’s hard to beat these stunning water chalets.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Stunning water views from your private balcony. Great area for water activities. All meals provided by the resort. Super friendly staff.
Worst Parts?
No in room fridge or TV. Expensive and booking far in advance is essential during peak periods.
Summary
Clear water, good food and friendly staff. This is among the top water resort Semporna options for experiencing the best of Semporna and her islands.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Semporna Seaview Hotel Review
Address: Jalan Kastam, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Positioned just by the Public Jetty and close to the best restaurants in town
Room Types: Standard twin/queen rooms as well as deluxe twin/queen/king rooms with a private balcony and sea views
Top Features:
- Unique container style accommodation
- Modern, clean and affordable rooms
- Great location
- Free WiFi
Semporna Seaview Hotel offers affordable, fresh and comfortable container style accommodation right by the Public Jetty Semporna. This is the best spot for access to island hopping tours, as well as nearby local restaurants.
You can choose from standard twin/queen rooms, or a deluxe double/twin/king room with a balcony with great views overlooking the water. Rooms include free bottled water, a kettle, tea and coffee, and a modern, private bathroom. There’s also a small flatscreen TV for relaxing, and air-conditioning for comfort. Free WiFi is also available as well as daily housekeeping.
This is an affordable hotel and there are some drawbacks, namely that there is no fridge or safe in the room, and no elevator in the building. There is no on-site restaurant. However, there are many excellent options nearby including the Sea View Seafood restaurant.
Rooms are very clean and comfortable, and the unique container style accommodation makes staying here an experience in itself.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Super convenient location. Affordable accommodation in comfortable, clean, airy rooms. Free bottled water is available.
Worst Parts?
WiFi connection could be improved. There’s no elevator which may limit accessibility for some guests. It can be noisy and rooms are small.
Summary
Semporna Seaview Hotel is the Semporna best hotel price for what it offers. Its super convenient location near the jetty makes it great for both island hoping tours and enjoying the fare offered at local restaurants.
Click here for more information and the latest prices or read our full review of this hotel here.
Jono’s Place Semporna Review
Address: Lot A2 & A3 2nd floor Block ATaman Bandar, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Close to many shops and restaurants, as well as the public jetty
Room Types: Queen, triple and family rooms. Loft options also available. All rooms have access to a shared bathroom
Top Features:
- Great atmosphere with a homely vibe
- Fast and reliable WiFi
- Cooking ingredients and guest kitchen available
- Super tidy
Jono’s Place is a homestay Semporna option. It is positioned just a short walk away from the public jetty. This is a super tidy guesthouse offering affordable accommodation.
At Jono’s Place, your Semporna stay includes free WiFi in public spaces, which is fast and reliable, a washing machine for guest us, and a lovely wooden aesthetic which makes for a natural and homely feeling.
Rooms are simple but cosy and very well thought out. You can choose from queen bed, triple bed or family rooms, each with access to a clean shared bathroom. There’s also lots of shelving and hangers for clothes to stay neat and organised. Beds are very comfortable.
Guests also have access to a pantry with simple foods like noodles, eggs, bread and coffee provided by the guesthouse, and there is a kitchen where you can cook your own food.
Best of all, the vibe of this guesthouse is lovely, with a very friendly owner, and a TV and sitting area in the hall for relaxing and interacting with other guests.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
One of the best locations in Semporna, especially if you have an early morning tour. The guesthouse offers food and a kitchen for guests to cook. Comfortable rooms and very clean. It’s also very affordable.
Worst Parts?
All rooms have access to a shared bathroom, so if you’re looking for an ensuite, you wont find it here. WiFi might have connection issues in rooms, but is strong in public spaces.
Summary
Jono’s Place Semporna is one of the top guesthouses you’ll find in Semporna. The communal kitchen is a real gem, and the friendly owner and cosy wooden aesthetic will leave you feeling very much at home.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Ocean Inn Review
Address: Lot B5 & B6, Semporna Seafront Resort Township, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91307 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Close to many shops and restaurants, as well as the public jetty
Room Types: Standard twin/queen rooms with balcony options. Family rooms also available
Top Features:
- Free WiFi in all rooms
- Rooms have a TV and desk
- In one of the best hotel area Semporna offers
Ocean Inn is a Sabah Semporna hotel with modern rooms and is positioned in one of the best locations in Semporna.
You can choose from standard rooms with queen or twin beds, or a family room which sleeps 4 guests. Kids under 5 stay free in your bed. Additional bedding is charged at MYR 50 per person.
Rooms are well equipped with a desk, a flatscreen TV, closet space and a private bathroom. Some rooms have a balcony where you can sit outside and look out over the water. Rooms are on the smaller side, but have all the comforts you would expect in a mid-range hotel. There is also free coffee, tea and bottled water.
On-site, there’s a 24 hour front desk, massage services and vending machines if you fancy a snack. There’s no on-site restaurant, but there are many options nearby. Breakfast is included in some rooms but is not offered on-site. Instead, the staff will give you a voucher and you’ll need to make your way to a nearby hotel for breakfast.
This city inn hotel Semporna has poor soundproofing. However, it is clean and offers a lot for budget accommodation.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Clean, well equipped rooms for a budget price. Free WiFi in all rooms. One of the best locations to stay in Semporna.
Worst Parts?
Poor soundproofing. Rooms are on the smaller side. Breakfast is not provided on-site.
Summary
If you need a convenient and affordable hotel in Semporna, Ocean Inn is a great choice. They offer well equipped rooms in one of the top locations in Semporna.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Green World Hotel Review
Address: KM 1, Jalan Bubul, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91307 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Next door to a McDonalds and close to many shops, restaurants, a night market and the museum
Room Types: Standard, superior and deluxe rooms with either a king or twin beds
Top Features:
- Rooftop bar/café and restaurant
- Plenty of attractions nearby
- Well equipped rooms
- Late checkout
Staying at Green World Hotel Semporna offers guests several advantages such as free parking, free WiFi, a rooftop café/bar and a 24 hour reception desk with late checkout between 12pm and 1pm.
Whilst the location is far from the public jetty, it is good for exploring the centre of Semporna and her restaurants, sites of worship, a local night market and nearby museum.
Rooms at Green Hotel Semporna range from standard, superior and deluxe options, with the main distinction being a bit more space in the superior and deluxe rooms. Each room type offers either king or twin beds. Rooms have a flatscreen TV, a kettle with tea and coffee, free bottled water and a really comfortable bed. Rooms also have a private bathroom with towels and a hair dryer, as well as some toiletries like soap and a toothbrush.
Most rooms include a good but small breakfast. There is also a basic restaurant on-site serving Asian fare, and many others nearby.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Breakfast included in most rooms. Rooms have all the comforts expected. Close to the museum and a night market.
Worst Parts?
Far from the Semporna Jetty. Breakfast is a bit small.
Summary
Green Hotel Semporna may be further from the jetty, but its location offers its own unique attractions. Rooms offer guests the comfort that is expected of a mid-range hotel, making for a pleasant stay.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sky Water Villas Semporna Review
Address: Sky Water Villas, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91300 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: About 1 hour away from Semporna Jetty by speedboat
Room Types: Sunvilla or Starview villas with king beds
Top Features:
- One of the floating resort Semporna options
- All inclusive stay with all meals provided
- One of the most photographic spots in Semporna
If you’re looking for a true getaway with the planning done of you, Sky Water Villas Semporna is a top choice. Positioned in one of the most photographic settings in Semporna, Sky Water Villas is a beautiful new resort with villas positioned above the sparkling blue water below.
This is a pricey Sabah Semporna resort, but for good reason. Your stay is all inclusive with 3 to 4 meals a day, transfers to and from the jetty, and experiences like kayaking in a glass bottom kayak and snorkelling. The food served here is delicious and consists of a buffet with several choices. You can also make special requests.
There are two large villas to choose from – Sunview or Starview. Villas offer a wooden aesthetic, with lovely furnishings and quality linen, towels and toiletries. There is a private balcony and free bottled water. These villas feel luxurious but whilst they are clean, there is room for improvement as the resort can attract small critters.
As can be expected, the resort offers air-conditioning, daily housekeeping and friendly staff at the 24-hour front desk. There is also a shared lounge with a TV where you can mingle with other guests. This is a wonderful floating hotel Semporna for water activities and for truly relaxing.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
This is an all inclusive resort with meals, entertainment and equipment for water activities all included. Rooms feel luxurious and the setting is among the most “instagramable” in all of Semporna.
Worst Parts?
This is a pricey option. It can also attract insects.
Summary
Sky Water Villas Semporna is a new resort with great service. With all meals included and a picturesque setting, it’s one of the best places in Semporna to get away.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Seafest Hotel Review
Address: Jalan Kastam, P.O Box 125, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Right by the public jetty and a stones throw away from the Semporna Ocean Tourism Centre
Room Types: Twin/double rooms with standard, executive and deluxe options, and suites with extra beds
Top Features:
- On-site pool, spa and fitness centre
- Two on-site restaurants
- Great WiFi connection
Seafest Hotel is a popular resort at Semporna with plenty of facilities.
Seafest Hotel Semporna offers twin/double rooms with executive and deluxe options. There are also larger suites with a kitchenette and lounge area, and family rooms too. Most rooms include free bottled water, tea, coffee, a mini bar and a flatscreen TV. The rooms are a bit dated and could do with a refresh.
Note that depending on which room you book, you may be sent to the Seafest Express across the street. It’s worth asking which hotel you will be staying at ahead of time.
The hotel is located in the best position for an early morning dive tour as it’s right by the public jetty and a stones throw away from the Semporna Ocean Tourism Centre.
At the end of the day, you can relax at the hotel’s pool, spa, sauna and on-site fitness centre. There are also two on-site restaurants, and the hotel serves a daily buffet breakfast, with both western and Asian options. The hotel also offers a laundry service, daily housekeeping, an on-site convenience store, a café, parking and great WiFi. Executive rooms also get access to an executive lounge.
Whilst quality has dropped a little since covid, for all that it offers, it is an affordable and comfortable choice.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Plenty of resort style facilities like a pool, spa, fitness centre, on-site restaurants and convenience store. Great WiFi. One of the top locations in town. Affordable for all that it offers.
Worst Parts?
The quality has dipped a little. Rooms are dated. Some guests may be sent across the road to Seafest Express.
Summary
Whilst hotel Seafest Semporna loses points in some areas, it does offer guests a lot, especially at this price range. Staying here is more like staying at a resort with plenty of on-site facilities and a great location to boot.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Wave View Hotel Review
Address: Lot 1, Semporna Seafront Resort Township, Peti Surat 150, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Overlooking the public jetty and close to shops and famous eateries
Room Types: Twin/double rooms, with or without balcony, and premier rooms with a king and single bed
Top Features:
- Free parking and free WiFi
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Strategic location
With daily housekeeping, free parking, free WiFi with decent speed and an on-site restaurant, Wave View Hotel is a great place to base yourself in Semporna. Many of Semporna’s most famous eateries are nearby, and the hotel offers a strategic location for shops and tours.
Rooms at Wave View Hotel include double and twin options, and you can select from standard, superior and deluxe rooms. The standard rooms are small but comfortable. Deluxe rooms offer a balcony and lovely sea view. All rooms include a TV, bottled water, tea and coffee and a private bathroom with towels, toiletries and a hairdryer. The towels, however, are old and could use a refresh.
The hotel serves guests an Asian breakfast, and there is an on-site bar which plays live music at night. Whilst this is good for some guests, for others, the noise might be bothersome.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
A great location for tours, eateries and shops. There is an on-site restaurant and bar with live music at night. Deluxe rooms have lovely views.
Worst Parts?
The towels are old. The music from the bar can be loud at night.
Summary
Wave View Hotel offers everything one would expect in a mid-range hotel. With free parking, WiFi, a daily breakfast and a strategic location, there are some real perks to staying here.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
A Hotel Review
Address: Bangunan Sedco Jalan Hospital, Taman Bandar Semporna, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: A 5 minute walk to the public jetty
Room Types: Queen rooms and quadruple rooms with bunk beds perfect for families
Top Features:
- Free WiFi and car parking
- Water dispenser
- Light breakfast included
- Communal kitchen for guest use
If you’re on the hunt for spacious and affordable rooms for a family, A Hotel is a top choice.
The appearance of this hotel is more like a comfortable hostel than a hotel. However, it offers private queen and quadruple rooms with a private bathroom.
Rooms are simple but clean and tidy with a TV and air-conditioning. The quadruple rooms are quite spacious, and kids under 12 stay free in existing beds. Some rooms also have a balcony.
Facilities are quite limited at this hotel. They offer a water dispenser where you have unlimited access to drinking water. There’s also free WiFi, a shared guest kitchen with limited items for use, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. A light breakfast is included with all rooms.
There is no housekeeping service here, but you can request clean sheets if you are staying longer than a day. It is not the best when it comes to soundproofing. However, at just a 5 minute walk away from the jetty, its location is top notch.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Spacious quadruple rooms are great for families. A light breakfast is included in the room rate. It’s just a 5 minute walk to the public jetty.
Worst Parts?
The soundproofing of this hotel is not great. There is no housekeeping service.
Summary
A Hotel offers simple accommodation which is functional, clean and comfortable for a short stay. This is a good pick for families looking for budget accommodation.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Rich Villa By Amina Holidays Review
Address: Rich Villa, Batu 3, SA51 Jalan Tawau – Semporna 91308 Semporna, Sabah, Semporna Suburb, 91308 Semporna, Malaysia
Near: Remote location with very few shops around and 5 kilometres from Semporna city centre
Room Types: One bedroom villas with either double or twin beds
Top Features:
- Quiet location
- Modern villa style accommodation
- Breakfast included
- Free WiFi and parking
Rich Villa By Amina is perfect if you want to get away from Semporna’s noisy city centre. It is positioned about 5 kilometres from the centre, and whilst it is near a road, it is super quiet and peaceful.
You’ll find a free car park here, as well as free WiFi. You can choose from a selection of one bedroom villas, with standard and deluxe rooms on offer. Each offers a patio with a sitting area, a work station, air-conditioning, and a modern, fresh bathroom with toiletries including a toothbrush and soap.
Rooms are comfortable and clean with plenty of space. There is no TV, minibar or complimentary bottled water which might be expected in a 5-star hotel.
Breakfast is provided and complimentary for guests. However, there is no on-site restaurant.
The accommodation here feels safe and secure. It is quiet enough to hear the birds singing, and there is a picnic area where you relax. However, as there is very little around, you’ll want to take some supplies with you, including bottled water. If you’re not driving, you’ll also need to take a taxi or Grab to get around.
Click here for more information.
Best Parts?
Comfortable, clean and spacious villas. Located in a quiet and peaceful setting. Guests receive a complimentary breakfast.
Worst Parts?
It is far from the city centre. The hotel does not provide drinking water.
Summary
Rich Villa By Amina is our top choice for accommodation outside of the city centre. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is a great choice. Just be sure to bring some supplies with you.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Map Of The Best Hotel At Semporna
I hope you found this guide to the top hotels in Semporna, Sabah useful. Read our list of the top things to do in Semporna, everything to know about Semporna island hopping and exactly how to get to Semporna from Tawau or Sandakan. You can also find our full guide to Semporna and Sabah here.
Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
