Mataking Island Resort Review
Over the years, I’ve visited many islands across Malaysia, but Mataking Island in Sabah truly stands out as one of the best. Here’s my honest review of this hidden gem.
When most people think of Malaysian islands, names like Penang, Langkawi, Tioman, or Perhentian usually come to mind. But trust me—you’re in for a delightful surprise.
What many don’t realise is that Malaysia is home to several islands that rival some of the world’s most famous beach destinations, including the Maldives. Mataking Island is one such place, offering a similar experience with top-notch service, powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, a world-class spa, and an enchanting underwater paradise perfect for divers and snorkelers alike.
And here’s the best part—you get to enjoy all this without paying in US dollars, but in Ringgit Malaysia, making it an incredible value for travellers.
As Asians, we often think we need to travel far to places like Bali or the Maldives for a perfect beach holiday. But the truth is, some of the most beautiful islands are right here in our backyard. I wrote this review to highlight Malaysia’s stunning coastal treasures and encourage everyone to explore the amazing destinations our country has to offer.
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| Outdoor view from the bar |
The island is so private that there is only one resort, The Reef Dive Resort, a 5-star luxury resort that caters to scuba divers and general island lovers.
Only 40 acres in size, there is nothing else but pristine beauty and one resort, in other words, just perfect for that romantic holiday you have been planning all this while.
Not only that, but the resort also caters to island weddings where you can book out the entire island just for your wedding.
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| The beach villa unit bedroom. |
Mataking Reef Dive Resort Facilities
Mataking Resort offers beach villas, beach chalets, king chalets, and garden view deluxe rooms as accommodations. Depending on the nature of your visit here, you can choose from the most luxurious to the simplest accommodations.
There is also a spa here, which is of international standards, called the Jamu Spa, and I highly recommend you try this when you visit Mataking Island. Facilities include a full-service restaurant, a bar with indoor and outdoor areas, a pool table, a turtle hatchery and several non-motorised water sports.
Snorkelling and scuba diving are the main attractions here. For lovers or couples, you will find that time comes to a standstill here as you are absorbed in the tranquillity of the beauty.
On a side note, if you are the person who constantly needs the internet or loves checking your Facebook and Instagram, it is best not to come here. Just go to Langkawi or Penang.
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| Staff welcoming guests to Mataking Reef Resort. |
As for food, the restaurant here serves food throughout the day, so all meals are provided in your Mataking package. Breakfast is available in continental and Asian styles, while lunch offers a buffet spread or, if you prefer, à la carte options.
Dinner is quite lovely, offering a selection of seafood, Western, and local dishes. For those who constantly need a food supply, room service is available. I also recommend bringing your snacks.
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| The crystal clear waters of Mataking Island |
A romantic table setting can be requested on the veranda of the restaurant, complete with candlelight. If you are here for your honeymoon or wedding, the resort will take care of everything to ensure it’s perfect for the couple.
Other special arrangements can also be made, such as proposals, surprises, and so on, but you should double-check with the resort as well.
The island is catered for anyone who wants to escape commercialised tourism, where you can go back to basics and chill out without having to worry about life, work or traffic jams.
When I was here, I indulged in my ‘me time’ and shut off my smartphone and laptop. I took the time to walk and explore the island, did a bit of scuba diving, and, most importantly, tried out the spa, which was one of the best I’ve tried in years.
Scuba Diving at Mataking Island
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| A shipwreck during my dive at Mataking |
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| The famous Mataking ‘Underwater Post Office’ |
As for scuba divers, Mataking Island is one of the must-dive locations in Malaysia. Why? Because one of the dive sites here features the world’s only underwater post box, where you can post a postcard or letter to anyone around the world.
I wrote a postcard to some friends and went to try this out. Quite intriguing and fascinating, in my opinion, as this was an unexpected underwater experience.
In total, there are about 37 luxurious villas and chalets here, most of which are just steps from the white sand beach. Another bonus is that when the tide goes down, you can walk on the white sandbank to the smaller Mataking island, which is a few hundred meters away.
This is also one of the most popular spots for photography. In the main complex, there is a souvenir and gift shop where they sell t-shirts and some snacks, but that is all. So, if you need all your supplies, snacks, and so on, you’d better get them in Semporna town before taking the boat here.
Finally, in my style of reviewing, I do not like to go into too much detail as it would spoil the fun so I suggest the next time you want that Maldive holiday, look no further as you can do it here at Mataking Island for less than half the price you are going to pay over there. Oh yeah, there is WiFi in the lobby area, so not all is lost for those who need a constant internet connection.
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| Mataking Kecil seen from the main island |
You can also check out my other articles on other islands to visit in Malaysia, as I visited all of those islands during my travels around the country.
Conclusion
Malaysia is a stunning destination that offers a wide variety of tourism experiences—from thrilling outdoor adventures to romantic escapes, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, on the island of Borneo.
Although travelling there requires a bit more effort from Kuala Lumpur or Peninsular Malaysia, numerous budget airlines operate daily flights, making it more accessible than ever.
I hope you enjoyed this Mataking Island review. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from you.
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