Kapalai Island Resort Review in Sabah

Many may say this is not an island but a sandbank with a resort built over it and is one of the largest environmentally friendly resorts in this part of Sabah.

Over the years, it has been commonly known as Kapalai Island, and this stunning luxury resort sits just off Mabul Island and is a mere forty minutes by boat from the coastal town of Semporna.

One of the larger water bungalows at Kapalai Island

In general, the entire resort is built of wood, miles of it which make up the entire resort structure and walkways.

When you walk around, you will most likely see all kinds of beautiful coral fishes on your left, right and even under the walkways as if you are in an aquarium. 

Many newlyweds come here for their honeymoon as each of the units are individual, offering fantastic privacy. 

Renting the entire island is another thing one can do for a private party, event or wedding, provided you are up for this, and you need to probably a year ahead for this. 

The owners have used ironwood or Berlian for the entire construction of the resort. This type of wood is the best as it lasts hundreds of years.  

In other words, there is no air conditioning here, but the location of this resort is quite windy with no obstructions; hence you will enjoy a cooling time at night. 

For electricity, the resort operates on Southeast Asian standard 220 volts electrical points. Balconies provide a private sunbathing area and incredible views. 

Like any other sea resort, the facilities include a proper restaurant with open and indoor areas, gift shops, snorkelling, and diving facilities.

But what stands out here is the incredible sea views that allow guests to see natural marine life from all over the resort.

Walking around or even from your villa balcony, the crystal clear waters showcase schools of fish, coral fishes, corals and occasionally the wandering turtles that pass by. 

There is also a unique island-shaped sun deck with powdery white sand and a couple of palm trees with a staircase leading down to the sandbank.

A scuba diver just outside the resort

Many heads here, as Kapalai are well known for their macro diving, where you can find several unique macro critters.

But there are also some large fish found in the waters here, so the balance is pretty good for all kinds of divers.

In total, there are about ten dive sites around Kapalai Island, and all of them require a few minutes boat ride out while some are just meters away from the resort. 

For night divers, there is also an introductory session available. There is the Discover Scuba Diver or DSD available for guests who want to simply have the experience. 

Kapalai sits off the coast from Semporna town on the east coast of Sabah, and the closest airport is Tawau Airport.

You need to take a taxi or van transfer from the airport, about 60 to 90 minutes drive to Semporna town.

From the main jetty area of Semporna, the Kapalai speed boat will take another forty-minute boat ride to the resort. 

Alternatively, you can also charter a helicopter from Kota Kinabalu Airport to here, but it will be even more costly. At the resort, a helicopter landing pad is available. 

You can book through tour agents or contact the resort directly as they have various island packages ranging from leisure stays to scuba diving packages. 

The best time to visit Kapalai Island is from April till September. Also, you should highly take note that the ultimate time to stay here is on weekdays as it is less crowded.

And for anyone who loves privacy, this is one of the highly recommended places to stay, but keep in mind about the peak season here.