🌊 Coral Dreams & Turtle Tales at Pom Pom Island Resort

#kotakinabaluguide

Background
Pom Pom Island Resort & Spa is a tropical hideaway situated about 45 minutes by boat from Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia, in the Celebes Sea.  The island itself is just over 30 kilometres northeast of Semporna town.  It’s a small coral reef island with a circumference at high tide of around 2.3 km and is surrounded by fringing reefs and white sand beaches. The resort is built to blend with the natural surroundings, with lush vegetation, palm trees, and sea views. 

There are several types of villas: Beach Villas, just steps from the beach; Garden Villas, tucked behind under palm trees; and Water Villas, raised above the sea with private decks offering panoramic sea views. All villas are air-conditioned, have private bathrooms, private balconies or decks, and are designed with comfort and privacy in mind. 

Why It’s Worth Visiting
If you love marine life, serenity, and natural beauty, Pom Pom delivers. The resort has its own PADI-certified dive centre, and guests can snorkel or dive to explore colourful reefs, small marine creatures, and glimpses of turtles (green & hawksbill) that nest on the beaches.  There’s also a turtle hatchery which gives you the chance to learn about conservation, possibly even witnessing baby turtles released to the sea. 

On land, the resort has lots of amenities to balance out adventure: a spa (“Yin & Yang Spa”) offering massages and treatments; a clubhouse/restaurant/bar area built using Belian wood trunks in a coral-inspired design; games room (darts, pool), kayak rentals, beach volleyball, cycling around the island, and relaxing hammocks or sun beds. 

My Impression
Staying at Pom Pom Island feels like stepping into a slower, gentler pace. The sound of waves lapping, the scent of salt-air mingled with tropical foliage, watching stars with no city light, and snorkeling in clear water—all combine to give you that feeling of being far away and yet deeply present. The villas are comfortable, the food satisfying, and the staff attentive without being pretentious. The turtle hatchery added something memorable: seeing conservation in action. If I had to pick one moment: sunrise from the water villa deck, sea calm and glowing, was unforgettable.

Post by Pingging | Oct 12, 2025