Mari Mari Sepanggar Lodge

Our 2D1N stay at Rainbow island resort was memorable, and my family had a wonderful time with the friendly, helpful team. Jess from Rainbow island resort accompanied us and guided us around, arranging our sea activities and meals throughout. The food was delicious, affordable, and nicely presented. Big shout out to JESS for the excellent service. The boat ride from Jesselton Point ferry terminal takes just 15 minutes. We tried parasailing, kayaking, jetsking, and scuba diving, and kayaking and snorkeling were free to do as often as we liked. My wife ling² had a life changing experience trying scuba diving, and the staff patiently and professionally guided us all the way down. Seeing the corals, although many were dead, and fish like Nemo was beyond what we imagined we could do. My son was so happy he tried diving a second time the next day. Cheeky monkeys were everywhere trying to steal food, so watch out. There's no electricity during the day, but the refreshing sea breeze made it okay. Our rooms Rustic 5 & 6 faced the sea, and opening the balcony sliding door let the strong sea breeze reach the bed while I relaxed.

We spent a lovely afternoon walking the beach, snorkeling, and kayaking, and the snorkeling was much better than on the standard tours. This review is for the beach and activity. The place feels quieter than the islands packed with tourists, and it's a simple, secluded hotel right by the beach under a forest canopy. On arrival, you see the dive center, then goats roaming freely on the beach and even climbing trees. Monkeys dart around trying to grab tourists' food. With the private beach and animals all around, it feels like your own little paradise, especially if you love nature and want to escape the crowds.

After most visitors leave on their day trips, the island gets quiet by nightfall, and you can relax and fall asleep to the waves. I stayed two days and one night in Rustic Hall. Room 5 or 6 is worth booking for the beach and sea views, especially at sunrise or sunset. There are plenty of water activities, from scuba diving and snorkelling to kayaking, paddleboarding, and seawalking. I didn't get to try everything. Water clarity can be hit or miss, clear on some days and murky on others depending on weather and tide. If the weather is clear, you might see Mount Kinabalu from the jetty, a breathtaking view. Wildlife is part of the stay: monkeys roam freely and can be mischievous, so keep food and belongings secure. The goats are friendly, and I was surprised to spot monitor lizards too. The beach can have litter washed in by the waves, but staff work to clean it every morning, and by midday it's usually pleasant. Staff were friendly and helpful, though service was sometimes slow. Keep in mind the kitchen closes at 9pm, so order dinner before then. It's a peaceful getaway with a touch of adventure. Faster service and more attention to beach cleanliness could make it an amazing island stay.

We had a great overnight stay, and the rooms were very clean with a beautiful sea view. The staff were friendly and helpful, and even took us on a sunset cruise in the evening. We could use kayaks and snorkels around the bay.