Mengalum is a small island off the north-west coast of Sabah, reached by boat from a jetty near Kota Kinabalu, and it has a reputation as one of the clearest and quietest places to swim in the region. White sand rings the island, the water shades from pale green to deep blue and the reef starts close to the beach, so you can snorkel from the shore. Because the crossing is longer than the short hop to the marine park islands, Mengalum sees fewer day visitors, and the beaches feel emptier. Day trips from Kota Kinabalu offer snorkelling, beach time and lunch, and some operators offer a choice of snorkelling or diving. It is the day for travellers who want a beach day away from the busiest spots and are happy to spend a little longer on a boat.
Why go
The main attraction is the water. On a calm day, visibility can be excellent, and the reef supports a good variety of fish, corals and giant clams. The island is small enough to walk around, and it has quiet corners of sand and shade where you can read, swim or do nothing at all. If you have already done the marine park islands and want something less crowded, Mengalum is a natural next step. It also suits divers, as some operators run introductory and certified dives at nearby sites.
How the day works
The tour we link to is a boat trip from Kota Kinabalu to Mengalum, with snorkel or dive options, transport to the jetty and lunch. The boat crossing takes longer than the marine park islands, so the day is spent as follows: an early pickup, a transfer to the jetty, a crossing of an hour or more, time on the island and a return in the afternoon. Ask your operator about the exact times, what equipment is included, whether park or conservation fees are covered and whether the day suits non-swimmers.
Sea conditions
The crossing is across open water, so the trip depends on the weather and the sea. The calmer, drier months generally offer the best conditions, and boats can be cancelled or delayed in rough weather. People who suffer from sea sickness should take a tablet before the crossing and sit near the middle of the boat. Keep a spare day if you can, and ask what refund or rescheduling policy applies if the boat does not run.
Tips and trade-offs
Facilities on the island are basic, with limited shade and few services, so bring water, snacks, a hat and reef-friendly sunscreen, and take your rubbish with you. Wear a rash vest to protect against the sun, and do not stand on or touch the coral. If your time is short and you want an easy beach day, the marine park islands are quicker and cheaper.
If you want somewhere calmer and a longer boat ride does not bother you, Mengalum is a rewarding choice. Compared with Mantanani, Mengalum is a shorter drive to the jetty and a similar island-day concept, so pick whichever fits your timing and the sea conditions on the day.
Whatever you choose, it helps to travel light, wrap your phone and camera in a waterproof pouch for the crossing and keep a dry layer for the return, because spray on an open boat can be surprising even on a calm and sunny day. Ask the crew before you leave the beach about where it is safe to swim and where boats pass, and keep an eye on the time so that you do not miss the return crossing.
What to expect
The experience
A boat day from Kota Kinabalu to Mengalum Island, with snorkelling or diving, beach time and lunch.
Best time
Go in the calmer, drier months and keep a spare day in case the sea is rough.
How long
About nine hours including the transfer, a boat crossing of an hour or more and time on the island.
Tips
Bring water, a hat, reef-friendly sunscreen and a rash vest. Take a travel tablet if you are prone to sea sickness.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beach and snorkel lovers who want fewer crowds than the marine park islands.
- Families
- Good for children who are comfortable on boats, with calm shallows near the beach. Facilities are basic.
- Couples
- A quiet day of swimming and sand, away from the busiest beaches.
- Pair with
- A sunset on the waterfront and a seafood dinner.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How do I get to Mengalum Island?+
By boat from a jetty near Kota Kinabalu. The crossing takes longer than the marine park islands, so day trips are full days.
Is Mengalum better than the marine park islands?+
It is quieter and the water is often clearer, but the journey is longer. The marine park islands are quicker and easier.
Can I dive as well as snorkel?+
Some operators offer a choice of snorkelling or diving. Confirm which options and certification levels are offered when you reserve.
Are there facilities on the island?+
Facilities are basic, so bring water, snacks, sun protection and take your rubbish back with you.
What happens if the sea is rough?+
Boats can be cancelled or delayed when the sea is rough. Keep a spare day and ask about the operator's rescheduling policy.
