Hotel Analysis
Based on 3 sites · 1,082 reviews
Island Backpackers is a backpacker hostel in central Semporna. Guests often choose it as a base before diving or island tours. Reviews frequently highlight its convenient location and great value.
Travelers praise the clean rooms and common areas, friendly staff service. Free breakfast includes local foods and toast, with free laundry and shared kitchen available. Aircon works well and it's quiet, as noted repeatedly.
However, WiFi is weak, especially in far dorm areas. Some mention overly soft mattresses or bathroom water issues.
It's ideal for solo travelers or diving enthusiasts. Good for budget trips focused on nearby activities.
Strengths
Many reviews note easy access to jetty and market for diving or shopping
Staff are friendly and help with airport pickup or tour bookings, repeated in reviews
Free breakfast with toast and local foods is tasty, frequently mentioned
Rooms and common areas are clean with good aircon
Free laundry and shared kitchen are convenient per reviews
Good to Know
WiFi is weak, especially in far dorm areas
Mattresses too soft causing back pain, repeated
Bathroom water issues or wet floors affect cleanliness
Recommended For
Solo travelers — Easy to mingle in common areas with quiet rooms, many reviews
Diving travelers — Jetty just 10min away, ideal pre-trip stay per repeats
Budget travelers — High value with free laundry and breakfast noted
Ratings by Booking Site
Overall 8.2/10 · 3 sites · Based on 1,082 reviews
Guest Reviews
3 booking sites · 1,082 reviews
Frequently Mentioned
Agoda
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Solo traveler
Agoda
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Solo traveler
Booking.com
Agoda
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Couple
Booking.com
Nearby
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FAQ
What are the check-in/check-out times at Island Backpackers ?
Typically, check-in starts at 3:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Please contact the hotel directly for exact times.
What do guests say about this hotel?
Island Backpackers has received a rating of 8.9/10 from 398 guests.