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$49 Cheap Flights to Mabul Island

Popular airlines to Mabul Island

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How much is the cheapest flight to Mabul Island?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $97 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Batik air
Firefly
Malaysia Airlines
Singapore Airlines
China Southern Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Mabul Island

Flights to Mabul Island at a glance

Booking flights to Mabul Island is straightforward—choose between full-service and budget airlines, compare travel times, and select the best option for your budget and itinerary. This way, you can easily plan your adventures around the island's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Mabul Island: Tawau Airport (TWU)
  • Flights per week: 7 flights arriving at Mabul Island airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Mabul Island: around 3 carriers

Popular airport near Mabul Island

Mabul Island is a stunning destination known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, making it perfect for family vacations. Travelers are drawn here by its rich culture and eco-friendly environment. The island is conveniently accessible via major airports, including Tawau Airport, from which a short boat ride will take you to this tropical paradise.

  • Tawau Airport (TWU): Situated in Tawau District, Sabah, this airport is approximately 36 miles from Mabul Island and primarily handles domestic flights. It is serviced by popular airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air.

Top routes to Mabul Island

  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Mabul Island (TWU), with one-way fares starting at around $40

Cheapest routes to Mabul Island

  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Mabul Island (TWU), with low one-way fares from around $40

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Mabul Island

  • Malaysia Airlines: Offering flights to Tawau Airport (TWU), this airline represents roughly 56% of arrivals to Mabul Island. The typical one-way ticket costs about $170.
  • AirAsia: Also servicing Tawau Airport (TWU), AirAsia accounts for approximately 22% of arrivals to Mabul Island. The average fare for a one-way trip is around $50.
  • Malindo Air: Operating flights to Tawau Airport (TWU), Malindo Air makes up about 22% of arrivals to Mabul Island. One-way fares are typically around $140.

How to save money on a flight to Mabul Island

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Mabul Island is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Mabul Island hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Mabul Island flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Mabul Island

Mabul Island welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Mabul Island efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Mabul Island, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Mabul Island is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Mabul Island on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Mabul Island

  • Bulingisan: Located 13 miles away from Mabul Island, Bulingisan is a charming village that offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can explore the Semporna Mosque, a beautiful landmark that reflects the local culture, and the Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Site, which provides fascinating insights into the region's history. For those seeking outdoor adventures, a visit to nearby Kapalai Island is a must, where you can enjoy pristine beaches and water activities. This destination is perfect for travelers wanting to enrich their understanding of the local heritage while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
  • Kampung Labusai: Kampung Labusai is located 14 miles away from Mabul Island and is another delightful village that showcases the rich culture of the region. Here, visitors can admire the architecture of the Semporna Mosque and delve into the historical significance of the Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Site. Adventure seekers can also take a short trip to Kapalai Island, known for its stunning beaches and water sports. This destination offers a mix of cultural exploration and outdoor fun, making it ideal for travelers looking to experience the essence of Sabah.
  • Sipadan Island: Located 9 miles away from Mabul Island, Sipadan Island is a stunning destination renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities. This island is perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts alike, offering opportunities for diving and scuba diving in its crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also unwind at the island resort or explore the nearby parks. Sipadan Island, with its beautiful landscapes and rich marine life, provides a memorable experience for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

Tips for short-haul flights to Mabul Island

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself occupied, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book as well. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to get to the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Mabul Island

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may provide the option to select seats even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to get to the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take a moment to explore the shops, find a cozy coffee shop, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually complimentary and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin aligning your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to correspond with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight based on the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Mabul Island?
The cheapest month to fly to Mabul Island is August when demand is low. Off-peak months are usually when you'll find cheap fares. To keep costs down, steer clear of flying during major holidays and school breaks.
Which US cities fly direct to Mabul Island?
Direct journeys make travel a little easier. When searching on Expedia, select "Direct flights only" to see the nonstop options to fly to Mabul Island.
How to find a cheap flight to Mabul Island?
If you're looking for cheap flights to Mabul Island, consider traveling in the low season. Booking ahead of time is also likely to save you money. Or, look for departures on a different day — Thursday flights are on average 16% cheaper than Sunday options.* Opt to receive flight price alerts on the Expedia app and you'll be notified as soon as fares fall.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Mabul Island?
Staying flexible with your plans may help you find last-minute offers on cheap flights to Mabul Island. To view all the available options, consider looking at different ticket types, changing your Mabul Island vacation dates, flying out of an alternative airport or going with another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Mabul Island?
Secure your flight to Mabul Island two to four months ahead if you're taking off from an international destination. For domestic travel, the timeframe is around 28 days in advance. Lower fares and a wider variety of departure dates, times and seating options are just some of the perks of booking early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Mabul Island?
Sundays are generally the best day to book a cheap flight to Mabul Island, with savings of around 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you decide to buy tickets on a Friday, be ready to pay a higher price as this is often the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Mabul Island?
Mabul Island has connections to 4 airports globally through 4 airlines, with Tawau Airport (TWU) as its chief gateway. Consider these leading airlines to Mabul Island when booking your trip:

  • AirAsia
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Malindo Air
  • Firefly

Where do you fly into Mabul Island?
The main airport to fly to Mabul Island is Tawau Airport (TWU). You can also touch down at Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) when flying to Mabul Island.
How far is the airport from central Mabul Island?
Arriving at Tawau Airport (TWU) puts you approximately 35 mi west of central Mabul Island.
Can I save money by booking a Mabul Island trip package?
Bundle your hotel and flight and you could save hundreds of dollars. What's more, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Mabul Island flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's a breeze to look after all your Mabul Island travel plans in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Mabul Island?
It's usually possible to change or cancel your flight to Mabul Island. Many airlines let you cancel your flights for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you credit for a future trip rather than a direct refund. To find cheap flights to Mabul Island with flexible change policies, check "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" during your search. Need more information? Check out our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Tawau
Destination airport IATA code
TWU
Destination city name
Tawau
Roundtrip price
$96

Trending flights to Mabul Island

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $97 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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