Semporna 2025 Guide: Must-see attractions, local cuisine, and practical tips! | Trip.com

Dive into the Underwater Wonderland of Semporna

Explore Semporna's renowned diving spots like Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai Islands, known for vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and unique underwater photography opportunities.

Visit Tun Sakaran Marine Park

Discover the marine biodiversity of Tun Sakaran Marine Park with activities like snorkeling and diving, offering stunning ocean views and unique flora and fauna.

Experience the Bajau Laut Culture at Sea Gypsy Villages

Immerse in the Bajau Laut culture by visiting their floating villages, observing their traditional seafaring lifestyle, boat-making skills, and fishing techniques.

Savor the Flavors of Semporna

Indulge in Semporna's fresh seafood and traditional dishes like 'hinava' and 'ambuyat,' and explore local markets for a true taste of the region's cuisine.

Discover Local Treasures at Semporna Market

Experience Semporna Market's bustling atmosphere, interact with vendors, and find unique souvenirs like handcrafted items and traditional textiles.

Capture the Magic of Bohey Dulang Island

Hike to Bohey Dulang Island's peak for breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding islands and turquoise waters, perfect for stunning photographs.

Unwind on the Pristine Beaches of Semporna

Relax on Semporna's beautiful beaches, enjoy the white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets for a serene island experience.

Relax at Kapalai Island Resort

Stay at Kapalai Island Resort, built on stilts over the water, offering luxurious accommodations and stunning views for a serene getaway.

Semporna, a district in Sabah, Malaysia, is a diver's haven with destinations like Kapalai Island and Tun Sakaran Marine Park, offering crystal-clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, cultural insights into the Bajau Laut community, and activities ranging from snorkeling to hiking, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Kapalai Island, often referred to as a diver's paradise, is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and exceptional underwater life, making it a top diving destination in the world. Not an island in the traditional sense, Kapalai is a sandbar that reveals itself during low tide, offering a unique experience where marine life swims fearlessly around visitors. The area is celebrated for its high chances of encountering rare fish species, octopuses, and turtles, as well as the stunning coral reefs of the Ligitan Reefs. The Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort, designed to appear as if floating on the ocean during high tides, provides a range of amenities and dive courses, catering to both seasoned divers and beginners. Guests can indulge in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and diving, while enjoying the panoramic sea views from the resort's open-air terrace.

Tun Sakaran Marine Park, also known as Semporna Islands Park, is a marine biodiversity hotspot and a cultural treasure located off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. Established in 2004, it is the largest marine park in Sabah, encompassing a rich mosaic of coral reefs, seagrasses, mangroves, and open sea, with a staggering area of 340 km². The park is home to over 500 species of fish and more than 200 species of invertebrates, offering a diving experience comparable to the Great Barrier Reef.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking up the volcanic Boheydulang Island for panoramic views. The park is also culturally significant due to the presence of the Bajau Laut, or Sea Gypsies, who live a nomadic lifestyle on the water and have a symbiotic relationship with the marine environment. Tun Sakaran Marine Park is not just a natural wonder but also a place where visitors can witness the unique way of life of the Sea Gypsies, adding to the park's allure as a destination for nature and culture enthusiasts.

Timba Timba Island in Semporna is a serene and relatively undeveloped tropical paradise known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. A highlight of the island is its vibrant marine life, which makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the underwater world and may encounter a diverse array of marine species, including green sea turtles, regal angelfish, and various types of butterflyfish. The island is also recognized for its efforts in turtle conservation, with a hatchery that nurtures and releases baby turtles back into the sea. While there are no accommodations on the island, basic facilities are provided for day-trippers to enjoy the sun and sea. For those looking to capture the essence of a tropical beach holiday, Timba Timba Island offers photogenic landscapes and a chance to witness the beauty of Sabah's marine biodiversity.

Pulau Sibuan, known as one of the most picturesque islands in the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, is celebrated for its stunning beauty and largely untouched conditions. This tear-shaped sand cay, also referred to as Battleship Island, offers a virtually deserted beach with powdery white sand and warm, clear turquoise waters that are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island's marine life is vibrant, with opportunities to see stingrays, cuttlefish, turtles, and colorful mandarinfish among the well-preserved corals. Visitors can also engage in swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on the attractive sandbank on the southern side of the island. Additionally, meeting the Bajau Laut, a nomadic tribe of Sea Gypsies, provides a unique cultural experience for travelers. Despite its natural allure, there are no tourist accommodations on Pulau Sibuan itself, but nearby islands and Semporna town offer various options.

Boheydulang Island, located in the Semporna archipelago within the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity. This volcanic island, characterized by a central green hill that is the remnant of an ancient crater, offers visitors a unique combination of adventure and tranquility. Hiking to the island's peak provides a rewarding panoramic view of the surrounding turquoise lagoon, white sandbar, and coral reefs, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The clear blue waters around the island are a haven for snorkeling and diving, where one can encounter a diverse array of marine life including fishes, turtles, rays, and sharks. Birdwatchers can also indulge in their passion, as the island is home to various species of birds, adding to the island's allure as a paradise for wildlife observation.

Semporna's seafood symphony echoes the ocean's bounty, highlighted by the Tiger prawns' tender embrace, the Stonefish's daring delicacy, the Sea snails' subtle seduction, the Orange smoothie's zesty charm, and the Yellow crab's golden allure, all woven into the coastal town's vibrant culinary quilt.

Semporna is renowned for its plentiful seafood, particularly the tiger prawns, which are known for their delightful taste and springy texture, earning their name from their sizeable appearance and distinctive stripes. For seafood aficionados, tiger prawns are a celebrated dish. In Semporna, cream-baked tiger prawns with a savory-sweet flavor are a popular choice, available in numerous seafood dining establishments.

Despite its unattractive appearance, stonefish offers a delicate and boneless flesh that is packed with nutrients, perfect for stewing or steaming. To prepare, clean a fresh stonefish by removing its guts and venomous spines, then marinate it with a mix of scallions, ginger, garlic, salt, and rice wine for ten minutes. Steam the fish for fifteen minutes, and upon lifting the lid, the kitchen will be infused with its savory scent. The result is a stonefish with succulent, springy flesh that provides a satisfying texture and a burst of subtle, aromatic flavor with every bite.

The "East Wind Snail", often referred to as "Flower Snail", is a popular item on the menu at Semporna's seafood eateries. It can be prepared in several ways, including salt-baked, blanched, or infused with garlic. Each method highlights the snail's fresh and crunchy texture. Served with a local tangy and spicy sauce, the dish leaves a lasting impression that tempts diners to come back for more.

The Orange Ice is a highly favored refreshment among the locals of Semporna, served in nearly every dining establishment. This delightful beverage is crafted by extracting juice from the region's green oranges and blending it with preserved plums, honey, and ice. Its preparation is straightforward, offering a deliciously tangy and sweet flavor, perfect for beating the summer heat.

Semporna is renowned for its crabs, which are celebrated for their diverse flavors. One of the crowd favorites is the salted egg yolk crab, a dish where succulent fresh crabs are stir-fried with rich salted egg yolks, creating a delectable harmony of flavors. This dish is a culinary highlight not to be missed when in Semporna.

Semporna's transportation infrastructure is centered around its proximity to Tawau Airport and the Semporna Jetty Ferry Terminal, both of which are essential for intercity and regional travel.

Tawau Airport (TWU), located about 116 km from Semporna, is the nearest major airport and serves as the primary gateway for travelers to the region. To reach Semporna from Tawau Airport, visitors can take a local minibus, which operates five times a day and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Although Semporna has its own airport (SMM), it currently does not handle commercial civilian flights.

The Semporna Jetty Ferry Terminal is a crucial hub for sea transportation, connecting travelers to various islands known for their diving sites. To access the jetty, buses from Tawau or Kota Kinabalu are available, with the journey from Tawau taking around an hour and a half. Speedboat services are provided by operators like D One Permata, offering trips to islands such as Bohey Dulang, Sibuan, and Mantabuan.

In Semporna, local transportation options are diverse, catering to the needs of both residents and tourists. The town is known for its proximity to beautiful islands and diving spots, which influences the transportation services available.

Bus services in Semporna are a common mode of local transportation for longer distances within the region. Buses to nearby towns and cities depart from the central bus stand behind Maybank, offering an economical way to travel. For instance, buses to Lahad Datu and Kota Kinabalu are available at specific times throughout the day, providing a connection to other parts of Sabah.

Minivans offer a more flexible and frequent service for shorter distances, such as the route to Tawau. These minivans typically depart near KFC and operate from early morning until late afternoon, with fares negotiable depending on the number of passengers. This service is particularly useful for those heading to Tawau International Airport or connecting to other local destinations.

Boat services are essential in Semporna for accessing the surrounding islands, which are popular for diving and snorkeling. Boats to islands like Mabul depart from the Semporna Jetty, with departures usually scheduled for the morning and late afternoon. These boats are organized by dive shops and resorts, and it's advisable to book in advance to secure a spot.

The best time to visit Semporna is from late January to late April and the entire month of September. During these periods, the temperatures range from 76°F to 87°F, which is ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor tourist activities. Additionally, March to May is highly recommended for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts due to excellent water visibility and warm, comfortable water temperatures. For those interested in turtle nesting and hatching, June to August is the perfect time to visit. Birdwatchers should consider September to October to observe migratory birds. It is also worth planning around local festivals such as the Regatta Lepa in August and the Semporna International Dragon Boat Race in June for a culturally rich experience.

1. Respect Marine Life
When snorkeling or diving, maintain a respectful distance from marine animals and avoid touching corals. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the environment. Practice buoyancy control to prevent damage to the seabed. Follow designated paths and local regulations to minimize your impact. Remember, you are a visitor in their home, so observe without altering the natural habitat.

2. Plan for Early Departures
Boat tours in Semporna often start early in the morning. Ensure you are well-rested and arrive on time to make the most of your day trips. Staying hydrated and applying reef-safe sunscreen are also recommended to enjoy your adventure fully.

3. Ramadan Awareness
If visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of eating or drinking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants may have altered opening times.

4. Beware of Strong Currents
Some areas around Semporna have strong underwater currents. Always follow the guidance of your tour operator or dive master for a safe experience. If caught in a rip current, stay calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore to escape. Avoid swimming near piers and jetties where rip currents are common.

5. Avoid Tap Water
Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid potential stomach issues. Tap water in Semporna is not safe for drinking due to contamination and saltwater infiltration caused by tourism activities.

In Semporna, the official language is Malay, reflecting Malaysia's national linguistic identity. The Bajau people, forming a significant part of the population, also speak their own language. Travelers can utilize translation apps like Ling App to bridge communication gaps. Embracing multilingualism, locals may speak multiple languages due to the diverse ethnic groups present. When language barriers arise, using gestures, maps, and facial expressions can aid in effective communication.

Grab: A popular app for transportation and food delivery in Malaysia, available in various Southeast Asian countries including Malaysia.

WAZE: Provides real-time traffic updates and is a useful navigation tool for drivers in Malaysia.

MAPS.ME: Offers offline maps which can be particularly helpful for travelers in remote areas of Malaysia without internet coverage.

Rome2Rio: A transportation app that shows different transportation options, including ferries and buses, with estimated prices and operators in Southeast Asia.

Wise: A global bank account app offering a debit card with low fees for withdrawing local money, useful for managing finances while traveling in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Trip.com: A popular online travel platform that provides a comprehensive range of services including booking flights.

In Malaysia, prepaid SIM cards are recommended for travelers seeking connectivity. Digi offers a prepaid SIM card with high-speed internet and no data speed cap. Celcom and Maxis/Hotlink are suggested for the best 4G/5G network coverage, particularly when traveling to Borneo. SIM cards can be purchased at Kuala Lumpur International Airport or in phone stores around the country, and eSIM options are also available.

Public WiFi is widely available in Malaysia, with free access in many public places such as hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Kuala Lumpur and Selangor mandate restaurants to provide free WiFi to customers, and chains like McDonald's, KFC, and coffee shops like Starbucks also offer this service. Apps can assist in locating nearby WiFi hotspots.

Semporna experiences a tropical climate with hot, oppressive, and overcast conditions. Temperatures typically range from 76°F to 87°F, with the sea temperature averaging around 29.00°C | 84.20°F annually. High humidity is a constant, with levels ranging from 76% to 79%. Rainfall is significant throughout the year, especially from November to January. When packing for Semporna, light cotton clothing, t-shirts, and shorts are recommended due to the heat and humidity. It is also advisable to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect against intense UV radiation and insects. For potential rainy days, a waterproof jacket and suitable footwear should be considered. Always stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day to avoid heat exhaustion.