No, we're not lying – this isn't the Maldives!
Photo Credits: @by__fia
Photo Credits: @thechelseytan
Located on the south-eastern coast of Sabah in Malaysia, Semporna is perfection in the form of a collection of beautiful islands, just like its name which means "perfect" in Malay.
Blessed with turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world, Semporna is arguably just as breathtaking as The Maldives. If you're looking to plan a vacation to Semporna, save this pocket guide up! We've done the research for you so you can focus on piecing together the perfect itinerary for your trip. 💙
The Ocean is Calling 🌊
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Best time to visit Semporna
Photo Credits: IG @by__fia
The weather and temperature in Semporna varies little throughout the year. The region is generally hot and sunny, with the hottest months in April, May, and June. November through January are usually the island's busiest months. Despite the hot climate, Semporna also rains quite a fair bit, so be sure to keep your eyes on the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Getting to Semporna
Photo Credits: Unsplash
- From KL: catch a flight to Tawau Airport
- From Kota Kinabalu: catch a flight to Tawau Airport or a long-distance bus that will take approximately 9 hours
Upon arrival at Tawau Airport, Semporna is a bit over an hour's drive away. Book a private transfer (from RM160/car on Klook) that will bring you from Tawau Airport to Semporna Jetty, the gateway to your beach adventure. Opt for a vehicle that suits your needs - from a sedan that fits up to 3 pax to a van that can fit a big group of 6.
Getting around Semporna
Semporna town is relatively small in size and easy to explore on foot. Boats generally depart from Semporna Jetty to islands in the region between 8AM - 4PM daily (do be sure to plan your journey accordingly and book your tickets in advance so you don't risk missing the last boat!).
#KlookTip: book your boat transfers on Klook in advance for a hassle-free adventure! You can get boat transfers from Semporna Jetty to beautiful islands like Mataking, Pom Pom, Timba-Timba, Mabul, Sibuan, Manukan, and Kapalai! These transfers generally depart at 8AM daily and are available at discounted rates on Klook.
Where to stay in Semporna
Photo Credits: @thechelseytan
Regardless of your budget, there are tons of accommodation options for you in Semporna - from budget-friendly inns close to the jetty to luxurious chalets built on stilts above pristine waters, you'll find something up your alley in this paradise on earth.
Many travellers prefer to base themselves in Semporna Town and plan their daily activities from there, but you can also opt for an unforgettable stay at one of the exclusive private resorts located on the islands in the area.
All-Inclusive Package | Price |
|---|---|
3D2N or 4D3N Sipadan Kapalai Resort Full Board Package | |
3D2N or 4D3N Bohey Dulang Resort Full Board Package | |
Hotel | Price |
Green World Hotel | |
Chan's Smart Living Inn | |
A Hotel (family rooms available) | |
Cube Bed Station | |
Dragon Inn Floating Resort | |
Luna Guesthouse |
Best things to do in Semporna
1. Diving
Photo Credits: IG @wayne_wayne23
Semporna has cemented itself as home to some of the most beautiful diving sites in the world. Swim alongside gentle sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, rays, beautiful corals, and all sorts of fascinating marine life while you're here.
Do note though that one of the most popular islands for diving in Semporna - Pulau Sipadan requires divers to apply for dive permits as an effort to conserve the corals. Only 120 dive permits are issued per day - so be sure to make your necessary arrangements to avoid disappointment.
Don't have a diving license but still wish to have a glimpse of the underwater world? Book a sea walking experience on Klook and get up-close and personal to beautiful marine life in a safe and guided environment!
2. Get your PADI Diving License
It's a waste to head to Semporna without exploring its beautiful dive sites - but if you don't already have a diving license, you can grasp the golden opportunity to get one here! Book your PADI Open Water Diving Course (for beginners) or Advanced Open Water Course on Klook and get ready to explore the underwater beauty with guidance from professional certified instructors.
These PADI course packages come inclusive of licensing fee, teaching materials, professional diving equipment, boat fees, lunch, and more - you'll be in good hands the moment you place your booking!
3. Snorkelling and island hopping
Photo Credits: @anastruncnik
If diving is not for you, you can still discover the beautiful reefs and marine life in Semporna via snorkelling adventures. Simply hop on a speedboat and head over to the island of your choice for a fun-filled day in the waters!
Our favourite snorkelling spots in Semporna include Mataking Island, Mabul Island, Kapalai, Pom Pom Island, Timba-Timba, and Sibuan Island! For a hassle-free snorkelling trip, book your island hopping or snorkelling tour on Klook that comes inclusive of transfers, all necessary equipment, a professional guide, lunch, conservation fees, and everything you need for a fun adventure.
4. Hiking and nature activities
Photo Credits: @keithtraveldiary
Photo Credits: @aaronalpero
Besides fun in the sea, you'll also be spoilt for choice with the variety of nature activities available in Semporna. Put on your sturdy shoes and hike to the top of the picturesque Bohey Dulang island or explore the archaeological site at Bukit Tengkorak (also known as Skull Hill). Another popular hiking trail is the Tawau Hills Park where you can find many natural deepwater pools and waterfalls that you can take a refreshing dip in.
5. Keep an eye out for the sea gypsies
Experience the fascinating culture of the Bajau Laut people - also known as the sea gypsies - who live on stilt huts or long boats on floating villages located in Semporna. The Bajau people spend most of their time on and below the ocean and are generally expert divers and great fishermen! We heard that most of them can hold their breath beyond 5 minutes underwater and can plunge to great depths of the sea with just a pair of wooden googles.
6. Relax on a secluded resort
Photo Credits: @lynnl0107
Photo Credits: @lynnl0107
Make sure you allocate some time in your itinerary to simply relax and unwind on the beach during your trip! Semporna is great for big underwater adventures, but also perfect for doing nothing, really. If you're willing to splurge a bit, we'd recommend booking a stay at a beautiful secluded resort where you'll get to have lots of sun, sand, and sea to yourself.
Our favourites are the beautiful Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort (a luxury water village built on stilts above turquoise waters!) and The Reef Dive Resort in Mataking Island (an extremely romantic destination located just 40 minutes away from Semporna Jetty via a speedboat).
7. Explore Tawau Town
Tawau may not be the most exciting city, but it has a laid-back charm and is still worth dedicating some time to stroll through. Feast on local cuisine at the variety of seafood restaurants and old-school coffee shops around the town while you're here - we recommend heading to Jalan Budi (also known as Yum Cha Street in local terms) for some coffee and freshly-baked bread for breakfast.
Other things to do here include visiting the local market or the popular Teck Guan Cocoa Museum where you can learn about the processing of cocoa into yummy beverages and chocolates.
8. Hop on a nature & fireflies cruise at Klias River
Experience a change from the rough sea waves with a relaxing river cruise experience in search of the Proboscis Monkey, a species that can only be found on the island of Borneo!
Depending on your luck, you'll get to catch a glimpse of these cheeky creatures swinging from tree to tree, as well as other animals including long-tailed macaques, fireflies, exotic birds, and even crocodiles. End your cruise adventure with a beautiful sunset over the calm river, and be delighted by fireflies dancing in the night sky.
9. Ride an ATV to explore Semporna
Trade the sea breeze for an adrenaline rush on an exciting ATV adventure in Semporna! Buckle up and get ready for 15–20 minutes of pure off-road fun as you explore scenic trails surrounded by nature.
Enjoy hassle-free travel with convenient round-trip hotel transfers within the Semporna city area—so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the ride.
After your adventure, unwind with a delightful Malay Hi-tea, where you’ll get a taste of local flavors and enjoy the warm hospitality of Sabah culture. It’s the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation in one memorable outing.
[🌴Promo Alert🌴] From hotels to diving packages, snorkeling trips, boat transfers, and more, we've got you covered from A to Z - plan your island getaway to Pulau Redang, Perhentian, Tioman, Pangkor, Sabah, Langkawi & more on Klook! Use code <BEACHPLS> to save up to RM300 of your booking. Get promo here!
Is it safe to travel to Semporna?
Photo Credits: IG @juicychuck
The short answer is yes. The safety in Semporna has become the government's priority since the rise of terrifying incidents involving abductions and kidnapping in the early 2000s. Army bases and patrols have since been set up in the region, with high concentration focused in touristic spots and popular islands. Special forces have also been deployed to control the safety of Semporna's coast. The increased patrol in the area allows travellers to sit back and soak up the sun without fear. ☀️
[🌴Promo Alert🌴] From hotels to diving packages, snorkeling trips, boat transfers, and more, we've got you covered from A to Z - plan your island getaway to Pulau Redang, Perhentian, Tioman, Pangkor, Sabah, Langkawi & more on Klook! Use code <BEACHPLS> to save up to RM300 of your booking. Get promo here!
Plan your Sabah trip on Klook! 🧡
Photo Credits: IG @by__fia
Sabah is a beautiful gem waiting to be explored. Whether you're planning a trip to Semporna or cities like Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan, book your travel essentials including day tours, airport transfers, car charters, and other unique experiences on Klook for a hassle-free adventure.
Other travel inspiration for beach lovers 🏝️
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