My favorite Malaysia丨Dream Island
by HEIDI PARKS
Apr 2, 2024
The sea in Semporna is very beautiful. Some friends call the sea there the best, while some friends think it is a rip-off, dirty and messy❗️That's because they went there without making a full plan.
How to get to Malaysia 1⃣ Semporna?
Semporna was originally just a small town without an airport, and you need to transfer to go to Semporna from the country.
International flights - Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur - Tawau Airport, then drive about 1 hour to Semporna Town, and after arriving in the town, take a boat to various islands.
Tips: The journey to Semporna is a bit tiring, so you need to be mentally prepared in advance and prepare the snacks and items you need for the journey.
2⃣How to choose accommodation in Semporna?
Water houses: Don’t just go for the ones with the word “water house” in their name. Some water houses built by residents themselves are not well-equipped and may not even have 24-hour water and electricity supply! If you have enough budget, you can go directly to Mabul MWB and Kapalai. There are also some more distinctive and affordable water houses (Jelly Sea, Crystal, Coral Sea, Shun Shun, etc. are all good choices)
Sand Houses: Some large sand houses in Mataking (one island, one hotel), Bantan Island (one island, one hotel), Pom Pom Island and Mabul Island are good choices.
Hotels in town: The location of accommodation in Semporna town is very important, which directly affects the experience of island hopping. Give priority to hotels close to the pier and restaurants (recommendations: Grace Seaview/Lighthouse/Yongda/Sinpari, etc.).
3⃣How to play in Semporna?
In addition to the resort activities, you can also participate in island hopping in the town or resort
There are three classic island hopping routes in the town: 1. Mabul Island-Kapalai Route 2. Ocean Park Route 3. Mataking Three Islands Route.
If you have enough time, it is recommended to experience all three routes, as each island has its own characteristics. The price includes snorkeling, lunch, dive guide and other services, and you can also upgrade to experience diving.
🎣Sea fishing
Beginners can also play, it is easy to catch fish, and the fish you catch can be taken away.
📗Diving certification
The diving certification in Semporna is very cheap, the water quality is good, and the certification environment is also very good. If you hold an A certificate, you will have the opportunity to go diving in Sipadan, known as God's Aquarium.
4⃣What to eat in Semporna?
The restaurants with more favorable reviews include: Tianwang Seafood, Haijing Seafood, Zhongda Seafood, Mingmen Restaurant, etc.
Local specialty restaurants: Nanyang Cafe DOZO, Semporna Hot Soto, Fenglin Tea Restaurant, etc.
If you are tired of seafood, I strongly recommend trying Lao Wang’s beef noodles!!
5⃣ Recommended itinerary
D1 Arrive at Semporna and check into the hotel in town (depending on the flight, if you are early you can go for half-day sea fishing)
D2: Take a one-day island hopping tour (three classic routes, choose one)
D3 Check in to the water house/sand house resort
D4 Participate in water house/sand house resort activities
D5 Return
Post by HEIDI PARKS | Apr 2, 2024




















