🌊Tun Sakaran Marine Park: Semporna’s Secret Island Hopping Gem!🏝️

#kotakinabalutrip
### **First Impressions: "Is This Even Real?"**
Stepped off the boat onto **Bohey Dulang**, stared at the **turquoise lagoon** below, and audibly gasped. The water was so clear, I could see fish from the *cliff viewpoint*—like Mother Nature flexing her Photoshop skills. No filter needed. 😍

---

### **The "Oops" Moment**
Tried to climb the **Bohey Dulang viewpoint** (600+ steps!) in flip-flops. *Big mistake.* Slipped, sat down halfway, and bonded with a sweaty German backpacker over our shared suffering. Worth it for that **panoramic view** though!

---

### **Hidden Gems**
- **Bodgaya Island’s Secret Beach**: A tiny strip of sand where hermit crabs outnumber people. Felt like a castaway (but with better snacks).
- **Snorkeling at Mantabuan**: Swam with **sea turtles** and a **giant clam** so old, it probably remembers the dinosaurs.

---

### **Local Bite**
Back in Semporna, hit up **Sim Sim Water Village** for **fresh *ikan bakar*** (grilled fish) and *coconut pudding*. Ate with my hands like a local—messy but 100% delicious.

---

### **Blunt Reality Check**
✅ **UNREAL snorkeling**—vibrant coral, more fish than a supermarket freezer.
✅ **Less crowded** than touristy spots like Mabul.
✅ **Feels untouched**—no Starbucks, no jet skis, just pure nature.

❌ **No fancy resorts**—basic homestays only.
❌ **Permit hassle**—book through a tour operator to avoid *"sorry, full"* drama.

---

### **Quick Itinerary**
⏰ **7:30 AM**: Boat from Semporna (30-45 mins).
⏰ **9 AM**: Hike Bohey Dulang, cry at the view.
⏰ **11 AM**: Snorkel at Mantabuan (turtle time!).
⏰ **1 PM**: Lunch on Bodgaya (packed nasi lemak).
⏰ **3 PM**: Beach nap or extra snorkel sesh.

---

### **Final Verdict**
**🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5/5)** for adventurers who want:
- **Postcard-perfect** islands without the crowds.
- **Wild, raw snorkeling** (bring an underwater cam!).
- Bragging rights (*"Yeah, I’ve been to Sabah’s best-kept secret"*).

**#notouristsjustturtles** | **Tip:** Book with **Borneo Divers** or **Scuba Junkie** for smooth trips!

---
**PS:** Pack *reef-safe sunscreen*—this paradise’s worth protecting. 🐢💙