Relaxing trip to Semporna

Traveling from Taiwan to Semporna requires a day of flights and car rides, so it's best to rest well on the first night and prepare for island-hopping and snorkeling the next day. 😆
When transiting, make sure to exit Kota Kinabalu and recheck in to avoid the risk of illegal entry. Here's a friendly reminder for everyone! ❗️❗️
The car ride from Tawau to Semporna takes about an hour. We opted for a private car for two people, costing 160 MYR. Since it wasn't too expensive, we didn't bother negotiating the price.
We booked a two-day tour online. On the first day, we took a boat early in the morning to Tun Sakaran Marine Park for a hike to the summit, where we enjoyed stunning views of the surrounding islands. Then, we headed to Bohey Dulang Island to relax on its pristine white beaches and immerse ourselves in the crystal-clear waters. We had lunch on the beach and went snorkeling nearby, where we saw plenty of tropical fish and coral reefs. Unfortunately, we didn't spot any sea turtles this time. 😅
The second day was dedicated to a fishing trip. Don't worry if you're unfamiliar with fishing gear; the staff on the boat are very helpful and attentive. ☺️ There's also a restroom onboard, so ladies don't need to worry. You can take the fish you catch back and have them cooked at a nearby restaurant.
On the third day, we stayed at the Sea Star Resort, where the rooms have direct access to the sea. You can snorkel or enjoy paddleboarding (SUP) in the nearby waters, making for a very relaxing experience. The resort includes three meals and afternoon tea, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean.
We chose a water villa closer to the shore. During high and low tides, you might notice floating trash like empty bottles. If you prefer a more pristine experience, you can stay further out, but those areas tend to have more nomadic groups wandering around. For travelers concerned about safety, it's recommended to stay in water villas closer to the town.
My itinerary was simple, leisurely, and flexible. Hope this helps everyone! ☺️

Post by 張瑋茹 | May 28, 2025