Semporna Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Today, I've compiled a super comprehensive guide to Semporna for everyone! Feel free to copy Abben's notes✍! And if you need a Chinese-speaking guide, don't hesitate to reach out to me.

Semporna is a coastal town in Sabah. Though small, it boasts an abundance of natural gifts! With crystal-clear waters🌊, pristine white beaches🏖️, and swaying palm trees🌴, you can truly experience the romance of the sea here.

Best Travel Seasons for Semporna
🌞 Dry Season (March to October): During this time, Semporna enjoys plenty of sunshine, clear waters, and high visibility, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving.
🌧️ Rainy Season (November to February): Expect occasional short showers, fewer tourists, and great hotel discounts.

Travel Essentials
▪️ Documents: Passport (valid for at least six months), MDAC, ID card, flight and hotel booking confirmations, credit/debit cards
▪️ Clothing: Rash guard, sun-protective jacket, long dresses, diving socks, hat, sunglasses
▪️ Electronics: Adapter, power bank, underwater camera/Gopro (available for rent, contact me)
▪️ Others: High-SPF waterproof sunscreen, mosquito repellent, seasickness medication, band-aids

Semporna's Unique Islands
🏝 Mataking Island: "Ultimate romance with glassy waters and tail-shaped beaches". The 1.5 km tail-shaped beach resembles a galaxy fallen to earth. You can even send postcards from the underwater post office.
🏝 Mabul Island: Encounter sea turtles in shallow waters! You can also interact closely with the Bajau people.
🏝 Kapalai Island: A sandbar with overwater bungalows built on coral reefs, offering a 360-degree view of crystal-clear waters right from your doorstep.
🏝 Pom Pom Island: A one-resort island with diverse activities, including a turtle hatchery.
🏝 Timba-Timba Island: Famous for its long stretches of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that showcase various shades of blue.

Semporna's Culinary Delights
🥣 Near Semporna's Yongda KFC, there's a "Durian Street" where you can enjoy durian freely.
🥣 Freshly caught seafood is available daily, including grouper, lobster, crab, shellfish, and the must-try giant mantis shrimp.
🥣 Semporna's charcoal-grilled beef is also a must-try, known for its tender and flavorful taste.

🚗 Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from Tawau Airport
Day 2: Mataking Island + Pom Pom Island + Timba-Timba Island (snorkeling)
Day 3: Mabul Island snorkeling + Kapalai waters fishing
Day 4: Free activities (optional upgrade to Tun Sakaran Marine Park island-hopping tour with complimentary snorkeling)
Day 5: Drop-off at Tawau Airport

If you need a Chinese-speaking guide, feel free to leave a comment with "number of people + number of days" 💬💬💬.