I went to Semporna again just for these photos

It's been 9 years since I last visited Semporna🌊 The last time was in 2016📅
Nine years have passed, and Mabul Island seems both changed and unchanged🤔

This time, I only chose the island hopping tour to Mabul Island and Kapalai, plus a sea fishing trip.
Overall, it was quite relaxing—perfect for taking photos, experiencing local culture, and enjoying the sea🉑

✨Mabul Island: Mainly for photography. The water villas and surrounding flowers are great for photos📷 There are also Bajau people selling coconuts 🥥 on the water, so you can capture some cultural shots.

⚠️There is a 50MB fee to go onto the water villas💰 Bring cash💴
Once you get there, take photos quickly because more people will arrive later👭
Usually, you go in the morning, but the lighting can be harsh. If possible, bring a light diffuser📸
If the weather is good, the sun is very strong, so be sure to use sunscreen☀️
The lunch is not very good, so you might want to bring your own food🍚
Mabul Island has restrooms where you can change into snorkeling gear🤿
✨Kapalai: This is also a water villa area, but you don’t go up there. Usually, you snorkel here🤿 You can see fish, coral, and sea turtles🐢

✨Sea Fishing: Experience sea fishing around the Kapalai area🎣 It’s quite fun, and beginners can catch fish too🐟

The island hopping tour usually gets you back to town by around 4 PM to rest😴
If you have more time in Semporna, I recommend trying other routes. The view from the top of Pearl Island is stunning😍 The sea at Navy Ship Island is beautiful🌊 The trailing sand beach at Mantajin is also gorgeous🏖️
Of course, if you want to dive or learn to dive, Semporna is also a great choice🉑