Semporna is a small town located in the eastern part of Sabah, Malaysia. It is known for its beautiful islands, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. If you’re planning a trip to Semporna, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about traveling to the islands of Semporna.

Getting to Semporna

The first step in traveling to Semporna is getting there. The easiest way to reach Semporna is by flying into Tawau Airport, which is located about an hour’s drive away. There are several airlines that operate flights to Tawau, including AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air.

Once you arrive at Tawau Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Semporna. Taxis are readily available at the airport, but they can be quite expensive. A more affordable option is to take a bus from the airport to Semporna. The bus ride takes about two hours and costs around RM 20.

Alternatively, you can also arrange for a private transfer from the airport to Semporna. Many hotels and tour operators offer this service, and it can be a convenient option if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Choosing your island

Semporna is home to many beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular islands include Mabul Island, Kapalai Island, and Sipadan Island. Here’s a brief overview of each island:

Mabul Island: Mabul Island is known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. It’s a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, and you can expect to see a wide variety of fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.

Kapalai Island: Kapalai Island is a small, sandy island that’s surrounded by shallow waters. It’s a great place for snorkeling and diving, and you can see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even stingrays.

Sipadan Island: Sipadan Island is one of the most famous dive sites in the world. It’s home to an incredible variety of marine life, including schools of barracuda, reef sharks, and sea turtles. However, access to Sipadan Island is limited, and you’ll need to obtain a permit in advance.

Other islands worth considering include Mataking Island, Pom Pom Island, and Bohey Dulang Island. Each island has its own unique attractions, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best suits your interests.

Booking your accommodation

Once you’ve chosen your island, the next step is to book your accommodation. Most of the islands in Semporna have a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.

If you’re on a budget, you can find affordable guesthouses and homestays on the mainland or on nearby islands like Mabul and Kapalai. These options are often basic but clean and comfortable, and they offer a great way to experience local life.

If you’re looking for something more luxurious, there are several high-end resorts on the islands, including Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort and Mabul Beach Resort. These resorts offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, spas, and restaurants, and they’re a great option if you’re looking for a more upscale experience.

Planning your activities

Once you’ve booked your accommodation, it’s time to plan your activities. Semporna is known for its incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities, but there are also plenty of other things to see and do.

If you’re a scuba diver, you’ll be in heaven in Semporna. The waters around the islands are home to an incredible variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. There are several dive operators on the islands, and they offer a range of courses and dive packages to suit all levels of experience.

If you’re not a scuba diver, don’t worry! Snorkeling is also a great way to experience the underwater world around the islands. Many of the resorts and dive operators offer snorkeling trips, and you can expect to see a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even stingrays.

Other activities worth considering include island hopping, kayaking, and beachcombing. Many of the islands have beautiful beaches and clear waters, and they’re a great place to relax and soak up the sun.

Traveling to the islands of Semporna is an incredible experience that you’ll never forget. From the stunning coral reefs to the diverse marine life, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Malaysia. By following the tips in this article, you’ll be well on your way to planning the trip of a lifetime.