Semporna is stunning, but I honestly don't recommend going in June because........
Semporna Travel Guide (Including Prices and Practical Information)
1. Must-Visit Attractions and Ticket/Activity Prices
Kapalai Island: Features dreamy overwater villas, crystal-clear seawater, coral reefs, and tropical fish.
Price: Overwater villa accommodation costs about ¥3,000-5,000/night (including three meals and snorkeling), booking 3-6 months in advance is required.
Mataking Island: Features a trailing sandbar at low tide, a prime spot for deep diving, and underwater shipwreck relics.
Price: Island hopping tour package costs about ¥600-800/person (including snorkeling gear, lunch, and guide service).
Sipadan Island: A world-class diving destination with breathtaking sights like barracuda storms and jackfish storms.
Price: Requires a diving certificate, daily quota limited to 120 people, resort packages cost about ¥5,000-8,000/person (including 3 dives + accommodation).
Mabul Island: Half resort, half overwater Bajau village, offering an experience of sea nomad culture.
Price: Island hopping tours cost about ¥400-600/person, overwater villa accommodation about ¥2,000-4,000/night.
Pom Pom Island: Features tranquil white sandy beaches and a sea turtle conservation project, ideal for family trips.
Price: Resort packages cost about ¥2,500-4,000/person (including accommodation + snorkeling + turtle release activities).
Bohey Dulang Island: Features hiking with panoramic views of Tun Sakaran Marine Park, with stunning blue seas and skies.
Price: Island hopping tour packages cost about ¥500-700/person (including hiking guide and snorkeling).
2. Transportation Costs
External flights: From China to Kuala Lumpur/Kota Kinabalu with a transfer to Tawau Airport, economy round-trip about ¥2,000-4,000 (off-season as low as ¥1,500).
Airport transfer: Tawau Airport to Semporna town about ¥120-150/car (can be booked in advance).
Local transport in town: Walking or renting a motorcycle about ¥50-80/day.
Island hopping boats: Speedboats about ¥400-600/person (including guide and equipment), it is recommended to join hotel or travel agency organized tours.
3. Food Costs
Affordable seafood fried rice: ¥20-30/serving.
Coconut pudding: ¥10-15/serving.
Fragrant crab: ¥80-120/serving (priced by weight).
Mid-range restaurant creamy tiger prawns: ¥150-200/each (large size).
Seafood hotpot: ¥100-150 per person (including processing fee).
High-end resort dinner: ¥300-500 per person (including Western cuisine/seafood buffet).
4. Accommodation Costs
Budget homestays in Semporna town: ¥200-400/night (e.g., Mr. Bean Homestay, Pali Hotel).
Mid-range hotels: ¥500-800/night (e.g., Hai Feng Grand Hotel, Longmen Inn).
Island resort overwater villas: ¥3,000-5,000/night (e.g., Kapalai, Mabul Island MWB Resort).
Beach villas: ¥2,000-4,000/night (e.g., Pom Pom Island Dragon Pearl Resort).
5. Suggested Itinerary (4 days 3 nights)
Day 1: Arrive in Semporna, acclimate
Morning: Arrive at Tawau Airport, transfer to Semporna town.
Afternoon: Stroll around town, buy sunscreen and snorkeling gear.
Evening: Shop at the seafood market, have it cooked at a restaurant (about ¥100-150 per person).
Day 2: Mataking Island + Timbatimba Island island hopping
Morning: Deep dive/snorkel, enjoy the trailing sandbar.
Afternoon: Take photos at Timbatimba Island, experience the glass-bottom boat.
Evening: Free time in town.
Day 3: Mabul Island + Kapalai Island island hopping
Morning: Visit Bajau village, snorkel.
Afternoon: Take photos at Kapalai Island overwater villas, free time.
Evening: Resort dinner (if staying on the island).
Day 4: Bohey Dulang Island hiking + return
Morning: Hike Bohey Dulang Island, overlook the marine park.
Afternoon: Return to Tawau Airport, end of trip.
6. Money-Saving Tips
Book in advance: Flights, resorts, and island hopping tours booked 1-3 months ahead can enjoy discounts.
Group tours: Choose 4-6 person group tours for island hopping to lower per-person costs.
Bring your own gear: Bring your own snorkeling mask and snorkel to save rental fees (about ¥50/day).
7. Notes
Sun protection and mosquito repellent: Bring high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and mosquito repellent.
Diving safety: Do not fly within 24 hours after diving, follow diving instructor’s guidance.
Cultural respect: Ask permission before photographing Bajau village, do not touch villagers’ belongings.
Currency exchange: Exchange Malaysian Ringgit in advance (1 RMB ≈ 0.6 MYR), some shops in town accept Alipay.
Conclusion
Semporna is famous for its clear waters, dreamy islands, and rich marine life. Whether you are a diving enthusiast or a leisure traveler, you will find joy here. Plan your trip well and book accommodation and activities in advance to enjoy a cost-effective tropical island vacation!