https://nz.trip.com/moments/detail/gaya-island-1446556-131467128
SonnySideUpMalaysia
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Tavajun Bay: The Secluded Slice of Paradise You’ve Been Dreaming Of 🌊🌴

#kotakinabalutrip If you’re looking for a **postcard-perfect beach** with **zero crowds**, **Tavajun Bay** near Semporna is your answer. Imagine: **powdery white sand**, **water so clear it looks fake**, and **palm trees leaning like they’re posing for a travel magazine**. This hidden gem is the kind of place you’ll want to keep secret—but also brag about forever. ### **First Impressions: “Is This Even Real?!”** - **The sand:** Like walking on **powdered sugar**—soft, white, and squeaky underfoot. - **The water:** A **gradient of blues**—from pale turquoise to deep sapphire—so clear you can see your shadow on the seabed. - **The vibe:** So peaceful, the loudest noise is the **rustling palm fronds** and the occasional **splash of a fish**. ### **The “Pinch Me” Moment: Snorkeling in the House Reef** Just **10 steps** into the water, you’ll find: 🐠 **Clownfish** darting through anemones (Nemo vibes!) 🐢 **Turtles** gliding past like they own the place (they kinda do) 💎 **Coral bommies** covered in neon-colored fish ### **Hidden Gem: The Secret Sandbar** At low tide, a **hidden sandbar** emerges, connecting Tavajun to a tiny islet. Walk across and you’ll feel like you’re **standing in the middle of the ocean**—surrounded by nothing but water and sky. ### **Unexpected Encounter: The Friendliest Local Fishermen** A group of **Bajau fishermen** offered us **fresh coconuts** (hacked open with a machete, because drama) and told us where to spot **eagle rays**. They even let us **help pull in their nets**—full of tiny, glittering fish. ### **Must-Try: Beachfront BBQ** If you’re lucky, the local caretakers might grill up: 🔥 **Fresh squid** with spicy sambal 🦐 **Butter garlic prawns** that’ll make you lick the foil 🍍 **Pineapple slices** sprinkled with chili salt (trust us) ### **Chill-Only Itinerary** 🕘 **9AM** – Speedboat from Semporna (45 mins) 🤿 **10AM** – Snorkel the house reef 🏝️ **12PM** – Picnic under the palms 🚶♂️ **2PM** – Sandbar adventure at low tide 🌅 **5PM** – Sunset kayaking 🌙 **7PM** – Stargazing on the beach (zero light pollution!) ### **Local Tips:** - **Pack everything you need** (no shops here!) - **Reef-safe sunscreen only** (let’s protect this paradise) - **Time your visit with low tide** for the sandbar magic **Verdict:** 100/10—this is the **definition of paradise found**. **Who else has been? Did you find the sandbar too? Share your stories below! 👇** *(P.S. If you see a **turtle named Kevin**, tell him we say hi.)* 🐢💙
Posted: Apr 24, 2025
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