https://nz.trip.com/moments/detail/tawau-division-1453520-133588470?locale=en-NZ
APRIL GOODMANUnited States

Visa-free trip to Semporna is back! Highly recommend visiting in July-August – it's absolutely breathtaking!

The Ultimate Island Hopping Guide to Semporna: Step into a Real-Life Underwater Paradise!💎 Hey travelers! Semporna's glass-like waters, jelly-like beaches, dreamy water bungalows... every shot is Instagram-worthy! This meticulously crafted guide will take you through stunning islands, unlocking magical experiences like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunset gazing! Save this now⭐ ✨ Must-Do Island Hopping Routes 🔥 🔹 Mataking-Timba-Timba-Pom Pom Route (Stunning! Must-visit!) - Timba-Timba Island 🏝️ The sandbar is UNREAL! During low tide, it's like walking on water! Rent a changing hut (10 MYR) and wear white for 99.9% photo-perfect shots! 🐟 Snorkeling tip: Bring breadcrumbs! Instantly attract hundreds of tropical fish – keep that underwater camera ready! (Location: 40-min boat ride from Semporna town) - Mataking Island 🤿 Diver's paradise! Witness sea turtles' "underwater ballet"! Don't miss mailing a postcard from the underwater mailbox (with a guide). Aerial views show a dumbbell-shaped island – best light before 9am✨ - Pom Pom Island 🐢 Heartwarming turtle release at 5pm daily (July-August, book 1 day ahead). Non-resort guests can join with afternoon tea tickets! 🔹 Mabul Island Route (Scenery + Culture Combo) 📸 Photo hotspot: Wear neon swimsuits among coral reefs for Finding Nemo vibes! 👧 Cultural experience: Interact with Bajau kids on "tub boats" (stationery gifts preferred~) 🔹 Kapalai Water Bungalows (Bucket-list stay!) 💎 Count fish from your bed! 3D2N stay recommended – too beautiful to leave! 🌅 Sunset magic: Orange sea + flowy dresses at the jetty = Ultimate aesthetic! 🗓️ 4D3N Foolproof Itinerary ✈️ Day1: Arrive in Semporna 🏨 Top pick: Seafest Hotel (Lot 1-2,Block B,Semporna Seafront) Infinity pool views! 🦞 Seafood market haggling: Start at half price +5 MYR! Day2: Mataking Triple Islands 🏊‍♀️ Snorkel + scuba combo! Rent GoPro (~50 MYR/day) 💌 Underwater postcards (buy special stamps at pier) Day3: Mabul + Kapalai 👙 Say hi to "Nemo" at Mabul! 🌃 Kapalai's Milky Way will leave you speechless! Day4: Departure 🛍️ Souvenirs at "Semporna Art" (town center) 🍜 Fat Mother Seafood's butter tiger prawns! (Opposite Seafest Hotel) ⚠️ Crucial Tips ❗ 1. Don't touch coral! Fines start at 1000 MYR! 2. Always ask before photographing Bajau people 3. No flights within 18hrs after diving! 👙 Packing List 📝 ✅ Sun protection: SPF110+ sunscreen, arm sleeves, face cover ✅ Snorkel gear: Dry snorkel + waterproof phone case ✅ Photo props: White dress + straw bag + wide hat ✅ Extras: Motion sickness pills, underwater camera, power bank 🌊 Best season: April-September (30m+ visibility) July-August is peak perfection! Go now!
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Posted: Jul 5, 2025
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Mabul Island

4.8/5517 reviews | Diving
Tawau Division
No.4 of Best Things to Do in Sabah
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