Semporna

A small coastal town in southeastern Sabah known as the diving capital of the region, offering access to world-class coral reefs and marine biodiversity. It's the gateway to diving sites like Sipadan Island and the Celebes Sea's underwater treasures.

Things to do

• Sipadan Island Diving — Descend into one of the world's most spectacular wall dives featuring dramatic drop-offs, schools of barracuda, and encounters with sea turtles and reef sharks.
• Mabul Island Snorkeling and House Reef Diving — Explore vibrant coral gardens and macro marine life around this island, accessible as a day trip with shallow reefs perfect for all skill levels.
• Kapalai Island Dive Resort Visit — Experience pristine house reefs teeming with seahorses, nudibranchs, and rare critters in shallow waters ideal for macro photography.
• Semporna Town Market Exploration — Wander through the bustling waterfront market to see fresh seafood, local produce, and interact with Bajau Laut (sea gypsies) communities.
• Bohey Dulang Island Sunset Trek — Climb this distinctive peaked island for panoramic views of the Celebes Sea and surrounding islands, especially stunning at golden hour.
• Bajau Village Homestay Experience — Stay with local sea gypsy families to learn about their traditional fishing methods, boat-building, and unique maritime culture.

Food to try

• Grilled Fish with Sambal Matah — Fresh-caught seafood from the morning markets grilled over charcoal and served with spicy raw sambal made from chilies, lime, and shallots.
• Tum-Tum or Sabah Fish Soup — A fragrant local fish soup made with tamarind, ginger, turmeric, and fresh catch, served at waterfront stalls and local restaurants.
• Seafood at Seafront Jetty Restaurants — Select your own fresh catch from tanks at the jetty restaurants and have it prepared steamed, fried, or curried within minutes.
• Bajau-style Coconut Curries — Creamy curry dishes using fish, prawns, or squid cooked in coconut milk with local spices reflecting the seafaring community's culinary traditions.
• Lepat Pisang (Banana Leaf Parcels) — Sweet glutinous rice and banana wrapped in banana leaves and grilled, a common Sabahan dessert found at local markets.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Marine Protected Areas — Semporna enforces strict conservation for coral reefs and marine life; follow all dive guide instructions and avoid touching coral or taking shells from protected sites.
• Greet the Bajau Laut Community Respectfully — The local sea gypsies have deep cultural traditions; ask permission before photographing people or villages, and consider supporting local homestays and craft purchases.
• Dress Modestly in Town — While the islands are more casual, in Semporna town itself wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees, particularly near mosques and markets.
• Book Diving Well in Advance — Sipadan permits are limited daily and booking through authorized operators weeks ahead is essential; overnight stays at Mabul or Kapalai typically guarantee access.