https://sa.trip.com/moments/detail/semporna-14898-133487510?locale=en-SA
Feelin_gudUnited Kingdom
levelIconIntermediate traveler

Semporna Like a Local: Salt, Sun & Sea Stories

#sempornaisland You’ve seen the turquoise waters and dreamy islands — but to truly experience Semporna, you’ve got to slow down, hop on a wooden boat, share a kopi with the locals, and listen to the sea’s quiet hum. This isn’t just a dive town — it’s a gateway to culture, community, and coral-covered magic. ✨🐠🌴 ⸻ 🎯 Local-Style Highlights • 🛶 Morning at the Waterfront Start your day like a local at Pasar Ikan (Fish Market). Watch fishermen haul in fresh tuna and squid as the sun rises. It’s lively, raw, and refreshingly real. ☕ Grab a cup of kopi o from a warung nearby — strong, sweet, and served in a plastic bag with a straw! • 🏘️ Explore Bajau Laut Sea Villages Take a respectful boat tour to visit the Bajau Laut (“Sea Gypsies”), who’ve lived entirely on the sea for generations. Their stilt houses float above the reefs, and you’ll see kids paddling homemade boats or free-diving like it’s second nature. 🔹 Bring simple gifts (rice, school supplies) instead of cash. Always ask before taking photos. • 🛥️ Ride a Local Boat to the Islands Instead of big tours, hire a local wooden boat at the Semporna jetty. Negotiate a day trip to Bohey Dulang, Mantabuan, or Sibuan. These boats are slower, but the experience is authentic — and your fee supports a local family. 🎒 Pack water, snacks, and a waterproof bag (and a huge smile!). • 🥥 Eat Like a Sabahan Forget fancy restaurants — the best food is at roadside stalls and open-air eateries: • Ikan bakar (grilled fish with sambal) • Nasi kuning (fragrant yellow rice with egg + fried chicken) • Kuih-muih (local sweets like pandan cakes and banana fritters) 🍢 Try the night market for smoky satay skewers and ocean-fresh seafood platters. • 🌿 Hike Bohey Dulang Island Like a Local Guide Ask your boatman to take you early morning to beat the heat. Local rangers lead the hike — they’ll share stories about volcanic peaks, native birds, and conservation efforts. 📸 The view from the top? Unreal. Blue lagoons and green ridges that look painted. ⸻ 🗺️ Getting There Like a Pro • ✈️ Fly to Tawau Airport, then grab a shared van (RM25–35) or taxi to Semporna (1.5–2 hrs) • 🛥️ Book boats at Semporna Jetty or ask your guesthouse to connect you with a local captain • 🏡 Stay in a basic homestay or floating chalet for the full experience — often run by friendly Bajau families ⸻ 🌟 Insider Tips • 🐢 Don’t rush Sipadan! Try Mabul or Kapalai for beginner snorkeling and chill vibes before diving deep • 🩴 Pack reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards, and flip-flops that can get wet • 🎁 Buy locally made crafts like shell jewelry or woven mats — it supports indigenous artisans • 🌅 Sunset tip: Head to the jetty or a floating restaurant at golden hour. Boats drifting, kids laughing, and the horizon glowing 🔥
Posted: Jul 2, 2025
Submit
0
Mentioned in this post
Attraction

Pulau Mantabuan

4.9/544 reviews | Diving
Semporna
No.7 of Water Fun Attractions in Semporna
Details
Show more
Related Trip Moments
Mabul Island

Semporna, Sabah - Tropical Paradise of Malaysia

Vivian21
Mabul Island

Semporna: A floating wonderland that has fallen into the mortal world

JIMMY VARGAS
Mabul Island

A 6-Day Trip to Malaysia for Only 3k per Person: A Comprehensive Guide

Cele_stialw_himsy
Mataking Island

7-Day Tour in Malaysia: Super Detailed Guide Revealed

Liam.Simmons@58
Mataking Island

Visa-free travel in Malaysia, per capita 3k is not fragrant?

KAYLEIGH NORRIS
Mataking Island

7-Day Visa-Free Malaysia Tour: A Complete Guide

SophiaParrish53
Mataking Island

7-Day Malaysia Itinerary: Explore the Whole Island

Ella Scott
Tun Sakaran Marine Park, Semporna, Sabah.

Semporna Island Hopping: Pearl Island, Mandabuan Island and Zion Island

ying0564335
Mabul Island

7-Day Malaysia Tour: Visa-Free Direct Flights

Ethan Cooper James-2
Pulau Mantabuan

Tawau, Malaysia: A Dreamy Island and Unique Cuisine

Cook_Lucas_93
Mabul Island

Malaysia 6-day tour is a suitable choice for autumn.

Calm Evelyn~Price98
Mabul Island

A 6-day trip to Malaysia costs only CNY 3,000 per person.

AUJ.HAPPY