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Semporna Islands Park
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The Semporna Islands Park, also known as the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, is a memorable archipelago of eight islands off the east coast of Sabah. Formed by volcanic activity, the islands are a diver's paradise, boasting some of the world's most biodiverse coral reefs. The park is the largest marine park in Sabah and is a hotspot for macro and pelagic life. The Bohey Dulang island, with its panoramic lagoon and panoramic viewpoint, is. The park is also home to the Bajau Laut, or 'Sea Gypsies', a nomadic seafaring people who live in traditional stilt houses over the water. Their unique culture and lifestyle are an integral part of the park's identity. From the world-class diving at Sipadan (a separate, nearby island) to the cultural encounters with the Bajau Laut, the Semporna region gives an unforgettable marine adventure.
- Location: Malaysia
- Nearby: Semporna (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 237 | 164 | 186 | 163 | 198 | 194 | 213 | 223 | 161 | 214 | 207 | 260 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reachable mainly by boat from the coastal town of Semporna in the state of Sabah, with trips and permits typically organized in advance by local registered dive operators.
Best season
The absolute best time to visit is during the dry season, running from March to October, which generally features optimal diving visibility and much calmer sea conditions.
Terrain & paths
The environment consists almost entirely of open ocean expanses, extensive underwater coral reefs, and small scattered tropical islands characterized by white sandy beaches.
What to bring
Essential gear for this trip includes a proper swimsuit, high SPF reef-safe sunscreen, a reliable waterproof bag, and your own personal snorkeling or scuba diving equipment.
Parking
Since the park is offshore, vehicles are typically left in designated secure parking lots at the Semporna mainland public harbor before visitors board their respective boats.
Safety
It is crucial to strictly follow the dive master's instructions, stay acutely aware of changing ocean currents, and absolutely never touch the fragile coral reefs or marine wildlife.
Time needed
Most casual visitors spend at least a full day participating in a boat and diving trip, although multi-day liveaboard diving safaris are highly recommended for enthusiasts.
Geography
Facts
- Tun Sakaran Marine Park was gazetted in 2004 and covers an area of 350 square kilometers.
- The park consists of eight islands and two reefs.
- Bohey Dulang, the second-largest island, is a remnant of an extinct volcano.
- The park is home to the Bajau Laut, a nomadic seafaring community.
- The nearby Sipadan Island is consistently rated as one of the top dive sites in the world.
- The area is part of the 'Coral Triangle', a global center of marine biodiversity.
- Over 500 species of coral and 2,000 species of fish have been recorded in the region.
- The islands were formed by the eruption of a volcano some 2.5 million years ago.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Semporna Islands Park (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How are the underwater conditions?
World-class diving with crystal-clear water.
Is there accommodation there?
There are resorts in Semporna and some on the islands.
When is the best time to travel?
February to November usually provides the best weather.
How to get there?
Flight to Tawau, then transfer to Semporna.
What is the main feature?
The spectacular biodiversity of corals and marine life.
Semporna Islands Park: where is it located?
Semporna Islands Park is located in Malaysia.
Semporna Islands Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr, Sep.
Semporna Islands Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Semporna Islands Park, also known as the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, is a memorable archipelago of eight islands off the east coast of Sabah.
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