Semporna diving guide

About diving at Semporna

Semporna is a busy fishing town in south-east Sabah and the main gateway to some of the most celebrated diving in Asia. Dive centres line the waterfront, running day trips to Mabul, Kapalai and — with a permit — Sipadan.

The area is also rich in culture. Semporna is home to Bajau communities, including the Bajau Laut, whose colourful lepa boats are celebrated in the town's annual regatta.

What makes Semporna special

• Gateway to Sipadan and MabulDay trips from town reach world-class wall and muck diving within about an hour by boat.
• Tun Sakaran Marine ParkA group of islands, including Bohey Dulang and Sibuan, offering reef diving, snorkelling and dramatic island scenery.
• Bajau culture and lepa boatsSemporna's Regatta Lepa celebrates the decorated boats of the Bajau community and is a highlight if your trip coincides with it.

Marine life to look for

• Turtles
• Reef sharks
• Frogfish and other macro life (on muck sites)
• Schooling jacks
• Bumphead parrotfish
• Colourful hard corals

When to dive

Diveable year-round; sea conditions vary, so ask your centre about your travel month.

Getting there

Fly to Tawau, then drive roughly an hour to Semporna. Many dive centres arrange airport transfers.

Who it suits

Every level — calm reefs and macro sites for beginners, and Sipadan's walls for experienced divers.

Local tips

• Book Sipadan days well in advance: permits are limited and allocated through licensed operators.
• Staying in town is usually cheaper than island resorts, with longer boat rides.
• Leave room in your plans for weather — boats may switch sites for safety.

Learning to dive at Semporna

Visiting divers usually join an SSI centre for guided dives or courses such as SSI Open Water Diver and Advanced Adventurer. Check each centre’s dates and what its packages include.

Part of our guide to scuba diving in Malaysia.