4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary To Semporna For A Vitamin Seacation Trip

 Dear Readers, 

This Is How I Spent My 4 Days 3 Nights At Semporna, Sabah Covering Both Lato-Lato Mun Resort & Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

Sabah is famous for its hidden gems that are comparable to the world's beautiful islands like the Maldives and visiting the islands here for a vacation has always been on my travel bucket list since forever.

 

Bohey Dulang, Semporna

 

I was thrilled when I received the good news that we will be able to resume the plan that has been put on halt in 2020 due to the pandemic. I bet I am the happiest guy on Earth during that time with no words to express my million thanks to Sabah Tourism for making this trip happen.

Today, I am going to share with you my 4 Days 3 Nights itinerary that has been planned and arranged for us during the trip on the 14th November 2021 - 17th November 2021. Just for your information, during this period of time traveling to Sabah, we will need to perform the COVID-19 swab test and produce the certificate during our check-in, boarding and arrival. 

 

Swab Test Before Entering Sabah (72-Hours Validity)

 

Although this requirement has been removed, please continue to be a responsible traveler where you can perform self-tests before and after your trip for peace of mind and the safety of your loved ones, family and friends. Okay, let's get started!

 

The day I have been waiting for has finally arrived. Our flight to Tawau departed at 7.20 A.M. from Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA 2) and it took approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach Tawau Airport. It is recommended to be at the airport at least 3 hours earlier for a smooth process.

 

My First Flight For The Year 2021! Thanks To AirAsia And Congratulation For Winning The 12 Consecutive Years Of The World's Best Low-Cost Airline

 

As we need to be there early, we decided to drive and park the car at the airport car park with a very affordable daily car park rate of RM 46 per day, and for three days with less than RM 150.00, this is a cheaper option for us since we are traveling in a group of four. 

Day 1: Kuala Lumpur - Tawau - Semporna

 

Upon our arrival at Tawau Airport, we will need to go through the medical screening line and show the frontliner team our "Negative" report test from the swab test, followed by the immigration clearance. For those traveling from Peninsular Malaysia, you will receive an entry slip that you need to keep properly throughout your trip. 

 

To be honest, it was a smooth process for us and with just less than half an hour, we managed to catch up and meet up with our tour guide, Alvin Wong who flew all the way from Kota Kinabalu to be with us for the rest of the trip.

 

Once all our personal luggage has been loaded, we are ready for our trip and the first stop is Restoran Maskur 3 located at Balung, Tawau, Sabah Malaysia.

 

We had our first meal here with the delicious menu ranging from Coto Makassar (signature dish with nasi impit and kuah kacang), Coto Jawa (signature dish with kuah santan), Bakso Daging with Kulit Ayam, Sup Tulang, Sup Campur, Gado-Gado, Lekor Mantul and last but not least, the must-try famous Ikan Baulu Tanpa Tulang  that comes with Sambal Belacan. 

Restoran Maskur 3, Balung, Tawau -SOPs Checked

Our Menu At Restoran Maskur 3, Balung Tawau Sabah

 

The taste really suits my taste buds, delicious and most importantly, it is very reasonably priced too! 

Next stop, we will be visiting the famous archaeological site called Skull Hill (Bukit Tengkorak) that is located at Tampi Tampi Road and it is about 10 KM to the South of Semporna town.

 

Unfortunately, the site was closed during our visit and we were unsure because it is Sunday or temporarily closed due to the current pandemic.

 

To avoid disappointment, you can call them at +6089-222 679 to check for their operational hours if you are planning to visit this site in near future. Read more about Skull Hill at https://museum.sabah.gov.my/exhibition/73.

 

The Only 4-Star Hotel In Sabah's Southeast Region - Seafest Hotel

 

We headed straight to Semporna town from Skull Hill and it just took us around 15 to 20 minutes to reach the town. We dropped our luggage at the hotel lobby while waiting for them to prepare the room for us.

 

Our first night hotel will be the Seafest Hotel that is strategically located within the "Golden" area of the Seafest Complex. This hotel has served both the local and international tourists since 2002 with a local vibrant touch of "Bajau Culture".

 

It is a famous stop for a night-stay especially for divers as the jetty to some of the world's famous scuba diving spots is just a few minutes walking distance away from the hotel lobby. 

Seafest Hotel consists of three hotel facilities namely the Main Building, Boutique and Lepa Wings but during my stay, I had the Executive Standard Twin Room that comes with two comfortable single beds, an attached bathroom and a beautiful city view with a slight sea view. I can see the sunrise from my hotel room too. 

 

Seafest Hotel Floor Lobby

Spacious Executive Standard Twin Room With Two Single Beds

Huge Attached Bathroom In The Room

Small Coffee/Tea Table By The Hotel Windows

 

This hotel has complete facilities such as a fitness centre, swimming pool, restaurant, souvenirs shop and a few others like massage & spa, convenient store and business centre that are closed to the public during my stay. 

 

Swimming Pool At 3rd Floor Seafest Hotel

Fitness Centre At 2nd Floor Seafest Hotel

 

We take a quick tour to explore Semporna town on foot and it is really convenient here as there are many other restaurants nearby including Starbuck, Tealive, fast food restaurants, and convenient stores within walking distance. 

At night, we had our dinner at Restaurant Anjung Lepa just next to our hotel lobby. It was a good one since we had the opportunity to try the "Must-Eat" menu that is really famous here which is the "Sup Naga". It is a local style spicy soup that has a perfect combination of a spicy and sour aftertaste. 

 

Scrumptious Dinner At Restaurant Anjung Lepa Semporna

Restoran Anjung Lepa Famous "Sup Naga"

Latok - Edible Caulerpa

Sizzling Japanese Tofu

 

We had 7 dishes with white rice and the portion here was really generous, enough for 5 of us. Besides the Sup Naga and Latok, we also had the Dry Butter Prawn, Japanese Tofu, Baby Kailan, Salad Chicken and Salted Egg Squid. The food here is cooked to perfection,  it is so scrumptious and notably cheap too. 

After dinner, we took a Grab that cost us less than RM 6.00 to the Terowong Street - Pasar Malam Semporna. It is really happening here with a few stores on the street, a lot of F&B stores after entering the tunnel entrance and entertaining with live bands while enjoying your meals. This night market is really packed with people, so remember to follow all the SOPs for your own and other safety. 

Entrance to Terowong Street - Pasar Malam Semporna

 

That's all for our first night. 

 

For Seafest Hotel booking purposes, you can visit their official website by clicking the link below and contact information for your reference. The room that I stayed in was priced at around RM 250 per night. 

Website: Seafest Hotel

Email: contact@seafesthotel.com

Contact: +6089-782 333

WhatsApp: +6019-8702308

 

Day 2: Semporna - Lato Lato Mun Resort

 

On the second day, we had our breakfast at Restoran Lepa and were ready to check out around 9.00 A.M. Our van arrived sharp and transferred us to the Public Jetty Semporna Sabah heading to Lato Lato Mun Resort. The boat trip took approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on the weather and sea condition.

 

Life Jacket Will Be Provided By The Boat Service Provider

 

We reach Lato Lato Mun Resort around 9.30 A.M. and we manage to take pictures and videos on the resort while waiting for our turn to go island hopping at 10.30 A.M. Upon arrival, we were astonished by the view as this resort is built in the middle of the sea on stilts on top of the corals in the shallow waters. How cool is that, guys? 

 

Lato Lato Mun Resort In The Middle Of The Sea (20 - 30 Minutes Boat Ride From Semporna Town)

Breathtaking View From The Lato Lato Mun Resort Deck

 

The seawater is crystal clear and you can see through the seabed with plenty of marine life including the starfishes and school of fishes. Around 10.30 A.M., we departed from Lato Lato Mun Resort and headed for our first activity on the island hopping list.

 

This service is provided by them, so remember to check with them during your booking to make the necessary booking arrangement especially if you plan to visit Bohey Dulang.

Our first destination is Bohey Dulang! Hey, this is the place that I wanted to go so much and finally, I have a chance to witness its beauty with my own eyes. Bohey Dulang is the second-largest island among the Tun Sakaran Marine Park archipelago and the island is part of an extinct volcanic crater forming a beautiful lagoon.

 

It is also a perfect spot for bird watchers by standing at the peak of 353m, plus birds are plentiful on this island. 

 

Bohey Dulang Among The Tun Sakaran Marine Park Archipelago

 

Be well-prepared if you would like to hike to the peak, although it is just less than 400 metres, it still takes you around an hour to reach the top. But trust me, the views are worth every drop of the sweat you shed during the hike. I think the level of difficulty will be moderate since it is steep with slippery paths as well. 

 

Remember to wear proper attire for hiking with a covered shoe. Just in case you don't have one with you, you can rent a pair of shoes at the price of RM 5.00 only at the entrance before you start to hike! 

 

Look at the view, guys when you are at the peak! Overlooking the beautiful lagoon with an open on its Southern side with a crater rim on this side that extends into a long coral reef. There is a thin channel that separates Bohey Dulang from Pulau Bodgaya, which is the largest island in this archipelago. 

 

Beautiful Lagoon From The Peak of Bohey Dulang

 

After the video and photo-taking session is completed, we start our journey down back to the jetty and once everyone is ready to depart, our next destination will be Pulau Mantabuan. This is the pit stop where we are going to have our lunch by the beach.

 

Pulau Mantabuan is the smallest island in the collection of Tun Sakaran Marine Park with approximately 10 hectares. This is also a volcanic-made island  that nestles at a distance of 2 KM from Pulau Bodgaya. Similar to Bohey Dulang, the occupants are the nomadic community of Sea Gypsies or commonly known as Bajau Laut. 

 

Although Pulau Mantabuan is not commercially developed, it is guarded by the Malaysian Army as the inhabitants of this island together with the Sea Gypsies. 

 

Crystal-Clear Blue Water By The Shore At Pulau Mantabuan

Flat Island Surrounded By A Pristine Sandy Beach

Lunch Box Included In The Island Hopping Package Prepared By Lato Lato Mun Resort At The Pulau Mantabuan Beach

 

We stopped at this island for 30 minutes before we departed to the next island, which is the last stop for this island hopping trip. None others, but the Pulau Sibuan is known as one of the beautiful islands in the whole area with approximately 15 hectares only. 

Pulau Sibuan is unique in a triangular shape viewed from above and low-lying 1 to 2 metre above sea level with a long and narrow strip of sand that gets flooded at high tide. During our visit, we were fortunate as we were able to take pictures of this bank. Thanks to our guide for taking such a lovely picture for us!

 

Long Sandy Beach At Southern Side Of The Island

The Long Bank That Separate The Sea Into Two

 

Around 3 P.M., we move to the snorkeling spot to explore the underwater marine life on the other side of Pulau Sibuan. 

 

Personal Recommendation To Own A Set Of Snorkeling Gear That I Bought From Decathlon

Beware Of The Sea Urchin

Close Encounter With Blue Starfish

 

While you are blown away and amazed by the beauty of nature, please also be careful with the sea urchins and jellyfish while you are snorkeling around this area. My friends and I were lucky and sting-free but another lady from a different group got stung by the jellyfish while she was boarding the boat from snorkeling. Thankfully it is just a minor incident without any need for medical assistance. 

 

According to our guide, snorkeling is only allowed until 4.00 P.M. at Pulau Sibuan and sharp on time, we departed back to Lato Lato Mun Resort. On our arrival, the simple high tea was prepared and served. It is just right on time to have a refreshment to fuel us up. 

 

Are you ready to explore the room here at Lato Lato Mun Resort? After our high-tea, we collected our luggage and the key to our room. It is just a simple room with beds and an attached bathroom, oh yes, it is a fan-room ya. This is comfortable enough for me to have a good night's rest. 

Family Room For 3 Pax

 

Another fortunate event happened on that evening as I managed to capture this sunset view before it was covered by the dark cloud that followed with heavy rain at night. It can be pretty windy as we are in the middle of the sea, so take good care of your belongings especially the lose items.  

My Sunset At Lato-Lato Mun Resort

 

The dinner is buffet-style with a good variety of choices, of course, do not expect to have the 5-star menu here. 

 

Dinner Served At The Receptionist Area

My Dinner At Lato Lato Mun Resort - Simple But Good Enough

 

After dinner, I plan to have a night walk but it seems to be not possible as it started to rain right after the meal. We were stuck in the room for the rest of the night. 

 

Lato Lato Mun Resort Night View

 

If you are planning for your trip to Semporna and stay here at Lato Lato Mun Resort, you can visit their website to make the booking or contact them directly for the package available. 

 

The package will include a room with 4 meals; breakfast, lunch, hi-tea and dinner, and also island hopping activities. 

 

Things you need to know: 

• The power supply is only available from 6.30 P.M. until 6.30 A.M., this is the period of time for you to charge all necessary items; your phone, power bank, etc. As the electricity is generated by the generator, do expect a power supply trip in the middle of the night too.But they will start it back within the shortest period of time. 
• No Wi-Fi connection was provided. No connection issue during my stay, just a little bit slow but fair enough since we are in the middle of the sea. By the way, I am using Celcom, Unifi and also the Maxis line.
  

 

Address: Lato Lato Resort, Bum Bum Island, 91308 Semporna, Sabah Malaysia

Website: https://www.latolatoresort.com/

WhatsApp: +6017-3068622

Email: booking@latolatoresort.com

 

Lato Lato Mun Resort Facebook | Lato Lato Mun Resort Instagram

Day 3: Semporna - Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

 

On the next day, we will have our breakfast prepared by the resort before departure back to Semporna jetty. While waiting for the breakfast to be ready, I went to the observation deck just to catch the sunrise as early as 5.30 A.M. in the morning, but unfortunately, it was still raining and a bit windy with zero chance to see the sun rising. 

Breakfast with Coffee Or Tea As Hot Beverage

 

We checked out directly right after we had our breakfast and the boat departed from Lato Lato Mun at 8.15 A.M. Thankfully the raining weather was not accompanied by a strong wind, our return boat journey was a smooth one and we reached Sipadan Kapalai Jetty at Semporna around 8.35 A.M.

 

Each resort will have their own jetty, it is important for you to check it out in advance to avoid unnecessary incidents such as wrong jetty, etc. 

Be at the counter earlier as you will need to sign a consent form, you can drop your luggage and put on the label tag for the crew to make the arrangement. They will be helping you to load and unload your luggage at the jetty and upon arrival. 

The boat will depart from Sipadan Kapalai Jetty heading to Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort at 10.30 A.M.. Since we are still early, we decided to walk to Harbour City to have morning coffee just to kill time. 

 

Semporna Ocean Tourism Centre

Fresh Seafood Sent To Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

 

Our boat was finally ready to depart from the jetty around 11.00 A.M. and the journey took approximately around 40 minutes, we reached the resort around 11.40 A.M.. During the boat trip, we will be passing by the Seaventures Dive Rig and Mabul Resort on the right. This will be on my list for the next vitamin seacation when I have the opportunity to visit Sabah again. 

 

Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort is a luxury water village built on stilts over the sandbanks of the Ligitan Reefs. It truly resembles the quote "Heaven On Earth" with its magnificent panorama views. No wonder this is a popular spot for honeymooners or just perfect for those who want to run out from the busy city life for a relaxing yet slower pace of lifestyle. 

Your arrival will be greeted and you will feel so welcomed by them, such a lovely gesture. Oh yes, you will be served with a welcome drink too to quench your thirst while waiting for everyone to settle down. A consent form will be distributed for you to sign which include all your personal details, etc. 

Welcome To Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

 

A safety briefing will be conducted both in English and Mandarin, and this is the session that you will need to pay attention to as it covers the house rule, activities and most importantly, there is an emergency button that you need to be aware of! If you don't want to create any unnecessary scenes during your stay, listen carefully to the briefing. 

 

Safety Briefing- Map, House Rule and "The Button"

Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort Built On Stilts On Top Of Ligitan Reef

 

We had our lunch first right after the safety briefing before proceeding with the check-in. What people mentioned is really true, "一分钱一分货" which mean "You get what you paid for". There are more foods and choices available here and they are served in buffet style. As we are still in the midst of fighting against the COVID-19, remember to follow the 1-metre social distance and wear the glove while using the serving spoon. 

 

All The Meals Will Be Served Here In Buffet Style

Let's Have Lunch Before Check-In

 

After lunch around 1 P.M., Mr Alvin passed the room key to us and it was time to check in. Are you ready to discover the room here at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort? It is truly a luxury water bungalow for me. 

 

Look At The Accommodation And Facilities That Built On Top Of The Ligitan Reef - You Can See The Marine Life Underneath Your Bungalow

Family Room For 3 Pax

Spacious Attached Bathroom With Super Cool Design

Bathtub Available At The Balcony Overseeing The Sea

Although We Are On Top Of The Sunken Island, We Still Need To Use Clean Water With Care

After taking a short break, we went for the snorkeling activity and the best part of it, there are 4 snorkeling points available around Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort, no boat required and you can snorkeling at your own convenience. Among all, we choose the one that is closest to the Diving Centre. You can snorkeling at your own will around these 4 spots from 8.00 A.M. until 5.30 P.M. only.

 

The Diving Centre is fairly busy as this is the spot where divers will depart or do their diving activity here too. But I promise you the view underneath this spot is truly unbelievable and amazing. 

 

Let's Float On The Water Before We Go Snorkeling To Discover The Underwater World

This Is Just A Teaser! Scroll Down For More!

Tiny Fish, Big Fish With Beautiful Coral! Wait, Want To Have A Closer Look?

Here You Go! The Best View Ever Throughout All The Snorkeling Trip That I Ever Do Before

 

Around 4.00 P.M., we decided to go back from the activity, to have a rest while waiting for the tea-time break that has been prepared by the resort. Unfortunately, it started to rain around 5.00 P.M. and we didn't manage to catch up for the tea break.

 

While waiting for the rain to stop and the sunset, we walked around the resort in our section. Anyway, the best sunset will be at the man-made island and be there around 5.30 P.M. to catch the perfect view.

 

The Sunset "Going To Be" View Just Right In Front Of My Room

 

Since it was raining that evening and we had not explored the man-made island yet. We walked all the way to the end of the path from my room and here is the place where we will have the best sun-rise view.

 

There is an army tower located at the end of which the second floor is open to the public and fully restricted on the third floor. 

 

The rain and windy evening have robbed my beautiful sunset here at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort. Hopefully, in the near future, I can repeat a trip and stay longer to witness many more sunsets and sunrises at this resort.  

Still Raining And Cloudy Evening - Still Hoping For The Best Sunset

 

The dinner will be served from as early as 7.00 P.M. at the same restaurant with a great, delicious and scrumptious menu. I personally really loved the foods prepared for us here in this resort. A truly 5-star menu! 

 

Dinner Is Ready, Guys!

 

After dinner, we take a sea-chilling cool breeze walk around the restaurant area before heading back to our own room to wrap the day up. 

 

Plenty Of Hammock Available For The Resort Guests To Hangout With Family And Friends

 

That's pretty much our Day 3 and last night here in Sabah for this trip. 

 

Day 4: Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort - Semporna - Tawau

 

Our day started as early as 5.30 A.M. in the morning as it is the perfect time to catch the sunrise. But too bad, guys! Our day starts with the gloomy windy yet cloudy morning. It's the same feeling as yesterday. 

 

Our Morning Without Beautiful Sunrise - Look At The Cloudy Day

 

This doesn't stop us from having a great last day here at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort. We went back to our room and got ready for our breakfast at 7.30 A.M. and prepared ourselves to explore another part of this resort. Trust me, you will be blown away or you won't believe your eyes to see this scenery on a sunken island in the middle of the clear blue sea. 

 

Breakfast Like A King! Delicious And Yummilicious Dinner

 

Right after breakfast, we took our morning walk to the man-made island. Along the way, look at all the magnificent views available on this resort. 

 

Wonderful Seabed Filled With Starfish - Never Seen So Many Starfishes Before!

Did You See What I See In This Picture? If You Are Lucky Enough, They Will Visit You And You Can Even From Your Room Balcony

 

Before reaching the man-made island, we pass by the Green Bridge! Do you believe that there is so much greenery in this resort? It is so fresh and peaceful walking along this bridge that is full of plants. 

Green Bridge At Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

This Is Not "Garden Of Adam And Eve" But This Is Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

 

No wonder newly-wed couples loved to take their wedding photo here! This resort is full of Instagrammable spots and stunningly beautiful scenery. After a long walk, finally, we have arrived at the man-made island in the middle of the sea. 

 

Chilling At The Man-Made Island

Some Of The Accommodation Available Nearby To The Man-Made Island

A Beautiful Place To Have Wonderful Catch Up With Family and Friends

Such A Paradise On Earth Only Available At Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

 

That's pretty much my staycation experience here at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort. It is time for us to wait for the boat transfer to send us back to Semporna Jetty.

 

Goodbye Kapalai For The Wonderful Memories

 

There are two types of packages offered here at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort; the Non-Diver (Snorkeling) and Diver Package and both packages include:

 

• Land transfer from Tawau Airport to Semporna Jetty (Return)
• Boat transfer to Kapalai Resort (Return)
• Chalet Accommodation on twin or triple share basis at the resort
• Delicious fresh food buffet style (Breakfast, Lunch, Hi-Tea, Dinner)  
• Tea or coffee, cold water and cordial served throughout the day 
  
• Snorkeling gears available for rental  
• Snorkel around the resort

 

Special for the Diver package: 

 

• 3 guided boat divers daily - except on arrival and departure day
• Tank, weight and weight belts are provided
• Unlimited house reef dive in front of Kapalai Dive Centre
• Night dives in front of Kapalai Dive Centre

 

Currently, Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort is having special rate promotion where Price After Discount for 2 Nights for RM 1,840.00, 3 Nights for RM 2,640.00, 4 Nights for RM 3,440.00 with an extension night of RM 800 per night per diver. 

For the Non-Diver package, the price per non-diver is priced at 2 Nights for RM 1,472.00, 3 Nights for RM 2,112.00, 4 Nights for RM 2,752.00 with an extension night of RM 640.00 per night per non-diver. 

Also, there is a One (1) Pax FREE for every NINE (9) paying pax promotion on-going, 5% OFF from the package rate for sharing 3 adults in a chalet and 50% OFF from the Non-Diver package rate for a non-diver child from 2 to below 12 years and Infant 24 months and below is chargeable at 10% of Non-Diver package. 

This promotion is valid from 15th October 2021 until 31st December 2021 only. For more information, you can follow them on their social media platforms, official website and also contact them directly. 

 

Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort Website

Contact Number: +6089-765 200

Email: mail@sipadan-kapalai.com 

We had our lunch at Semporna Town before traveling to the Tawau Airport to catch our flight back to Kuala Lumpur.

Special thanks to Sabah Tourism (https://www.sabahtourism.com/) for arranging this wonderful trip and it was a smooth one. Looking forward to sharing more about this beautiful destination here in Sabah, Malaysia. 

 

Journey Back To Kuala Lumpur From Tawau Airport

 

Signing Off For Now And Take Care Till We e-Meet Again On My Next Post!

For Collaboration Or Any Inquiries, Feel Free To Email Me At kitkatnelfei@gmail.com.