Travel Tips Semporna & How to Get to TDB Semporna (2026 Guide)
Welcome to the gateway of the Coral Triangle. Planning your dream dive trip to Semporna? Whether you are hunting for the “Baraccuda Tornado” at Sipadan or looking for a relaxing certification course, getting here is part of the adventure. At TDB Semporna Dive Resort, we believe a smooth journey starts with the right information.
Below is your complete guide to reaching us and essential travel tips for Semporna in 2026.
Fly to Tawau Airport (TWU)
Semporna is located in the Tawau Division of Sabah, Malaysia. To reach us, you must fly into Tawau Airport (TWU).
Great news for 2026 travelers: Tawau now welcomes more direct international flights than ever before, making your journey faster and easier.
International Direct Flights (New for 2026!)
You can now fly directly to Tawau from several major cities in China and the region, bypassing the need to transit in Kuala Lumpur.
| Departure City | Airline(s) | Frequency / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou (CAN) | AirAsia, Batik Air | Regular scheduled flights (Daily / Weekly). |
| Shanghai (PVG) | Juneyao Airlines, AirAsia | New in 2026! Scheduled & Charter options available. |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | Greater Bay Airlines | New! Check schedule for direct service starting Jan 2026. |
| Shenzhen (SZX) | AirAsia / Charters | Mostly seasonal charters. Check with us for availability. |
| Singapore (SIN) | Scoot / AirAsia | Seasonal. If direct is unavailable, Fly-Thru via Kota Kinabalu. |
| Nanjing (NKG) | Firefly | Seasonal charter flights. |
| Macau (MFM) | AirAsia | Direct connection available (verify seasonal schedule). |
Pro Tip for China Travelers: If you cannot find a direct flight on your preferred date, the best alternative is to fly to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) and take a short 50-minute hop to Tawau.
Domestic & Regional Direct Flights
If you are already in Malaysia or transiting through major hubs, here are your best connections.
| Departure City | Flight Duration | Recommended Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Kuala Lumpur (KUL) | ~ 2 Hours 50 Mins | AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air |
| Kota Kinabalu (BKI) | ~ 55 Mins | AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly |
| Johor Bahru (JHB) | ~ 2 Hours 40 Mins | AirAsia (Direct) |
Transfer from Tawau Airport to Semporna
Once you land at Tawau Airport, the journey to Semporna town takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes by road.
Transfer Options
- TDB Private Transfer (Highly Recommended): For the safest and most convenient experience, book your transfer directly with us. Our driver will greet you at the arrival hall with a “TDB Semporna” sign.
- Taxi or E-Hailing Services: E-hailing services are available but can be inconsistent during peak hours. Rates typically range from MYR 80 – MYR 120.
- Bus/Minivan: Available outside the airport but often requires waiting for a full load before departure. Not recommended if you are carrying heavy dive gear.
The drive provides a scenic introduction to eastern Sabah, passing through rural villages and coastal landscapes along the way.
Arrival at TDB Semporna Dive Resort
TDB Semporna Dive Resort is centrally located within Semporna town, close to dive operations, accommodation facilities, and essential services, allowing guests to settle in comfortably and prepare for diving or snorkeling activities without unnecessary travel time.
To ensure you have the safest and most enjoyable trip, here are some local insights from our TDB instructors.
1. Best Time to Visit
Semporna offers diving year-round, but conditions vary:
Dry Season (March – October):
The “Golden Window.” Expect calm seas, sunny skies, and visibility often exceeding 20 meters.
April to August is peak turtle nesting season.
Monsoon Season (November – February):
While diving is still possible, surface conditions can be choppy.
This period is generally quieter with fewer crowds.
2. Money & Connectivity
Cash is King:
While TDB Semporna Dive Resort accepts digital payments such as AliPay, WeChat Pay, and credit cards,
many small local eateries and souvenir stalls in Semporna town only accept cash (MYR).
ATMs:
Several banks are available in Semporna town, including Maybank, Public Bank, and Bank Islam.
ATMs may run out of cash during public holidays, so withdrawing sufficient cash in Kuala Lumpur
or Kota Kinabalu before arrival is recommended.
SIM Cards:
For the best 4G and 5G coverage in Semporna and nearby islands, Celcom or Digi are recommended.
SIM cards can be purchased at Tawau Airport upon arrival.
3. Cultural Etiquette
Semporna is a culturally conservative area.
Dress Code:
It is polite to dress modestly when walking around Semporna town by covering shoulders and knees.
Swimwear is acceptable on dive boats and island beaches.
Alcohol:
Alcohol is available at selected restaurants and resorts, including ours.
Public drinking on the streets is discouraged.
4. Safety & Health
Sun Protection:
We strictly enforce the use of reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs.
Please ensure products are oxybenzone-free.
Hydration:
Tropical humidity is high. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
No-Fly Time:
Please observe the recommended 18–24 hour no-fly interval after your last dive
before boarding a flight from Tawau.
Once you exit the Arrival Hall, look for our driver holding a placard with the TDB Semporna logo and your name. If you cannot find them, simply call or WhatsApp our operations number provided in your booking confirmation.
Yes, if you are renting a car in Sabah, you can drive to Semporna. There are paid parking facilities available near the jetty area. However, traffic can be busy, so please ask our team for recommended parking spots.
Yes. Sabah has its own immigration control.
-
International Travelers: Must have a valid passport.
-
West Malaysians: Must present your MyKad or passport to obtain an entry slip (IMM114) at the immigration counter upon arrival at Tawau Airport.
Yes. Semporna is well connected by air and road, and the travel route is straightforward. Most guests find the journey smooth, even if it is their first time visiting eastern Sabah.
Yes, airport taxis and e-hailing services (such as Grab) are available, but they can be expensive or hard to find during peak hours. There is no direct public bus from the airport to Semporna. For a hassle-free experience, we highly recommend pre-booking your transfer with TDB.
Yes. We strongly recommend arriving at least one day before your scheduled diving or snorkeling activities to allow time for rest, check-in, equipment preparation, and briefings.
Yes. We offer convenient scheduled airport pick-up services. You can book your land transfer directly with us when you purchase your dive package. Our driver will meet you at the arrival hall and take you directly to our dive center or your hotel.
Yes. Tawau Airport has direct domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu. International travelers usually transit through Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu before flying to Tawau.
The distance from Tawau Airport to Semporna town is approximately 80 km. The journey takes about 75 to 90 minutes by car or van, passing through oil palm plantations before reaching the coast.
You must fly into Tawau Airport (TWU), which is the nearest airport to Semporna. Direct flights are available daily from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Kota Kinabalu (BKI) via Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, or Firefly. Note: There is no airport in Semporna town itself.
