Semporna is a fantastic place to combine delicious local food with some of the most stunning island scenery in Malaysia. Unlike typical lunch spots, many of these tours let you enjoy your meal amid turquoise waters, white sands, and lush islands — making the meal itself part of the adventure. Our favorites include hikes with incredible views, boat trips past vibrant coral reefs, and visits to remote islands where the only thing better than the scenery is the fresh, local lunch you’ll enjoy. If you’re craving an authentic experience that mixes nature, activity, and good food, Semporna has plenty to offer.
For a well-rounded day, I recommend the Hike and Dive in Bohey Islands with Local Lunch. It combines a scenic trek, snorkeling or diving, and a tasty meal on the water — all in one compact package. Other options provide deeper island explorations, snorkeling around coral reefs, or combining multiple islands in a single day. Each offers a different flavor of island life, perfect for those wanting more than just a sit-down lunch.
Quick Overview
The list below features four top lunch experiences in Semporna, each with a unique approach: hiking with scenic views, island hopping with snorkeling stops, exploring multiple islands, or boat trips with resort visits. They all include local meals and provide different ways to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. For more details, check out each experience’s page.
1. Hike and Dive in Bohey Islands with Local Lunch
At number 1, this tour offers a chance to hike to the top of Bohey Dulang, one of the most striking volcanic islands in the area. Starting from Semporna, you’ll sail to the islands, hike about 600 meters through lush scenery, and enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon below. The hike itself is a highlight, with panoramic vistas that are worth every step. Afterward, the tour includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, or diving — so you get to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life right in the water. The meal is a local-style lunch onboard, providing a chance to relax and absorb the island atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of an active hike with underwater activities, all wrapped into an approximately 8-hour day. It’s perfect for travelers who like a bit of adventure and spectacular scenery. The reviews are glowing, with many describing it as “the most amazing tour I’ve ever joined.” The price of $60.45 offers good value considering the full day of activity, a scenic hike, and a hearty local meal.
Bottom Line: If you want a mix of hiking, snorkeling, and stunning views, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with a moderate hike and eager to combine land and water adventures.
$60.45 per person
2. Semporna: Bohey 3 Islands Hike, Snorkel/Dive Tour with Lunch
Second on our list is the more comprehensive Bohey Islands experience, visiting three islands: Bohey Dulang, Mantabuan, and Sibuan. This tour is a full-day excursion offering hiking along 600-meter trails for spectacular panoramic views, plus plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or dive in crystal-clear waters. The itinerary includes stops at secluded beaches and marine-rich areas, making it ideal for those wanting to explore more than one island in a single trip.
What makes this tour distinctive is its detailed itinerary — from the guided hikes to the secluded lunch onboard, which is often hailed as a highlight. The reviews note the professional guides, who help make the experience accessible for all, from beginners to seasoned snorkelers. At around $90, this tour is slightly more expensive but offers a rich, full-day exploration with multiple islands and diverse activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into the region’s islands and underwater world, with the bonus of a local meal. It’s suited for those wanting a more extensive island-hopping experience with active elements.
3. Semporna: Explore 3 Islands Tour Snorkel or Dive & Lunch
If your focus is on diving or snorkeling, this tour covers the islands of Timba-timba, Mataking, and Pandanan. Starting from Semporna, you’ll head out on a speedboat to explore these vibrant spots, each famous for their crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life. The trip includes free time for swimming, snorkeling, or diving, with some stops lasting around 50 minutes, allowing you to really explore the underwater world.
What makes this tour appealing is its straightforward approach to marine exploration combined with a simple, home-cooked lunch on the island. Many reviewers mention the beautiful underwater scenery and appreciate the ease of the activities. At $53 per person, it offers a good value for a full day of marine adventure, especially for those mainly interested in snorkeling or diving without much trekking.
Bottom Line: Great for ocean lovers who want a guided day of snorkeling or diving, combined with a relaxed lunch. Ideal for travelers prioritizing marine life and reef visibility over hiking.
$53 per person
4. Semporna: Mabul and Kapalai Trip in Snorkel or Dive & Lunch
Finally, the Mabul and Kapalai trip is perfect for those interested in coral reefs and underwater photography. Starting from the floating Dragon Inn, this tour takes you to Mabul and Kapalai — two iconic islands famed for their vivid reefs and unique landscapes. The trip includes swimming, snorkeling, or diving, with options to explore the beautiful marine environment around each site. The lunch is served at a local resort, providing a comfortable break amidst the ocean views.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the coral reefs and the proximity to Sipadan, making it a favorite among divers. The reviews highlight the stunning views and the chance to see a wide variety of fish and corals. At a modest $53, it offers excellent value, especially for those who want to combine a boat trip with some of the best reef experiences in the region.
Bottom Line: Ideal for underwater photography enthusiasts and divers, seeking a relaxing day exploring marine biodiversity in a beautiful setting.
$53 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Semporna
When deciding between these options, think about what kind of adventure appeals most. Want a hiking and underwater combo? The Hike and Dive in Bohey Islands is your best bet. If your priority is exploring multiple islands with snorkeling, then the Bohey 3 Islands tour offers depth and variety. For those mainly focused on marine life and reef viewing, the Explore 3 Islands or the Mabul and Kapalai trips are excellent choices.
Budget-conscious travelers should consider the more affordable options, while those seeking a longer, more detailed exploration might prefer the 3-island tours with multiple stops. Also, think about your activity level: some tours involve hiking, others focus on snorkeling or diving, so pick accordingly.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
In summary, Semporna offers a variety of lunch experiences that go beyond just a meal — they’re full-day adventures that combine activity, scenery, and authentic local flavors. Whether you’re into hiking, marine life, or island-hopping, there’s an option tailored to your taste. Exploring these tours ensures you enjoy the region’s natural beauty while savoring fresh local cuisine. Don’t wait too long to book — these popular trips fill up fast!