From Nunukan, Indonesia, we crossed the border by boat to Tawau, Malaysia. From here, head towards Sipadan, another world-famous diving and snorkelling spot.
Having said that, you cannot stay in Sipadan. We will be staying in Semporna, a town just before Sipadan.
Fom Tawau, we took a bus to Semporna.
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2026 Price Update: While the minibus fare was RM20 during our journey, please note that prices have slightly increased due to rising fuel costs. As of 2026, the standard fare from Tawau to Semporna typically ranges between RM25 and RM35. The minibus remains the cheapest way to travel compared to Grab or private taxis (RM80–RM120), but it is wise to have some extra small change ready.
Bus stop in Tawau for Semporna
There are frequent minivans from Tawau to Semporna every day. There is no timetable as they depart when the bus is ‘full’ (seven passengers).
Minibuses from Tawau to Semporna leave from nearby Sabindo Square. Sabindo Square is a large area, but there is a parking space in the middle of the square where minivans are parked, so you can board here.
We boarded a minivan once parked there, but eventually moved into a different minivan at the intersection which was two blocks west of the Square. We saw Maybank diagonally opposite. It would have been quicker to leave if we had gone to this bus stop from the beginning.
Bus fares and journey times from Tawau to Semporna
Tawau to Semporna is approximately 110 km away. The journey was said to take about 2 hours.
The bus fare from Tawau to Semporna is RM20 per person.
Bus journey from Tawau to Semporna
Tawau minibuses have yellow roofs. We first boarded the minibus to Semporna at the parking space in the centre of Sabindo Square.
There were no other passengers besides us, and when we thought it was going to take a while, the driver pulled out and took us to another stop. We were told to change to another minivan, but that minibus was also rattled.
After a while, a few people gathered here and there and we were able to leave before noon.
Arrival in Semporna
The bus drove quickly through the palm oil plantations and arrived at Semporna at around 2pm.
The road between Tawau and Semporna is smooth and well paved. The speed slowed down when leaving the town of Tawau and after crawling into the town of Semporna due to heavy traffic, but otherwise the speed was quite good. The van was air-conditioned and comfortable.
The bus arrived at the minibus terminal (the point in the map below) near the port of Semporna. From here we walked to the hotel we had booked.
Why Choose the Minibus? (Comparison with Taxis and Grab)
Taking a minibus is the cheapest way to reach Semporna, costing only RM20 per person. In comparison, a private taxi or a Grab ride can cost anywhere between RM80 to RM120. If you are a solo traveler or a couple on a budget, the minibus saves you enough money to pay for an extra snorkeling session!
Key Tips for a Smooth Journey
- No Fixed Schedule: Minibuses depart when they are full (usually 7-8 passengers). Try to arrive at the stop before noon, as buses are more frequent in the morning.
- Maybank Landmark: As we experienced, if the central square seems quiet, head two blocks west towards the Maybank intersection. This is often where the vans wait for the final few passengers before hitting the road.
- Comfort: Most vans are air-conditioned, but the luggage space can be tight. If you have large diving gear, it is worth arriving early to secure a spot.
If you arrive at Tawau Airport (TWU):
For those flying in, there are minibuses departing directly from the airport to Semporna for around RM35. Alternatively, Grab or taxis are common options (approx. RM85–RM100). However, if you are staying in Tawau town first or want the absolute lowest fare, your best bet is to take an airport bus (RM10) or Grab (RM30) to the town center and then board the local minibus (RM25–RM30) from the Sabindo Square area as described above.
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