🌊Tun Sakaran Marine Park: Semporna’s Secret Island Hopping Gem!🏝️

#kotakinabalutrip ### **First Impressions: "Is This Even Real?"** Stepped off the boat onto **Bohey Dulang**, stared at the **turquoise lagoon** below, and audibly gasped. The water was so clear, I could see fish from the *cliff viewpoint*—like Mother Nature flexing her Photoshop skills. No filter needed. 😍 --- ### **The "Oops" Moment** Tried to climb the **Bohey Dulang viewpoint** (600+ steps!) in flip-flops. *Big mistake.* Slipped, sat down halfway, and bonded with a sweaty German backpacker over our shared suffering. Worth it for that **panoramic view** though! --- ### **Hidden Gems** - **Bodgaya Island’s Secret Beach**: A tiny strip of sand where hermit crabs outnumber people. Felt like a castaway (but with better snacks). - **Snorkeling at Mantabuan**: Swam with **sea turtles** and a **giant clam** so old, it probably remembers the dinosaurs. --- ### **Local Bite** Back in Semporna, hit up **Sim Sim Water Village** for **fresh *ikan bakar*** (grilled fish) and *coconut pudding*. Ate with my hands like a local—messy but 100% delicious. --- ### **Blunt Reality Check** ✅ **UNREAL snorkeling**—vibrant coral, more fish than a supermarket freezer. ✅ **Less crowded** than touristy spots like Mabul. ✅ **Feels untouched**—no Starbucks, no jet skis, just pure nature. ❌ **No fancy resorts**—basic homestays only. ❌ **Permit hassle**—book through a tour operator to avoid *"sorry, full"* drama. --- ### **Quick Itinerary** ⏰ **7:30 AM**: Boat from Semporna (30-45 mins). ⏰ **9 AM**: Hike Bohey Dulang, cry at the view. ⏰ **11 AM**: Snorkel at Mantabuan (turtle time!). ⏰ **1 PM**: Lunch on Bodgaya (packed nasi lemak). ⏰ **3 PM**: Beach nap or extra snorkel sesh. --- ### **Final Verdict** **🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5/5)** for adventurers who want: - **Postcard-perfect** islands without the crowds. - **Wild, raw snorkeling** (bring an underwater cam!). - Bragging rights (*"Yeah, I’ve been to Sabah’s best-kept secret"*). **#notouristsjustturtles** | **Tip:** Book with **Borneo Divers** or **Scuba Junkie** for smooth trips! --- **PS:** Pack *reef-safe sunscreen*—this paradise’s worth protecting. 🐢💙