| Water activity type | Snorkeling, Diving |
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
In the event of inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances that lead to the cancellation of the itinerary, a full refund will be granted
No refunds will be granted after arriving at the islands
❗️Travel Insurance: Traveler are encouraged to purchase their own travel insurance.
While the featured trip is a day excursion, Mataking Island is home to a private resort offering accommodation for overnight stays. This allows visitors to experience the island's tranquility and beauty beyond a day visit. However, the day trip focuses on exploring the marine environment and unique features during daylight hours, returning to Semporna in the evening.
When visiting Mataking Island and the surrounding areas, locals primarily speak Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) and various local dialects. For guided tours, professional guides often speak English or Chinese, ensuring clear communication and an enriched experience for international visitors throughout the day trip.
Mataking Island is typically accessed by speedboat from Semporna Jetty in Sabah. The journey usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Day trip packages often include round-trip boat transfers from Semporna, providing a convenient way to reach Mataking, Timba-Timba, and Pom-Pom Islands for your snorkeling and diving adventures.
The optimal time to visit Mataking, Timba-Timba, and Pom-Pom Islands for snorkeling and diving is generally during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is typically sunny with calm seas, offering excellent visibility underwater and pleasant conditions for exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
The swimming conditions around Mataking Island are generally safe, with clear, calm waters that are ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Visitors are advised to be mindful of currents, especially when swimming near the sandbar. During organized day trips, participants are typically accompanied by experienced guides who monitor safety and can provide assistance, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.
Mataking, Timba-Timba, and Pom-Pom Islands offer exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences. You can expect to encounter diverse marine life, including various species of colorful coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles, which are frequently spotted. Mataking also boasts Malaysia's only underwater post office, adding a unique element to your underwater exploration.
Beyond its stunning reefs and marine life, Mataking Island is renowned for its unique underwater post office, where visitors can truly mail waterproof postcards. The island also features a beautiful sandbar that emerges during low tide, connecting Mataking Besar and Mataking Kecil, offering a picturesque stroll and photography opportunities.
While snorkeling and diving are primary attractions, Timba-Timba Island offers pristine white beaches perfect for relaxing and capturing scenic photographs. Pom-Pom Island provides a peaceful beach environment ideal for unwinding after marine activities, and both islands are known for frequent turtle sightings, offering opportunities to observe these creatures from shore or during surface intervals.