- Recommended
Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Heritage Site Museum
Small archaeology gallery at Bukit Tengkorak presenting excavated pottery and site history from one of Semporna’s key heritage areas.
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Lahad Datu to Semporna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lahad Datu to Semporna will cost around $8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $7.
On Thu, Nov 05, we found 2 buses from Lahad Datu to Semporna, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Nov 05 the direct buses cover the 68 km distance in an average of 2 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 59 m .
On Thu, Nov 05 the slowest buses will take 2 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

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Buses from Lahad Datu to Semporna run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:30, the last at 19:30. The fastest bus covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 1h 59m.
Distance 42 miles (68 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 59m |
First bus 3:30 AM |
Last bus 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Lahad Datu to Semporna.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amin Jaya | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator Sri Mutiara Luxury Express | Departure Time 08:01PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 1h59 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $7 |
The table below shows live departures for Lahad Datu to Semporna buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 8:01 PM Lahad Datu | 1h59 | 10:00 PM Semporna | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Semporna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Semporna trip today.
Small archaeology gallery at Bukit Tengkorak presenting excavated pottery and site history from one of Semporna’s key heritage areas.
Community-run seaweed museum on Sebangkat Island explaining local seaweed farming traditions, tools, and coastal livelihoods.
Local cultural gallery space associated with Bajau heritage displays and visitor interpretation around Semporna’s island communities.
Busy waterfront promenade and jetty area where boats depart for the islands, popular for walks, sunsets, and observing daily town life.
Forest reserve and headland area reached by boat, known for clear water, beaches, walking trails, and panoramic coastal scenery.
Town seafront area with views of boats and nearby islands, useful for a short evening stroll and casual local atmosphere.
Bajau-style grilled fish, simply seasoned and cooked over charcoal. It highlights Semporna's daily catch and the area’s strong sea-oriented food culture.
Fresh raw fish cured with lime, chilli and aromatics. A Sabah coastal favorite valued for ultra-fresh seafood and bright, clean flavors.
Rice steamed in woven palm leaves. Common across Sabah and often eaten with grilled seafood or curries during everyday meals and gatherings.
Popular seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, prawns and shellfish in a lively casual setting near the waterfront.
Casual Chinese-style seafood spot serving live tanks, crab and local fish dishes. Well known for generous portions and busy family dining.
Waterfront hawker center with grilled seafood, rice and local drinks. Best for sampling casual evening street-food style dining.
Budget-friendly for divers and island hoppers. Local meals and boats are cheap, while resorts and dive trips raise daily costs above inland Sabah towns.
Tipping is not expected. Round up small bills in cafes, add 5-10% for great restaurant service if no service charge, and round up taxi fares.
Official public transport app
Semporna Town Centre, Semporna -> Semporna Town Centre, Semporna
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Semporna.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lahad Datu to Semporna by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Semporna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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