Sematan is a picturesque fishing village set on the South China Sea. Lively and laid-back, the village showcases Borneo through a local lens. A promenade winds along the waterfront and is great for sunset strolls.
Just north of the village is a long stretch of sand where you can bask in the sunshine and cool off in the South China Sea. A handful of resorts offer barefoot luxury, featuring breezy bungalows, lush gardens and private beaches.
Seafood is a staple in Sematan, with local restaurants serving tiger prawns, mud crab and other specialties. The village is also brimming with colourful souvenir shops where you can buy shells, jewellery and other handicrafts.
Jungle-covered Gunung Pue mountain towers over the village and is laced with scenic trails. Some of the most popular lead to cascading waterfalls and secret swimming holes. Others feature rocky terrain and are popular with mountain bikers.
Getting there
Sematan is located in the Lundu district of Sarawak and is a 2.5-hour drive from Kuching and Kuching International Airport. The village is compact and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars, motorbikes and scooters are an excellent way to explore Sematan at your own pace.