Places to Visit in Sabah

Pulau Mantanani is a cluster of three isolated tiny islands to the northwest of Kota Belud. It was so isolated in fact that not until recently, only a few locals knew the existence of the islands. One of the main reasons that Mantanani Islands is popular among tourists is because of its picturesque scenery, cool breezes and serene environment. But most popular attraction of Pulau Mantanani are the dugongs. The Mantanani Islands seem to provide the ideal habitats for dugongs with sea grass beds and shallow sandy areas within the encircling fringing reef of the islands.

Highlights: These islands present popular diving and snorkeling destinations because of their crystal clear waters and colourful coral reefs.

How to Get There: The islands are accessible by a one-hour speedboat journey from Kuala Abai jetty, Kota Belud, 80 km north-east of Kota Kinabalu.

Another resort island with one of the best beaches in Malaysia, Mataking Island is the furthest from Semporna in east coast Sabah where a boat trip takes nearly an hour one way. Just stroll around the island to look for your own secluded place. One of the unique things about the island is that they have an underwater post office where you can literally post a letter or postcard. Highly recommended for those who want a 'Maldives' experience in Malaysia.

Highlights: This is the perfect romantic getaway as the island has a spa, private bungalows, an outdoor Jacuzzi by the sea and all the romantic walks by the beach you want. Special arrangements can be made for honeymooners, weddings or private parties. The only way to get here is by booking a tour package from the resort. There are no day trips or visits here.

 How to Get There: It is about 40 minute’s boat ride from the mainland of Semporna in the province of Sabah.

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is the second most important mosque in the whole Kota Kinabalu after the State Mosque, located in Sembulan. It is a perfect blend of modern and Islamic architecture and can hold more than 12,000 people in a single time. The architecture of the mosque highly resembles the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. The man-made lagoons surrounding the mosque gives its visitors an elegant and dramatic look, especially on a full moon night and is the largest mosque in Kota Kinabalu.

 Location: The mosque is just 3 KM from the main Kota Kinabalu City and is easily accessible.

 How to reach: Either you can take a local taxi, which will cost you around 15 MYR per way or you can take Bus No. 5A from the front of Hotel Shangri-La, which will cost you around 1.50 MYR per  person per way.

 Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM (Fridays closed)

If you are done visiting the islands and beaches and are looking for some scenic beauty in the Kota Kinabalu, Kokol Hill is a place you must go. It is a place, which can give you a perfect view of Mount Kinabalu and you can also enjoy a serene and elegant sunset with your someone special. The place is a must visit, especially if you are looking some quiet time, away from the hustle and bustle of the city amidst hills and close to the nature. You can even spend some great nights over the Kokol Hill as there are various home stays and resorts allowing you to enjoy the weather and scenic beauty of the place.

In the group of five islands among the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the Mamutik Island is the second furthest. Though the waters of Mamutik Island is not as clear as the Sapi Island, but you do get to indulge in some amazing water sports activity and some world-class beach side cafes and restaurants serving the lip-smacking Malay and continental cuisines. There are also some beautiful souvenir shops from where you can take some to your family or friends.

Location: The island is located in the downtown area of Kota Kinabalu and is off the coast. From the hotel Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, you can reach to the Jesselton Jetty point with 2 minute drive or by taking a 10-minute walk from where there are boats available regularly to reach the island.

Price: You have to pay an entree fees of 10 MYR per person once to get inside the island.

Beautifully impressive and romantic but the island is actually a sand bank island and is one of the most enchanting islands in Sabah Borneo. What makes this beach special is that the resort is a stand-alone unit with no one else around it. Usually when the tide is down, the sand bank becomes a spectacular beach, otherwise, they have an elevated man-made beach deck with special white sand where you can chill.

  Highlights: This private island is well known as the romantic paradise for special honeymooners and exclusive private weddings.

  How to Get There: The unique Kapalai Island stands above a huge sand bank which is about 1 hour by boat from Semporna in east coast Sabah. It is also a 10 minute boat ride from the well-known  Mabul Island.

Lankayan Island is a tiny tropical coral resort island in the Sulu Sea, northeast of the island of Borneo, in the state of Sabah. This beautiful little island with thick tropical growth and sandy beaches offers an absolutely pure tropical wildlife experience. It's situated in a National Park region. A Turtle Rehabilitation centre is present on the island and is open to the visitors and you can watch egg laying and turtle hatch lings at times.

Highlights: The island is also one of Sabah's top diving spots with the availability of jungle interior and interesting diving attracts both divers and non-divers love to tour Lankayan.

 How to Get There: The island is also one of Sabah's top diving spots with the availability of jungle interior and interesting diving attracts both divers and non-divers love to tour Lankayan.

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a beautiful collection of five Malaysian islands that are situated off the Borneo coast around six kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is a wonderful place for people who look forward to indulge in underwater activities or relax on the white sandy beaches. The fundamental attraction of this national park is the vast variety of aquatic life found in the surrounding waters of the park. 

Located on the west coast of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain peak in Malaysia, standing at a whopping height of 4101 meters. This humongous mountain is abundant in the different species of flora and fauna at various altitudes. It is renowned for its biodiversity of plants that serve as a vast array of natural habitats for animals to thrive. The fantastic views and the thrill urges visitors to go trekking on this mountain. 

If you have not visited this aqua paradise in Sabah, your trip is incomplete. Situated amidst dense mangrove forest along the Southern China Sea, Borneo Kellybays is a perfect place to delve into the marine world. It is a must-visit spot for all the adrenaline junkies who just never get enough of adventure and fun.

From banana boating and crab-catching to Mangrove kayaking and beach volleyball, there are a plethora of activities that this place offers. If you get some extra time, relish its cool streetside desserts or try your hand on Blowpipe Dart shooting or Batik painting. Borneo Kellybays is also a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists.

Location: Jalan Kampung, Kampung Laya Laya, Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia

Timing: 9:30 AM-5:00 PM

Nestled away from the bustling city, Mari Mari Cultural Village introduces you to the traditional and simple Malaysian lifestyle. The village has turned into a museum which has beautifully preserved ethic Borneo culture. If you wish to delve into the history of Borneo, head straight to this small hamlet and learn some interesting facts about the city.

Mari Mari Cultural Village features five diverse ethnic tribes, including Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. A visit to this village is a perfect opportunity to learn about the culture of Borneo tribe and enjoy the live art events performed by tribal people. For all the history buffs and culture geeks, Mari Mari Cultural Village is the most prominent spot among all the Sabah tourist places.

Location: Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Timing: 10:00 AM -5:00 PM

Entrance fee: RM 96 per adult

The 15-Km long river of Kiulu facilitates bountiful of water sports activities for the visitors. From paddling through the dense water to overcoming rapids, there are endless activities that will thrill your senses. Though the rapids are of lower grade, you can expect a lot of adventure on your way ahead.

This white water rafting trip is suitable for all those who are seeking a relaxing trip. If you are a beginner, who wants to kickstart their water sports adventure journey, here is a golden opportunity for you. Since the rapids here are not of a higher level, you can also accompany your kids to this spot. Once you are done with water sports, sit on the river banks and bask in the warmth of nature.

Location: Tamparuli, Kota KInabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Timing: 8:30 AM-3:00 PM

Nestled in the centre of Turtle Island, this national park from Sabah provides shelter to several endangered turtle species. Turtle Islands national park is enveloped by three surreal islands including Gulisaan, Selingan, and Little Bakkungan.

Though this park is mainly popular for its sea turtles, there are several other enthralling activities to engage in. From indulging in sports like zip-lining to setting off on mountain expeditions, here, you can find more than one ways to set your adrenaline racing.

On your visit to the beautiful home of turtles, be a witness to all of their activities, right from egg-laying to nesting. For a wildlife enthusiast, this is an ideal opportunity to peep into the world of turtles.

Location: Sabah, Malaysia

Entry fee: RM 10 for adults and RM 6 for kids

Timing: It remains open to visitors throughout the day.

Spread across 440 Sq Km in Central Sabah, Danum Valley Conservation is home to a vast variety of animal species including Sambar Deer, Flying Squirrels, red-leaf monkeys, king cobras, and gibbons. If you are lucky, you will also be able to spot its vibrant cat species that include leopard cat, marbled cat, and flat-headed cats.

If you happen to be at this complex ecosystem, don’t forget to the old-age burial site of Kadazandusun which is complete with ceramic spirit jars and Belian coffins.

Location: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia

Entry fee: Conservation fee: RM50 per person

Camera fee: RM 10 per person

Sprawled over 40 square kilometres on the ground of Kabili Forest Reserve, this rehabilitation centre is known to give new life to orphaned orangutans before sending them back to the forests. The reserve is inhabited by 200 orangutans who form the major highlight of this place.

Sepilok Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is swarmed with people from all across the globe who wish to see this rare animal species living in their natural habitat. If you are someone who loves to spend undisturbed time amidst nature, here is a perfect place to visit in Sabah.

Location: Sandakan, Malaysia

Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry fee: RM 5 for Malaysian adults and RM 30 for foreign adults

Nestled away from the boisterous city crowd, Mengalum Island is a hidden-gem featuring its white sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes. The beauty of this island is not restricted to land, but it also extends to its turquoise blue waters. If you ever dreamt of swimming like a fish deep into the water, you have this place all to yourself for living this dream.

On this aquamarine journey, you will come across several aquatic creatures, including corals, fishes, butterflyfishes, and mackerels. If life under the water has always intrigued you, Mengalum Island is a must-visit Sabah tourist place for you.

Location: South China Sea, Sabah, Malaysia

With its rich aquatic life and untouched rainforests, Gaya Island is an absolute treat for nature buffs and water sports enthusiasts. From Kayaking to scuba diving and snorkelling, there is a vast range of activities that one can engage in on their Gaya trip.

The island, which is the part of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, comprises two prime resorts including Gayana Eco Resort and Bunga Raya Island Resort. If you want to make a stay on the island, these two resorts are the perfect retreat for the travellers. The best thing about this trip is that you get to cover the distance from Kota Kinabalu to Gaya Island on a special boat called Gayana.

Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Your Kinabalu tour is incomplete without a visit to Poring Hot Springs. This place is often frequented by locals and tourists who want to release their stress by stepping into the warm sulphuric mineral spring. In addition to Poring Hot Spring, you can also explore tropical gardens, butterfly farm, Poring canopy walkway, Rafflesia flower site and Orchid conservation centre.

With its alluring landscape and relaxing environment, it is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Sabah.

Location: Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia

Timing: 7:00 AM-6:00 PM

Entry fee: MYR 15 per person

A tiny island off the south-eastern coast of Sabah boasting fine beaches of coconut trees, soft white sand and aquamarine waters, Mabul Island is one of the world’s top rated destinations for muck diving. What’s more, Mabul Island also boasts one of the world’s most concentrated reserves of small marine life that includes species like frog fish, scorpion fish, cuttlefish and various shellfish. Visitors here can easily stroll around the island within an hour to explore attractions like the traditional villages with their thatched huts.

Highlights: Mabul Island is a popular place to stay for travellers that plan to dive at one of the worlds' best dive spots and also venture out to the more secluded areas, you will find some truly fantastic beaches.

 How to Get There: It is about 40 minute’s boat ride from the mainland of Semporna.

Popularly known as Floating Mosque, Majid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu is another well-known tourist place to visit in Sabah. The mosque boasts traditional Islamic architecture with a slight hint of modern architectural style in it.

The entire place is dotted with moat and swinging palm trees, which add to its aesthetic appeal. Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu Majid overlooks Likas Bay which forms a perfect view for the visitors. If you are a non-muslim who has never been inside a mosque, this is a golden chance for you to learn about the old-age Islamic traditions. However, before stepping into the mosque, you have to borrow appropriate clothing from the outside booth.

Location: Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Timings: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Around 125 Km away from Kota Kinabalu, this coastal wetland is spread over a vast area of 130,000 hectares. The Wetland, which is also the flood plain for Padas River, boasts a huge river channel network. Klias provides shelter to a substantial population of proboscis monkeys.

It is also home to other wildlife species including monitor lizards, hornbills, estuarine crocodiles, and silver-leaf monkeys. If you are eager to spot a proboscis monkey, visit Klias during the evening time when a swarm of monkeys gather at the riverside. If you are lucky, you will get to see fireflies shining in the darkness. A typical Klias Wetland visit covers wildlife river cruise tour.

Location: Jalan Beaufort, Kampung Kota Klias, Sabah, Malaysia

Timings: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM

The Sabah State Museum is located in the same place where, once, the British North Borneo Governor’s Istana was situated. Built in the year 1985, the museum consists of the Main Building, Science and Education Center, Heritage Village, Sabah Art Gallery and the Museum of Islamic Civilization. The inside of the museum is loaded with many galleries, which include the Natural history, Ceramics, Ethnography and the exhibits of Archaeology. If you love experiencing traditional things, there is a heritage village on the grounds of Museum, which allows you to enter and behold the different vintage and traditional houses of various unique groups from Sabah. The place also organizes the timely cultural activities.

How to reach: You can take the Bus No. 13 from the main City Hall and the ticket will cost you around 1 MYR per person only.

Price: The entry fees to the museum is approximately 15 MYR per person.

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM

Clearly visible from Kota Kinabalu City centre, Sepanggar Island is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Sabah that will take your life down a few notches and help you relax in its calm environment. The island is surrounded by tropical rainforests on the one side and sandy beaches on the other. A true paradise for nature buffs, Sepanggar is blessed with exotic flora and fauna which leave you in awe of them.

Go for a long walk along the sandy beach or soak in the charm of the sun-kissed island; the choice is all yours. You can also embark on a trek to the South Sea and admire the alluring views of Gaya Bay, South China Sea, and Likas Bay. While returning from the trek, take a dip into the blue sea and engage in water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Location: Sepanggar Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Do you want to relish the bird's eye view of Kota Kinabalu? If yes, then head towards Signal Hill Observatory Tower and capture some of the best shots of Sabah. The mesmerising views of Kota Kinabalu, its coastline, and lush green patches from the highest point of the city are totally worth it.

One can also catch a glimpse of Likas Bay, Abdul Rahman Park and Tanjung Aru from this point. The tower can be easily reached by climbing the wooden steps through the dense forests. If you are a nature buff, this is one of the most charismatic places to visit in Sabah.

Location: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Entry fee: Entry into this tower is free of cost.

Timing: 9:00 AM -11:00 PM