Sabah · 26 Places · Best March to September
Sabah, known as 'The Land Below the Wind,' is Malaysia's easternmost state on the island of Borneo, celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity, towering Mount Kinabalu, and world-class diving at Sipadan Island. The state is home to over 42 ethnic groups, pristine rainforests, and wildlife including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys.
Sabah occupies the northern tip of Borneo and is one of Malaysia's most spectacular natural destinations. The state features Mount Kinabalu — Southeast Asia's highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site — alongside the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Kinabatangan River wildlife corridor, and the legendary dive sites of Sipadan Island. Kota Kinabalu serves as the vibrant capital, blending urban conveniences with easy access to extraordinary nature.
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The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
At 4,095 metres, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and all of Southeast Asia, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The two-day summit climb via the Timpohon Gate trail rewards trekkers with breathtaking sunrise views above the clouds and passes through extraordinary cloud forest ecosystems.
Sipadan is consistently ranked among the world's top five dive sites, with a vertical wall dropping 600 metres into the Celebes Sea, home to green sea turtles, barracuda tornados, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays. Only 120 diving permits are issued daily, making advance booking essential for this extraordinary underwater wilderness.
One of only four orangutan sanctuaries in the world, Sepilok has been rehabilitating orphaned and displaced Bornean orangutans back into the wild since 1964. Visitors watch feeding sessions from a raised platform boardwalk as orangutans swing through the rainforest to collect fruit and milk — an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
The Kinabatangan River, Malaysia's second-longest river at 560 km, flows through one of the most biodiverse corridors on earth, where pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species can be spotted during boat cruises. Staying in riverside lodges at Sukau or Bilit allows multiple daily boat safaris through oxbow lakes and mangrove channels.
Just 15-20 minutes by speedboat from Kota Kinabalu's Jesselton Point jetty, this marine park encompasses five coral-fringed islands — Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug — with over 50 dive sites, crystal-clear snorkelling waters, and white-sand beaches. The park is perfect for day trips or longer stays at Gaya Island's resorts.
One of the oldest and most pristine lowland dipterocarp rainforests on earth at 130 million years old, Danum Valley covers 43,800 hectares of untouched wilderness near Lahad Datu. The forest shelters 340+ bird species, 124 mammal species including orangutans, sun bears, clouded leopards, and Bornean pygmy elephants in a truly remote setting.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Sabah's premier beachfront resort set on 25 acres of manicured gardens along Tanjung Aru beach with South China Sea views. Five swimming pools, six dining outlets, a full-service spa, and direct beach access make this the flagship luxury property in Kota Kinabalu.
A sophisticated urban luxury hotel in the heart of Kota Kinabalu's waterfront district, featuring contemporary design, four dining and bar venues, and sweeping views of the South China Sea and Tunku Abdul Rahman islands. Excellent base for exploring the city and nearby nature.
Kota Kinabalu's iconic Hyatt commands panoramic South China Sea and Mount Kinabalu views, with 288 spacious rooms, two pools, two restaurants, and a rooftop bar. Perfectly located in the city center within walking distance of the waterfront markets and Jesselton Point.
An intimate jungle villa resort hidden among the rainforest of Gaya Island, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Kota Kinabalu. The 48 jungle villas blend seamlessly with the forest, with private plunge pools, butler service, direct beach access, and exceptional snorkelling right off the resort's jetty.
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
One of Kota Kinabalu's most beloved seafood institutions with over 8,000 Google reviews, famous for its signature Kam Hiong (fragrant garlic-chilli) crab and wet butter tiger prawns cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. Multiple branches across KK with lively open-air settings.
Sabah's most acclaimed fine dining restaurant and Tatler Dining Award winner, OITOM (pronounced 'EE-tom', meaning black in Kadazan-Dusun) serves a creative tasting menu inspired by Borneo's ingredients — wild ferns, smoked river fish, heirloom rice, and jungle herbs — prepared with Michelin-level technique.
The oldest Italian restaurant in Sabah, a beloved institution at Hotel Capital with an extensive menu of 20 pasta sauces, authentic wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and Italian antipasti. Consistently packed with expats and tourists seeking comfort food quality at reasonable prices.
A local institution serving traditional Sabahan breakfast and lunch dishes in a classic kopitiam (coffee shop) setting. Famous for its distinctive vermilion laksa and Tuaran mee — hand-pulled egg noodles with char siu pork, a uniquely Sabahan creation not found elsewhere in Malaysia.
A 40-year-old Kota Kinabalu institution beloved for its rich curry laksa, a soul-warming coconut milk and spice broth loaded with tofu puffs, cockles, shrimp, and noodles. Lines form before opening — arrive early to secure a table at this celebrated local breakfast spot.
A wallet-friendly local favourite known for its unusual fish noodle soup served in two distinct broths — tangy tomato base and fiery tom yam — with fresh seasonal fish, tofu, and vegetables. A great alternative to the touristy seafood restaurants without compromising on quality.
Sabah is spread across 73,904 km² of Borneo with multiple distinct regions requiring air, road, and sea transport. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is the main gateway, with domestic flights linking major towns. Express buses and minivans connect most cities, while boats serve the islands and coastal communities.
Daily spend by tier in MYR, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $12 | $40 | $160 |
| Food (per day) | $8 | $25 | $70 |
| Transportation | $4 | $10 | $25 |
| Activities | $6 | $10 | $25 |
| Daily total | $30 | $85 | $280 |
Use Grab or licensed taxi apps for all city transport — negotiated street taxis sometimes overcharge tourists
Avoid eastern Sabah coastal waters from Sandakan to Tawau without checking current government advisories — historical kidnapping incidents have occurred in offshore areas
Book islands and dive trips through licensed, registered tour operators only — avoid informal touts at Semporna jetty
Observe the 6 PM to 6 AM curfew on water travel in eastern Sabah coastal districts — violations result in fines or detention
Keep valuables in hotel safes — pickpocketing occurs in crowded markets and night markets in Kota Kinabalu
Never leave bags unattended at beaches or on ferry boats — opportunistic theft does occur at tourist areas
Carry a photocopy of your passport at all times — police checkpoints exist on some Sabah roads
Drink only bottled or filtered water in Sabah — tap water is not safe to consume
Apply DEET-based insect repellent when outdoors, especially near rivers and mangroves — dengue fever is present in Sabah
Inform someone of your itinerary when doing jungle treks or remote activities — mobile signal is absent in many wilderness areas
Book Mount Kinabalu and other multi-day treks through registered operators with licensed guides — mandatory and for your safety
Do not swim at unfamiliar beaches without checking for currents and jellyfish — some Sabah beaches have strong rip currents
Respect wildlife and maintain safe distances — approaching orangutans, proboscis monkeys, or crocodiles is dangerous
Keep all passport, visa, and travel documents secure — Sabah has its own immigration controls separate from Peninsular Malaysia and travellers must carry documents
Sabah mainland is generally safe for tourists, with Kota Kinabalu and major tourist areas presenting risks comparable to other Southeast Asian cities — primarily petty theft, traffic, and health hazards. The main specific concern is the eastern coastal zone from Sandakan to Tawau, where historical kidnapping by criminal groups requires caution, though no incidents have been reported since January 2020. Emergency services: police at 999, medical at 999 (ambulance) or +60 88-218166 (KK hospital).
The best time to visit Sabah is March to September. Sabah has a tropical rainforest climate with year-round heat (25-32°C) and high humidity. Its nickname 'Land Below the Wind' reflects its position south of the typhoon belt, giving it relatively stabl
Entry requirements follow Malaysia rules. Most Western nationals receive a 30-90 day visa on arrival. Check current requirements before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Sabah is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Sabah: Malay, English, Kadazan-Dusun. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Sabah include Mount Kinabalu, Sipadan Island, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Kinabatangan River Wildlife Safari, and Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
