Things to do in Sabah

More about Sabah

Sabah, the second largest state in Malaysia, located in the East of Malaysia, is a state that forms the northern part of the large island of Borneo bordered by Sarawak and Kalimantan, Indonesia. Because of its geographical position, Sabah is known for its Mount Kinabalu, beautiful beaches, various and amazing natural diversity, thrilling yet fun adventure and delicious cuisine. Sabah rainforest is rich in wildlife where you can find rare animals like the proboscis monkey, bornean orangutan, and the Sumatran rhinoceros. Sabah’s rich marine life makes it a great spot for diving and snorkeling, too. 

Sabah is truly a wonderful destination to explore, offering a combination of thrills, beautiful landscapes, and tranquility. Furthermore, Sabah is the perfect destination for exploration, thanks to its warm and friendly people who contribute to its simplicity and charm. Here is the manual for things to do in Sabah, continue reading, we've got your back!

Best Things to Do in Sabah

During your trip to Sabah, there are numerous attractions and activities to explore in order to experience the beauty of the region. Here are some of them.

1. Snorkeling and Island Hopping

As the second largest island in Malaysia, Sabah is famous for its stunning beaches and is also an ideal location for snorkeling and diving. You can join an 8 hours tour to Mataking, Timba-timba, and Pom-pom Island for a combination of snorkeling and island hopping activities. During this excursion, participants will meet up at the designated location before boarding a cruise to Mataking Island for an initial snorkeling experience while also enjoying the stunning underwater views of Mataking. Following that, you will travel to the exotic Timba-timba Island. Afterwards, visit Pompon Island to admire the stunning beaches while strolling on the soft, beautiful white sands. Isn't it intriguing to visit three islands simultaneously?

2. Getaway to the Beautiful Semporna Island 

Sabah is the perfect place for those who are fed up with urban living. Visit three Islands in Sabah that are called Semporna Island which consist of Mataking Island, Timba-Timba Island and Pom-Pom Island. Walk on white sand while enjoying the seaview, you can take so many photos with beautiful scenery, and do snorkeling to discover the breathtaking underwater world. You can take a day tour in Semporna Island and book it here. Get to the best getaway destination for your holiday!

3. Enjoy Chavana Spa at The Pacific Sutera Hotel Massage Treatments

After a full day of snorkeling, diving or relaxing at the beaches, this is the optimal choice to end your day. Indulging oneself is loved by all! Chavana Spa offers a luxurious British spa experience along with high-quality treatments, including a 50-minute Balinese massage.

4. Sightseeing to Kundasang Desa Dairy Farm

A visit to Kundasang Desa Dairy Farm is a must-try activity in Sabah that you should definitely take advantage of. After snorkeling and island hopping, now is the ideal time to truly admire Sabah's natural beauty!Touring Kundasang includes visiting popular spots such as Nabalu Town, Desa Dairy Farm, and Fish Spa Moroli River. Experience the stunning views of Sabah's landscape at the bustling local market, savor the delectable cuisine of Sabah, interact with charming farm animals, and indulge in fresh milk right away. Unwind at Moroli River with our Fish Spa experience, then indulge in a soothing getaway at Kundasang’s natural hot springs. Ultimately, enjoy the splendor of the uppermost parts of trees during an exciting canopy walk, providing breathtaking panoramic sights of the green landscape. Exploring Kundasang offers a great mix of excitement, scenic landscapes and peace. Reserve your trip to Kundasang now through Traveloka, click here!

5. Witness the Beauty of Mabul and Kapalai Island

After visiting three islands before, this is another island in Sabah you won't want to miss. Take another 8 tours to  Mabul and Kapalai Island, explore the beauty, yet tropical, of this island that is famous for its pristine beaches and rich marine biodiversity. You can dive and snorkel too, and witness the colorful coral reefs and exotic fish species underwater.

Sabah’s Transportations

There are various options available for exploring and appreciating the stunning landscapes in Sabah, whether you opt for public transportation or rental cars. Experiment with various transportation options, such as:

1. Bus

Bus is the most convenient choice for getting around in Sabah either in the city or between towns. Buses are mostly available throughout the day, with prices typically ranging from RM 1-5 depending on the distances you travel. However, for buses between towns, the cost will vary from RM 10-50, depending on the type of bus.

2. Taxis

Opting for a taxi is the ideal choice if you prefer private transportation and a quick waiting time. Typically, you can flag down a taxi from the street, use ride-hailing apps, or request assistance from the hotel receptionist to arrange for a taxi. Taxi rates in Sabah begin at around RM3 for the initial kilometer and RM1 for every extra kilometer thereafter. Most taxis accept cash for payment, although some may also take card payments.

3. Car Rental

While in Sabah, you can choose to rent a vehicle, too. This is the top choice for a vacation with your entire family. Renting typically starts at RM100 per day, depending on the car type and rental duration. Payment can also be made through credit/debit cards or sometimes e-wallets on the car rental platform's website or app. You have the option to rent a car through Traveloka Car Rental. Additionally, you can also consider booking Private Charter: Sabah 3 Hours Half Day Tour too for a car with added attractions! You can choose the services and car that suits your needs, then.

4. Boat and Ferries

Due to Sabah’s location, you’ll need to take a boat or ferries to go to some islands. The ferry terminal is located in Jesselton Point, you can go there if you’re interested to visit some islands in Sabah. In general, ferries cost around RM 20-50 per round trip, depending on your destination island or whether the ferries are private or shared.

Recommended Food in Sabah

A holiday isn't complete without sampling the iconic cuisine of the destination. Here are some suggestions for what to eat when you're in Sabah.

1. Yee Fung Laksa

One of Sabah’s signature foods is Laksa that is typically served with rice noodles, fresh seafood, and a blend of spices. The Laksa that Yee Fung Laksa serves has a rich, flavourful spicy broth with lemongrass coconut aromas. Don't miss out on the perfect flavor of the chewy noodles, generous portions, and blend of shrimp and chicken as the adds on!

Address: 127, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Thursday - Sunday, 6.30 am - 5pm

2. Welcome Seafood Restaurant

Welcome Seafood Restaurant is a renowned seafood restaurant in Sabah. The restaurant has ample space for outdoor seating, making it ideal for families and large groups, and the quality of their seafood is beyond doubt with reasonable price. There are many options on the menu, with sambal stingray as the Sabah’s typical food. If you prefer something other than fish, you can try ordering steamed prawns - they offer the freshest and most delicious steamed prawns, along with salt prawns, crab, and other seafood options to satisfy your love for seafood! Advice: in case the line is long, utilize the ride-hailing application to reach this location.

Address: Lot G 18, Ground Floor, Kompleks, Jalan Asia City, Asia City, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Every day, 12pm - 11.30pm

3. Penang Street Food

Penang Street food is one of the best places to visit if you want to experience the taste and look of Sabah's cuisine. Located in Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, you will find daily street food options. Visit at night to enjoy Sabah's vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. One of its highlighted dishes is the Penang Rojak, a colorful meal that mixes fruits and vegetables with a zesty and sugary shrimp paste dressing, and the Penang Char Kway Teow, made with flat rice noodles, shrimp, eggs, and bean sprouts, enveloped in a flavorful soy sauce, is also worth trying. However, as street food, there are other options to explore as well!

Address: Lot 1, Ground Floor, Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Opening Hours: Every day, 10am - 10pm

Shopping Place in Sabah

1. Imago Shopping Mall

Located in the city center of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, filled with countless shops, ranging from local to luxury brands, everything you need is available here. Inside, you'll find a diverse range of dining options, including both local and international cuisines. On the basement level, there is also a hypermarket that sells special souvenirs from the region.

Address: KK Times Square, Phase 2, Off Coastal Highway, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Every day, 10am - 10pm

2. Gaya Street Sunday Market

The Gaya Sunday Market in Kota Kinabalu provides a vibrant and varied market experience. Inside the market, there are a variety of items such as unique plants, handmade crafts, clothing, souvenirs, and food and beverages. The market is tidy and organized. Arrive early or you may experience hot weather in the late morning.

Address: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Friday - Saturday, 5pm - 12am and Sunday 5am - 12.45pm

3. Handicraft Market

Pasar Kraftangan, also known as Handicraft Market by locals, is a Waterfront market that focuses on seafood, along with street food stalls, jewelry, handicrafts & clothing. They offer a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, pastries, dry goods, and other items. The prices are certainly unbeatable. You can also negotiate to obtain a favorable price and request confirmation to prevent any confusion. The residents were extremely kind and welcoming, constantly smiling and arranging their merchandise for sale. 

Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Every day, 8am - 10pm

Best Time to Visit Sabah

It depends on how your itinerary looks. Yet, as an island, Sabah would be nice to visit during the dry season between March and September. The weather will be generally sunny and dry with less rain, so you can properly do outdoor activities such as trekking in Kinabalu Park, diving in Pom-pom or Kapalai Island, and exploring the beaches.