Things to do in Sabah

More about Sabah

If you are a nature lover and an adventure enthusiast, visiting Sabah, Malaysia could be the best destination ever! With a lot of things to do in Sabah that are nature-related, we’re sure that you’ll have an unforgettable nature journey in the area.

Among the must-see attractions in Sabah, Mount Kinabalu stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s highest peaks and an iconic trekking destination. Not to mention that the Kinabalu National Park is very worth exploring too.

Sabah, Malaysia, is also popular with its rich wildlife. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is just one of them. You can have a close encounter with the orangutans, while learning a lot about their lives.

The next thing to do in Sabah is doing the water sports, starting from snorkelling, paddle boarding, water rafting, and more! So, if you’re currently craving for breathtaking natural beauty, Sabah is your dream destination!

Top Things to Do in Sabah

When you’re in the area, you must visit these top things to do in Sabah for a thorough experience!

1. Birdwatching in Kinabalu National Park

Kinabalu National Park is a perfect place to blend with nature. Also, you should try Birdwatching in Kinabalu National Park! Get your camera ready and take pictures of a lot of birds! Spot them while smelling the greenery and pamper your sights with the view of your surroundings.

2. Meet Orangutan in Sepilok Orangutan Centre

Sabah has a rich wildlife, so you should not skip visiting Sepilok Orangutan Centre to meet the orangutans. Join the tour for 3 hours and see the orangutans' daily activities in nature. You can meet their babies too and feed them!

3. Exploring Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang

There’s a lot of things you can do in Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang: you can feed the calves, and also see and learn the milking process. It’s surrounded by great nature and perfect to be visited with children.

You can join the tour of Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang for a more complete experience, including visiting other attractions too.

4. Relaxing in Victoria Lake, Perdana Park

Among all paid attractions in Sabah, there still exist several things to do in Sabah that are actually free. One of them is relaxing in Victoria Lake, Perdana Park. The lush surroundings of the park will meet your expectations, if you’re in the mood for something so tranquil in the middle of the city.

Relax by the lake and wait until it’s evening, since there's the park’s musical fountain show that will get you amazed. 

5. Playing in Taman Ujana Rimba Tropika

Another park in Sabah is Taman Ujana Rimba Tropika. It’s a recreational park suitable for everyone, including children since the park owns a playground.

You can visit the park in the morning and jog along the jogging paths together while enjoying the sun. Picnic spots are available too, so you might want to bring some snacks and enjoy it together while being surrounded by the beautiful tropical vegetation.

6. Sea-Walking Experience in Semporna

Don’t call yourself adventurous if you haven’t tried the Sea-Walking Experience in Semporna. It is indeed offering something new, and also an alternative when you don’t feel brave enough to do diving.

It allows you to walk on the ocean floor and meet the vibrant marine life underwater. Believe it, this experience will be so unforgettable. Plus, the colourful coral reefs and the fishes under are spectacular views!

Also, you can get yourself photographed by the pros when you feed those fishes!

7. Exploring Jurassic Land Kiulu

The next thing to do with the family is exploring Jurassic Land Kiulu. It’s a theme park full of dinosaurs, come in life-sized replicas. The theme park itself is located in the middle of Kiulu Valley, so it’s refreshing and the view around you is scenic.

Engage in some activities like Flying Zip-Line and Dinosaur Safari, or find some fossils on the Fossil Trail!

8. Entering Rumah Terbalik - The Upside Down House of Borneo

Let’s have a unique experience: entering Rumah Terbalik - The Upside Down House of Borneo. Located in Tamparuli, this unique house is literally built upside down, complete with inverted furniture and decor, creating a whimsical experience that’s perfect for fun photos.

Inside, the interior decor is giving you a playful twist on traditional Sabahan life. It’s a must visit for some funny moments (also to capture some funny pictures too!).

9. 3D Wonders Museum

The 3D Wonders Museum is an interactive attraction, where you can see plenty of 3D art installations that create optical illusions in photographs. Hence, it’s time to capture some funny moments too, and you can actually visit it altogether with Rumah Terbalik since the location is near.

10. Water Rafting in Sabah Kiulu

You can join Water Rafting in Sabah Kiulu for the most unforgettable moment in Sabah.

11. Exploring Mari Mari Cultural Village

One of the unique things to do in Sabah is exploring Mari Mari Cultural Village. In Mari Mari Cultural Village, you can learn Borneo's ethnic culture, enriching you with knowledge about them. It is located away from the city and you can actually meet five different ethnic tribes, including Kadazan-Dusun.

12. Paddle Boarding in Tanjung Aru

Another thing to do in Sabah for adventurous travellers is Paddle Boarding in Tanjung Aru. Here, you can ride the paddle boarding while enjoying the view of the sunrise, which is super breathtaking.

Don’t worry, they provide the instructor. Join the tour so you can do rafting as well in Kiulu River.

13. Touring to Bongawan Mangrove, Fireflies River Cruise and Sky Mirror

Your trip in Sabah won’t be complete without touring to Bongawan Mangrove, Fireflies River Cruise and Sky Mirror. The diverse flora and fauna in Bongawan Mangrove is very refreshing. Not to mention that you can enjoy the natural wonder in Sky Mirror, a beautiful land that reflects the sky.

At night, you can cruise through the mangrove forest and hunt the sights of the fireflies.

14. Snorkelling in Dreamer Island

Let’s do snorkelling in Dreamer Island! As we said before, one of the things to do in Sabah is doing water sports, like snorkelling! Dreamer Island has crystal clear water that makes the marine life under the water seem more perfect.

Afterwards, you can relax by the beach, lay down the white sand and enjoy the peaceful ambience of the island.

15. Visiting Weston Wetlands

Last but not least, the thing to do in Sabah is visiting Weston Wetlands. Located just a couple hours from Kota Kinabalu, this eco-tourism destination features rich wildlife, including the unique proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and countless kinds of birds. It’s going to be a peaceful experience, and very suitable for all the nature lovers.

Best Restaurants in Sabah

Complete your exploration in Sabah by enjoying their signature local dishes. Sabah has countless popular restaurants to enter, starting from street food to fancy restaurants.

Here’s 5 of the best restaurants in Sabah that should be on your list of things to do in Sabah:

1. North Borneo Cruises - Sunset Dinner Cruise

North Borneo Cruises - Sunset Dinner Cruise is what you look for if you need a fancy dinner with your loved one. With the live music as the background, the surroundings that are utterly beautiful, and the international buffet, of course it could be the most unforgettable night in Sabah.

2. Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant

Location: Lorong Hilltop, Taman Far East, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 7 AM - 11 PM

Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant has been people’s favourite since ever. There are so many favourite dishes to taste here, including the Fish Paste Noodles Soup. The variety is plenty too, and they all taste delicious. FYI, it is recommended to visit this local stall at off-peak times, like maybe a little bit before or after a meal time.

3. Little Italy

Location: Ground Floor, Hotel Capital, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 12 - 10 PM

Located in the Hotel Capital, you can taste the best pasta like you’re in Italy, even when you’re actually in Sabah. One of the reasons why visiting Little Italy is very tempting is that they have over 20 sauces for the pastas, and the review says that each of them is very delicious. Also, the pizza tastes super good too!

4. Welcome Seafood Restaurant

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

Opening Hours: 12 - 11.30 PM

Well, back to seafood, Sabah has another popular place to enjoy: Welcome Seafood Restaurant. All the money you spend here will be worth it. Due to the place’s popularity, this restaurant is always buzzing.

Taste the Garlic Steam Lobster and Chilli Scallop or Black Pepper Crab. Or, just go crazy! Everything here tastes superb!

5. SOULed OUT Kota Kinabalu

Location: G-101, Imago Shopping Mall KK Times Square Phase 2, Jalan Coastal, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 12 PM - 12 AM

SOULed OUT Kota Kinabalu is a hype place. It’s actually a pub with countless alcoholic drinks that you can order, but they also have signature dishes too. When you’re here, you must taste the Lamb Shank!

The overall menu is ranging from pasta, burger, noodles, and more. You can enjoy all these delicious foods while listening to live music.

Best Hotels Recommendations in Sabah

You should stay in one of the best hotels in Sabah! They have

1. Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu, is one of the popular accommodations in Sabah. It’s luxurious and rich with facilities. It’s also a family-friendly option since it has spacious family rooms (like Garden Deluxe Family and Ocean Junior Family Suite Garden View).

Overlooking the South China Sea, the view here is incredible. Enjoy the weather by dipping in the pool, riding the slides, and engage in some outdoor activities.

2. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu is a 5-star hotel in the centre of the city, offering a great location to everywhere. Surrounded by shopping malls, the hotel is very convenient for both business and leisure.

Relax at the Rooftop Bar & Grill while enjoying the view of the city, especially at night. Families can get advantage of the connecting room, keeping them close while also enjoying privacy.

3. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels 

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels is a chic hotel with great service and warm ambience. Rooms are very comfortable, and the options stretch from the rooms for couples to families. Facilities include gym, meeting room, a cafe, and a restaurant.

This hotel is said to be the first creatively-designed hotel in North Borneo. Hence, planning a staycation here is a must!

4. Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu

Suitable for any occasion, Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu is a luxurious hotel facing the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and South China Sea. Hence, the view is both amazing and relaxing.

You can choose between the rooms or suites that have the sea view or the city view. Enjoy the plenty of choices of restaurants (up to 5 places, including the Poolside Bar) and have your palate pampered by the delicious dishes made by the pros.

5. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Enjoy the touch of nature by staying in Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai. Located on the white sandy beach, this hotel is indeed a place to escape. Plenty of accommodations available, from rooms to villas. You can also book a spa session to rejuvenate yourself.

The one thing that makes this resort more lovable is its plenty of activities to engage in, starting from surfboard, kayak safari, to yoga and batik painting. Surely, you’ll have a good time here!

Travel Tips to Sabah

Have an enjoyable trip to Sabah by following these travel tips:

1. Explore Beyond Kota Kinabalu

While Kota Kinabalu is a must-visit city, don't miss out on other parts of Sabah, such as Sandakan for wildlife, and Tawau for diving. Spare some days to the surrounding islands and national parks.

2. Don’t Skip Wildlife Encounters

Sabah is home to incredible wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. Hence, it’s the right time for you to meet all those wildlife, like in Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and more!

3. Respect Local Cultures

Sabah has a rich cultural heritage. You can even meet various indigenous groups such as the Kadazan-Dusun. When visiting cultural villages or attending festivals like the Pesta Kaamatan (Harvest Festival), be respectful and open to learning about their traditions and customs.

4. Hiking Mount Kinabalu

Don’t skip hiking if you’re an adventurous person. Prepare your energy and let’s hike to the top of Mount Kinabalu! If you're planning to hike Mount Kinabalu, book permits and guides well in advance.

5. Try the Local Cuisine

Of all the things to do in Sabah, one of the mandatory ones is trying the local cuisine. Sabah’s food is a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences. You can search for it at one of our recommended restaurants above.

6. Prepare for The Weather

Sabah has a tropical climate, so make sure you wear the most comfortable clothing (not with layers). However, for higher altitudes like Mount Kinabalu, bring a jacket as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.

7. Stay Hydrated

The warm and humid climate can be dehydrating. Always remember to drink, and bring bottled water everywhere, especially when you’re exploring outdoors.

8. Bring Insect Repellent

Sabah has tropical weather, where it is very common to find mosquitoes, especially at night. Bring mosquito repellent to avoid getting bitten.

9. Use Sunscreen

Sabah's sun can be intense due to the tropical weather, so apply sunscreen regularly, even if it’s cloudy. Sunglasses, hats, and lightweight scarves also provide extra sun protection.

10. Learn Basic Malay Phrases

While English is widely spoken in urban areas, knowing a few basic Malay phrases can be helpful and appreciated in more rural parts of Sabah.

Best time to visit Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah is during the dry season from March to October, especially between May and September. During these months, the weather is typically clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking Mount Kinabalu.

However, note that this is also the peak tourist season, so booking flights and hotels in advance is highly advised. The wet season (November to February) sees more rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans but offers a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists.

Now that you know all the recommended things to do in Sabah, it will be way easier to plan your itinerary. Remember, have your travel needs booked in no time on Traveloka and get the best prices with the ongoing promotions on flights, attractions, and hotels in Sabah!