SABAH
Sabah is a Malaysian state renowned for its incredible biodiversity, pristine rainforests, and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. It is a stunning natural paradise where diverse cultures meet the breathtaking beauty of the South China Sea.
Known as the “Land Below the Wind” for its position sheltered from typhoons, Sabah offers adventure, from world-class diving on coral reefs to trekking high-altitude mountain trails and encountering unique wildlife.
Most Popular Attractions
Nature Reserves, Mountains & Parks
Mount Kinabalu: A UNESCO World Heritage site and Southeast Asia’s highest peak, a hub for climbers and home to unparalleled flora and fauna.
Kinabalu Park: The surrounding area of Mount Kinabalu, famed for its ecological diversity, including pitcher plants and orchids.
Danum Valley Conservation Area: An untouched primary rainforest, offering guided nature walks and wildlife spotting, including orangutans and clouded leopards.
Tabin Wildlife Reserve: Home to three of Sabah’s largest mammals: the Borneo elephant, the tembadau (wild cattle), and the Sumatran rhinoceros.
Maliau Basin Conservation Area (Sabah’s Lost World): A remote, pristine, and largely unexplored basin, famous for its unique circular shape and exceptional biodiversity.
Crocker Range National Park: A major water catchment area and a vital forest reserve for the conservation of Sabah’s biodiversity.
Poring Hot Springs: Part of Kinabalu Park, known for its therapeutic sulphurous waters and its famous canopy walkway high above the forest floor.
Wildlife Sanctuaries & Conservation
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: A world-famous sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing orphaned orangutans back into the wild.
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC): Adjacent to Sepilok, this centre focuses on the world’s smallest bear species, the endangered Malayan sun bear.
Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary: A dedicated sanctuary offering close-up encounters with the endemic, large-nosed proboscis monkeys.
Turtle Islands Park (Selingan, Bakkungan Kechil, and Gulisan): A group of islands critical for the conservation of green and hawksbill sea turtles, with night-time viewing opportunities.
Klias Wetlands: A river cruise spot, popular for spotting proboscis monkeys, fireflies, and various bird species.
Islands, Beaches & Marine Parks
Sipadan Island: World-renowned for its phenomenal diving, famous for ‘turtle tombs,’ barracuda tornadoes, and magnificent coral formations (strict quota applies).
Mabul Island: A beautiful island near Sipadan, globally recognized for its incredible muck diving and macro marine life.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park: A cluster of five islands (Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, Sulug) off Kota Kinabalu, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and beach activities.
Layang-Layang Island: A remote oceanic atoll known as the “Jewel of the Borneo Banks,” famous for its hammerhead shark sightings.
Bohey Dulang Island (Semporna): A picturesque volcanic island with a stunning hiking trail leading to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the turquoise lagoon.
Gaya Island: The largest island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, featuring luxury resorts and the floating ‘sea gypsy’ village of the Bajau Laut.
Cities, Culture & History
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront & Sunset Spots: The city’s lively hub, famous for its night markets, seafood restaurants, and spectacular sunset views over the South China Sea.
Sabah State Museum: The primary museum for the state, showcasing Sabah’s history, culture, natural history, and archaeological findings.
Atkinson Clock Tower: A historical wooden clock tower in Kota Kinabalu, built in 1905, one of the few historical buildings to survive WWII bombing.
Mari Mari Cultural Village: An interactive cultural experience where visitors can learn about the history, lifestyle, and traditional houses of Sabah’s indigenous tribes.
Jesselton Point Waterfront: The main ferry terminal and departure point for Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands, also offering dining and shopping.
Signal Hill Observatory Platform: Offers a panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu city, the surrounding islands, and the harbour.
Sandakan Heritage Trail: A self-guided walking tour connecting historical sites in the former colonial capital, including the St. Michael’s and All Angels Church.
The Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau): The northernmost point of Borneo, offering breathtaking views where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea.
Activities & Experiences
Summit Mount Kinabalu: Undertake the multi-day trek to the peak of Southeast Asia’s highest mountain (4,095m), a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a breathtaking sunrise experience.
Dive or Snorkel in the Celebes Sea: Explore the world-renowned waters around Sipadan Island (limited permits), Mabul, or Kapalai for unmatched biodiversity, including sea turtles and barracuda.
River Cruise to See Proboscis Monkeys: Take a late afternoon boat trip along the Kinabatangan River or in the Klias Wetlands to spot the endemic, long-nosed Proboscis monkey.
Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Witness these incredible “men of the forest” in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts during feeding times.
Explore the Danum Valley Conservation Area: Immerse yourself in one of the world’s most complex and pristine tropical rainforests, offering jungle trekking and night walks for wildlife spotting.
Go Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Kiulu River (Grade I-II, beginner-friendly) or the Padas River (Grade III-IV, more challenging, accessible by train).
Island Hop in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park: Take a boat from Kota Kinabalu (KK) to enjoy the beaches, hiking trails, and snorkeling spots on islands like Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, and Mamutik.
Wander through the Mari Mari Cultural Village: Step back in time to experience the traditional houses, unique practices, and foods of Sabah’s five major ethnic groups (Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, Bajau, Lundayeh, and Rungus).
Discover the Gomantong Caves: Explore the massive cave systems near Kinabatangan, famous for their edible birds’ nests and the dramatic, twice-daily mass exit of millions of bats and swiftlets.
Hike to Maliau Basin (Sabah’s Lost World): For a true adventure, trek into the remote, pristine jungle of the Maliau Basin, a massive, unexploited bowl-shaped geological formation.
Shop for Handicrafts at Gaya Street Sunday Market: Browse a vibrant mix of local foods, handicrafts, pets, and souvenirs at the bustling street market in Kota Kinabalu every Sunday morning.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting Around Kota Kinabalu (KK): The city center of KK is compact and very walkable. For short distances, the Grab ride-hailing app (Asia’s equivalent of Uber) is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Intercity Travel: Travel between major towns like KK, Sandakan, and Tawau is typically done via long-distance buses (most cost-effective) or domestic flights (e.g., from KK to Sandakan for Sepilok). The road network is generally well-maintained.
Access to Remote Areas: For destinations like Danum Valley, Maliau Basin, or the Kinabatangan River lodges, transport is usually pre-arranged and included in your package, often involving 4×4 vehicles or chartered vans from the nearest town/airport.
Train Travel: The North Borneo Railway offers a scenic, historic journey (usually twice a week, aimed at tourists) along the coast, while the local train line is primarily used for the challenging Padas River rafting trips.
Island Hopping: For the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, you can purchase tickets from the Jesselton Point ferry terminal in KK. Be sure to shop around for the best package and boat operator.
The Climate: Sabah is a tropical destination, meaning it is hot and humid year-round. It’s best to plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Light, quick-drying clothing is essential.
“Makan Time” (Meal Time): Food is central to Malaysian culture. Locals tend to eat dinner a little earlier than in Western countries, often between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM. Don’t miss the chance to try local coffee shops (kopitiams) for breakfast.
Language and Greetings: The national language is Bahasa Melayu, but English is widely spoken in the tourism industry and in cities. Learning a few words like Terima kasih (thank you) and Apa khabar? (How are you?) will be appreciated.
Respecting Wildlife: Sabah is a world leader in eco-tourism. Never feed or touch the wildlife, including the orangutans. Keep a respectful distance and follow all guide instructions, particularly in nature reserves.
Hidden Gems:
- The Filipino Market (Pasar Besar Kota Kinabalu): Famous for its inexpensive dried seafood, pearls, and the stunning sunsets visible from its nearby sea wall.
- Tanjung Aru Beach: The best spot in KK for a glorious sunset, often accompanied by vibrant food and drink stalls.
- Mount Kinabalu Botanical Garden (Kinabalu Park): An essential stop for nature lovers, offering easier trails and a spectacular array of Borneo’s unique pitcher plants and orchids without the need to summit the mountain.
- Tenom: Take a journey to the interior to visit the Sabah Agriculture Park or the Coffee Village to experience Sabah’s rural heartland and famous Tenom coffee.
Cash and Cards: While major hotels and large malls accept credit cards, cash is essential for smaller food stalls, markets, and remote homestays or lodges.
Top Restaurants
Kedai Kopi Yee Fung [$3-$7] – An absolute local institution on Gaya Street, famous for what many consider the best, richest, and creamiest Sabah-style Laksa in the city.
Fatt Kee Mixed Fish Noodles [$5-$10] – A bustling hilltop eatery known for its signature fresh fish noodle soup, which you can customize with different types of fish and optional milky broth.
Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh [$5-$10] – A highly-rated, long-established spot that opens in the evening, serving the dark, herbal, and flavorful Hokkien-style pork rib stew, Bah Kut Teh, which is a Malaysian classic.
Sinsuran Sang Nyuk Mee [$3-$7] – A must-try local favorite specializing in ‘raw pork noodles,’ served with thinly sliced pork and meatballs in a savory, clear broth with dry-tossed noodles on the side.
Kah Hiong Ngiu Chap [$4-$8] – One of KK’s most popular stalls for Ngiu Chap (mixed beef noodles), featuring tender beef slices, tripe, and meatballs in a fragrant beef broth.
Sri Latha Curry House [$2-$5] – A no-frills, highly-regarded spot for authentic Indian-style banana leaf rice and curry sets, incredibly popular for a budget-friendly and flavorful lunch.
Tuaran Mee Restaurant (Original) [$3-$7] – Located a bit outside KK in Tuaran town, this is the original and best place for the namesake Tuaran Mee, a springy, hand-made fried egg noodle dish.
Kedai Kopi Melanian 3 [$3-$7] – A popular coffee shop famous for its excellent Sang Nyuk Mee and other local favorites, often busy with a strong local following.
Restoran Thien Thien [$4-$8] – Known for its exceptionally crispy and juicy roasted chicken and pork dishes (Char Siew and Siew Yuk) served over fragrant rice.
New Market Food Court (Lido) [$2-$5] – A classic, bustling local food court in the Lido area with countless stalls offering affordable, authentic Sabah-Chinese dishes like Kon Lau Mee and fish ball soup.
Beaufort Mee Restaurant (Penampang) [$4-$8] – Sought after for its classic Beaufort Mee, a noodle dish with a thick, savory gravy, tender slices of meat, and leafy greens.
Kedai Kopi Yii Siang [$4-$8] – A great spot for a unique blend, offering the distinctive ‘Hainan Laksa Ngiu Chap,’ combining the spicy flavors of laksa with the rich beef broth and ingredients of Ngiu Chap.
Kedai Kopi Loi Kee [$4-$8] – Another highly-rated and authentic option for Ngiu Chap (mixed beef noodles), consistently drawing in locals for its hearty broth and generous portions.
Apiwon [$5-$10] – Known for its special tomato-based mixed fish noodle soup, offering a unique, tangy, and flavorful variation of the local fish noodle trend.
VOGS Authentic Sinalau Bakas [$7-$15] – Roadside stalls, particularly on the road to Kundasang, offering Sinalau Bakas (smoked wild boar), a non-halal Kadazan-Dusun delicacy, usually served with rice and dipping sauces.
Lido Square Food Stalls [$2-$5] – The area around Lido Square, particularly in the evenings, is a hub for numerous small vendors selling local hawker favorites like Nasi Lemak and kuih-muih (traditional snacks).
D’Place Kinabalu [$8-$15] – While it attracts visitors, it is one of the best spots to sample a wide range of authentic indigenous Kadazan-Dusun cuisine, such as Hinava (raw fish salad) and Pinasakan (braised fish).
88 Fish Head Noodles [$5-$10] – A famous and bustling eatery in the city center specializing in the creamy, addictive, and deeply satisfying fish head noodle soup.
Barista Lokal [$3-$6] – A local cafe that champions Borneo coffee beans and often serves traditional Sabahan breakfast staples and local coffee preparations.
Kedai Kopi Korner [$3-$7] – A humble coffee shop known for its excellent Kon Lau Mee (dry-tossed noodles) and pork dumplings, a classic Hakka-style favorite among residents.
Oceanus Waterfront Food Court [$4-$10] – A popular local spot for fresh, cooked-to-order seafood and other regional dishes, often more reasonably priced than the large tourist-focused seafood restaurants.
Restoran Bataras [$3-$7] – A smaller, very local spot known for its delicious and authentic Mee Tauhu (Tawau-style noodle dish) with a savory, fermented soybean paste gravy.
Gerai Nasi Ayam Haji Antong [$3-$7] – Widely regarded for one of the best Nasi Ayam (Chicken Rice) plates in KK, offering fragrant rice, succulent steamed or roasted chicken, and a punchy chili sauce.
Restoran Ajinabor [$4-$8] – A classic Chinese eatery popular for its comforting and flavorful claypot dishes and traditional stir-fries, often packed with local families.
Kedai Kopi Pahlawan [$3-$6] – A well-regarded coffee shop in a less-touristy area, popular for its signature Sang Nyuk Mee and a strong, dark local coffee (kopi-o).
IN Restaurant [$30-$50] – A contemporary dining spot with a seafood-forward menu that uses modern techniques to refine and accentuate fresh, local Sabah ingredients, offering a sophisticated experience.
Gusto Kitchen [$15-$30] – Known for its innovative approach to local and Western cuisine, blending diverse culinary influences with creative presentation and a frequently updated menu.
Limau & Linen [$20-$40] – A chic restaurant and lounge that gives a contemporary, artful twist to traditional Malaysian flavors, featuring creative dishes and cocktails infused with local ingredients like Lihing (rice wine).
Jesselton Artisan Market Eateries [$10-$20] – Various smaller, modern vendors within this market/lifestyle hub often feature fusion food, artisan coffee, and creative pastries using local Borneo flavors.
Chilli Vanilla [$15-$30] – A quirky and colorful spot that offers a blend of Mexican and Mediterranean flavors but often incorporates fresh, local Malaysian spices and herbs into their dishes.
Little Sulap [$8-$15] – A cozy cafe with a charming ambiance that offers a blend of traditional Sabahan cuisine and accessible Western choices, perfect for a casual yet creative meal.
The B Side [$10-$20] – A popular, trendy spot for brunch and fusion meals, known for its creative coffee drinks and Western-style food with an Asian twist.
Borenos Fried Chicken [$5-$10] – A local fast-food chain that has achieved cult status among locals, famous for its unique, crispy fried chicken with a distinct local seasoning blend.
Kohinoor North Indian Cuisine [$15-$30] – Offers a refined and high-quality take on classic North Indian food, highly rated by residents for its authentic tandoor items and rich curries.
The Asian [$15-$30] – Located in a less-busy part of the city, this restaurant offers modern Asian fusion, blending flavors from across the region with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Ferdinand’s Italian Restaurant [$40-$70] – While an Italian restaurant, it’s considered a benchmark for upscale, non-local cuisine in KK, located in the Magellan Sutera Resort with fine dining service and a beautiful sea view.
OITOM Heritage Fine Dining [$80-$150] – A premier fine dining experience that specifically champions “New Sabah Cuisine,” transforming traditional indigenous Kadazan-Dusun ingredients and dishes into a multi-course, avant-garde tasting menu. Reservation is essential.
Nagisa Japanese Restaurant [$50-$80] – Located in the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, this is a top-tier Japanese restaurant known for its incredibly fresh seafood (a Sabahan strength) and traditional, high-quality preparation of sushi and teppanyaki.
Oceano Modern Grill [$60-$100] – A sophisticated grill and steakhouse at the Shangri-La Rasa Ria, offering premium meats and the freshest local seafood with an elegant, modern preparation and a fantastic beach-view terrace.
Gaharu Tea Valley Fine Dining [$50-$80] – Located a bit further out, near the Gaharu plantation, this unique dining experience focuses on dishes infused with agarwood tea (gaharu), offering a healthy and distinct flavor profile in a tranquil setting.
The Eighth [$40-$70] – An elegant dining venue known for its focus on exquisite presentation and seasonal ingredients, offering a sophisticated, contemporary menu often found in upscale hotels.
Kedai Kopi Fook Yuen (Gaya Street) [$2-$6] – A classic, highly-recommended kopitiam (coffee shop) famous for its traditional, charcoal-toasted bread, kaya (coconut jam), soft-boiled eggs, and Hainanese tea/coffee.
Lido Corner Night Market [$3-$8] – A bustling local spot that comes alive in the evening, offering an array of different food stalls including excellent Malay-style grilled fish (ikan bakar), Satay, and local desserts.
D’Wan Restaurant [$8-$15] – Highly recommended for authentic, home-style Malay and North Borneo cuisine, often featuring dishes like Nasi Kerabu (blue rice) and Asam Pedas (spicy and sour fish stew).
Sempelang Taste of Borneo [$8-$15] – Located in a less-touristy area, this restaurant focuses on authentic and delicious Bajau (Sea Nomads) cuisine, particularly known for its fresh fish and unique local sambals.
Restoran Beaufort [$4-$8] – Famous for its Beaufort Mee which has a distinct, rich gravy and is served with a unique, savory black bean paste sauce.
Jia Siang Sang Nyuk Mee [$3-$7] – Another famous and well-regarded outlet for Sang Nyuk Mee, consistently praised by locals for the freshness of the pork and the clarity of the broth.
Latitud 6 Brewing Company [$10-$25] – A local craft brewery that serves modern pub fare and Western favorites alongside its unique, locally brewed beers, offering a relaxed and unique atmosphere.
Borneo Spice (Penampang) [$15-$30] – Located outside the city center, this restaurant has a beautiful, rustic bamboo setting and offers a mix of traditional Sabahan dishes and Western-traditional fusion meals.
Nasi Kombos Semporna [$5-$10] – Specializing in cuisine from the Semporna area of Sabah, known for its fresh seafood and the unique Nasi Kombos (rice with young coconut flesh).
Restoran Sri Melaka [$8-$15] – A consistently good spot for authentic Malaysian-Malay cuisine, especially its Nasi Padang style where you choose from an array of pre-cooked dishes.
Little Italy [$15-$30] – While not local food, this multi-generational, family-run Italian restaurant is an institution among KK locals for its authentic pasta, pizza, and cozy atmosphere—a worthy non-local diversion.
Ho Ping Coffee Shop [$3-$6] – A classic, old-school coffee shop well-loved for its delicious and comforting Ngiu Chap (beef noodles) and traditional toast sets for breakfast.
Restoran Juara [$4-$8] – A local favorite in a slightly quieter area, known for its excellent Claypot Chicken Rice, served piping hot with a fragrant, slightly burnt crust at the bottom of the pot.
Housia Cafe [$8-$15] – Known for its unique aesthetic presentation of traditional foods, often serving dishes like the Tavantang set (Kadazan-Dusun mixed plate) in bamboo, perfect for a cozy, authentic meal.
My Native Sabah [$8-$15] – Located slightly outside the main downtown area, this cafe offers a comfortable setting to try traditional indigenous sets, including the famed Ambuyat (sago starch served with dips and side dishes).
Restoran Sempelang [$8-$15] – A popular spot in a local neighborhood known for its excellent Piaren Ah Manuk (chicken curry made with grated coconut) and other dishes from the Iranun community.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sky Blu Bar (Grandis Hotel): Located atop the Grandis Hotel, this rooftop bar near the Suria Sabah shopping mall offers spectacular panoramic views of the South China Sea, the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, and the city, making it a perfect spot for sunset cocktails.
The Warung at Sutera Harbour: This chic and laid-back spot at the Sutera Harbour Resort is known for its inventive, local-inspired cocktails and its relaxing atmosphere right by the resort’s marina.
The Shamrock Irish Pub: A long-standing favorite in the KK city center, this lively pub is a great place for standard drinks, often featuring live band performances in a friendly, convivial environment.
Jesselton Cabin Cocktail Bar: Found in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this cozy, smaller venue is known for its classic mixology and a warm, intimate atmosphere that focuses on quality drinks.
Chilli Vanilla: Located near Gaya Street in the city center, this establishment offers a casual, slightly bohemian vibe with a good selection of cocktails and a popular food menu, appealing to both tourists and locals.
Upperstar Hotel: Situated in a central location, this bar/restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a wide variety of affordable drinks, making it a reliable spot for casual evening hangouts in KK.
Bar Tiga (Hilton Kota Kinabalu): An upscale bar within the Hilton hotel in the city center, known for its sleek design, refined ambiance, and a sophisticated menu of classic and contemporary cocktails.
The Klagan Regency Rooftop Bar: Located in 1Borneo Hypermall, this bar offers a relaxing rooftop setting and views over the surrounding area, a great choice for a drink outside the main city center hub.
The Waterfront Strip: Not a single bar but a popular stretch along the Kota Kinabalu waterfront that houses several adjacent open-air bars, each offering stunning sunset views and a variety of drinks.
KK Time Square Bars: The area around KK Times Square is dotted with various smaller, independent bars and lounges that often have unique themes and offer good happy hour promotions.
El Centro: A popular spot in the city center that, while known for its Mexican food, also has a vibrant bar area offering a good selection of margaritas and other cocktails.
Sunset Bar (Shangri-La Rasa Ria): Located further north near Tuaran, this famous bar at the Shangri-La resort offers an incredible setting right on the beach, ideal for experiencing a classic Sabah sunset with a cocktail.
The Attic Bar: A slightly more hidden spot in the KK city center, offering a cozy and rustic charm, known for its creative cocktails and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.
Lobby Lounge (Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu): Located centrally, this elegant hotel lounge offers a high-end setting for pre-dinner drinks with expertly mixed cocktails and a refined ambiance.
The Best Brew (Four Points by Sheraton): Situated centrally in Sandakan, this bar offers a modern setting and a focus on craft beers and cocktails, providing a quality evening option in Sabah’s second-largest city.
Shenanigans Fun Pub (Kinabalu Hyatt Regency): A long-established and popular entertainment venue in the city center. Known for its lively atmosphere, themed nights, and live performances, it often transforms into a vibrant late-night club.
BED (Best Entertainment Destination) Club: Located in the central KK waterfront area, this is one of Kota Kinabalu’s premier nightclubs, known for its large dance floor, state-of-the-art sound system, and international DJ appearances.
Club D’Vino: A popular club in the central entertainment districts of KK, offering a mix of dance music, bottle service, and a high-energy environment that attracts a young, trendy crowd.
Jongio’s Club: Situated in a key entertainment zone in KK, this club is known for its dynamic lighting, varied music policy (from EDM to commercial hits), and a bustling weekend party scene.
White House Bar & Club: Located along the lively KK waterfront, this spot offers both an outdoor terrace for casual drinks and an indoor club area that gets energetic late at night, with DJs playing commercial music.
The Oasis (Sutera Harbour): While part of the resort complex, this venue often hosts themed parties and events, transforming into a high-energy dance location, especially on weekends and for special celebrations.
Cocoon: A stylish, modern club in the Kota Kinabalu city center, popular for its chic interior design and its focus on house and electronic music, often featuring local resident DJs.
Lava Restobar & Lounge: Located centrally, this venue starts as a sophisticated lounge for cocktails and gradually escalates into a more club-like atmosphere as the night progresses, with a focus on commercial dance hits.
Soho Club (formerly known as Play Club): Found in the lively KK Times Square area, this venue is a hotspot for high-energy partying, with a reputation for loud music, strong drinks, and a crowd that stays out late.
Le Fusion (Hilton Kota Kinabalu): An upscale venue that operates as a sophisticated bar and dining area but transforms into a late-night lounge with DJ sets, catering to a more mature and refined clientele.