Travel to Sandakan

Things to do in Sandakan

Shopping

Your shopping adventure in Sandakan begins at Sandakan Harbour Mall, where you can enjoy a vibrant mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the nearby Giant Supermarket for a wider selection of local products and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenating spa treatments at a wellness retreat, surrounded by lush rainforest. Engage in yoga sessions with stunning views, partake in guided nature walks, and savour nutritious meals made from local ingredients. Unwind with traditional massages and immerse yourself in tranquil surroundings for a holistic escape.

Adventure

At Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, immerse yourself in the wilderness with thrilling jungle treks and river cruises, spotting diverse wildlife. The Sandakan Heritage Trail offers fascinating insights into the local history while you stroll through beautiful landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and cultural exploration.

Nightlife

In Sandakan, enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene at the waterfront, where lively bars and seafood restaurants offer stunning views. Explore local pubs for live music or head to the bustling night market for street food and cultural experiences, creating a unique atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan, Sabah offers a delightful mix of family-friendly and outdoor activities, perfect for business-themed vacations too. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including reserves, islands, and historical churches, while enjoying the rich culture and scenic landscapes. Key attractions include the Sandakan Harbour Mall, Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Sandakan War Memorial, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and history.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of this reserve, where you can explore the rich biodiversity of Sabah's rainforest. Enjoy friendly vibes as you wander along well-maintained trails and treetop walkways, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature.
  • Gomantong Caves: Experience an outdoor adventure at Gomantong Caves, renowned for its impressive limestone formations and unique wildlife. This site offers a thrilling exploration of its vast chambers and the chance to witness the fascinating swiftlet birds that inhabit the caves.
  • Sandakan Memorial Park: Reflect on Malaysia's history at this poignant memorial, dedicated to the World War II events in Sandakan. The park's tranquil atmosphere and cultural significance provide a profound insight into the sacrifices made during the war.

Best time to go to Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sandakan falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Sandakan falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February78.8°F (26.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April80.8°F (27.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.8°F (27.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November80.2°F (26.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Sandakan

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Sandakan.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in Sandakan

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

2.5 out of 5
Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok Sandakan Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is RM131 per night from 10 Mar to 11 Mar
RM131
RM165 total
10 Mar - 11 Mar
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (227 reviews)
Room clean and insect free. However fixtures and fittings tired and old and generally in need of attention/refurbishment. Pool looked amazing, but i didn't have time to try it out.

Reviewed on 13 Feb 2026

Sepilok Jungle Resort
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

2.5 out of 5
Mile 14, Jalan Labuk Sandakan Sabah
The price is RM93 per night from 4 Mar to 5 Mar
RM93
RM110 total
4 Mar - 5 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (83 reviews)
The room, bedding and toiletries were clean. The staff was courteous. Food provided was good. WiFi access was restricted to the common area.

Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Jalan Utara, Mile 4 Sandakan Sabah
The price is RM212 per night from 8 Mar to 9 Mar
RM212
RM260 total
8 Mar - 9 Mar
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (160 reviews)
Phone didn’t work and they couldn’t fix it. Offered us another room. AC didn’t work and had to be reset. Room safe didn’t work and had to be fixed with new batteries. The safe was not set of bolted down and anyone could have walked away with the safe.

Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026

Livingston Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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What to do in Sandakan

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.