Travel to Sandakan

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to RM 324 when you book a flight and hotel together*
  • Find the right fit

    With over 300,000 hotels worldwide, it's easy to create a perfect package
  • Rest easy

    Plan, book, and manage your trip all in one place

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
The price is RM131 per night from 9 Feb to 10 Feb
RM131
RM165 total
9 Feb - 10 Feb
includes taxes & fees
7.4/10 Good! (224 reviews)
Perfectly located for the Sepilok orang utan and Borneo bear sanctuaries! Also the RDC! The hotel is set in a beautiful location and is full of stunning views! The owners were very welcoming and willing to share their passionate stories about the hotel! Breakfast was good - different on both mornings. ...

Reviewed on 31 Jan 2026

Sepilok Jungle Resort
Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Jalan Utara, Mile 4 Sandakan Sabah
The price is RM212 per night from 23 Feb to 24 Feb
RM212
RM260 total
23 Feb - 24 Feb
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (160 reviews)
Good place to stay

Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025

Livingston Hotel
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan

4 out of 5
Km 1 Jalan Utara Sandakan Sabah
The price is RM416 per night from 9 Feb to 10 Feb
RM416
RM459 total
9 Feb - 10 Feb
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (368 reviews)
Construction wot

Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
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.

Popular places to visit

What to do in Sandakan

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

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