Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Sandakan travel guide

Sandakan Tourism | Sandakan Guide

You're Going to Love Sandakan

A thriving trading center for over 100 years until World War Two, Sandakan is on the rise again, this time as an appealing tropical port, with plenty of colonial curiosities and excursion destinations for visitors to enjoy.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Sandakan

1. A Wide Range of Historical Attractions

From the home of American writer Agnes Keith (author of the wartime memoir Three Came Home) to the 19th-century St Michael's and All Angels Church and Buli Sim Sim water village, Sandakan is full of historical interest.

2. Get to Know Sarawak's Orangutans

At Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, visitors can see orangutans that have been saved from poachers or captivity and really get to know our intelligent, charismatic cousins.

3. Cruise Down the River Kinabatangan

Cruises on the Kinabatangan are a delight for nature lovers. Drift through ecologically rich mangrove swamps, see proboscis monkeys, and glimpse elephants as you head downstream.

4. The Seafood Is Fantastic

Sandakan's cuisine revolves around the sea, with simple snacks like prawn crackers and more complex dishes like fish head curry all vying for the attention of diners.

5. It's Easy to Find the Right Souvenirs

Sandakan's New Market is a bustling commercial hub, where you'll find homemade pearl jewelry and sarongs - all at bargain prices.

1. A Wide Range of Historical Attractions

From the home of American writer Agnes Keith (author of the wartime memoir Three Came Home) to the 19th-century St Michael's and All Angels Church and Buli Sim Sim water village, Sandakan is full of historical interest.

2. Get to Know Sarawak's Orangutans

At Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, visitors can see orangutans that have been saved from poachers or captivity and really get to know our intelligent, charismatic cousins.

3. Cruise Down the River Kinabatangan

Cruises on the Kinabatangan are a delight for nature lovers. Drift through ecologically rich mangrove swamps, see proboscis monkeys, and glimpse elephants as you head downstream.

4. The Seafood Is Fantastic

Sandakan's cuisine revolves around the sea, with simple snacks like prawn crackers and more complex dishes like fish head curry all vying for the attention of diners.

5. It's Easy to Find the Right Souvenirs

Sandakan's New Market is a bustling commercial hub, where you'll find homemade pearl jewelry and sarongs - all at bargain prices.

What to do in Sandakan

1. Walking The Path Of History

The Sandakan Memorial Park is situated approximately 1.5 km southwest of Sandakan Airport. It commemorates the fallen prisoners who succumbed to the Sandakan Death Marches that took place between January and August of 1945. The beautiful series of gardens and beautiful forest orchard are the park's main highlights. View the historic (and rusty) machines that attest to the forced labor program that existed within the camp. There is also a pavilion that gives a list of names along with photographs of the liberators, inmates, and survivors.

2. Pure Bliss

The Balin Roof Garden is situated on the 9th and topmost floor of the Nak Hotel, giving visitors a breathtaking view of Sandakan and the sea. The serene ambiance is complemented by professional catering services. Satisfy your hunger pangs with delectable western dishes available at reasonable prices and sip a classy cocktail as you gaze at the heavenly view the sunset has to offer. Make your way up to the roof garden either by taking the stairs or by riding an elevator.

3. A Feel Of Mrs. Keith

A two-level wood-built villa and former British colonial quarters, the Agnes Keith House has been converted into a museum. Agnes Newton Keith was an American author who lived in Sandakan during the 1930s and wrote several pieces of literature such as the 1939 classic 'Land Below the Wind', which describe her personal experiences. The museum is located up the hill of Tangga Seribu (approximately 100 Steps). This heritage house has been fully restored to its original design and the colonial antiques and furniture within reveals much about the period during which Mrs. Keith lived in the area.

4. The Breathtaking Temple On The Hilltop

Situated at Sandakan Bay on the hilltop of Tanah Merah, Sabah, in Malaysia, the Puu Jih Shih Temple was completed in 1987. The entire construction process was overseen by the then Sabah Chief Minister, Joseph Pairin Kitingan. It is recognized as the town's biggest temple and is located approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) west of Sabah's town center. Whether you're a Buddhist or not, this is one site you can't afford to miss. The panoramic view from the hilltop will make your heart skip a beat.

5. Exceptional Dining Experience

Inspired by the architecture of the Agnes Keith House, the English Tea House & Restaurant villa was opened to the public on December 8, 2002. It is encompassed by manicured lawns covering approximately 1.5 acres, complete with outdoor seating and croquet pitch. Visitors are treated to Asian and English cuisine at the restaurants while the tea house serves English tea. Each of these areas blends beautifully with the different species of trees, the most notable being the giant mango. Have your meal as you inhale the fresh air and enjoy the tranquil view of the bay below.

1. Walking The Path Of History

The Sandakan Memorial Park is situated approximately 1.5 km southwest of Sandakan Airport. It commemorates the fallen prisoners who succumbed to the Sandakan Death Marches that took place between January and August of 1945. The beautiful series of gardens and beautiful forest orchard are the park's main highlights. View the historic (and rusty) machines that attest to the forced labor program that existed within the camp. There is also a pavilion that gives a list of names along with photographs of the liberators, inmates, and survivors.

2. Pure Bliss

The Balin Roof Garden is situated on the 9th and topmost floor of the Nak Hotel, giving visitors a breathtaking view of Sandakan and the sea. The serene ambiance is complemented by professional catering services. Satisfy your hunger pangs with delectable western dishes available at reasonable prices and sip a classy cocktail as you gaze at the heavenly view the sunset has to offer. Make your way up to the roof garden either by taking the stairs or by riding an elevator.

3. A Feel Of Mrs. Keith

A two-level wood-built villa and former British colonial quarters, the Agnes Keith House has been converted into a museum. Agnes Newton Keith was an American author who lived in Sandakan during the 1930s and wrote several pieces of literature such as the 1939 classic 'Land Below the Wind', which describe her personal experiences. The museum is located up the hill of Tangga Seribu (approximately 100 Steps). This heritage house has been fully restored to its original design and the colonial antiques and furniture within reveals much about the period during which Mrs. Keith lived in the area.

4. The Breathtaking Temple On The Hilltop

Situated at Sandakan Bay on the hilltop of Tanah Merah, Sabah, in Malaysia, the Puu Jih Shih Temple was completed in 1987. The entire construction process was overseen by the then Sabah Chief Minister, Joseph Pairin Kitingan. It is recognized as the town's biggest temple and is located approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) west of Sabah's town center. Whether you're a Buddhist or not, this is one site you can't afford to miss. The panoramic view from the hilltop will make your heart skip a beat.

5. Exceptional Dining Experience

Inspired by the architecture of the Agnes Keith House, the English Tea House & Restaurant villa was opened to the public on December 8, 2002. It is encompassed by manicured lawns covering approximately 1.5 acres, complete with outdoor seating and croquet pitch. Visitors are treated to Asian and English cuisine at the restaurants while the tea house serves English tea. Each of these areas blends beautifully with the different species of trees, the most notable being the giant mango. Have your meal as you inhale the fresh air and enjoy the tranquil view of the bay below.

1. Walking The Path Of History

The Sandakan Memorial Park is situated approximately 1.5 km southwest of Sandakan Airport. It commemorates the fallen prisoners who succumbed to the Sandakan Death Marches that took place between January and August of 1945. The beautiful series of gardens and beautiful forest orchard are the park's main highlights. View the historic (and rusty) machines that attest to the forced labor program that existed within the camp. There is also a pavilion that gives a list of names along with photographs of the liberators, inmates, and survivors.

2. Pure Bliss

The Balin Roof Garden is situated on the 9th and topmost floor of the Nak Hotel, giving visitors a breathtaking view of Sandakan and the sea. The serene ambiance is complemented by professional catering services. Satisfy your hunger pangs with delectable western dishes available at reasonable prices and sip a classy cocktail as you gaze at the heavenly view the sunset has to offer. Make your way up to the roof garden either by taking the stairs or by riding an elevator.

3. A Feel Of Mrs. Keith

A two-level wood-built villa and former British colonial quarters, the Agnes Keith House has been converted into a museum. Agnes Newton Keith was an American author who lived in Sandakan during the 1930s and wrote several pieces of literature such as the 1939 classic 'Land Below the Wind', which describe her personal experiences. The museum is located up the hill of Tangga Seribu (approximately 100 Steps). This heritage house has been fully restored to its original design and the colonial antiques and furniture within reveals much about the period during which Mrs. Keith lived in the area.

4. The Breathtaking Temple On The Hilltop

Situated at Sandakan Bay on the hilltop of Tanah Merah, Sabah, in Malaysia, the Puu Jih Shih Temple was completed in 1987. The entire construction process was overseen by the then Sabah Chief Minister, Joseph Pairin Kitingan. It is recognized as the town's biggest temple and is located approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) west of Sabah's town center. Whether you're a Buddhist or not, this is one site you can't afford to miss. The panoramic view from the hilltop will make your heart skip a beat.

5. Exceptional Dining Experience

Inspired by the architecture of the Agnes Keith House, the English Tea House & Restaurant villa was opened to the public on December 8, 2002. It is encompassed by manicured lawns covering approximately 1.5 acres, complete with outdoor seating and croquet pitch. Visitors are treated to Asian and English cuisine at the restaurants while the tea house serves English tea. Each of these areas blends beautifully with the different species of trees, the most notable being the giant mango. Have your meal as you inhale the fresh air and enjoy the tranquil view of the bay below.

Where to Eat in Sandakan

Seafood reigns supreme in Sandakan. Good places to check out the local cuisine include the English Tea House (an elegant colonial-style villa), Sim Sim Seafood Restaurant in the stilted village, and My Harbour Restaurant, which commands gorgeous views across the bay. Meals will cost between RM8 and RM20 per head.

When to visit Sandakan

Sandakan in April
Estimated hotel price
S$ 13
1 night at 3-star hotel
Sandakan in April
Estimated hotel price
S$ 13
1 night at 3-star hotel

The best time of year to visit is in late summer, probably August and September - before the rains arrive.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Sandakan

Plane

Sandakan Airport (SDK) is just northwest of the city. From there, a taxi will cost around RM30, and buses cost RM2.

Car

If you are coming from Penampang or any other city to the southwest, take the AH150 across the country straight to Sandakan.

Bus

Bus companies serving Sandakan include Tung Ma Express, Sida Express, and Bunga Raya Express, and link the city with Kota Kinabalu and Semporna.

Plane

Sandakan Airport (SDK) is just northwest of the city. From there, a taxi will cost around RM30, and buses cost RM2.

Car

If you are coming from Penampang or any other city to the southwest, take the AH150 across the country straight to Sandakan.

Bus

Bus companies serving Sandakan include Tung Ma Express, Sida Express, and Bunga Raya Express, and link the city with Kota Kinabalu and Semporna.

Airports near Sandakan

SDKSandakan
LDULahad Datu

Airlines serving Sandakan

Turkish Airlines
Good (3,896 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,599 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (1,324 reviews)
Malaysia Airlines
Good (266 reviews)
Japan Airlines
Excellent (1,512 reviews)
Philippine Airlines
Good (888 reviews)
Batik Air
Okay (72 reviews)
AirAsia
Good (208 reviews)
Oman Air
Excellent (92 reviews)
Firefly
Good (31 reviews)
MAI
Excellent (5 reviews)
Show more
Find flights to Sandakan

Where to stay in Sandakan

Buli Sim Sim - also known to tourists as "Fisherman's Village", Buli Sim Sim is built on stilts in the traditional manner, and features some excellent seafood restaurants.

Popular Neighborhoods in Sandakan

Lebuh Empat - Sandakan's "Fourth Avenue", Lebuh Empat hosts the excellent Heritage Museum and places to relax like the English Tea House and Restaurant.

Taman Tinosan - just north of Sandakan proper, this area is a nightlife center thanks to bars like Happy Castle and the Tonight Bar.

Lebuh Empat - Sandakan's "Fourth Avenue", Lebuh Empat hosts the excellent Heritage Museum and places to relax like the English Tea House and Restaurant.
Taman Tinosan - just north of Sandakan proper, this area is a nightlife center thanks to bars like Happy Castle and the Tonight Bar.

Where to stay in popular areas of Sandakan

Most booked hotels in Sandakan

See all
Sanbay Hotel
3 stars
Excellent (8.7, Excellent reviews)
S$ 28+
View
Sabah Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (8.4, Excellent reviews)
S$ 107+
View
Hotel Sandakan
3 stars
Excellent (8, Excellent reviews)
S$ 39+
View
Sepilok Jungle Resort
2 stars
Good (7.7, Good reviews)
S$ 15+
View

How to Get Around Sandakan

Public Transportation

Buses run to most parts of Sandakan and the surrounding area, and charge from RM2 - RM5.

Taxi

Short hops in town shouldn't cost more than RM15 - RM20, and taxis to Sepilok will charge around RM40.

Car

Rental options include Borneo Express and Sandakan Car Rental Services. Expect to pay around RM55 per day.

Public Transportation

Buses run to most parts of Sandakan and the surrounding area, and charge from RM2 - RM5.

Taxi

Short hops in town shouldn't cost more than RM15 - RM20, and taxis to Sepilok will charge around RM40.

Car

Rental options include Borneo Express and Sandakan Car Rental Services. Expect to pay around RM55 per day.

The Cost of Living in Sandakan

Shopping Streets

Located on the seafront, Sandakan Central (or "New") Market is the place to shop, with souvenir, clothing, and food stands aplenty.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets include Astana Heights Mini Market and Suntos Market, where you can expect to pay around RM5 for 12 eggs and RM25 for a gallon of milk.

Everything you need to know for your stay in Sandakan

Sandakan Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Sandakan city guide for the best Sandakan travel tips. To help you organise your Sandakan trip ideas, this Sandakan visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.