Sandakan

Malaysia

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Sunrise

6:00 AM

Sunset

6:16 PM

About

Sandakan is a charming coastal town situated on the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. It boasts rich biodiversity and is home to various unique wildlife including the Bornean Sun Bear and Proboscis Monkey. Visitors can explore the bustling central market, the breathtaking Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and the historical World War II Memorial Park. With its rich cultural heritage and spectacular natural beauty, Sandakan is a must-visit destination in Malaysia.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Observe rehabilitation and feeding of orphaned orangutans in their natural habitat.
2. Kinabatangan River

Take a wildlife cruise along Sabah's longest river to spot proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants.
3. Sandakan Memorial Park

Learn about the tragic history of the Sandakan Death Marches during World War II.
4. Turtle Islands Park

Witness sea turtle nesting and hatching on these protected islands off the coast of Sandakan.
5. Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Visit this conservation area to see the unique proboscis monkeys up close.
6. Gomantong Caves

Explore these limestone caves where swiftlets make their nests and locals harvest edible bird's nests.
7. Agnes Keith House

Tour the colonial home of American author Agnes Keith, who wrote about her experiences in Borneo during the 1930s.
8. St. Michael and All Angels Church

Visit this historic church, one of the few surviving buildings after Allied bombing during World War II.
9. The Sandakan Market

Experience local life and try exotic fruits and snacks at this bustling open-air market.
10. Japanese Cemetery

Pay respects to the Japanese soldiers who died in Borneo during World War II at this peaceful hilltop site.
11. Puh Jih Shih Buddhist Temple

Climb the stairs to this hilltop pagoda for panoramic views of Sandakan and the surrounding forests.
12. Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Site

See the remains of ancient fortresses and burial sites of the Sabahs, the earliest inhabitants of Borneo.
13. Sandakan Crocodile Farm

Hold a baby crocodile and watch crocodile feeding shows at this farm that raises the reptiles for meat and leather.
14. Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Learn about efforts to save the world's smallest bear from extinction and see them up close.
15. Puu Jih Shih Waterfall

Visit this tranquil waterfall and picnic area surrounded by lush rainforest.
16. Sim Sim Water Village

Explore this vibrant fishing village on stilts and sample fresh seafood delicacies.
17. Batu Sapi Turtles Hatchery

Observe sea turtle conservation efforts at this hatchery and release baby turtles back into the sea.
18. Central Market

Browse rows of colorful textiles, handicrafts, and traditional medicines at this lively market in the heart of Sandakan.
19. Rainforest Discovery Centre

Take a canopy walk, visit the butterfly garden, and learn about Borneo's rich biodiversity at this environmental education center.
20. Sandakan Mosque

Visit one of Sabah's oldest and most beautiful mosques, built in the early 20th century by Malay and Chinese Muslims.
21. Buli Sim Sim Water Village

Discover this quieter fishing village where visitors can interact with locals, learn about their way of life, and sample tasty seafood.
22. Sandakan Crocodile Island

Take a boat tour to this island where crocodiles roam free and swim in mud pools.
23. Kampung Cina

Explore Sandakan's Chinatown, with its ornate temples and buzzing shops and restaurants.
24. Labuan Bird Park

Visit this bird sanctuary with over 400 species of birds, including rare hornbills and eagles.
25. Warisan Square

Shop for souvenirs and Malaysian fashion brands at this modern shopping mall in the city center.
26. Bukit Gelas Waterfall

Hike up to Borneo's tallest waterfall, over 30 meters high, surrounded by virgin rainforest.
27. Crocodile Island Mangrove Forest

Take a boat tour of this serene mangrove forest and see crabs, birds, and monkeys.
28. Pitas Oxbow Lake

Cruise around this picturesque lake, formed by the winding Sungai Pinangah river.
29. Bukit Belanda Hiking Trail

Trek through primary forest and up steep hills to reach the top of Bukit Belanda for stunning views of Sandakan Bay.
30. Lankayan Island

Take a boat or seaplane to this idyllic island resort, with crystal-clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling.