Located on the northeast coast of Borneo, Sandakan is an under-the-radar gem for eco-travelers and history buffs alike. Once known as the “Little Hong Kong” of Sabah due to its bustling port and Chinese influence, Sandakan today is best known for its rich biodiversity, colonial heritage, and strong conservation efforts.
With its perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and culture, it offers something truly special for every kind of traveler.
If you’re planning your East Sabah escape and wondering what to do, here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 spectacular attractions in Sandakan, Sabah you can’t miss — all backed with expert tips and insights.
Photo Credit: Daily Express Malaysia
1. Meet Orangutans at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Established in 1964, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of the most iconic attractions in Sandakan and perhaps all of Sabah.
Set within the lush Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, the center was established to care for orphaned Orangutans who had been rescued from illegal pet trade or habitat destruction due to deforestation.
Today, this rehabilitation centre remains one of a few places in the world where you can see these majestic primates in their natural habitat, swinging effortlessly from treetop to treetop.
Visitors are treated to an open-air viewing platform overlooking the forest, where the Orangutans are fed twice daily (10:00 AM and 3:00 PM). There’s also an educational video presentation and a nursery for younger Orangutans learning how to survive in the wild.
✅ Local Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before feeding time to secure a good viewing spot and watch the jungle slowly come to life.
2. Witness the Rare Sun Bears at Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Located just a few meters away from the Sepilok Orangutan Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) is another must-visit attractionas it is home to the world’s smallest bear species. With a population that’s rapidly declining due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade, BSBCC is vital in giving these adorable yet endangered animals a second chance.
Visitors walk along raised wooden walkways where they can observe the bears in their natural environment, digging for honey or climbing trees. Informative displays and video documentaries educate guests about the threats these animals face and the efforts being made to protect them.
✅ Fun Fact: Sun bears have the longest tongue of any bear species, helping them extract honey and insects from tree bark.
3. Take a Night Walk at Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC)
The Rainforest Discovery Centre is a world-class educational facility and one of the most accessible ways to experience Borneo’s lush, biodiverse forests. Located within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, this spot offers a comprehensive introduction to the flora and fauna of Sabah.
The centerpiece of RDC is its 27-meter-high canopy walkway, stretching across 347 meters of forest canopy. From this elevated platform, visitors can spot over 300 species of birds, including the famous Bornean Bristlehead, Hornbills, and Pittas. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the rare species this attraction offers.
✅ Recommended: Bring a flashlight, wear light clothing, and be as quiet as possible for better chances of spotting rare creatures.
Photo credit: Akmal Razak
4. Cruise Along the Kinabatangan River
One of the most memorable experiences in Sandakan is a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River, the second-longest river in Malaysia. The river flows through a lowland rainforest rich in wildlife, making it a prime location for eco-tours.
To better your chances of witnessing Borneo’s majestic wildlife, hop on a morning or early evening cruise to spot Pygmy Elephants, Proboscis Monkeys, wild Orangutans, and a variety of birds like Kingfishers and Hornbills.
✅ Travel Tip: Layer up. Weather can change quickly along rivers. Bring lightweight layers you can peel off or add.
Photo Credit: Martyna IJntema
5. Explore the Agnes Keith House and Heritage Trail
The Agnes Keith House is a lovingly restored wooden bungalow that once housed the American author Agnes Newton Keith and her husband, Harry. It is a beautifully restored colonial home once that offers a glimpse into pre-war Sandakan life and the experiences of expatriates in Borneo.Her book, “Land Below the Wind,” gave the world a peek into life in North Borneo before World War II.
Inside, the museum-style home features antique furniture and historical displays. Outside, the Heritage Trail meanders through a beautiful hilltop forest and offers lovely views of the town and Sandakan Bay.
✅ Pro Tip: Combine this visit with lunch or tea at the nearby English Tea House.
Photo Credit: Trance 89
6. Enjoy a Sunset at Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple
Towering over Sandakan Bay is the majestic Puu Jih Shih Temple, a vibrant red and gold structure perched on a hilltop. The temple is active and open to visitors, with ornate statues, incense wafting through the air, and sweeping views of the town below. Furthermore, the temple grounds are surrounded by lush gardens and dragon sculptures.
The real highlight? The panoramic view of the coastline, especially at sunrise or sunset. It’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in Sandakan.
Come just before sunset to capture the golden rays illuminating the temple’s elaborate features. It’s a peaceful and photogenic escape from the bustle of town.
✅ Pro tip: Wear modestly when you visit the temple. And always take off your shoes upon entering.
Photo Credit: Seeing the world in a different way
7. Visit the Sandakan Memorial Park
Settled in a peaceful, green setting just outside the town, the Sandakan Memorial Park offers a deeply moving experience for visitors seeking to understand Sabah’s wartime history.
This serene and respectfully maintained park sits on the former site of a World War II Japanese prisoner-of-war (POW) camp, where thousands of Australian and British soldiers were held under brutal conditions. It commemorates the tragic events of the Sandakan Death Marches, during which only a handful of prisoners survived the forced marches through the jungle.
Visitors can walk along shaded pathways surrounded by lush, tropical foliage, explore informative displays in the small on-site museum, and pause to reflect at the central memorial stone that honors the fallen.
✅ Note: The information gallery provides compelling, real stories and photos from survivors and soldiers.
Photo Credit: Jamie Lo
8. Encounter Proboscis Monkeys at Labuk Bay Sanctuary
Located in the mangrove forests about 38 Kilometers from Sandakan, the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to observe the odd-looking but fascinating Proboscis monkey in its natural habitat.
These monkeys, with their comically large noses and potbellied stature, are native only to Borneo. The sanctuary allows them to live freely while still providing daily feedings that allow visitors to observe their behavior closely.
The viewing platforms give guests an intimate look at monkey families during their feeding times (9:30 AM and 2:30 PM). Other species like Silver Leaf Monkeys, Hornbills, and Macaques can also be spotted around the area.
This is one of the best spots for wildlife photographers or anyone who wants to see Borneo’s biodiversity without venturing deep into the jungle.
✅ Insider Tip: Bring a camera with a zoom lens and prepare for monkey close-ups!
9. Island Hop to Turtle Islands Park
A visit to the Borneo wildlife of Turtle Islands Park is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines natural wonder with meaningful conservation.
Located approximately 40 kilometers off the coast of Sandakan, this protected marine park consists of three idyllic islands—Selingan, Bakkungan Kecil, and Gulisan— each playing a crucial role in the preservation of endangered green and hawksbill turtles.
Of the three, only Selingan Island is open to the public.
As the sun sets and the island quiets down, guests are guided by park rangers to observe mother turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Later, you may even get to help release freshly hatched baby turtles into the sea. The island’s facilities are simple but cozy, designed to have minimal environmental impact, and the number of visitors is strictly limited to protect the fragile ecosystem. Because of this, advance booking is essential.
✅ Did You Know? The park has helped release over half a million hatchlings since its establishment.
10. Eat Fresh Seafood & Explore the Scenic View of Sim Sim Water Village
Sandakan is known across Sabah for its seafood, and the best way to experience it is at Sim Sim Water Village.
Here, traditional wooden houses are built on stilts over the water, connected by narrow wooden boardwalks.
Ultimately, you should never miss the opportunity to go to Seafood Restaurant Sim Sim 88, the place where locals and tourists come together to have a taste of the best seafood dishes Sandakan has to offer.Try its dishes like grilled Stingray, fish noodle soup, or seafood Bak Kut Teh- they’re a huge hit!
Finish your night with a stroll along the waterfront, where stalls sell satay, desserts, and local delicacies. It’s a perfect place for foodies to explore and also a good way to wind down after a day of exploration.
✅ Must-Try Add-on: Butter prawns, salted egg squid, and Kuih Cincin.
Photo Credit: GJDS
Bonus Attraction Sites:
Unwind at the English Tea House
Perched on a scenic hill next to the Agnes Keith House, the English Tea House and Restaurant brings colonial charm to your travel experience. Surrounded by manicured gardens, it serves both English-style teas and local fusion dishes. It’s a quiet retreat with panoramic views of the bay. The perfect spot to reflect on your Sandakan adventure.
Photo Credit: Edi Poinescu
Venture to Sandakan Central Market
A market place of color, culture, and culinary delights- Sandakan Central Market is a sensory feast. It’s where locals buy their daily groceries, fishermen haul in fresh catch, and traders sell dried seafood, tropical fruits, and handcrafted souvenirs.
If you want to immerse yourself with the locals’ culture, visiting this market is the way to go as it provides a real slice of everyday life in Sandakan. It’s also one of the best places to taste Sabahan street food— think grilled fish, banana fritters, coconut rice.
Photo Credit: Darryl Hobbins
Best Time to Visit Sandakan
- Best Season: March to October (dry season, best for wildlife tours)
- Avoid: November to February (monsoon rains).
- Top Wildlife Viewing Months: May to September
What to Pack for Sandakan
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Insect repellent
- Raincoat or poncho (for sudden showers)
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Binoculars and camera
- Power bank and waterproof bag
FAQs About Sandakan Travel Title
1. How many days should I spend in Sandakan?
A 3 to 4-day stay is ideal to explore the main attractions without rushing.
2. Can I do Sepilok, BSBCC, and RDC in one day?
Yes. They are located next to each other and can easily be visited in a single day.
3. Is Sandakan suitable for families with kids?
Definitely! Attractions like the Labuk Bay Sanctuary, RDC, and Turtle Islands Park are very kid-friendly.
4. What’s the best way to get around Sandakan?
Renting a car or hiring a local driver is the easiest way. Taxis and Grab are also available.
5. Is it safe for solo travellers?
Sandakan is generally safe. Just use standard travel precautions and avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas
6. Where should I stay?
Stay near town if you prefer convenience, or near Sepilok or Kinabatangan if you want to be close to nature.
Final Thoughts: Why Sandakan Should Be on Your Radar
Sandakan is more than just a stopover— it’s a deeply immersive destination that offers a rare mix of wildlife, heritage, and culture. Whether you’re watching Orangutans swing through the trees, cruising through ancient jungles, or savoring seafood dishes at a bustling market, every moment feels vivid and alive.
If you’re looking for authenticity without the tourist crowds, Sandakan, Sabah is where you want to be. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and prepare to fall in love with a Sandakan tour experience that is worth wild.
