Sandakan Holidays

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Things to do in Sandakan

Sandakan offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business opportunities. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as shopping centres, campgrounds, and captivating Borneo tours, including orangutan experiences and city tours. For those seeking a budget-friendly option, there are also free adventure activities available, making Sandakan an ideal destination for a memorable family holiday.

Shopping

The Sandakan Harbour Mall offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment right in the heart of the city. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the nearby Plaza Sentosa for additional retail options and local delicacies.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can meditate amidst lush greenery. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at local wellness centres, or join guided nature walks to explore the unique biodiversity of Borneo's rainforests.

Adventure

Experience the wild at Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, where you can immerse yourself in nature with thrilling jungle treks and river cruises. Alternatively, explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail, a captivating outdoor journey revealing the rich history and stunning landscapes of the area, perfect for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

Nightlife

Sandakan's nightlife is vibrant and inviting. Begin your evening at the lively Harbour Square for street food and drinks. For a more relaxed vibe, try the cosy pubs along Jalan Leila. If you're in the mood for live music, the local bars offer a delightful atmosphere to unwind.

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

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan, perfect for family, outdoor, and business-themed vacations, offers a wealth of attractions, including reserves, islands, and churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's culture and scenery by exploring the Sandakan Memorial Park, embarking on a tour of the city, capturing photographs of its beauty, and visiting the Sandakan War Memorial and Sandakan Harbour Mall. Make the most of your visit by experiencing the unique blend of nature and history that Sandakan has to offer.

  • Gomantong Caves: Experience the thrill of exploring Gomantong Caves, known for its stunning limestone formations and rich biodiversity. The adventure vibes here offer an exhilarating opportunity to witness swiftlets nesting and the unique ecosystem within.
  • St Michael's & All Angels Church: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage at St Michael's & All Angels Church. This historic site showcases beautiful architecture and a serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a moment of reflection.
  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Enjoy the friendly atmosphere at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can walk along elevated canopy walkways and learn about the region's diverse flora and fauna, making it a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 to Sandakan during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
  • 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

Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Jalan Utara, Mile 4 Sandakan Sabah
7.8/10 Good! (158 reviews)
Good place to stay

Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025

Livingston Hotel
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 €35 per night from 3 Feb to 4 Feb
€35
3 Feb - 4 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
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan

4 out of 5
Km 1 Jalan Utara Sandakan Sabah
The price is €96 per night from 3 Feb to 4 Feb
€96
3 Feb - 4 Feb
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (367 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

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