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

Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan

Harbour Mall Sandakan Sandakan Sabah
€77
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Ormond Sandakan
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Km 1 Jalan Utara Sandakan Sabah
€88
25 Sept - 26 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Sabah Hotel Sandakan
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Mile 14, Jalan Labuk Sandakan Sabah
€23
28 Aug - 29 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
See all 83 properties in 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.

Stay near popular Sandakan attractions

An orangutan hanging from a tree branch in a dense forest.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

9.2/10 (91 reviews)
At this pioneering orangutan sanctuary, watch rescued primates develop skills for returning to the wild. Attend the 10AM or 3PM feeding sessions for your best chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
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An orangutan in a dense green forest.

Rainforest Discovery Centre

9.0/10 (45 reviews)
Walk among Borneo's rainforest canopy on elevated walkways, spotting rare wildlife from unique vantage points. Early morning offers the best chance to see colourful hornbills and red leaf monkeys in their natural habitat.
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Sandakan Harbour Mall

7.2/10 (51 reviews)
Harbour Mall Sandakan features five floors of international brands and local boutiques in Sandakan's largest shopping centre. Explore the vibrant food court for authentic regional flavours between shopping trips.
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Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

9.2/10 (50 reviews)
Watch the world's smallest bear species climb trees and forage in a natural forest setting. The elevated boardwalks offer intimate viewing of rescued sun bears during their most active morning hours.
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Turtle Islands Park

8.6/10 (11 reviews)
Witness the miracle of nature at one of Southeast Asia's most significant turtle nesting sites. After dusk, observe green and hawksbill turtles laying eggs and help release hatchlings into the sea.
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Sandakan Rainforest Park

9.0/10 (10 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Sandakan Rainforest Park, a lovely green space in Sandakan. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
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Kinabatangan Jungle Camp

10.0/10 (1 review)
Nestled along the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan River, this jungle camp offered front-row access to Borneo's biodiversity. Visitors enjoyed guided cruises to spot orangutans and pygmy elephants in their natural habitat.
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Agnes Keith House

8.8/10 (24 reviews)
This colonial-era home of American author Agnes Newton Keith showcases her life and literary legacy in British North Borneo. Explore period rooms and enjoy panoramic views of Sandakan Bay from its hilltop setting.
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What to do in Sandakan

Sandakan: Wild Cruise Ticket in Sunrise, Sunset or Night

Sandakan: Wild Cruise Ticket in Sunrise, Sunset or Night

€41
per adult
Sandakan: Wild Cruise Ticket in Sunrise, Sunset or Night
Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu

Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu

€162
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu
Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan

Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan

€66
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan
See all activities in Sandakan

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Sandakan holiday package cost?
You can grab a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Sandakan costs will depend on factors like your hotel choice, season and length of stay.
What are the cheapest months to go to Sandakan?
You're likely to find lower prices and greater availability in June, November and December. Check out our cheap Sandakan holiday packages and you could score some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Sandakan?
With a well-planned schedule, you can easily visit the main Sandakan attractions in a few days. But if you'd like to explore off the beaten track or go on day tours, think about booking your Sandakan holiday for longer.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Sandakan?
Sandakan is a good holiday destination with attractions like Sandakan Rainforest Park among the many things to keep you entertained. Whether you're travelling with the family or planning a trip with friends, a Sandakan holiday promises a good time for everyone.
How to find the best Sandakan package deals?
Begin your search for a Sandakan package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then add some filters, like "Property type" and "Amenities," to fine-tune the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with unbeatable savings. If you don't find the ideal Sandakan package deal straight away, just change your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Sandakan adventure off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Sandakan holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to booking flights and stays separately. Better still, you can customise your Sandakan trip to match your exact needs. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Check out our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Sandakan?
If you've got your Sandakan travel dates locked in, book as early as you can to score some terrific deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are ideal for setting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Sandakan?
  1. Choose when to get away: Check your schedule and pack your bags. Your preferred season and the activities available will also help you decide when to holiday in Sandakan.
  2. Figure out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to pay for everything from transportation and meals to activities and flights. Your hotel will likely be the biggest expense during your trip to Sandakan.
  3. Decide how many days away: Start by compiling a list of the attractions you want to experience in Sandakan. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, along with any travel time.
  4. Bundle your accommodation and airfare: Once you've nailed down your trip dates and duration, lock in the right Sandakan holiday package for you.

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