Sandakan Holidays

Things to do in Sandakan

Sandakan offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and beach relaxation. Explore shopping centres, enjoy a nature getaway, indulge in island sightseeing, and discover various entertainment options. If you're keen on diving, be sure to familiarise yourself with the Sipadan diving rules for a safe and enjoyable experience. Sandakan is the perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories while embracing the beauty of Malaysia.

Shopping

In Sandakan, the Sandakan Harbour Mall offers a vibrant shopping experience with entertainment and dining options. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby malls for more extensive shopping, but the local markets are perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the serenity of the Borneo Nature Lodge, where you can unwind amidst lush rainforest. Enjoy guided nature walks, indulge in traditional Malaysian massages, and participate in yoga sessions that rejuvenate your body and spirit while surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.

Adventure

Experience the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, where you can immerse yourself in nature with thrilling wildlife encounters and outdoor activities. Alternatively, explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail, a scenic outdoor adventure that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the area while enjoying the fresh air.

Nightlife

Sandakan's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Begin your evening at the lively Oceanus Waterfront Mall for dining and shopping, then enjoy live music at the nearby Sandakan Harbour Square. For a laid-back vibe, visit the local pubs and bars along the waterfront, where you can mingle with friendly locals.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan, a delightful destination for outdoor and family beach vacations, boasts a wealth of attractions like landmarks, nature reserves, and nearby islands. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and stunning scenery while exploring the area's points of interest. Don't miss a visit to the Harbour Mall Sandakan for shopping and dining options that complement your adventure in this charming Malaysian locale.

• Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the vibrant biodiversity of the Rainforest Discovery Centre. This reserve offers well-maintained trails where you can explore the lush greenery and encounter friendly locals. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers to appreciate the rich wildlife.
• Gomantong Caves: Experience adventure at the Gomantong Caves, a dramatic limestone formation. Explore the vast caverns and witness the unique ecosystem that thrives within. The caves are famous for their swiftlet nests and provide a thrilling outdoor experience for the adventurous spirit.
• Sandakan Memorial Park: Delve into the poignant history of World War II at Sandakan Memorial Park. This memorial offers a serene environment to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war, enriched by informative displays and beautiful landscapes that evoke a deep sense of culture.

Best time to go to Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sandakan falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Sandakan falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	81.1°F (27.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sandakan

To save money on your trip to Sandakan, consider visiting during February or November to December, when prices are generally lower. Opt for walking or using buses for transport, as these are cost-effective options. Take advantage of free attractions like Sandakan Memorial Park. For accommodation, book about a month in advance and check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Saturdays, which are cheaper. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Use filters on Expedia to find eco-friendly options and sort by price for the best deals.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sandakan are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Sandakan is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sandakan is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sandakan is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some cash by combining your Sandakan hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.