Sandakan Holidays

Things to do in Sandakan

Sandakan is a fantastic destination for outdoor family and beach vacations, offering a variety of activities. You can explore local night markets for delicious food and unique finds, enjoy boat safaris to experience the area's stunning natural beauty, and visit shopping centres for a bit of retail therapy. Don't miss out on camping at the scenic campgrounds, making Sandakan a well-rounded holiday spot for all ages.

Shopping

The main shopping spot is Sandakan Harbour Mall, offering a mix of shops, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, venture to other nearby markets for unique local crafts and souvenirs that reflect Sabah's rich culture.

Recreation

Sandakan's wellness retreats offer rejuvenating experiences, including holistic spa treatments amidst lush rainforest settings. Engage in yoga sessions by the beach, indulge in organic meals, and immerse yourself in nature with guided meditation walks, all promoting relaxation and well-being while surrounded by the stunning Bornean landscape.

Adventure

At Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, where you can explore the vibrant wildlife and enjoy thrilling river cruises. The Sandakan Heritage Trail offers an insightful journey through the town's history, complete with captivating scenery and engaging outdoor experiences for the whole family.

Nightlife

Sandakan's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of experiences. For a lively atmosphere, visit the trendy Oceanus Waterfront Mall, where you can enjoy local delicacies and live music. Alternatively, head to the cosy pubs along the waterfront for a relaxed evening with friendly locals and a cold beer.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming destination in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for families and beach lovers. Explore notable attractions like the Sandakan Rainforest Park, Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Sandakan Heritage Trail, all showcasing the area's stunning scenery and rich heritage. This vibrant locale is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and exploration amidst its beautiful landscapes.

• Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of this reserve, where you can experience the vibrant flora and fauna. Enjoy guided walks and canopy bridges that offer breathtaking views, all within a friendly atmosphere.
• Pulau Selingan: This stunning island is a beach lover's paradise, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Explore the crystal-clear waters and experience thrilling turtle watching at night, making it an ideal outdoor escape.
• Gomantong Caves: Venture into these impressive caves for a truly adventurous experience. Discover the unique limestone formations and spot the fascinating wildlife that inhabit this natural wonder, all set in a beautiful outdoor environment.

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

For a budget-friendly trip to Sandakan, take advantage of free activities like the Sandakan Memorial Park and explore on foot or by bus to save on transport costs. The best months to visit for lower prices are February and November to December, with Saturday being the least expensive day to stay. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Consider eco-certified hotels for sustainable options and package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings.

• 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: Book your hotel in Sandakan about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by booking an Expedia package that combines your Sandakan hotel, flights, and activities.