Sandakan Holidays

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Your Sandakan Holiday

Uncover the best parts of Sandakan with a customised Sandakan holiday package. From its rich history and diversity to its cultural experiences, you'll love experiencing this coastal city on your own terms. Fill your itinerary with visits to Sandakan Harbour Mall, Sandakan Rainforest Park and Agnes Keith House, some of the top attractions you just have to see during your trip to Sandakan. Whoever you're escaping with and whatever your bank balance, your ultimate Sandakan holiday is just a few clicks away with Expedia.

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Sandakan Holiday

Things to do in Sandakan

Sandakan, Sabah, offers a delightful mix of family-friendly and outdoor activities, making it ideal for various vacations. Visitors can explore shopping malls and campgrounds while enjoying the vibrant local culture. Key attractions include Sandakan tours, tour packages, and city tours, perfect for those seeking to discover the best of Borneo. Whether you're on a leisure trip or a business journey, Sandakan promises an enriching experience.

Shopping

Sandakan Harbour Mall is a vibrant shopping centre where you can discover a variety of shops, entertainment options, and family-friendly activities. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the nearby Giant Hypermarket for a larger selection of goods and local products.

Recreation

The Sandakan Wellness Retreat offers a tranquil environment, featuring rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions amidst lush greenery. Nearby, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre provides an opportunity to connect with nature while observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, where you can immerse yourself in nature's wonders while camping under the stars. Explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail, where you will encounter the rich history and vibrant culture of the area amidst stunning outdoor landscapes.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Sandakan offers a vibrant atmosphere with venues like the lively Harbour Mall, perfect for late-night shopping and dining. For a more relaxed evening, visit the waterfront restaurants at Sandakan Bay, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the sunset.

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

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan, Sabah, is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering a diverse range of attractions such as nature reserves, islands, and historic churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and scenic beauty while enjoying activities like orangutan sightings at Sepilok, wildlife safaris, and trips to Turtle Island. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Sandakan promises a memorable experience for all types of travellers.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this reserve, where friendly locals enhance the experience. Explore well-maintained trails through lush tropical rainforest, observe diverse wildlife, and enjoy the canopy walk for breathtaking views of the forest.
  • Gomantong Caves: Venture into the adventurous realm of Gomantong Caves, where outdoor enthusiasts can marvel at impressive limestone formations and the unique ecosystem. Witness the fascinating swiftlet birds and their nests, adding a touch of excitement to your exploration.
  • Agnes Keith House: Step back in time at this historic house, once home to the renowned author Agnes Keith. Experience the rich cultural heritage of Sandakan, with captivating stories of colonial life and stunning views overlooking the surrounding landscape.

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.

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 during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Sandakan.
  • 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.

Sandakan Essential Information

Language
Malaysian
Currency
Malaysian ringgits
Local Goodbye
Sampai jumpa lagi
Closest Airport
Sandakan Airport (SDK)
Population
392,300
Max Temp Winter
27ºC
Max Temp Summer
32ºC
Top Sights
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Bukit Buli Sim Sim

Our pick of the best Sandakan Hotel Deals

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

2.5 out of 5
Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok Sandakan Sabah
The price is AU$56 per night from 27 Feb to 28 Feb
AU$56
27 Feb - 28 Feb
includes taxes & fees
7.4/10 Good! (226 reviews)
Room clean and insect free. However fixtures and fittings tired and old and generally in need of attention/refurbishment. Pool looked amazing, but i didn't have time to try it out.

Reviewed on 13 Feb 2026

Sepilok Jungle Resort
Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Jalan Utara, Mile 4 Sandakan Sabah
The price is AU$85 per night from 17 Mar to 18 Mar
AU$85
17 Mar - 18 Mar
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (160 reviews)
Good place to stay

Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025

Livingston Hotel
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

2.5 out of 5
Mile 14, Jalan Labuk Sandakan Sabah
The price is AU$35 per night from 23 Feb to 24 Feb
AU$35
23 Feb - 24 Feb
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (83 reviews)
The room, bedding and toiletries were clean. The staff was courteous. Food provided was good. WiFi access was restricted to the common area.

Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
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.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Sandakan

What to do in Sandakan

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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.