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Top reasons to visit Sabah

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Sabah boasts breathtaking scenery, from lush jungles to pristine beaches, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Adventure Activities: Thrilling experiences await, including hiking Mount Kinabalu and exploring diverse wildlife in national parks.
• Cultural Richness: Visitors can immerse themselves in Sabah's vibrant culture through local markets, traditional ceremonies, and historical sites.
• Warm Hospitality: The friendly locals make every visitor feel welcome, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Diverse Accommodation: Sabah offers a wide range of lodging options, catering to families, couples, and business travellers alike.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Discover the diverse accommodation options in Sabah, where a range of hotels and guesthouses await your arrival. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a beach vacation, or business amenities, Sabah's hotels provide the perfect setting for every traveller. With an array of choices in locations like Sandakan, you can explore hotel reviews to find the ideal place for your stay. Embrace the warmth of Sabah's hospitality and enjoy a memorable getaway.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: Nestled along the pristine coastline, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru offers a luxurious resort experience with a focus on beach and adventure activities. Rated 9.2 out of 10, this five-star property is ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike. Guests can engage in a variety of onsite adventure sports, including parasailing, kayaking, and sailing, or explore nearby hiking trails. The resort caters to families with children’s amenities such as a dedicated kids' pool, babysitting services, and a ping pong table, ensuring a delightful stay for younger guests.
• Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: Set against a stunning backdrop of lush greenery and beach, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is a 5-star resort boasting a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This property not only provides direct beach access but also features a golf course for enthusiasts. Adventure activities abound, with options for horse riding and hiking available both onsite and nearby. The resort's family-friendly approach includes several amenities designed for children, making it a suitable choice for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Offering a blend of comfort and convenience, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is a 5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This property caters primarily to families and business travellers, providing essential services such as onsite childcare and a children’s pool. Situated conveniently in Sabah, it allows easy access to local attractions while ensuring a relaxing environment for families. Guests appreciate the spacious accommodations and the attentiveness of the staff, making it a reliable choice for both leisure and business stays.

Where to stay in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, is a captivating destination offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. From the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu, where friendly locals welcome you, to the serene landscapes that invite exploration, Sabah is ideal for families and couples alike. Experience the lush nature, diverse wildlife, and rich culture that make this region a delightful getaway. Whether seeking thrilling outdoor activities or a romantic retreat, Sabah promises unforgettable memories for every traveller.

• Kota Kinabalu: The vibrant capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is nestled between the South China Sea and the stunning backdrop of Mount Kinabalu. This city offers a delightful blend of urban and natural experiences, making it perfect for families and business travellers alike. Explore the bustling shopping centres and malls, or unwind at the local parks and marina. The city comes alive during peak seasons in August and December to January, providing various cultural and recreational activities. Don’t miss the chance to savour local cuisine while soaking in the beautiful harbour views, a true highlight of your visit.
• Sandakan: Known as the Nature City, Sandakan is surrounded by lush rainforests and is a gateway to some of Sabah's most breathtaking wildlife experiences. The city is strategically located near islands and parks, making it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. With peak tourist numbers in April, July, and September, Sandakan attracts families and adventure seekers looking to explore its natural wonders. Key attractions include the nearby island resorts and campgrounds, where you can immerse yourself in Sabah's rich biodiversity. The local shopping centres provide a chance to pick up unique souvenirs and local delicacies.
• Semporna: Renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Semporna is a tropical haven ideal for families and outdoor lovers. The city serves as the launching point to explore the famous Sipadan Island, making it a popular choice for divers and snorkellers. Peak visitor periods occur in February, September, and December, when the vibrant local markets and educational venues buzz with activity. Attractions such as idyllic island resorts and stunning mosques add to the charm of Semporna, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for every traveller.

Things to do in Sabah

Shopping

Nearby, you can explore the vibrant 1Borneo Hypermall, offering a mix of local and international brands. For a more traditional experience, head to Gaya Street Sunday Market, where you’ll discover unique handicrafts and local delicacies, perfect for souvenirs and gifts to take home.

Recreation

In Sabah, the Mandara Spa at the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort offers rejuvenating treatments amidst breathtaking views of the South China Sea. The Borneo Spa at the Nexus Resort Karambunai features traditional massage therapies in a tranquil environment, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Zip Borneo, where you can glide across the treetops on an exhilarating zipline ropes course. Surrounded by lush greenery, this adventure venue offers an adrenaline-pumping escape into Sabah's natural beauty, perfect for those seeking outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

Visit the lively Waterfront Esplanade for a vibrant atmosphere, where you can enjoy street food and live performances. For a more relaxed setting, head to the Blue Note, known for its cocktails and acoustic music, creating a charming backdrop for an enjoyable evening.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sabah

To save money on your trip to Sabah, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, and November, while avoiding the pricier periods of August and the festive season. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure the best rates, especially on Saturdays. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find deals that fit your budget, and consider combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings for additional savings. Don't forget to explore free activities like local markets and nature walks, which offer a glimpse into Sabah's culture without costing a penny.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sabah are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Sabah 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 Sabah is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sabah is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel reservation in Sabah with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, offering a wealth of attractions such as national parks, mosques, and stunning islands. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and scenic vistas. Notable activities include hiking Mount Kinabalu and exploring various sites throughout Sabah, ensuring a memorable experience for all travellers.

• Mount Kinabalu National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking scenery and diverse flora and fauna. Adventure seekers can explore numerous trails, while the park's serene atmosphere provides a perfect escape into nature. The panoramic views from various vantage points are truly spectacular.
• Mt Kinabalu: Renowned as the highest peak in Southeast Asia, Mt Kinabalu attracts climbers with its challenging routes and stunning vistas. As you ascend, you’ll encounter unique ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes, making the journey a rewarding outdoor adventure.
• Sapi Island: A picturesque island known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for snorkelling and sunbathing, Sapi Island offers a delightful seaside retreat, where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities amidst stunning natural beauty.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sabah falls in December, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Sabah falls in January, October and November. October has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High