Search Cheap Hotels in Sandakan

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation

  • Treat yourself

    Save instantly and earn perks with One Key
    Learn about One Key

  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Sandakan Cheap Hotels

This weekend
26 Jun - 28 Jun
Next weekend
3 Jul - 5 Jul

Our top choices for Sandakan cheap hotels

Deluxe Double Room, 1 King Bed | View from room

Hotel O Ramai

Hotel O Ramai
2.5 star property
Sandakan
The price is £11
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Hotel O Ramai
Exterior

Hotel Lutana

Hotel Lutana
2.5 star property
Sandakan
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (3 reviews)
"Good price. Friendly staff"
Canada
Apollonia
The price is £11
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Hotel Lutana
Front of property

Hotel O Malaysia Hotel

Hotel O Malaysia Hotel
2.0 star property
Sandakan
The price is £12
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Hotel O Malaysia Hotel
Lobby

Hotel O Hotel Ramai

Hotel O Hotel Ramai
3.0 star property
Sandakan
The price is £12
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Hotel O Hotel Ramai
Superior Suite | Desk, free WiFi

Hotel O London

Hotel O London
2.0 star property
Sandakan
7.2 out of 10, Good, (22 reviews)
"Property was fine for a one night stay"
Australia
Michelle
The price is £14
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Hotel O London
Free WiFi, bed sheets

Sandakan Backpackers Hostel

Sandakan Backpackers Hostel
2.0 star property
Sandakan
7.8 out of 10, Good, (10 reviews)
"Great budget hotel, with friendly staff and a comfy bed. Help yourself breakfast was a bonus. "
United Kingdom
Kelly-ann
The price is £25
includes taxes & fees
27 Jun - 28 Jun
Sandakan Backpackers Hostel
Exterior

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
2.5 star property
Sandakan
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (88 reviews)
"The room, bedding and toiletries were clean. The staff was courteous. Food provided was good. WiFi access was restricted to the common area."
United Kingdom
Rajesh
The price is £18
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Standard Twin Room | Free WiFi

Hotel Western

Hotel Western
2.0 star property
Sandakan
The price is £18
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Hotel Western
Reception

Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan
3.0 star property
Sandakan
7.6 out of 10, Good, (18 reviews)
"very good place to stay provided you have own transport"
Malaysia
aaron chong en
The price is £26
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan
Outdoor pool, pool loungers

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort
2.5 star property
Sandakan
7.6 out of 10, Good, (237 reviews)
"Excellent location to the Orangatangs and the Sunbear viewings. Easy walking to the Rainforest Discovery center. Lots of wildlife . Very scenic jungle property"
United States
Linda
The price is £31
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
Sepilok Jungle Resort
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.
View all properties

Find out more about Sandakan

Discover cheap things to do in Sandakan

In Sandakan, Sabah, budget-conscious travellers can immerse themselves in a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences without breaking the bank. Begin your adventure at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can witness these magnificent creatures being fed, a truly unforgettable experience that typically costs just a small entrance fee. Explore the lush trails of the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can take a stroll along the canopy walkways for free, enjoying stunning views and the chance to spot native wildlife. The historic Agnes Keith House offers a glimpse into the historic past of the area, and entry is quite affordable, making it a perfect stop for history buffs. For a taste of local life, head to the Sandakan Central Market, where you can sample delicious street food at reasonable prices, from mouth-watering satay to fresh seafood. The nearby Harbour Square is a pleasant area to wander through, with its breezy waterfront and local shops, ideal for a leisurely afternoon. Staying in the heart of Sandakan near these attractions not only provides convenience but also allows you to find comfortable yet affordable hotels that cater to your needs, ensuring you feel pampered and well taken care of throughout your stay.

Find the best cheap hotels in Sandakan

For budget-conscious travelers heading to Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, these hotels offer great value without compromising comfort. Each hotel features essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay at an affordable price.

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat is an excellent choice for budget travelers, an excellent review rating of 8.6. This retreat offers complimentary breakfasts daily, free WiFi, and self-parking, making it a great value option in Sandakan. Guests will appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for a relaxing getaway.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a lovely garden and a terrace where guests can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty around them. With air conditioning and daily housekeeping, comfort is prioritised during your stay. Each room comes equipped with a balcony, and cribs are available for families travelling with young children.
  • Nearby attractions: Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre - 5.5 km, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre - 5.5 km, Rainforest Discovery Centre - 5 km

Sepilok Jungle Resort

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a budget-friendly approach, Sepilok Jungle Resort captivates travelers with its inviting atmosphere and a review rating of 7.6. The hotel offers free WiFi and self-parking, ensuring guests stay connected and have convenient access to their vehicles. The outdoor pool is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration, providing a refreshing escape for all guests.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy complimentary rollaway beds and breakfast for children, making it a convenient choice for families. The on-site restaurant offers garden views, while pool sun loungers and facilities make for a relaxed environment. With room features including balconies and housekeeping services, the resort ensures comfort throughout the stay. For those looking to explore, area shuttles are available, enhancing accessibility to local attractions.
  • Nearby attractions: Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre - 0.2 km, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre - 0.3 km, Rainforest Discovery Centre - 1.5 km

How to get cheap hotels in Sandakan?

 

✅ The length of stay in Sandakan often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Sandakan's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Sandakan in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Sandakan, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Sandakan on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Sandakan.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Sandakan, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Sandakan. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £11*.

✅  Sandakan offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Sandakan on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Sandakan is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Sandakan Hotel Reviews

The Elopura Hotel

The Elopura Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Very friendly and helpful staff, great facilities (restaurant), clean and comfortable room."
Imogen 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
The Elopura Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Sandakan as a budget traveller?
For budget travellers seeking comfortable stays in Sandakan, excellent options include Sepilok Nature Resort, Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok), and Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat.

The 3-star Sepilok Nature Resort, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers comfortable and spacious rooms with air conditioning and free self-parking. Guests often appreciate the resort's views, making for a pleasant stay.

Another great choice is the 3-star Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, rated 8.8. This resort provides free self-parking, complimentary toiletries, and a kitchen, which can be very handy for budget-conscious travellers. It also features a pool, free cribs, and a balcony or patio, offering resort views.

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok), rated 8.8, is praised by customers for its comfortable and spacious rooms and great showers. It offers free self-parking, a 24-hour airport shuttle, complimentary toiletries, free WiFi, and accessible parking, along with a terrace for relaxing.

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat, rated 8.6, stands out with its complimentary breakfast and free self-parking. Customers frequently comment on the excellent food and the incredibly friendly staff.
How much does a budget hotel in Sandakan cost?
Budget hotel prices in Sandakan vary, but you can find a great deal from £11 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Sandakan is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Sandakan, the downtown area around the waterfront and the vicinity of Jalan Buli Sim Sim offer the best options. These central locations provide convenience and a good selection of competitively priced hotels and guesthouses.

Solo travellers will appreciate the lively option of the downtown area. Here, you'll find numerous budget hotels within walking distance of the Sandakan Central Market, where you can sample inexpensive local delicacies, and the Sandakan Memorial Park, a site of historical significance that offers free entry. The waterfront itself is a pleasant spot for a stroll, offering views of the bay and local fishing boats.

Couples looking for good value might consider the area around Jalan Buli Sim Sim. This neighbourhood is a little more residential but still boasts several affordable guesthouses and smaller hotels. It's well-connected to the town centre by local buses, and from here, it's easy to reach attractions like the Agnes Keith House, which provides insight into historic history for a modest entrance fee.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Sandakan?
For families seeking excellent value in Sandakan, top-rated options include Sepilok Forest Edge Resort and Sepilok Nature Resort.

The 3-star Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, with an 8.8 rating, is a great choice, offering practical amenities such as free parking, complimentary toiletries, and a kitchen in some accommodations, which is very convenient for families. Children's cribs are also available free of charge, and many rooms feature a balcony or patio with a resort view. There is also a pool for guests to enjoy.

Another highly-rated option is the 3-star Sepilok Nature Resort. Boasting an impressive 9.4 rating, this resort provides free parking and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay.
What cheap hotels in Sandakan offer complimentary breakfast?
For cheap hotels in Sandakan that offer complimentary breakfast, you have excellent options such as Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat and Sepilok B&B.

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat, with an 8.6 rating, is highly praised for its excellent food, including a free breakfast. Guests also appreciate the friendly staff and practical amenities like free self-parking and free wired internet in public areas. Each room also features a balcony or terrace for a pleasant outdoor space.

The 3-star Sepilok B&B, also rated 8.6, provides a complimentary local breakfast, giving guests a taste of the region.
When is the most affordable time to visit Sandakan?
The most affordable time to visit Sandakan is typically during the shoulder seasons, specifically from April to June and September to November, when tourist numbers are lower. During these months, you're more likely to find better deals on flights and accommodation compared to the peak season.

For solo travellers, visiting in these periods can mean more choices for budget lodging like guesthouses and hostels, often with reduced rates. You'll also find it easier to book tours and activities, such as wildlife excursions to Sepilok, without the premium prices or crowds often associated with the busiest times.

While these months may see occasional rainfall, particularly from September to November, showers are often brief and don't usually disrupt travel plans significantly.
What are the best cheap hotels in Sandakan with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Sandakan with a pool, consider Sepilok Forest Edge Resort and Sepilok Jungle Resort.

The 3-star Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, with an 8.8 rating, offers a refreshing pool, complimentary parking, and free toiletries. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of a kitchen, a free crib for little ones, and rooms with a balcony or patio offering resort views.

Another excellent option is Sepilok Jungle Resort, rated 7.6 by our customers. This resort features an outdoor pool, a dedicated children's pool, and sun loungers for relaxation.
What are the most popular affordable all-inclusive hotels in Sandakan?
For travellers seeking an affordable all-inclusive experience in Sandakan, Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan is a popular choice.
Are there any cheap Sandakan hotels near Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre?
Yes, for budget-friendly hotels near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, you have several excellent choices including Sepilok Nature Resort, Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, and Tanini Sepilok.

The 3-star Sepilok Nature Resort, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers comfortable and spacious rooms, and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the tranquil resort views and air-conditioned accommodations.

Another great option is the 3-star Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, rated 8.8. This property provides free self-parking, complimentary toiletries, and even a kitchen for self-catering. You can also enjoy the pool and relax on your private balcony or patio with pleasant resort views.

Tanini Sepilok (formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok), also rated 8.8, is praised for its comfortable and spacious rooms, great showers, and excellent location.
Is Sandakan a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, Sandakan is a budget-friendly destination, especially when compared to many other popular Southeast Asian locales, offering excellent value for money.

Solo travellers and couples will find that accommodation, food, and local transport costs are generally low. To maximise savings, consider staying in guesthouses or budget hotels in the town centre, which provides easy access to local eateries and public transport.

Much of Sandakan's appeal lies in its natural attractions, many of which can be enjoyed affordably. For instance, exploring the Sandakan Heritage Trail on foot is free and offers a fascinating insight into the town's history. Visiting the Central Market is also a vibrant, free experience, and a great place to pick up inexpensive local snacks. For wildlife encounters, while some sanctuaries have entry fees, these are typically modest and contribute directly to conservation efforts.

Dining is incredibly cheap and delicious in Sandakan. Solo travellers can feast on local delights like seafood laksa or grilled fish at hawker stalls and local coffee shops for just a few pounds. Couples can enjoy a satisfying meal at a local restaurant, often including drinks, for significantly less than in larger cities.
What cheap hotels in Sandakan offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Sandakan with cooking facilities, Sepilok B&B is an excellent choice.

This 3-star property, with a high rating of 8.6, offers convenient kitchenettes in its rooms, great for preparing your own meals and saving on dining out. Guests particularly appreciate the brilliant staff.
Which cheap hotels in Sandakan have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Sandakan with great customer service, travellers often praise Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat, The Elopura Hotel, and Sepilok B&B.

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat, rated 8.6, consistently receives excellent feedback for its incredibly friendly staff. This retreat offers great value with complimentary breakfast, free self-parking, and free wired internet in public areas. Guests can also enjoy the lovely terrace and private balconies.

The 3-star Elopura Hotel, with an 8.0 rating, is another excellent option where the staff are frequently described as good and great. It provides free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and some rooms offer appealing sea views, being conveniently located near the sea.

Another top choice is the 3-star Sepilok B&B, rated 8.6, where the staff are often described as brilliant.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Sandakan with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Sandakan. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Sandakan?
For budget-conscious travellers in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, a wealth of free activities allows you to experience the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage without spending a penny. These options are particularly well-suited for solo travellers looking for enriching experiences.

Solo travellers can start by exploring the Sandakan Heritage Trail, a self-guided walk that takes you past historical landmarks like the Sandakan Central Market, the Agnes Keith House (exterior viewing), and various historic-era buildings. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city's past and observe local life. Another rewarding, free activity is a visit to the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, perched on a hill overlooking Sandakan Bay. The views from here are stunning, especially at sunset, and the intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere offer a serene escape.

Nature enthusiasts can head to the Sandakan Rainforest Park, located just a short distance from the city centre. While some parts might have a small entrance fee, many trails within the park, particularly those near the entrance, are accessible for free, offering opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the lush tropical rainforest environment. Additionally, simply strolling along the Sandakan waterfront, watching the fishing boats, and soaking in the coastal atmosphere provides a relaxing and completely free experience.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Sandakan as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Sandakan for you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia