Sandakan Holidays

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Your Sandakan Holiday

Design your own adventure with a Sandakan holiday package that caters to your wishes and needs. Rich history, diversity and cultural experiences are a few of the things you'll find in this coastal city. If your trip to Sandakan includes a little sightseeing, hit up much-loved attractions like Sandakan Harbour Mall, Sandakan Rainforest Park and Sandakan Memorial Park. Whoever you're taking time off with and whatever you plan to spend, your ultimate Sandakan holiday is only clicks away with Expedia.

Things to do in Sandakan

Sandakan, Sabah, is perfect for family outings and outdoor adventures, offering a range of activities such as shopping at local centres and enjoying the great outdoors at campgrounds. Visitors can explore Borneo with family holidays, orangutan tours, and city excursions, while also indulging in free adventures that showcase the area's natural beauty and vibrant culture.

Shopping

Sandakan Harbour Mall is a vibrant shopping destination in the heart of the city, offering a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping options. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Plaza Tanjung Aru provides a delightful selection of local crafts and souvenirs, perfect for gifts.

Recreation

At the Sandakan Wellness Centre, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments amidst tranquil surroundings, offering massages and holistic therapies. For yoga enthusiasts, the serene beaches provide a perfect backdrop for sunset sessions, while the nearby rainforest invites leisurely hikes to reconnect with nature and enhance your overall well-being.

Adventure

Experience the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, where you can immerse yourself in nature with thrilling outdoor activities and family-friendly adventures. Explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail for a scenic walk, soaking in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the area while enjoying the lovely outdoor vibes.

Nightlife

In Sandakan, enjoy a vibrant nightlife with local bars and eateries along the waterfront. Visit the Sandakan Night Market for street food and lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, check out the pubs in town, offering a taste of local brews and music.

*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 family, outdoor, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions including landmarks, nature reserves, and islands, perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic views. Key activities include a tour of Sandakan, shopping at Sandakan Harbour Mall, visiting the Sandakan Memorial Park, and learning about history at the Sandakan War Memorial, making it a well-rounded getaway for all types of travellers.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Malaysia's tropical rainforest at this reserve, where you can enjoy friendly vibes while exploring the canopy walkways and diverse wildlife. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • Pulau Selingan: This stunning island offers pristine beaches and outdoor activities, making it an ideal getaway for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling. Experience the tranquillity and natural beauty that this idyllic location has to offer.
  • Gomantong Caves: Adventure awaits in these impressive limestone caves, where you can explore the vast chambers and marvel at the unique wildlife. It's a thrilling experience for those seeking outdoor exploration and a taste of local adventure.

Best time to go to Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
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 HighSlightly High
May81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
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 CloudyAverageSlightly Low

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 to Sandakan during the low season (February and November to December) for more affordable options.
  • 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

Top hotels in Sandakan

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

2.5 out of 5
Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok Sandakan Sabah
The price is £29 per night from 25 Mar to 26 Mar
£29
25 Mar - 26 Mar
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (228 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
7.8/10 Good! (160 reviews)
Phone didn’t work and they couldn’t fix it. Offered us another room. AC didn’t work and had to be reset. Room safe didn’t work and had to be fixed with new batteries. The safe was not set of bolted down and anyone could have walked away with the safe.

Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026

Livingston Hotel
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

2.5 out of 5
Mile 14, Jalan Labuk Sandakan Sabah
The price is £18 per night from 26 Mar to 27 Mar
£18
26 Mar - 27 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (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.

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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. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.