Find hotels in Sandakan from ฿390

Top reasons to visit Sandakan

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Sandakan boasts breathtaking landscapes, from beautiful beaches to lush tropical environments perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Cultural Exploration: Visitors can immerse themselves in local heritage by exploring the Sandakan Memorial Park and Heritage Trail.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The city offers a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, including shopping centres and picnic areas.
• Delightful Accommodation: A range of hotels and lodges provide comfortable stays with a touch of local charm.
• Vibrant Local Atmosphere: Experience the warmth of friendly locals and the bustling charm of Sandakan Town.

Find great hotels in Sandakan

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Sandakan, Sabah, where both hotels and lodges cater to every traveller's desire. Whether you seek business amenities or a nature-themed adventure, Sandakan hotels offer a unique blend of comfort and local charm. Explore the beauty of Sabah while enjoying modern facilities tailored for both leisure and corporate stays, ensuring a memorable experience in this enchanting destination.

• Sabah Hotel Sandakan: This 4-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere with a family-oriented theme, ideal for both leisure and business travellers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Sabah Hotel Sandakan provides a range of amenities tailored for families, including a children’s pool and complimentary cribs. The hotel’s strategic location in Sandakan makes it a convenient base for exploring the region. Guests can expect attentive service and facilities that cater to both relaxation and work needs, ensuring a pleasant stay for all.
• Livingston Hotel: A charming 3.5-star establishment, Livingston Hotel is perfect for those seeking comfort with a touch of elegance. Situated in the heart of Sandakan, this hotel features an array of dining options, including a delectable breakfast buffet. Entertainment is at hand with multiple television options, ensuring guests can unwind after a day of exploration. The inviting atmosphere and attentive service create a memorable experience, making it a suitable choice for both couples and solo travellers.
• Sepilok Jungle Resort: Embracing nature, this budget-friendly resort provides a rustic retreat for adventurous travellers. Located near the lush surroundings of Sandakan, Sepilok Jungle Resort offers various dining options, including a bar and restaurant for casual meals. Guests can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area. With comfortable accommodations equipped with essential amenities, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to experience the local landscape and wildlife.

Where to stay in and around Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming city in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a delightful blend of tropical vibes and friendly locals. Explore the bustling Sandakan Town, relax at Harbour Mall, and uncover hidden gems that showcase the region's rich culture. Whether you're on a family adventure or a business trip, Sandakan's inviting atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

• Sepilok: Nestled in the vicinity of Sandakan, Sepilok is a charming village renowned for its lush natural landscapes and vibrant wildlife. This area draws in travellers year-round, particularly peaking from March to April and July. Visitors flock to Sepilok for its outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to connect with nature. Key highlights include the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can witness these magnificent creatures up close. Additionally, the nearby hot springs and beautiful beaches offer relaxation and scenic views, making Sepilok a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Kota Kinabatangan: Located approximately 40 kilometres from Sandakan, Kota Kinabatangan is a fascinating city that serves as a gateway to some of Malaysia's most stunning natural environments. With visitor numbers peaking in April and from July to August, Kota Kinabatangan attracts those seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. The area is famous for its rich biodiversity, with the Kinabatangan River providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. Visitors can also explore nearby national parks and state parks, offering lush jungles and diverse ecosystems to discover.
• Kampung Dandulit: Situated close to Sandakan, Kampung Dandulit is a quaint village that offers a cultural experience unlike any other. With peak tourist arrivals in March and July to August, it provides a glimpse into the historical and traditional lifestyle of the local communities. Visitors can explore historic places and houses that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the area. Kampung Dandulit is perfect for those interested in immersing themselves in local customs and traditions while enjoying the serene village atmosphere.

Things to do in Sandakan

Shopping

In Sandakan, visit the Harbour Mall, a lively shopping destination featuring local and international brands, as well as dining options. If you're up for a drive, head to the 27km away 1Borneo Hypermall in Kota Kinabalu, offering a wider selection of shops and entertainment facilities.

Recreation

The Sandakan Wellness Sanctuary offers a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and rejuvenation, featuring holistic treatments and serene gardens. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Sepilok Forest Reserve provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and immersing in the vibrant rainforest ecosystem.

Adventure

Explore the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to observe rehabilitated orangutans in their natural habitat. A trip to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre offers a chance to learn about these unique bears. Enjoy a river cruise on the Kinabatangan River for wildlife spotting amidst stunning scenery.

Nightlife

In Sandakan, the vibrant nightlife features lively bars like The Pavilion, where you can enjoy local brews and music. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the Sandakan Harbour Square, offering stunning views and casual dining options. The coastal breeze adds to the enchanting night experience.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the Sandakan Memorial Park, wander along the Sandakan Heritage Trail, and visit local churches and islands. For accommodation, top hotels in Sandakan provide comfortable stays, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travellers seeking scenic beauty and rich heritage.

• Rainforest Discovery Centre: Nestled within Sandakan, this reserve offers an immersive experience in the heart of the rainforest. With its friendly atmosphere, visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna through well-maintained trails and canopy walkways, providing a unique perspective of the vibrant ecosystem.
• Pulau Selingan: This idyllic island is renowned for its pristine beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can bask in the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or engage in turtle watching, as the island is a nesting site for green turtles, offering a memorable wildlife encounter.
• Sandakan Rainforest Park: A haven for nature enthusiasts, this eco-friendly park showcases stunning scenery and a rich variety of wildlife. With its outdoor trails and serene environment, it is an ideal spot for leisurely walks and appreciating the beauty of nature.

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.

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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Sandakan

Accessing Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, is convenient through its main airport, Sandakan Airport (SDK), located 10km from the city. Nearby, you can find excellent accommodation options such as the 4-star Sabah Hotel Sandakan, 8km away, and both the 3.5-star Livingston Hotel and The Mark's Lodge, each 5km from SDK. These hotels offer airport shuttle services on request for your convenience. Alternatively, you may consider flying into Tawau Airport (TWU), 169km away, or Lahad Datu Airport (LDU), located 93km from Sandakan, with nearby hotels providing easy access to these airports.