Sandakan is a city in Sabah, Malaysia located on the northeast coast of Borneo Island. It is the second largest city in Sabah and the gateway to the east coast of the island. With its lush rainforest and stunning beaches, it is a popular destination for travelers and eco-tourists alike.
Sandakan is known for its diverse ethnic population and culture, with the largest city in Sabah being home to Malay, Chinese, Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, and Brunei Malays. The city is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Orangutan, which can be found at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
The city has a wide range of attractions to offer visitors including the Tungog National Park, the Gomantong Caves, and the Sandakan Memorial Park. There are also many historical sites to explore, such as the old Dutch Fort, where you can learn about the city’s colonial history. The city also has a great food scene, from traditional Malay dishes to international fusion cuisine.
Sandakan is the perfect destination for all types of travelers, offering something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous outdoor experience, or a cultural exploration, Sandakan is sure to have something for you.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Sepanggar: Sepanggar is an area of Sandakan located on the coast of the Sulu Sea. It is a popular spot to stay due to its close proximity to the Sepanggar Bay, which offers plenty of activities such as swimming, fishing, and boat tours to nearby islands.
2. Sandakan Town: Sandakan Town is the main town in Sandakan. It is the largest city in the area and offers plenty of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. It is also home to the popular Gomantong Caves and the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.
3. Telipok: Telipok is a small town located near the coast of the Sulu Sea. It is known for its stunning beaches and its cultural attractions, such as the Telipok Cultural Village and the Tawau Hills National Park.
4. Kinabatangan: Kinabatangan is a popular area for wildlife lovers. It is home to the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, which is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world and is home to many endangered species.
5. Sandakan Airport: Sandakan Airport is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Sandakan. It is close to the city centre and offers easy access to other parts of the region. It is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
1. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Located in Sandakan, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured orangutans. Visitors can view these amazing creatures in their natural habitat and even witness their feeding time.
2. Sandakan Memorial Park: This memorial park was established to commemorate the sacrifices of Australian, British and Indian soldiers during World War II. It features a memorial wall, plaques, and the remains of a Japanese bunker.
3. Agnes Keith House: This house is the former residence of American writer Agnes Newton Keith, who wrote about her life and experiences in British North Borneo in the 1940s. The house has been restored and is now open to the public for tours and events.
4. Gomantong Caves: This cave system is home to one of the largest swiftlet colonies in Southeast Asia. It is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as the cave is home to over a hundred species of birds.
5. Turtle Island Park: This marine park is a sanctuary for endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Visitors can witness the turtles hatching and can also take boat rides around the islands.
1. Kedai Kopi Chung Hwa: This popular local coffee shop serves up a variety of dishes, including the signature “Sandakan Curry Chicken Noodle”, a delicious curry chicken noodle soup.
2. Tandoori Seafood: A local favorite, this restaurant serves up fresh seafood cooked in a traditional Indian tandoor.
3. Satay Celup: This unique dish involves skewers of meat or seafood that are cooked in a hot and spicy sauce with vegetables.
4. Baked Rice: This traditional dish is made with rice, vegetables, and a variety of meats and seafoods cooked together in a clay pot.
5. Kedai Makanan Wak Hong: This popular eatery serves up delicious traditional Chinese dishes such as Hakka noodles, sweet and sour pork, and kueh chap.