Sandakan hotels from HK$115

Top reasons to visit Sandakan

• Stunning Natural Reserves: Explore the lush wildlife and beautiful landscapes of Sandakan’s reserves, perfect for nature lovers.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover local heritage at sites like the Sandakan Memorial Park and Heritage Trail.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures and engaging tours suitable for all ages.
• Vibrant Shopping and Dining: Visit Harbour Mall for a delightful shopping and dining experience in a friendly atmosphere.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of hotels and lodges that cater to both families and business travellers.

Find great hotels in Sandakan

Sandakan offers a diverse array of accommodation options, catering to both business travellers and families seeking a nature-themed getaway. From comfortable hotels to charming lodges, you’ll find a selection of places that ensure a pleasant stay. Whether you desire modern amenities or a tranquil retreat, the hotels in Sandakan provide a memorable experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Sabah.

• Sabah Hotel Sandakan: This 4-star hotel offers a distinctive blend of comfort and convenience, making it ideal for families and business travellers alike. With a solid guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Sabah Hotel Sandakan features amenities tailored for children, including a free crib service and a children's pool, ensuring a family-friendly experience. The hotel also provides essential facilities such as a First Aid Kit, showcasing its commitment to guest safety and well-being. The well-appointed rooms cater to both relaxation and productivity, setting a welcoming tone for your Sandakan adventure.
• Livingston Hotel: A charming 3.5-star hotel, Livingston Hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality and comfortable atmosphere. Situated conveniently in Sandakan, it boasts a variety of dining options, including a restaurant offering breakfast at an additional fee. Guests can unwind with entertainment amenities such as LCD and satellite televisions in their rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay. The hotel’s inviting decor and friendly service create a relaxed environment, making it a fitting choice for those seeking a homely retreat while exploring the area.
• Sepilok Jungle Resort: Embracing a budget-friendly ethos, Sepilok Jungle Resort immerses guests in the natural beauty of Sandakan. This resort provides various dining experiences, including options for breakfast and dinner, allowing guests to savour local flavours. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing opportunities nearby. With amenities like mosquito nets and television, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay while being surrounded by the stunning rural landscape, making it a fantastic choice for nature lovers.

Where to stay in and around Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming city in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Explore the vibrant Sandakan Town and discover hidden gems, such as the Harbour Mall, where you can enjoy shopping and dining. The friendly atmosphere and tropical surroundings make it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture while experiencing the warm hospitality of the people in this beautiful region.

• Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary: Nestled approximately 39km from Sandakan, Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature lover's paradise, offering rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. This park is renowned for its wildlife, providing visitors with opportunities to see orangutans, pygmy elephants, and various bird species. The sanctuary is particularly popular for outdoor adventures such as jungle trekking, river cruises, and camping under the stars. The peak seasons in March and from July to August attract families and adventure seekers, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby rainforests and rejuvenate in natural hot springs, making it an unforgettable experience.
• Kampung Bilit: Located about 39km from Sandakan, Kampung Bilit is a quaint village that offers a serene escape into nature. This charming locale is perfect for families looking to connect with the outdoors and enjoy beach activities. The village serves as a gateway to various campgrounds and is surrounded by stunning islands and parks, ideal for exploration. While not heavily seasonal, peak visitor numbers in March and during the July to August months create a welcoming atmosphere for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure. The friendly local community and tranquil setting make Kampung Bilit a delightful stop on your journey.
• Sepilok: Situated within the Sandakan area, Sepilok is a picturesque village known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. Visitors flock here for its unique blend of adventure and relaxation, with popular venues including spas and campgrounds. The village is particularly famous for the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, offering an up-close experience with these incredible creatures. With peak visitor numbers in March to April and July, Sepilok is buzzing with activity. Explore nearby beaches and lookout points, ensuring a memorable visit filled with natural beauty and wildlife encounters.

Things to do in Sandakan

Shopping

In Sandakan, you can explore the local markets like the Sandakan Central Market, offering a variety of fresh produce and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Harbour Mall, about 16km away, where you’ll find retail shops and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Sandakan Wellness Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and rejuvenating treatments amidst lush surroundings. For outdoor activities, explore the Sepilok Forest Reserve, where guided walks reveal the beauty of nature and the chance to spot orangutans in their habitat.

Adventure

In Sandakan, explore the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can observe orangutans in their natural habitat. Venture to the Kinabatangan River for an exhilarating wildlife cruise, offering sightings of diverse species along the lush riverbanks. Experience the thrill of trekking in the nearby rainforest reserves.

Nightlife

Experience Sandakan's vibrant nightlife at the lively Harbour Mall, where you can enjoy local delicacies and shopping. For a laid-back evening, visit the Sandakan Waterfront, which offers charming views and casual dining options. Alternatively, explore the lively bars and clubs in the city centre for a fun night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sandakan

To make the most of your budget in Sandakan, take advantage of free attractions like the Sandakan Memorial Park. For transportation, consider walking or using the local bus services to keep costs down. February and November to December are the cheapest months to visit, while Saturday offers the best hotel rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals and package savings on flights, hotels, and activities. Look for eco-certified options to ensure affordable and sustainable stays during your trip.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sandakan are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Sandakan about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sandakan is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sandakan is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To uncover the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Sandakan hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan is an excellent destination for family, outdoor, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions such as reserves, islands, and churches, which provide rich outdoor, cultural, and scenic experiences. Notable points of interest include the Sandakan Memorial Park and the Sandakan Heritage Trail. For accommodation, there are several top hotels available to enhance your stay in this vibrant city.

• Rainforest Discovery Centre: Explore this captivating reserve that immerses you in the rich biodiversity of Sandakan. With its friendly atmosphere, the centre offers canopy walks and informative exhibits, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and those keen to learn about rainforest conservation.
• Pulau Selingan: This idyllic island features pristine beaches and inviting outdoor activities. Renowned for its turtle conservation programmes, visitors can witness the incredible sight of turtles nesting on its shores, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
• Sandakan Rainforest Park: A serene oasis, this rainforest park showcases stunning scenery and eco-friendly practices. Wander along well-maintained trails, where the lush greenery and abundant wildlife provide a tranquil retreat from the bustling world.

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

Flying into Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, is convenient with three major airports. Sandakan Airport (SDK) is a mere 10km from the city. Recommended hotels nearby include Sabah Hotel Sandakan, a 4-star establishment 8km away, and the 3.5-star Livingston Hotel and The Mark's Lodge, both situated 5km from SDK, offering airport shuttle services on request. Tawau Airport (TWU) is located 169km away, with Indah Inn, a 3-star guesthouse, 13km from the airport. Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) lies 93km from Sandakan, featuring nearby hotels like Tabin Wildlife Resort, Executive Hotel Lahad Datu, and Maya Hotel, all within 1.6km of LDU and accessible from the airport.