Sandakan Holidays

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to HK$1,282 when you book a flight and hotel together*
  • Find the right fit

    With over 300,000 hotels worldwide, it's easy to create a perfect package
  • Rest easy

    Plan, book, and manage your trip all in one place

Things to do in Sandakan

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Sandakan, visit Sandakan Harbour Mall, which offers a vibrant mix of shopping, entertainment, and dining options. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby shopping centres for even more variety and unique finds perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

In Sandakan, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the tranquil Sabah Hotel Spa, where traditional therapies meet modern techniques. For relaxation, explore the pristine beaches of Turtle Island, offering sun-soaked shores and soothing sea breezes, perfect for unwinding amidst nature's beauty.

Adventure

Experience the wonders of Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, where you can immerse yourself in nature with outdoor activities and family adventures. Explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail for a scenic outdoor experience, filled with rich history and stunning landscapes that showcase the beauty of the area.

Nightlife

In Sandakan, the nightlife is vibrant, with venues like the Harbour Mall and local pubs offering a mix of dining and entertainment. You can enjoy live music, karaoke, and friendly bars, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for socialising and unwinding after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan, Sabah, offers a delightful array of experiences for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and business travellers alike. Visitors can explore local attractions such as the Sandakan War Memorial and Memorial Park, enjoy scenic views, or indulge in shopping at Sandakan Harbour Mall. With a rich cultural backdrop, this charming destination provides plenty of opportunities to appreciate nature and history, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the vibrant ecosystem of the Rainforest Discovery Centre, a haven for nature enthusiasts. Walk along well-maintained trails and experience the friendly atmosphere as you discover diverse flora and fauna, including unique bird species in their natural habitat.
  • Libaran Island Jetty: Visit the Libaran Island Jetty, a picturesque landmark that offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. This is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the gentle sea breeze while planning your island adventures, such as snorkelling or beachcombing.
  • Gomantong Caves: Explore the adventurous Gomantong Caves, known for their impressive limestone formations and vibrant wildlife. Experience the thrill of outdoor exploration as you navigate through this natural wonder, home to swiftlets and bats.

Best time to go to Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sandakan falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Sandakan falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

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

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 during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Sandakan.
  • 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.

Top hotels in Sandakan

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

2.5 out of 5
Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok Sandakan Sabah
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is HK$240 per night from 21 Apr to 22 Apr
HK$240
HK$309 total
21 Apr - 22 Apr
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
The price is HK$367 per night from 10 Apr to 11 Apr
HK$367
HK$461 total
10 Apr - 11 Apr
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (161 reviews)
Overall this wad good hotel for an overnight stay. Breakfast service was very poor.

Reviewed on 22 Mar 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 HK$144 per night from 5 Apr to 6 Apr
HK$144
HK$177 total
5 Apr - 6 Apr
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.

Popular places to visit

What to do in Sandakan

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.