Things to do in Sandakan

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Sandakan

Types of activities

Sandakan travel guide

Sandakan showing a garden, general coastal views and a city

Sandakan which includes religious elements and a temple or place of worship

Tun Sakaran Marine Park featuring a coastal town and boating

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What to do in Sandakan

Popular places to visit

Rainforest Discovery Centre

Explore the great outdoors at Rainforest Discovery Centre, a lovely green space in Sepilok. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Two daily feeding sessions draw crowds of tourists to watch monkeys as they swing through their natural habitat.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Watch as a community of orphaned orangutans play in the trees above you at this sanctuary.

Sandakan Harbour Mall

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Sandakan Harbour Mall during your visit to Sandakan. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Pulau Selingan

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Pulau Selingan during your travels in Sandakan. Wander the rainforests and seaside in the area.

Turtle Islands Park

Explore the great outdoors at Turtle Islands Park, a lovely green space in Sandakan. Stroll along the seaside or visit the temples in the area.

Gomantong Caves

Explore the great outdoors at Gomantong Caves, a lovely green space in Sandakan. Wander the rainforests and seaside in the area.

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Visit the native and exotic animals who call Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre home during your trip to Sepilok. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Sandakan Memorial Park

Explore the great outdoors at Sandakan Memorial Park, a lovely green space in Sandakan. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sandakan worth visiting?

Whether you plan to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and explore in nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Sandakan.

How do I spend a day in Sandakan?

Sandakan Rainforest Park and Bukit Buli Sim Sim are two good places to begin your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Sandakan while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Sandakan?

Bukit Buli Sim Sim is one of the top tourist attractions in Sandakan and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Sandakan?

Three days in Sandakan is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Bukit Buli Sim Sim, Sandakan Rainforest Park and Saint Michael's and All Angels Church are top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Sepilok.

What are some activities to do in Sandakan with kids?

If you're looking for activities and attractions for all of your group, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Sandakan with kids.

What to do in Sandakan for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of Mother Nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Sandakan for adults including Sandakan Memorial Park and Japanese Cemetery.

Are there free things to do in Sandakan?

One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Sandakan is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without taking your wallet out. Bukit Buli Sim Sim is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.