Hotels near Sandakan

Top reasons to visit Sandakan

• Stunning Nature Reserves: Sandakan is surrounded by lush nature, offering opportunities to explore wildlife and breathtaking landscapes in various reserves.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the warm hospitality of locals and engage with Sandakan’s rich cultural heritage through traditional events and markets.
• Island Sightseeing Tours: Embark on exciting tours to nearby islands, perfect for enjoying stunning scenery and beach activities.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Sandakan provides a variety of outdoor adventures and attractions suitable for families, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Comfortable Accommodation: A range of lodging options are available, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay amidst natural beauty.

Find great hotels in Sandakan

Discover a range of exceptional lodging options in Sandakan, Sabah, catering to both business and adventure seekers. From hotels to lodges, each establishment offers unique amenities, ensuring a memorable stay amidst the stunning natural surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a serene escape or a base for exploration, Sandakan's hotels provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for every traveller.

• Sabah Hotel Sandakan: Experience a blend of contemporary comfort and professionalism at Sabah Hotel Sandakan, a distinguished 4-star establishment in the heart of Sandakan. Tailored for business travellers, this hotel features comprehensive facilities such as an accessible business centre and expansive conference spaces. Guests appreciate the seamless connectivity and dedicated services that cater to their corporate needs, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both productivity and relaxation in a sophisticated setting.
• Livingston Hotel: A charming 3.5-star hotel, Livingston Hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere enriched by its delightful dining options. Guests can indulge in a hearty breakfast and savour meals at the onsite restaurant, all while enjoying modern entertainment amenities including LCD and satellite televisions. Its cosy environment makes it a perfect retreat for those looking to explore Sandakan while enjoying comfortable accommodations and exceptional service.
• Sepilok Jungle Resort: Embrace the beauty of nature at the Sepilok Jungle Resort, an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts. This resort, surrounded by lush greenery, features a variety of dining options including alfresco meals and traditional English breakfasts. Guests can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing, all close by. The resort’s unique charm is enhanced by its rustic accommodations that include mosquito nets, offering a genuine jungle experience while ensuring comfort and convenience.

Where to stay in and around Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming city in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. Explore lush nature getaways in the vicinity, while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Just a short journey away, Kota Kinabalu presents an array of vibrant experiences. With its tropical atmosphere and relaxing beaches, Sandakan is the perfect destination for those seeking a memorable escape in this stunning Malaysian state.

• Sepilok: Nestled in the Sandakan area, Sepilok is a charming village renowned for its eco-friendly experiences and family-oriented activities. The region sees a steady flow of visitors, particularly peaking between March to April and July. Travellers flock here to enjoy outdoor adventures, with highlights including nearby spas and shopping centres. A visit to the local landmarks, such as the enchanting island and soothing hot springs, provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration in this lush, tropical setting.
• Kota Kinabatangan: Located approximately 40.2km from Sandakan, Kota Kinabatangan is a vibrant city that offers an exhilarating adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Though visitor numbers remain fairly consistent, the peak months are typically in April and July to August. The city is a gateway to thrilling activities, such as diving and camping, and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Nearby attractions include picturesque islands and lavish resorts, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and leisure.
• Sukau: Also situated about 40.2km from Sandakan, Sukau is a quaint village that beckons travellers seeking beach experiences and family-friendly outings. Similar to its neighbours, Sukau maintains a steady stream of visitors with peak periods in March to April and July. Visitors can enjoy the local campground and explore nearby landmarks, including historical museums and fascinating caves. With its serene atmosphere and natural surroundings, Sukau is perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.

Things to do in Sandakan

Sandakan offers a delightful mix of outdoor and family-friendly activities, perfect for a beach vacation. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping destinations, enjoy live music, and embark on island sightseeing tours. Additionally, camping options are available for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its unique attractions and experiences, Sandakan promises an unforgettable getaway for everyone.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Sandakan, visit Sandakan Harbour Mall, which offers a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping in a vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out nearby malls for even more options to find unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

In Sandakan, indulge in holistic therapies at the Borneo Spa, where soothing massages and rejuvenating treatments enhance your wellness journey. For recreational activities, explore the pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, offering a unique blend of nature and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

At Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, immerse yourself in nature with thrilling wildlife encounters and serene river cruises, perfect for adventure seekers. Explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail, where you can enjoy scenic outdoor walks, rich history, and the vibrant local culture amidst the lush landscapes of Sandakan.

Nightlife

In Sandakan, the lively nightlife features venues like the Sandakan Night Market, where you can savour local street food and shop for unique souvenirs. The lively bars along the waterfront offer a relaxed atmosphere with stunning sunset views, perfect for enjoying a drink and socialising with locals and fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sandakan

Sandakan presents several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like the Sandakan Memorial Park and explore the city on foot or by bus for economical transport. The best months for lower accommodation rates are February and November to December, while Saturday typically offers the lowest hotel prices. For the best deals, book your stay about a month in advance, or look for last-minute offers on Expedia. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also yield significant savings.

• 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 April and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Sandakan is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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 your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you envision. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options currently available. To discover the most economical 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 offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it perfect for family beach vacations. Visitors can explore various landmarks, nature reserves, and nearby islands, each providing stunning scenery and opportunities for adventure. To enhance your stay, consider looking into the best hotels in Sandakan for a comfortable base from which to enjoy all that this charming destination has to offer.

• Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of this reserve, where the friendly atmosphere invites exploration. Discover the diverse flora and fauna through walking trails and canopy walkways, offering a unique perspective of the vibrant rainforest ecosystem.
• Gomantong Caves: Experience the thrill of adventure as you explore these magnificent caves. Known for their remarkable limestone formations and swiftlets’ nests, the caves provide a fascinating glimpse into nature's wonders, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Sandakan Memorial Park: Delve into the rich cultural history of Sandakan at this memorial. It serves as a poignant tribute to those who endured the hardships of World War II, providing a serene space for reflection and remembrance.

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.

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

To visit Sandakan, you can fly into two major airports: Sandakan Airport (SDK), located 9.7km from the city, and Lahad Datu Airport (LDU), situated 93.3km away. Good hotel options near SDK include the 4-star Sabah Hotel Sandakan, 8.0km away, and the 3.5-star Livingston Hotel and The Mark's Lodge, both 4.8km distant. These hotels offer on-request airport shuttle services. For those considering LDU, the Maya Hotel, Executive Hotel Lahad Datu, and Tabin Wildlife Resort, all 0.9 to 1.1km away, provide nearby access to the airport.