Trevo Malaysia Interesting places in Sabah are exactly what we start dreaming about when the Wesak Day long weekend comes around. A few extra days off is the perfect excuse to finally plan that trip we have been talking about for ages.
Sabah has just so much to offer. We are talking about misty mountains, beautiful islands, rainforest adventures, rivers filled with wildlife, hot springs, little towns, and endless food stops along the way.
Maybe you want cool weather and mountain views. Maybe you want beaches and a clear blue sea. Maybe you want to see orangutans, go diving, or just sit in a cosy café surrounded by nature.
No matter what kind of holiday mood you are in, Sabah has something for you.
The problem, however, is that there are just too many interesting places in Sabah, and it can honestly get a little overwhelming deciding where to go.
So we put together our own list of the top 10 interesting places in Sabah that we would happily visit again and again. These are the places we always end up recommending to friends because every trip there feels a little special.
Let’s get to it!
1. Kundasang: Cool Weather and Amazing Mountain Views
When we think about the most interesting places in Sabah, Kundasang is always near the top of the list.
The drive up already feels exciting. The roads get cooler, greener, and more beautiful with every turn. Once you arrive, you are greeted by views of Mount Kinabalu, rolling hills, little farms, and fresh mountain air.
Kundasang is famous for its cool weather, which makes it such a nice break from the usual Malaysian heat. We love waking up early here because the morning views are absolutely jaw-dropping, gorgeous!
There is plenty to do around Kundasang. You can visit Desa Dairy Farm, where you can feed the calves, enjoy fresh milk and ice cream, and take photos with the mountain in the background.
You can also stop by the Kundasang War Memorial, visit local markets, or relax in the nearby Poring Hot Springs. Soaking in the warm water while surrounded by the jungle feels so relaxing!
Kundasang is one of those places that sounds overrated until you actually go. Then you understand why everyone keeps talking about it.
2. Sandakan: Wildlife, Rainforest, and River Adventures
If you love animals and nature, Sandakan might be your favourite among all the interesting places in Sabah.
Sandakan is famous for its wildlife centres. Seeing orangutans swinging through the trees is such an unforgettable experience. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre rescues and rehabilitates orangutans before releasing them back into the wild.
Just next door is the Bornean SunBear Conservation Centre. This is where you can see adorable sun bears up close. They are actually the smallest bears in the world, which makes them even cuter.
Another spot we loved was the Rainforest Discovery Centre. The canopy walk here lets you walk high above the forest and spot birds, monkeys, and maybe even a flying squirrel if you are lucky.
No trip to Sandakan feels complete without heading to the Kinabatangan River.
A river cruise here is one of the best things we have ever done in Sabah. Along the river, we spotted proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, hornbills, and even wild elephants in the distance.
For many people, this is the best place in Sabah if you want to see wildlife without trekking too deep into the jungle.
3. Tabin Wildlife Reserve: One of the Most Interesting Places in Sabah for Nature Lovers
Tabin Wildlife Reserve is one of those places that feels completely different from anywhere else in Malaysia.
This protected rainforest is one of the oldest in the world. Once you are there, it feels like you have stepped into another world. The jungle is thick, green, quiet, and full of life.
It’s famous because it is one of the best places in Borneo to see wildlife in its natural habitat.
You can join guided jungle walks, night safaris, birdwatching tours, and river treks. We loved the night drive the most because that is when the forest suddenly comes alive.
There is a chance to see orangutans, clouded leopards, flying squirrels, and rare birds. Even if you do not spot every animal, just walking through the rainforest is already worth the trip.
Tabin Wildlife Reserve is also home to some beautiful eco lodges. If you want a peaceful holiday surrounded by nature, this is one of the best in Sabah.
4. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: The Best Island Escape Near Kota Kinabalu
When people ask us about the best island in Sabah, we almost always mention Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
The marine park is made up of five islands: Gaya, Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, and Sulug. The best part is that they are all just a short boat ride from Kota Kinabalu.
Each island has its own vibe. Manukan is great if you want more facilities and water sports. Sapi is perfect for snorkelling. Gaya has beautiful nature trails and some lovely resorts in Sabah.
The water here is so clear that you can spot colourful fish almost immediately.
We spent hours snorkelling, swimming, and just lying on the beach. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also try parasailing, scuba diving, sea walking, or kayaking.
This attraction in Sabah is especially great if you only have a short weekend in Kota Kinabalu because you do not need to travel very far.
5. Semporna: Diving, Islands, and Sea Gypsy Villages
Semporna is easily one of the most beautiful and interesting places in Sabah. It’s the gateway to islands like Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai.
The sea around Semporna is famous and is known as one of the top diving spots in the world. If you are lucky, you might see turtles, sharks, giant barracudas, and colourful coral.
Divers come here because the coral reefs are stunning and the marine life is incredible.
Even if you do not dive, Semporna is still worth visiting. You can go island hopping, snorkelling, or simply enjoy the crystal clear sea.
One of the most interesting parts of Semporna is learning about the Bajau Laut, also known as the sea gypsies. Some still live in boats or stilt villages above the water.
Visiting these villages gives you a glimpse into a way of life that is very different from our own.
6. Kinabalu National Park: Sabah’s Most Famous Nature Spot
No list of interesting places in Sabah would be complete without Kinabalu National Park.
This is Sabah’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous nature attractions in Malaysia.
Most people come here because of Mount Kinabalu. Some visitors climb the mountain, while others prefer to enjoy the views from below.
Even if you are not planning to climb, there is still plenty to do. The park has lovely walking trails, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and cool weather.
We really enjoyed wandering around the gardens because there were so many unusual flowers and plants.
The park is especially famous for its orchids and rare rafflesia flowers. If you are lucky enough to visit during blooming season, it is definitely something you will remember.
7. Kota Belud: Beautiful Fields and Local Culture
Kota Belud is often called the Cowboy Town of Sabah because of its horse riding culture.
But honestly, there is so much more to this little town.
The town is surrounded by green rice fields, hills, rivers, and mountain views. The scenery here feels so calm and peaceful!
One of our favourite things to do was visit the famous Kota Belud Tamu. This weekly market is full of local food, handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, and traditional clothing.
You can also go river rafting, cycling, camping, or simply enjoy a slow drive through the countryside.
If you love taking photos, the paddy fields here are especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
8. Kudat: Quiet Beaches at the Tip of Borneo
If you want somewhere less crowded, Kudat is one of the most interesting places in Sabah to visit.
Simpang Mengayau sits at the northern tip of Borneo. The beaches here are beautiful, quiet, and often almost empty.
Standing there and looking out at the meeting point of the South China Sea and Sulu Sea feels pretty amazing.
Kudat is also home to some lovely beaches like Kelambu Beach and Kalampunian Beach.
We spent most of our time here just relaxing, watching the sunset, and enjoying how peaceful everything felt.
9. Tenom: Coffee, Railways, and Small Town Charm
Tenom is a place that often gets overlooked, but we think it deserves a lot more attention.
Tenom is famous for coffee. In fact, if you love coffee, you will probably enjoy this town immediately. Here you can see how the coffee is made and buy fresh packets to bring home.
Another fun thing to do is ride the old North Borneo Railway from Tenom through the countryside.
The views along the way are beautiful. You pass through green hills, villages, and rivers.
Tenom is one of those interesting places in Sabah where life feels slower and more relaxed.
10. Sabah Tea Resort: A Peaceful Getaway in the Hills
Sabah Tea Resort is one of our favourite hidden gems.
The resort sits in the middle of Sabah’s only tea plantation. Everywhere you look, there are rolling green hills and fresh air.
This is one of the nicest resorts in Sabah if you want somewhere quiet and cosy.
You can stay in a traditional longhouse, walk around the tea plantation, join a factory tour, or simply sit and enjoy a cup of tea while looking at the hills.
The mornings here are especially beautiful because the tea fields are often covered in light mist.
If you need a break from busy city life, this place is perfect.
Final Thoughts on These Interesting Places in Sabah
Sabah is one of those places that never gets boring. Every part of the state feels different.
One day, you can be hiking through a rainforest. The next day, you can be sitting by the sea, drinking fresh coconut water, or soaking in a hot spring.
These interesting places in Sabah are the kind of places we would happily visit again for every long weekend. Some are famous, some are a little quieter, but every single one has something special.
So if you are still wondering where to go this Wesak Day, maybe it is finally time to start planning that Sabah trip.
Here are a few more fun reads:
- Top 10 Things to Do & Eat in Sabah (West Coast Edition) – TREVO Stories
- 10 Exciting Things to Do in Kuching With Family & Kids – TREVO Stories
- 10 Things To Eat in Kuching You Should Try On Your Visit! – TREVO Stories
- Guide to Visiting Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching – TREVO Stories
- 10 Best Affordable Nature Retreats in Malaysia (UNDER 250 MYR!) – TREVO Stories
- 10 BEST Diving Sites in Malaysia 2025 – TREVO Stories
FAQs About Visiting Sabah
Which month is best to visit Sabah?
The best time to visit Sabah is usually between March and September because the weather is drier and great for outdoor activities. You can still visit from October to February, too. Just expect a little more rain, especially if you are heading to the islands or rainforest areas.
What is Sabah famous for?
Sabah is famous for its rainforests, beautiful beaches, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Many people come here to see orangutans, climb Mount Kinabalu, or enjoy the clear waters around the islands.
What are the big 5 in Sabah?
The famous Big 5 in Sabah include the orangutan, proboscis monkey, pygmy elephant, rhinoceros hornbill, and estuarine crocodile. You can spot some of them in places like the Kinabatangan River, the Tabin Reserve, and Sandakan.
Explore Sabah More Easily with TREVO
Planning to visit all these interesting places in Sabah?
Having your own car makes the whole trip so much easier. You can stop whenever you want, take the scenic route, and fit more places into your Wesak Day holiday.
With Trevo, you can easily book a car through the app and choose from different types of vehicles depending on your trip. It is especially useful if you are travelling with family or a group of friends.
TREVO is available in Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Negeri Sembilan, Langkawi, Klang Valley, Melaka, Ipoh, and Kedah.
