Sandakan: Nature and the Sea All Within Easy Access of the City
Beautiful Sandakan, Malaysia has that rare combination of being close to the water and nature while still being having a city vibe. Located in the state of Sabah on the north coast of Borneo, this city is the perfect city to stay in Malaysia. It features wildlife sanctuaries and as an added bonus, you get access to the coastline and the many beautiful beaches. You can easily access Sandakan via Sandakan Airport, which is located a few minutes’ drive from the city center.
Best Time to Visit
Like most tropical locations, it is best to visit Sandakan in the dry season when there is the least chance of rain. It is hottest from March to May. Avoid the monsoon season, if you can. It usually runs from June to early September. The city sees the highest number of tourists from October to January. If you want to avoid the heavy tourist traffic and at the same time get the best Sandakan hotel deals, visit outside of the peak season. There are many hotels and motels in the area that offer accommodation.
What to Do & Area Attractions
The Agnes Keith House is a must visit. It is a wooden bungalow that has been designed to re-create the city’s colonial style. Include it in your itinerary, especially if you are interested in learning more about the local history. Aside from the many beautiful beaches, you can also check out the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. As its name suggests, it is a sanctuary for the unique proboscis monkeys. There is a rainforest center in the city too, the Rainforest Discovery Center. It features an education center and a garden. After a fun day of enjoying Sandakan, head back to your hotel or resort and get pampered. Some of the best places to stay in the city include the top-reviewed Four Points by Sheraton. It is found just a few minutes from the airport and the discovery center. Another great hotel is Sabah Hotel, affordable and well appointed, it features an on-site swimming pool.