A coastal city with a marina, buildings, and a well-maintained park.

Sandakan Hotels from ₹1,086

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Tomorrow
9 Sept - 10 Sept
This weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept
Next weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept

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Our top choices for Sandakan hotels

1. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
Sandakan
Malaysia
Vincent
₹7,098
₹7,900 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

2. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
Sandakan
United Kingdom
Sarah-Jayne
₹6,533
₹7,335 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Ormond Sandakan

3. Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel
Sandakan
United Kingdom
Lucy
₹5,346
₹6,542 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Livingston Hotel

4. The Elopura Hotel

The Elopura Hotel
Sandakan
United States
Jeremiah
₹3,695
₹4,361 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
The Elopura Hotel

5. Hotel Sandakan

Hotel Sandakan
Sandakan
United States
Dina
₹3,483
₹4,111 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Hotel Sandakan

6. Hotel Meliden

Hotel Meliden
Sandakan
United States
Shoab
₹2,902
₹3,368 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Hotel Meliden

7. Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort
Sandakan
United States
Natalie
₹3,366
₹4,206 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Sepilok Jungle Resort

8. Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Sandakan
United Kingdom
Michael
₹2,077
₹2,484 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

9. Hotel Lutana

Hotel Lutana
Sandakan
₹786
₹1,086 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Hotel Lutana

10. Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan
Sandakan
Malaysia
aaron chong en
₹2,595
₹3,341 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

11. The Grand Hotel 2 Sandakan

The Grand Hotel 2 Sandakan
Sandakan
United States
Grant
₹2,208
₹2,632 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
The Grand Hotel 2 Sandakan

12. The Pavilion Hotel

The Pavilion Hotel
Sandakan
Malaysia
Felicia
₹2,896
₹3,418 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
The Pavilion Hotel

13. Sanbay Hotel

Sanbay Hotel
Sandakan
United States
Kristy
₹1,913
₹2,529 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
Sanbay Hotel

14. Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)
Sandakan
Malaysia
Danielle
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

15. Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort
Kota Kinabatangan
United Kingdom
Michael
₹21,399
₹25,484 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort

16. Hotel O London

Hotel O London
Sandakan
Australia
Michelle
₹1,391
₹1,805 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Hotel O London

17. THE HOTEL

THE HOTEL
Sandakan
Australia
Tapos
₹1,840
₹2,237 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
THE HOTEL

18. Sepilok B&B

Sepilok B&B
Sandakan
United Kingdom
A
Sepilok B&B

19. Hotel City Star

Hotel City Star
Sandakan
United Kingdom
J
Hotel City Star

20. Hotel O Hotel Ramai

Hotel O Hotel Ramai
Sandakan
₹1,047
₹1,131 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Hotel O Hotel Ramai
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Stay near popular Sandakan attractions

An orangutan hanging from a tree branch in a dense forest.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

9.2/10 (91 reviews)
At this pioneering orangutan sanctuary, watch rescued primates develop skills for returning to the wild. Attend the 10AM or 3PM feeding sessions for your best chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
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An orangutan in a dense green forest.

Rainforest Discovery Centre

9.0/10 (45 reviews)
Walk among Borneo's rainforest canopy on elevated walkways, spotting rare wildlife from unique vantage points. Early morning offers the best chance to see colourful hornbills and red leaf monkeys in their natural habitat.
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Sandakan Harbour Mall

7.2/10 (51 reviews)
Harbour Mall Sandakan features five floors of international brands and local boutiques in Sandakan's largest shopping centre. Explore the vibrant food court for authentic regional flavours between shopping trips.
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Turtle Islands Park

8.6/10 (11 reviews)
Witness the miracle of nature at one of Southeast Asia's most significant turtle nesting sites. After dusk, observe green and hawksbill turtles laying eggs and help release hatchlings into the sea.
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Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

9.2/10 (50 reviews)
Watch the world's smallest bear species climb trees and forage in a natural forest setting. The elevated boardwalks offer intimate viewing of rescued sun bears during their most active morning hours.
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Sandakan Rainforest Park

9.0/10 (10 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Sandakan Rainforest Park, a lovely green space in Sandakan. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
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Agnes Keith House

8.8/10 (24 reviews)
This colonial-era home of American author Agnes Newton Keith showcases her life and literary legacy in British North Borneo. Explore period rooms and enjoy panoramic views of Sandakan Bay from its hilltop setting.
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Kinabatangan Jungle Camp

10.0/10 (1 review)
Nestled along the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan River, this jungle camp offered front-row access to Borneo's biodiversity. Visitors enjoyed guided cruises to spot orangutans and pygmy elephants in their natural habitat.
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Learn more about Sandakan

Begin your day at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you'll see these endangered primates swing through the trees during feeding times. Explore the Australian War Memorial and Agnes Keith House before taking a boat to spot proboscis monkeys in the mangroves of Kinabatangan River.

See all hotels in Sandakan
A coastal city with a marina, buildings, and a well-maintained park.

Top Sandakan Hotel Reviews

The Elopura Hotel

The Elopura Hotel

8/10 Good
"This hotel did the job for one night before I joined a tour. The staff were very friendly, my suitcase had been taken in before I even realised it was out the taxi! I stayed on a saturday night and there was live music in the street until about 10pm, something to be aware of if that bothers you. The walls seem quite thin also. For me it wasn't really an issue for one night."
Lorraine 1-night trip
Posted 23 hours ago
The Elopura Hotel
Hotel Meliden

Hotel Meliden

8/10 Good
"A basic hotel used as an overnight before our Kinabatangan River trip. Excellent value for money and in a good location for us."
Rebecca 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hotel Meliden
Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Property was close to orangutan and sunbeam sanctuary - within walking distance. Room has all you need. The banana cafe has delicious food. Highly recommend!"
Natalie 2-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Sepilok Jungle Resort
Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Parking is secure and convenient. Staff are very helpful. Air conditioning is excellent. Clean room. Breakfast is good. "
Wai Yee 4-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Livingston Hotel
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

10/10 Excellent
"Wonderful! Credits to Hannah and Winnah who were so caring from checkin to our departure! We lost our luggage and they were so caring. Working with the airport staff and asking for updates and when we finally got the luggage back, they were so helpful and checked in with us to make sure we were okay! They also gave us great recommendations on where to buy the essentials when we got there without our luggage and we also wanted to mention the restaurant staff was very attentive as well. Thank you so much for the care and we can't wait to visit again! "
Cindy 3-night trip
Posted 8 months ago
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)
Sanbay Hotel

Sanbay Hotel

8/10 Good
"The hotel is very dated and could do with a spruce up. However, the room was a good space, with a comfortable bed, kettle and fridge. There was a large supermarket behind and it was 20 minutes walk into Sandakan shops."
Mark 3-night trip
Posted 8 months ago
Sanbay Hotel
Hotel Lutana

Hotel Lutana

8/10 Good
"Fantastic"
George 1-night trip
Posted 10 months ago
Hotel Lutana

More cheap stays in Sandakan

Hotel Western

Hotel Western

L20 tgkt 1-3 blok hs2, harbour square, Sandakan Sabah
₹1,713
₹2,091 total
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Western
THE HOTEL

THE HOTEL

BANDAR Sandakan Sabah
₹1,840
₹2,237 total
13 Sept - 14 Sept
includes taxes & fees
THE HOTEL
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Mile 14, Jalan Labuk Sandakan Sabah
₹2,077
₹2,484 total
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Hotel Meliden

Hotel Meliden

One Avenue, Batu 6, Jalan Utara Sandakan Sabah
₹2,902
₹3,368 total
13 Sept - 14 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (13 reviews)
Hotel Meliden
Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok Sandakan Sabah
₹3,366
₹4,206 total
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (242 reviews)
Sepilok Jungle Resort
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Jalan Sepilok Sandakan
Get rates
8.6/10 Excellent! (81 reviews)
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Hotels in Sandakan with star rating

Find out more about Sandakan

Top reasons to visit Sandakan

  • Scenic Nature Reserves: Experience the stunning natural beauty of Sandakan through its various reserves, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • Cultural Heritage Sites: Discover the rich history at attractions like the Sandakan Memorial Park and the Sandakan Heritage Trail.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities, from hiking to relaxing on the beach.
  • Shopping and Dining: Explore Harbour Mall for shopping and local cuisine, offering a taste of Sandakan's vibrant culture.
  • Comfortable Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and lodges that cater to every traveller's needs, ensuring a memorable stay.

Find great hotels in Sandakan

Explore an array of hotel accommodation options in Sandakan, Sabah, tailored to suit both business travellers and adventure seekers. From comfortable hotels to charming lodges, the region offers a perfect blend of nature-themed experiences and modern amenities. Whether you are searching for a luxurious retreat or a budget-friendly stay, you'll find an ideal base to discover the captivating beauty of Sandakan and its surrounding attractions.

  • Sabah Hotel Sandakan: This 4-star hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere and is well-suited for both leisure and business travellers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Sabah Hotel Sandakan features amenities tailored for children, including a children's pool and free cribs. The hotel's spacious rooms and various on-site dining options provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the vibrant surroundings of Sandakan, making it an excellent choice for families and business visitors alike.
  • Livingston Hotel: A 3.5-star hotel located in the heart of Sandakan, Livingston Hotel presents a blend of comfort and modern amenities. Guests can savour a delightful buffet breakfast or dine in the restaurant for lunch. Entertainment is at hand with multiple television options, including LCD and satellite channels. The warm and inviting ambience, combined with its strategic location, makes Livingston Hotel a suitable choice for those seeking a relaxing stay with easy access to local attractions.
  • Sepilok Jungle Resort: Embracing a more rustic charm, Sepilok Jungle Resort is a budget-friendly option perfect for nature lovers. Set amidst lush greenery, the resort offers various dining choices, including English breakfast and lunch options. Guests can engage in recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing nearby. The resort’s serene environment and proximity to natural sights make it an ideal retreat for those wanting to immerse themselves in the beauty of Sabah's wilderness.

Where to stay in and around Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming city in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Explore the bustling Sandakan Town and discover hidden gems like Harbour Mall, where you can enjoy shopping and dining. The centre of Sandakan presents a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing strolls. With its tropical vibe and friendly locals, your vacation in Sandakan promises to be a memorable experience filled with unique attractions and scenic beauty.

  • Sepilok: Nestled in the vicinity of Sandakan, Sepilok is a charming village renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock here for family-friendly experiences and thrilling activities. The peak travel periods are from March to April and July, making it an ideal time to explore the nearby hotsprings, pristine beaches, and scenic lookouts. With facilities like spas and campgrounds, Sepilok offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring a memorable escape for travellers of all ages.
  • Kota Kinabatangan: Located approximately 40km from Sandakan, Kota Kinabatangan is a vibrant city that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Known for its rich biodiversity, the city serves as a gateway to the surrounding national parks and state parks, where adventure awaits. The best times to visit are in April and the summer months of July to August. Here, you can engage in various activities, including camping and shopping, while soaking in the stunning natural landscapes that define this region.
  • Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated around 39km from Sandakan, the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This expansive park is famous for its wildlife, making it a perfect spot for family outings and outdoor activities. Peak visitation occurs in March and during the summer months, especially July to August. Visitors can enjoy camping, diving, and rock climbing, with the lush rainforest and nearby hotsprings providing a breathtaking backdrop for exploration and relaxation.

Things to do in Sandakan

Shopping

In Sandakan, visit the Harbour Mall for a range of shops, from fashion to local crafts. For a broader selection, if you're up for a drive, check out the 19km journey to 1Borneo Hypermall in Kota Kinabalu, featuring numerous international brands and dining options.

Recreation

Discover the tranquility of the Sandakan Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and holistic therapies. Nearby, the lush Rainforest Discovery Centre offers serene nature walks and educational exhibits, allowing you to connect with the local ecosystem while enjoying the fresh air.

Adventure

In Sandakan, explore the breathtaking Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can observe orangutans in their natural habitat. Venture into the lush rainforests of the Kinabatangan River for thrilling wildlife spotting, including pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys, while enjoying a river cruise.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Sandakan offers a vibrant mix of bars and lounges. Enjoy a drink at the Sandakan Harbour Square, where you can soak in the view. For a lively atmosphere, check out the local pubs and clubs scattered around the city, providing a taste of local culture and entertainment.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sandakan

To save money on your trip to Sandakan, consider visiting during the off-peak months of February and November to December when prices are lower. Utilize public transport options like buses or walking for budget-friendly travel. Take advantage of free activities, such as the Sandakan Memorial Park. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can yield better rates, especially if you check Expedia for last-minute deals. Remember that Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Monday tends to be the priciest. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings can further reduce your expenses.

  • 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. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to customise your search based on your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your Sandakan hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan is a delightful destination for family, outdoor, and business-themed holidays, offering a blend of reserves, islands, and cultural sites. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty and local heritage through attractions like the Sandakan Memorial Park and the Sandakan Heritage Trail. For a comfortable stay, explore the best and top hotels in Sandakan, ensuring a memorable experience in this vibrant Malaysian town.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Immerse yourself in the lush biodiversity of this reserve, where you can stroll through well-maintained trails and observe the vibrant flora and fauna. The friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
  • Pulau Selingan: This picturesque island offers stunning beaches and outdoor activities, perfect for sunbathing or snorkelling. Experience the tranquil surroundings and the vibrant marine life, making it an idyllic retreat for relaxation and exploration.
  • Sandakan Rainforest Park: Nestled in a serene setting, this rainforest park is a haven for eco-tourists. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as you explore the rich ecosystems, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and appreciating nature's splendour.

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 iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
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 HighSlightly High
May81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
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 CloudyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Sandakan

Getting to Sandakan is straightforward with three major airports nearby. Sandakan Airport (SDK) is located 10km from the city centre, with excellent hotel options like the Sabah Hotel Sandakan, a 4-star hotel 8km away, and Livingston Hotel and The Mark's Lodge, both 3.5-star hotels 5km from SDK. Transportation services include airport shuttles on request. Tawau Airport (TWU) is 169km away, with Indah Inn, a 3-star guesthouse, 13km from the airport. Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) is 93km distant, offering hotels such as Tabin Wildlife Resort, Executive Hotel Lahad Datu, and Maya Hotel, all within 1.6km from LDU, providing convenient access to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Sandakan?
Based on our traveller data, Ormond Sandakan is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel offers 3 restaurants and an outdoor pool. Other good options for your visit include Hotel Meliden and Sabah Hotel Sandakan. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Sandakan.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Sandakan has to offer?
Sandakan Hill Terrace 3: This highly rated holiday home rental in Sandakan is equipped with a terrace, air conditioning and laundry facilities to help you feel comfortable during your stay. It has 4 bedrooms, as well as a kitchenette with a full-sized fridge, a stovetop and a microwave, so that you can cook with friends or family. See all vacation rentals in Sandakan.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Sandakan, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of hotel room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Sandakan.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in Sandakan?
Based on our traveller reviews, Sandakan Backpackers Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels in Sandakan.
What's the best family accommodation in Sandakan?
Sabah Hotel Sandakan is a hotel with a children's pool and 3 restaurants, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. 2 Inn 1 Boutique Hotel & Spa is another good choice for your child-friendly holiday. Also, attractions such as Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre are fun for children of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Sandakan.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Sandakan?
Sepilok Jungle Resort is a top resort with a children's pool, an outdoor pool and free WiFi. View all hotels with pools in Sandakan.
What's it like staying in Sandakan?
Visitors to Sandakan will definitely enjoy the rainforests, seaside and temples. Welcoming and walkable, this city also attracts tourists with its local tours. In Sandakan, there are 72 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Sandakan.
What is there to see in Sandakan?
Attractions such as Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Kinabatangan Jungle Camp are fun for children of all ages. Landmarks like Agnes Keith House, Sandakan Memorial Park and Japanese Cemetery might be worth a visit. The rainforest and forests highlight the natural beauty with places to discover including Sandakan Rainforest Park, Rainforest Discovery Centre and Turtle Islands Park. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Sandakan guide.
What's the seasonal weather like in Sandakan?
The hottest months are usually May and June, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 26°C. The snowiest months in Sandakan are April, May, August and July, with each month seeing an average of 211 cm of snowfall.

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