Sandakan Hotels from ₹1,427

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.

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 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

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.