Sabah

Sabah is a beautiful destination with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s a delightful 5-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, local cuisine, and some shopping for souvenirs, all while keeping walking to a minimum. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Kota Kinabalu

Morning:

• Arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Grab a taxi to your hotel and check in. I recommend staying at a hotel with a sea view, like the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, for a romantic touch!

Afternoon:

• Head to the Filipino Market. It’s a vibrant place where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh seafood. Stroll through the stalls, but take your time and enjoy the atmosphere.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Welcome Seafood Restaurant. It’s famous for its fresh seafood, and you can pick your own fish, prawns, or crabs! Don’t forget to try the butter prawns – they’re divine!

Day 2: Island Hopping Adventure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short boat ride to Manukan Island. It’s a beautiful spot for some sunbathing and relaxation. You can rent a beach chair and just soak in the sun!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local cafes on the island. Try the Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Mee Goreng (fried noodles) – they’re delicious and filling!

Evening:

• Return to Kota Kinabalu and head to the Night Market. It’s a great place to sample local street food. Try the Satay (grilled skewers) and Roti John (a local sandwich).

Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Morning:

• Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village. It’s a short drive from the city and offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of Sabah’s indigenous tribes. You can enjoy cultural performances and even try your hand at some traditional crafts.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the village, where you can taste local dishes like Bamboo Chicken and Sago Pudding.

Evening:

• Head back to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a relaxing dinner at D’Place Kinabalu, known for its authentic Kadazan-Dusun cuisine. Don’t miss the Hinava (a traditional fish salad) – it’s a must-try!

Day 4: Nature and Wildlife

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Lok Kawi Wildlife Park. It’s a family-friendly park where you can see Bornean orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and various exotic birds. The park is well laid out, so you won’t have to walk too much.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at the park’s café, where you can try local dishes. After lunch, you can catch a wildlife show that showcases the animals.

Evening:

• Return to Kota Kinabalu and unwind at your hotel. For dinner, try Sutera Harbour Resort for a romantic dining experience by the sea. Their seafood platter is a great choice!

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, you can visit the Signal Hill Observatory Platform for a panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu. It’s a short drive and a quick stop, so it won’t require much walking.

Afternoon:

• Head to Gaya Street Sunday Market (if it’s a Sunday) for some last-minute souvenir shopping. You’ll find local crafts, textiles, and snacks. If it’s not Sunday, consider visiting the Sabah State Museum for a bit of history.

Evening:

• Have a farewell dinner at The Seafood Place. Enjoy the sunset views and indulge in a final feast of Sabah’s culinary delights before heading to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Always check the weather and local events happening during your visit.
• Don’t forget to try local drinks like Teh Tarik (pulled tea) and Bandung (rose syrup drink).
• Keep your camera handy for those stunning views and memorable moments!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Sabah! Enjoy your trip! 🌴✨