2026 Kudat Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Kudat is located at the northernmost tip of Borneo. While it doesn't have the crowds of Semporna or the hustle and bustle of Langkawi, it boasts an undisturbed, pristine ecosystem. Here, you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, chase blue tears at night under a sky full of stars, witness sunsets that rival Kota Kinabalu's, and check in at the 'Tip of Borneo'... If you also love niche, quiet places with a sense of history, Kudat is worth taking a detour for. Kudat's Unique Experiences 🏝 Admire the stunning jelly-like waters and capture beautiful life photos. 🏝 Enjoy the beauty of the sun rising and setting. 🏝 Gaze at the starry sky at night, a truly breathtaking sight. 🏝 Experience unique sea fishing and enjoy the fun of angling at sea. 🏝 Chase the mesmerizing blue tears and create unforgettable memories. 🏝 Indulge in a seafood feast 🦞 (The seafood here is incredibly fresh and affordable). Kudat's beauty needs no filter. It just needs you to be willing to take a slight detour to see it 💙. 🚗 Itinerary D1 Home Country - Kota Kinabalu Airport D2 Free activity - Optional paid upgrades for the following activities: ▪️ Activity 1: Pulau Tiga Snorkeling + Volcanic Mud Bath Day Trip ▪️ Activity 2: Mantanani Island Boat Trip ▪️ Activity 3: Mermaid Island Boat Trip ▪️ Activity 4: Mount Kinabalu + Dairy Farm + Hot Spring + Suspension Bridge Day Trip D3 Kota Kinabalu - Kudat: Kudat Lighthouse Island + Snorkeling + Sea Fishing + Sunset at the Tip of Borneo + Chase blue tears by the sea at night, stargazing, and seafood feast. D4 Kudat: Watch the sunrise - Photo opportunities and snorkeling at Big and Small Lihfeng Islands - Free activity in the afternoon. D5 Kudat - Kalampunian Island Snorkeling + Kawa Mangrove + Proboscis Monkeys + Fireflies D6 Kota Kinabalu Airport - Return Home Tips ✅ Best travel season: March - October (calm waters, suitable for island hopping, high probability of seeing blue tears). ✅ Transportation: Car rental/self-driving is recommended as attractions are spread out and inconvenient without a car. ✅ Accommodation: Stay in a beachfront guesthouse for easy access to blue tears and stargazing at night. ✅ Sun protection: UV rays are strong, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

#jomcuti #mytrip #traveldiaries #travelanywhere #traveladdict #memorablejourney In December 2021, my family and I had a Family Day and we chose Kudat, Sabah Malaysia as the location for our family gathering. "Tip of Borneo" is a beautiful location to visit. The Tourist Attractions here are: 1. Sunset Beauty: This place is famous for its stunning sunsets. 2. Bronze Arch and Globe: There is an arch with a bronze globe marking this important location, including a sign indicating the meeting of two seas. 3. Kalampunian Beach: There is a beautiful white sandy beach near this place. 4. Landmarks: There are landmarks that provide a reminder of the dangerous coastal area in the past and show the history of discoveries by sailors such as Ferdinand Magellan. Info: "Tip of Borneo" refers to Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, a geographical location in the Kudat district, Sabah, which is the northernmost point of the island of Borneo, where the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea meet. Download trip.com for more travel details! Search 'FamilyTravel' in top bar & explore Family Hub. Find hot deals & pro tips for travelling with kids.

Just a few hours from Kota Kinabalu, our 2D1N getaway to Kudat was short but absolutely magical. From the moment we arrived, Kudat greeted us with peaceful vibes, friendly locals, and a coastline that felt untouched and raw. 🌴 On Day 1, we visited Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, also known as the Tip of Borneo, where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea. Standing at the northernmost tip of Borneo with the wind in our hair and waves crashing below was such a surreal moment. 🌊🌍 We caught the sunset there, and it was honestly one of the most stunning views I’ve ever seen—golden light stretching across the endless horizon. 🌇 We stayed overnight at a cozy beachfront chalet 🛏️, had fresh seafood by the beach 🐟🍤, and listened to the sounds of the ocean under the stars 🌌. So peaceful, so perfect. On Day 2, we explored local Rungus longhouses, checked out the Gong-making village, and even bought some beautiful handwoven crafts 🧶. The culture here is rich and proudly preserved—it felt like stepping into a slower, more soulful way of life. If you're craving a quick escape filled with nature, culture, and unforgettable sunsets, Kudat is calling. 🌺💛 #kotakinabaluguide

Welcome to Sabah! Sabah have one of the most outrages beach in the world. The beaches there are absolutely stunning — soft white sand, crystal clear water, and best of all, it’s not overcrowded. It still feels untouched and peaceful, like a hidden gem at the tip of Borneo. There’s something special about how well-preserved the natural beauty is. It felt refreshing to be surrounded by such calm and simplicity. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy sunsets that seem to last forever, Kudat is the place. Can’t wait to be back 🌊🌴✨ #Kudat #Sabah #TravelMalaysia #HiddenGem #BeachEscape #SunsetLover

#kotakinabalutrip Okay, real talk—I almost didn’t want to write this because **Bak Bak Beach** is *that* perfect hidden gem. But fine, I’ll spill… because everyone deserves to experience this slice of paradise near Kota Belud! ### **First Impressions: "Wait… Where Is Everyone?"** · **The sand:** Soft, golden, and *barefoot-approved* (no sharp shells here!) · **The water:** Crystal-clear turquoise—like someone turned up the saturation IRL · **The vibe:** So peaceful, all you hear are waves and the occasional eagle screech ### **The "Wow" Moment: Sunset Magic** While other beaches get packed at golden hour, Bak Bak serves **private sunset views** daily. The sky turns cotton-candy pink, the water glows, and you’ll pinch yourself because *how is this real?* ### **Hidden Gem: The Rocky Cove** Walk 10 minutes north to find: · A **natural tidal pool** (perfect for lazy snorkeling) · **Smooth wave-sculpted rocks** (Instagram backdrop sorted) · **Hermit crab raves** (they throw great parties at low tide) ### **Unexpected Encounter: The Friendly Fishermen** Local fishermen offered us **fresh coconuts** (hacked open with a *parang*—peak Borneo experience!) and pointed us to the best **stingless jellyfish** swimming spots. Yes, you read that right—*jellyfish you can swim with!* ### **Must-Try: Beachside BBQ** Grab fresh **ikan bakar** (grilled fish) from the stalls—the smoky, spicy sambal will change your life. Eat it with your hands while sand tickles your toes. ### **Chill-Only Itinerary** 🕘 **9AM** – Arrive (park right by the sand!) 🕙 **10AM** – Swim + float like a happy jellyfish 🕛 **12PM** – Nap in a hammock (BYO or rent one) 🕒 **3PM** – Explore the tidal pool & rock formations 🕠 **5:30PM** – Sunset photoshoot (no photobombers!) 🕖 **7PM** – Seafood feast at nearby warung ### **Local Tips:** · Weekdays = your private beach · Bring **reef shoes** for the rocks · Leave only footprints (let’s keep this paradise clean!) · *Verdict:** 12/10 would trade my 9-5 for a beach hut here. · *Who else loves hidden beaches? Spill your secrets below! 👇** · (P.S. If this goes viral and ruins the quiet vibe, I’ll send the hermit crabs after you.)* 🦀💙

#kotakinabalutrip Standing at the northernmost point of Borneo, with the **South China Sea** crashing on one side and the **Sulu Sea** swirling on the other, I felt like I’d reached the edge of the world. The wind whipped my hair into a frenzy as I took in the endless blue horizon—no islands, no ships, just raw, untamed ocean. The *magic moment*? **Sunset**. The sky exploded in fiery oranges and pinks, painting the iconic boulders along the shore. (Cue a dozen influencers trying to nail the perfect jump shot—I may have joined in. 😅) · *Hidden gem:** The **hidden tide pools** near the eastern rocks (ask locals for directions). Perfect for a quiet dip away from the crowds! · *Must-eat:** **Fresh coconut** hacked open on the spot by a vendor—sweet, icy, and the ultimate thirst-quencher after climbing those scenic boulders. 🥥 · *Quick Itinerary:** ⏰ **4 PM:** Arrive, explore the viewpoint ⏰ **5:30 PM:** Sunset photos (prepare for windblown glamour) ⏰ **6:30 PM:** Beachside seafood dinner at nearby stalls · *Pro Tips:** · Wear **sturdy sandals** (those rocks are slippery!) · Bring a **windbreaker** (it’s always breezy) · Visit weekdays to avoid the crowds Raw, rugged, and ridiculously photogenic—this is Borneo’s edge-of-the-world moment. ✨ P.S. That "end of the world" feeling? 100% real. GPS coordinates for bragging rights: **7°2′N 116°43′E**

My trip during my vacation to go back to my hometown started from Langkawi Island-Kuala Lumpur-Kota Kinabalu-Kudat,❤️my hometown is more beautiful than other places😍don't forget to travel to Kudat Sabah❤️ in Kudat seafood food is easy to find a lot of cheap ones And an interesting place is the healing place😍

The Tip of Borneo is located in kudat District and one of the most popular attractions in sabah. Would recommend all to visit if interested. Its take us almost more than 3hours from the airport to arrive. Please be careful when travelling the access road through. The beautiful crimson sunset and the sound of the wave. The view are amazing. I just widh they were cleaning a lot of litter. #sabah #travel

Gong is the most important idiophone in tradisional music of sabah State. Gong is usually made of brass or bronze it produces muffled sound of a deep tone when it's thick and broad ring was hit by a stick. You can see various type of Gong here and you can purchase souvenir. There are a few giant Gong for us to take a photo. Do drop by to support them by buying those. Either you can hang them as deco in your house or give it away as a gift. Entrance fee RM10 a bit pricey. #sabah #travel

Getting There - About 189 kilometers and 3 hours 12 minutes of driving from Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu) city. You can also go with a tour agent. Attractions - The Simpang Means 'lingering junction'. Here is where the South China Sea lingers and meets the sulu seas flowing from the east. The sunsets and full moons are just beautiful. The natural rock wall has an interesting pattern which makes the beach unique. Hotels - No hotel nearby this area. Only a Long house stay. Here you can experience the Rungus traditional home. Food & Restaurants - There is a cafe. Shopping - For sure there's no shopping mall here but there is a small souvenir shop. #tipofborneo #kudat #geology #grouptravel

beautiful sunset at the beach that visited last weekend. #kudat #beach

On the coast is a beautiful place to be. The Tip of Borneo is located in Kudat, where the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea meet. Approximately 3 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu town to reach this destination. The scenery at Tanjung Simpang Mengayau is delightful with the long white sandy beach and mesmerizing blue waters, so put this as a destination to visit when in Kudat. Whenever we visit to Kudat surely will bring my kid to enjoy the beauty of the beach at Tanjung Simpang Mengayau. No doubt here is the best place to catch a glimpse of sunrise and sunset. With its strong wind and sound of waves crashing on the naturally formed rocks, one can find peace and tranquility here. #bucketlistreboot

#staycation

Kim Men Seafood Supplier & Day Trip@RM180/pax Package included: · Boat transfer (Round trip) · Live & fresh seafood lunch + drinking water · Goggles & life jacket · Fish farm tour (guide services provided) · Fish feeding · Fishing · Swimming with assorted fishes · Snorkeling (guide services provided) Who says Kudat is boring? Come and enjoy the freshest seafood you can find in Kudat. Just a 8 minutes boat ride from Kudat town (Depart from jetty beside Kafe Abang J) you'll be amaze by all types of fish in nature while experiencing the local fish farm industry. Had been there in November, 2019 with my family. I would said this is the best experience I have had in Kudat. Please find the contact details in the last picture if you can't wait to join this amazing adventure 😊😊

this is tip of borneo! i caught a beautiful sea view and the weather is also good. i really enjoy the view and moment here. just sitting and admiring the sea, i can believe to see this kind of view, it also release my stress, hope can go back there and More reason to visit!#passionpassport #staycation #gooutside #awesomepic #couplestrip

🏡 Sompuruvan Homestay🏡 Simpang Mengayau Kudat ◆RM260 per night. 🚩Facilities provided: » Studio Room has aircond + 1 queen bed + 1 single bed » 1 bathroom + toilet » Sofa + coffee table » The kitchen is complete with cooking utensils » BBQ » Rice cooker " Water heater " Camp site 🏠🏠 Our homestay is located on the coast of Simpang Mengayau Kudat Beach... want to bathe in the sea just in front of the house Sompuruvan Homestay is a very suitable accommodation for the whole family who want to spend time in a relaxed and calm manner while enjoying the sea breeze and relaxing with a beautiful view of the beach while listening to the sound of the natural splashing of water waves or sitting by the beach while enjoying the sunset in the evening. #sompuruvanhomestay #homestaysimpangmengayau #beachhomestay #crossroads #kudat

so beautiful place and beautiful moment with love

Getting There - Drive or take a tour package. No public transportation Attractions - Secret Beach, Tanjung Simpang Mengayau Hotels - Plenty of campsites, homestay and motels Food & Restaurants - small cafes Shopping - none I lived in KL for so many years, it was nothing magical when you look up to the night sky despite of the concrete jungles all around me. Being at the tip of borneo or fondly called simpang mengayau in kudat was a magical experience. there was nothing much to visit around just white sandy beaches and picturesque sunsets. but that was all i needed. the trip took about 3 hours from the city by car. the time we visited, it was sunny and hot. thankfully it wasnt raining. the beach was pristine..and untouched, the ocean was turqoise. sabah never fails you when it comes to sunset. it was breezy, calm, serene and beautiful. Have you ever lie down on a bed of clean grass starring at the starry staryy sky and try to spot a shooting star? it is definitely the place! so breathtaking!#awesomepic #awesomepic #couplestrip #unforgettable Experiences #

at kudat sabah also i can have a tealive....ok after this we are going to the beach...lets go everyone #beaches

Must-see! Total end of Borneo, wild coast, you can wave to say hello to Philippiness :) There is no local transport from Kudat to Tip of Borneo. You have to hire a taxi or you can accommodate in Tampat do Aman and than walk to tip of Borneo. View here was stunning and place was simply amazing. The beach was long and white and could be probably one of Sabah's best hidden secrets. The bad side is however there is nothing much to do other than enjoy the view, the breeeze and the sea. It is better to travel to and fro from the place when there is daylight as it can be very dangerous to travel during nighttime. Highly recommended to go with experienced tour guide or bring along GPS to help with directions if you aren't familiar with roads over there. #besttrip #urbanexplorer

Borneo is the third largest island in the world, under the jurisdiction of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. It is currently the only island in the world that belongs to more than two countries. The northern part of Borneo is the whole of East Malaysia, and the administrative district is Sabah and Sarawak. The northernmost corner of Borneo Island is located in the ancient town of Sabah in Sabah. The locals call it Tanjin Xinbang Meng Ayao. The Chinese call it Lighting House or End of the World. There is also the vast seawater junction between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea in eastern Sabah. The local government has built an iconic building here, a sculpture that shows the latitude and longitude and the entire Borneo map. Ascending the three giant rocks facing the sea, overlooking the vast South China Sea, I saw the water and the sky, and I felt that the sea was wide and the sky was clear, and it was unbearable to give birth to a heroic feeling.

We stayed at Casuarina Villa for 4 nights in July, and it was absolutely stunning. Impeccably maintained and fully equipped, the villa is situated on a beautiful, serene beach. The pool is enormous and perfect for swimming laps. There are also numerous shaded spots for relaxing. Fran and her team went above and beyond to ensure our stay was exceptional. We dined at the villa every evening, savoring seafood barbeques and delicious dinners, which were the best meals of our 16-day Borneo trip—far superior to what we had at the Shangri-La hotels. The value was incredible, and with everything we needed right there, we never felt the need to leave. It truly felt like paradise, and I hope to return someday.

🌊 The Tip of Borneo, Simpang Mengayau — Kudat, Sabah One of those places where you don’t need a packed itinerary just good company, fresh sea breeze and time to slow down. ❤️ Standing at The Tip of Borneo in Simpang Mengayau, where the land meets the vast South China Sea, felt incredibly peaceful. The dramatic rocky coastline, gentle waves and windswept trees created a raw, untouched beauty that photographs almost, but not quite capture. It’s a little journey from Kota Kinabalu, but Kudat is worth the drive. Come for the scenery, stay for the quiet, and take your time exploring the northern tip of Sabah. If you’re looking for a place to escape the crowds and experience a different side of Sabah, put Kudat on your list. You won’t regret it. 🌴🌊🇲🇾 ⭐ My experience: 5/5 — peaceful, scenic and genuinely memorable.

Majority of people who traveled to Sabah will definitely missed this place. It is quite hidden and fairly quite far out. We decided to travel Sabah by renting the car for a week. We just took Alza by Perodua since there’s only the two of us. It does good! save on petrol and it is easy to handle. Back to this place..it’s located in Kudat and there’s a couple of hidden beach in Kudat for you to explore! This place is good to stop by, enjoy the coconut by the beach and get some good pictures! During the low tide you can actually walk to that island and it’s pretty amazing! however, the weather can be quite hot so please do bring a hat, sunscreen and water if you decided to walk to the island. But please ask the local people first is it save to walk there during the time you are there. They will know better! 🤳 Take alot of pictures! because it is super nice and beautiful! 📍 Pantai Kelambu, Kudat, Sabah

We found one good seafood here in Kudat. Situated next to the sea, fresh good seafood, they even have a fresh live lobsters if you want. 🦞 When we get here there’s basically no one. So the service was super fast. We ordered the fish, the prawn and vegetables and omelette. Since there’s only two of us. 🐟 🦐 We love and we will definitely come here again. By the way, to compare the price here and Kota Kinabalu, Kudat is wayyyy cheaper and if you want to eat lobster, you should eat here not in KK town. KK town is much more expensive. 📍 Seafood Station Restaurant, Kudat #sabah #kudat #seafood #travel

Who knew Kudat was hiding a paradise this private and beautiful? I couldn’t believe it myself! When we arrived, we were brought in the secret little pathway that lead to the jungle. I was already asking my husband “wait! where is he taking us” and he asked us to leave our car, lock the door and follow him to the jungle. I was just holding my husband’s hands and thinking if anything happened no one will know where we at. But then..we followed him and through the jungle we go! After a while we get to the top, i can already see the ocean from the jungle where we at..he asked us to walk a little bit more to get to our private villa.. Annnnddd when we get there..bammm! AMAZINGGGGGG!!! just look at the pictures! but honestly the pictures don’t do justice! The room is amazing! our villa is on top of the cliff and facing open sea. The ocean smack in front and we have the beach all by ourselves. We have stunning sunset and amazing star and moon gazing at night! Communication here is ZERO! u will not get any network here but they provide walkie talkie to u for communication between u & the villa people. At night, we walk out through the jungle and get our dinner outside. This villa include breakfast which they has already stored it in the fridge. I don’t remember any mosquito but the bed is with mosquito net too.. In the morning, we had our morning walks all by our self. i love the private beach, it’s really nice and really it is just u & ur partner there.. Dont miss a chance to go to this place if you in Kudat.. We had a great honeymoon trip here! 📍 Barefoot Luxury Cliff Top (make sure ask for the one that facing the oceon or just show this picture, easier😘) #kudat #travel2026 #sabah #honeymoon

Originally had my flights and hotel all booked, ready for a Kota Kinabalu island trip But canceled everything right before departure!! No regrets at all 😭 It’s not that Kota Kinabalu is bad, it’s just that Kudat in Sabah is way more appealing!! Who gets it, fam! While planning, I was discouraged from Kota Kinabalu a thousand times Crowded, over-commercialized attractions, overpriced island hopping, endless lines that test your patience In contrast, the small town of Kudat at Sabah’s northernmost tip Hidden gem, almost no tourists, pristine jelly-blue sea, prices cut in half Chill vacationers will be thrilled, the value beats Kota Kinabalu hands down!! Here’s my personal 5-day relaxed Kudat trip | no gimmicks, just real tips and honest impressions If you want to avoid crowds and explore Sabah on a budget, just copy this ✅ 🌴 [Why I gave up on Kota Kinabalu and chose Kudat instead] ▫️ No crowds! Say goodbye to influencer-packed beaches Kota Kinabalu’s popular islands are full of tourists, every photo is a stranger in the background Kudat is a niche secret town, with entire beaches and viewpoints basically all to yourself Every snap feels like a solo cinematic shot, no fighting for the perfect spot! ▫️ Ocean views that feel next level Kota Kinabalu’s nearby waters are murky, no filter can fix that Kudat’s sea is layered jelly-blue 💙 Water so clear you can see coral and fish, sunsets that create an unbeatable vibe Sand is fine and soft, barefoot feels amazing ▫️ Value for money maxed out (important!) Kota Kinabalu island tours cost 300–400 MYR a day, snacks and stays are overpriced Kudat has zero tourist traps! Locals are genuine and warm Food, lodging, and activities are affordable and friendly to all budgets, from backpackers to luxury travelers, saving money without sacrificing experience ▫️ Easy and relaxed all the way No early mornings rushing for boats, no long lines, no packed schedules The vibe is slow and empty, a true vacation unwind ✨ 📍 [Must-visit spots in Kudat (exact place names)] 1. Kudat Tip of Borneo Sabah’s northernmost landmark! Must-see sunrise and sunset 🌅 One side is the vast ocean, the other is pristine rainforest Evening sun sparkles on the water, so soothing it leaves you speechless Almost no tourists, quietly staring at the sea is incredibly healing 2. Mafu Beach A hidden white sand beach! A local secret treasure in Kudat Crystal-clear water, shallow and safe, perfect for swimming, photos, and shell collecting No commercial stalls, preserving the island’s original charm 3. Kudat mangroves A niche, pristine secret spot, way less crowded than Kota Kinabalu’s mangroves! At dusk, you might see fireflies lighting up the sky, with a gentle evening breeze Immerse yourself in the romantic South Seas rainforest, the atmosphere is unbeatable 💸 [Real prices in Kudat | way more reasonable than Kota Kinabalu] ▪️ Ocean view guesthouse: 120–200 MYR per night, with balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows, clean and tidy ▪️ Seafood feast: fresh lobster, fish, shellfish platter for about 50 MYR per person until you’re full ▪️ Local snacks: nasi lemak, satay skewers, fresh juice starting at 10 MYR ▪️ Island tour by car: 80 MYR per person for a full day, stop wherever you want with no hidden fees ❌ Personal tips to avoid pitfalls (must-save for beginners) 1. Stop obsessing over Kota Kinabalu’s popular island tours! Crowded, expensive, and average experience. Kudat’s island tour is more natural 2. Kudat’s town transport is scattered, renting a car is much cheaper than taxis 3. UV rays are super strong by the sea! Apply sunscreen thickly or you’ll get sunburned 4. Don’t buy souvenirs at the attraction entrances! The local market in town center has better prices 5. For sunsets, leave after 5 PM to avoid the midday heat. The light and shadows make for stunning photos 💌 Honest ramble I used to think you had to rush to Kota Kinabalu when visiting Sabah Coming to Kudat showed me the best island views are always hidden in small towns No crowds, no overpriced fees, no rushed itineraries Just gentle sea breeze, stunning ocean views, and a slow, easy life ✨ If you want a relaxed vacation, avoid crowds, and explore Sabah on a budget Trust me! Lock in Kudat! It’s a hidden gem you’ll never forget after visiting!

This was our second stay at Casuarina Palms within a year. After climbing Mount Kinabalu, we knew this was the ideal spot to relax and recharge following two challenging days on the mountain. The villa is spacious and fully stocked with everything you need for dining, unwinding, and having fun. The staff, led by the amazing Fran, were outstanding again—always available to assist and even helped us get 3kg of freshly caught King Prawns from the local market! The beds are comparable to those at Four Seasons, and the attention to detail with linen and towels added a luxurious touch. With Starlink recently installed, the connectivity was excellent. Most of our days were spent lounging by the large pool or enjoying the beautiful beach. We only ventured out twice—once for a round of golf at Kudat Golf Club (a 25-minute trip) and another time for a visit to a local spa to ease our mountain-worn muscles. If you're looking for a serene spot to share with family and friends, this place is truly a slice of paradise!