Things to do in Putatan

No. 4 of Night Attractions in Malaysia

Tanjung Aru Beach

Located on the west side of Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru Beach is undoubtedly one of the most popular landmarks in Kota Kinabalu for both locals and tourists. Daytime entertainment include a variety of water activities, while evenings are perfect for gatherings with family and friends, enjoying the sea breeze, tasting delicious local delicacies and taking in the unparalleled sunsets.

No. 3 of Activities in Malaysia

Sunset Sightseeing in Kota Kinabalu

The sunset in Kota Kinabalu attracts numerous tourists and photography enthusiasts. As the sun sets, the horizon gradually turns a brilliant golden red, and the coastline of Kota Kinabalu becomes a breathtaking painting. At this time, standing on the beach or on the nearby observation deck, you can witness this natural wonder with your own eyes. As the sun slowly sinks into the horizon, the color of the sky is constantly changing, from golden yellow to orange-red, to deep purple, and finally to a tranquil deep blue. Every moment is breathtakingly beautiful. Sunset Chase by Sea: Set sail on a speedboat or specialized vessel to a designated sea area, dynamically pursuing the changing colors of the sky. The ocean is painted in warm golden hues as the sun gradually descends below the horizon, offering an immersive and vibrant maritime evening experience. Sunset Yacht Tour: Board a comfortable yacht for a smooth cruise into the open waters, enjoying the sunset in an exclusive, private setting. With unobstructed views and a serene atmosphere, the sky and sea merge into a stunning tableau, ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and romance. Sunset Eco Tour: Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, explore mangrove forests or coastal areas at dusk to observe the unique ecological changes during sunset. This tour blends natural education with breathtaking scenery, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the coastal environment.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Sabah

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a marine national park in Malaysia, located in the South China Sea off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, a 15–20 minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. It is composed of five islands: Gaya Island, Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia, Manutik Island, Manukan Island, and Sulug Island. In addition to beautiful beaches and clear waters, these islands are home to many unique corals and marine life. The jungles on each island are also home to many rare amphibians. Manukan Island is one of the larger islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and is also the best-equipped and most popular island. The island has dense vegetation, and the southern and eastern coasts feature charming beaches and coral reefs that are breathtakingly beautiful. You can rent a beach lounge chair to relax and enjoy a juice. The water here is crystal clear; standing on the pier, you can see various tropical fish swimming in the water. There is a hotel on the island called Manukan Island Resort, which includes 20 holiday chalets, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a tennis court. Manutik Island is one of the smaller islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park archipelago. There is a coral reef here suitable for group diving, and a beach on the east coast. There are no hotels or restaurants on the island, only a small diving equipment rental shop. It is quite popular among divers. Gaya Island is one of the larger islands in the park. The island is covered by primeval tropical rainforest and is very close to Kota Kinabalu. In the bay at the eastern end of the island, there is a lively water village where the residents are immigrants from the Philippines, all living in narrow stilt houses. In addition, it also features white sandy beaches, pebble beaches, mudflats, and mangroves. The coral reefs surrounding the entire island are also well-preserved. If your budget allows, you can also stay at the two hotels on the island: Bunga Raya Island Resort and Gaya Island Resort. Sulug Island is the most remote and undeveloped island in the marine park, and can be described as a haven for those seeking peace and tranquility. The rocky coastline and a rugged feel are characteristics of this small island. There is a lack of suitable diving waters around the island, and there are no facilities on the island either. If you want to get away from the crowds, this would be a good choice.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Sabah

Manukan Island

Manukan Island is one of the five islands of the Kota Kinabalu Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and is large in size. The north side of the island is a rocky coast, the beaches on the south and east are suitable for swimming. The island is popular with tourists because of its facilities. It has hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, diving centers and more. The island is rich in activities such as snorkeling, deep diving, parasailing, jet boating, underwater walks, sea bikes, etc., full of fun. The island is also covered with large rainforests. You can climb a mountain and look out on to the surrounding islands from the mountain top.

No. 7 of Activities in Malaysia

Sea Fishing in Kota Kinabalu

Deep Sea Fishing Adventure in Kota Kinabalu takes anglers into the fertile waters of the South China Sea. Under the guidance of experienced local captains, there is a chance to hook prized game fish like marlin and giant trevally. The trip offers more than sport; it includes sightings of dolphins and sea turtles against the majestic backdrop of Mount Kinabalu. This activity combines the thrill of the catch with the awe of Sabah's marine biodiversity, providing a full-day immersion into the region's vibrant coastal life and natural beauty.

No. 3 of Night Attractions in Sabah

Gaya Street

Gaya Street is the main street of the old town of Kota Kinabalu. It took shape as early as 1902 and was known as Bond Street by the British during the colonial period, while local Chinese residents were accustomed to calling it "Middle Street." A Chinese-style archway stands at the entrance of the street, and inside are rows of old Chinese shophouses, with teahouses, restaurants, and grocery stores side by side, which is why it is known as the "Chinatown" of Sabah. The street also retains an old post office building, which has now been converted into a tourist information center and is one of the few surviving pre-war buildings in Kota Kinabalu. The highlight of this street is the market that opens every Sunday morning. Stalls occupy almost the entire street, where you can find everything from local snacks, coffee powder, and fresh produce to handicrafts, clothing, footwear, and even pet stalls. It is full of local life, where you can hunt for affordable souvenirs and observe the daily life of locals shopping at the market.

Manutik Island

The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, located on the sea on the west side of Kota Kinabalu, consists of 5 islands. Mamudi Island is the smaller one, but the essence is often concentrated. The west side of the island is a rocky coast, and the east side of the island is a rocky coast. The side is a beach, the water quality here is very good, very suitable for snorkeling. There are large pieces of coral underwater on this island, and various marine creatures such as clownfish and sea urchins live. Even standing on the trestle that stretches into the sea, you can take pictures of small fish swimming in the transparent seawater. If you go into the water, you can see them More, so Mamudi is a great island for snorkeling. In addition to snorkeling on the island, you can also pay to play motorboats, parachutes, etc. Tourists who can't swim may wish to take a walk on the bottom of the sea. Wear a helmet with a snorkel to breathe underwater, and you can also try submarine motorcycles. (aka the Little Sheep on the Sea), put on a helmet with oxygen delivery, ride a special motorbike slowly on the bottom of the sea, and watch schools of fish swim around you. There are fresh water showers and public toilets on the island, but there is no hotel, so you can camp. It is recommended to bring your own tent and prepare food and water.

No. 6 of Activities in Malaysia

Night Markets in Kota Kinabalu

No. 5 of Night Attractions in Sabah

Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia

Sapi Island Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia (also known as the Mantanani Islands) is located off the northwest coast of Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia. It consists of three islands: Pulau Mantanai Besar, Mantanani Kechil Island, and Lungisan Island. It is named after the dugongs that are occasionally spotted in the nearby waters—these gentle marine mammals are the inspiration for the mermaid legend. The island still retains its fishing villages, where white sandy beaches, rows of coconut trees, and villagers drying their nets create a slow-paced scene of a tropical island. There are numerous diving and snorkeling spots around the islands. On the seabed, you can see colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. Marine life such as spotted eagle rays, stingrays, and seahorses also inhabit these waters. Some diving spots still retain shipwreck remains, adding another layer to underwater exploration.

No. 8 of Activities in Malaysia

Fireflies Watching in Kota Kinabalu

As night falls over Kota Kinabalu's mangrove forests, thousands of fireflies illuminate the trees like a river of stars flowing to earth. Guided by boatmen, visitors glide into this enchanting world where flickering lights mirror the starry sky above. The gentle breeze sets the entire forest aglow with rhythmic pulsations, creating a scene reminiscent of twinkling Christmas decorations. In this magical moment, the outside world fades away, leaving only a silent conversation with nature's living lights. Mangrove Firefly Tour: Embark on a gentle boat ride through mangrove waterways while a guide explains the local ecosystem. As night falls, thousands of fireflies twinkle in unison among the trees, creating a magical and serene natural spectacle. Island Tour with Fireflies: Spend the day exploring islands, enjoying beaches and water activities, then visit a mangrove area at dusk to observe fireflies. This combination offers both sun-soaked adventures and an evening of magical glow, perfect for those seeking varied experiences.