Top 10 Beaches in Sabah for a Weekend Getaway (2024)

Are you looking for the best beaches in Sabah? Look no further! There is something for you, from the secluded and peaceful beaches to the popular and more developed ones. Here are our top picks based on beauty, tranquillity and fun.

1. Tanjung Aru Beach (Pantai Tanjung Aru)

Tanjung Aru Beach is one of the best beaches in Sabah for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sabah’s stunning shoreline. Whether you are looking for a peaceful stroll along the soft, orange sand or an exhilarating swim in its inviting waters, it has something for everyone. With nearby facilities such as huts and spots ideal for beachside barbecues, it’s easy to make a day out of your visit.

However, be aware that this area has strong undercurrents, so make sure you stay safe while swimming and watch out for jellyfish! Don’t forget to stick around until nightfall, when you can witness one of the world’s most magnificent, awe-inspiring sunsets.

2. Dalit Beach (Pantai Dalit)

Dalit Beach is a little unique, as it is a private beach belonging to Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort. Visitors of this resort can enjoy one of the best beaches in Sabah from the soft white sand to the jungle-covered outcrop. The inviting turquoise waters are great for swimming, while beach horse riding is available for the more active visitors.

When evening comes, don’t forget to check out the Sampan Bar for a cocktail experience like no other.

3. Kelambu Beach (Pantai Kelambu)

If you are looking for a unique beach experience, look no further than Kelambu Beach. Its turquoise waters make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy peace during the day. But that’s not all – at night, the sea lights up! The bioluminescence phenomenon is incredible, with a light trail following your every step in the water.

Make sure to stay in this hidden gem for a night under a new moon to see this true magic of nature come alive.

4. Bak Bak Beach (Pantai Bak Bak)

Bak Bak Beach is a stunning destination, with its rocky beach and clear waters. The waters are shallow enough for visitors to see the coral rocks on the shoreline easily. The beachfront is adorned with coconut groves, creating an idyllic view that will make you feel like you’re in paradise.

Whether it’s your first time or not, there’s something for everyone at this beach in Sabah from swimming and sunbathing to simply taking in the tranquil atmosphere. There’s no doubt that once you visit this breathtaking beach, you’ll be counting down the days till your next trip back!

5. UMS ODEC Beach (Pantai UMS ODEC)

UMS ODEC Beach is another excellent spot for a day with friends, family or your significant other. You can enjoy horse riding, archery, and much more here. If you want to relax, you can set a picnic and soak up some sun on the clean, quiet beach.

And if you need to cool off from the heat, visit the nearby Aquarium and Marine Museum or treat yourself to a snack at Marina Cafe.

6. Tindakon Dazang Beach (Pantai Tindakon Dazang)

When you’re looking for a great beach in Sabah far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Tindakon Dazang Beach is the perfect spot. Located in Kudat, this secluded beach has fewer visitors due to its location. GPS is highly recommended, as you must drive through an estate forest area with zig-zag roads.

While it is troublesome to get here, once you manage to reach the beach, it will be worth all your effort. You’ll be instantly awed by its clear waters and unique rock formations, which are a sight to behold! So, if tranquillity is what you’re after, this is the place to be.

7. Beach Scenes Kuala Penyu Sabah (Pantai Sawangan Kuala Penyu Sabah)

Beach Scenes Kuala Penyu Sabah is a fantastic place and one of the must-visit beaches in Sabah. Here, you can observe turtles and other marine life in their natural habitat. With the receding of water, you can see a large rock resembling a water-filled pool.

Tourists love this place due to its abundance of marine creatures unbothered by human presence. The cleanliness of the beach, combined with its bright blue waters, makes it a paradise – perfect for relaxing and unwinding on your vacation!

8. Kenangan Beach (Pantai Kenangan)

Kenangan Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some fantastic sights. Enjoy a stroll through the white sand while you take in the stunning blue beach water, or sit back, relax, and watch the sun go down on a hot summer day. You don’t have to worry about being inconvenienced either, as there are plenty of amenities like public toilets and chairs to make your beach trip as comfortable as possible.

And if you’re up for it, there’s even a BBQ spot where you can enjoy fresh seafood while enjoying the view. You can also drop by one of the stalls around here, where they offer all sorts of food and drinks that will keep you going until sunset.

9. Badarag Sikuati Beach (Pantai Badarag Sikuati)

Sikuati Beach in Sabah is an excellent place for anyone who loves taking pictures. The bridge over the beach creates a fantastic view of the sunsetting, perfect if you want to spend quality time with family and relax. What’s more, entrance tickets are only RM5!

You can also eat delicious seafood while watching the sunset at the floating restaurant. And if you are up for it, you can do some fishing here too.

10. Sabandar Beach (Pantai Sabandar)

Sabandar Beach is a great place to spend the day with family and friends. It’s an ideal spot for a beach getaway, as everyone can enjoy plenty of activities. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe or even build sandcastles, this beach has something for everyone. You can even explore the waves with your surfboard for those who are more adventurous.

There are also stalls around where you can buy food, so don’t worry about bringing snacks – Sabandar Beach has got you covered! With its many amenities and beautiful sunset views, it’s no wonder why this beach in Sabah is one of the most popular spots.

So, there you have it – the top beaches in Sabah that are sure to take your breath away. Sabah is a paradise for beach lovers with crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head on over to Sabah for an unforgettable vacation!