Before we dive into Sabah’s unique wonders, let’s get familiar with a few key locations often mentioned together: Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, and Semporna.
Sabah: A state in East Malaysia, famous for its rich natural beauty.
Kota Kinabalu: The capital city of Sabah, also known as Kota Kinabalu or KK. 
Semporna: A district located in southern Sabah, with a laid-back atmosphere and affordable flights during off-peak seasons.
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park vs. Talo Island
While Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a popular destination, the secret gem lies just 6 km northeast of Gaya Island—Talo Island. Once overlooked, it has recently been developed for tourism.
The island is covered by lush tropical rainforest, and its modest sandy beach is perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re walking along the pristine beach, snorkeling, swimming, or enjoying water sports like parasailing, fly-fishing, underwater walking, or jet skiing, there’s always something exciting to do.
Manukan Island: The Mermaid’s Paradise
Located 80 km northeast of Kota Kinabalu, Manukan Island, once “Mantanani,” is known as “Mermaid Island” for its wild manatees. With beautiful beaches, caves, and crystal-clear waters, it offers an unforgettable experience.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore the underwater world, interact with clownfish, or hop on a kayak for some scenic shots. As the day fades, the sky glows in fiery hues, offering a perfect sunset shot.
Firefly River & Mangrove Forests
A visit to Kota Kinabalu wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the magical mangrove forests. During the day, you can catch a glimpse of Malaysia’s national treasure, the Proboscis Monkey, and in the evening, witness the spectacular firefly show.
Take a long-tail boat ride through the mangroves, enjoy the tranquil natural surroundings, and relax while soaking in the blue skies and lush greenery.
Mount Kinabalu: The Sacred Summit
Standing tall at 4,095 meters, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak on the island of Borneo. The locals regard the mountain as a sacred place where souls ascend after death, hence the name “Sacred Mountain.” In 2000, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming Malaysia’s first such site.
Popular activities on the mountain include hiking, paragliding, and visiting the highland ranch where cows and sheep roam freely. You can also hand-feed calves and lambs, and sample some freshly made highland ice cream.
For those seeking relaxation after hiking, the Poring Hot Springs, located 43 km northeast of the mountain, offers sulfuric waters that help soothe sore muscles.
The Poring Suspension Bridge is another must-see, stretching 160 meters in length and soaring 41 meters above the forest floor, offering an adrenaline-pumping view as you cross it step by step.
Kiulu River: The Longest White Water Rafting Adventure
Located at the foot of Mount Kinabalu, Kiulu River offers a thrilling white-water rafting experience. It is the longest rafting route in Sabah, stretching over 15 km, and is suitable for adventurers of all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.
Floating Mosque: A Blend of Modern and Traditional
Kota Kinabalu’s Floating Mosque, although a relatively modern structure, stands out for its unique design surrounded by water. It has quickly become one of the most popular tourist spots in the area due to its serene and picturesque setting.
Puh Toh Temple: A Piece of Chinese Culture
This temple is home to a giant statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, and features beautiful white jade sculptures of Chinese maidens. The artistic carvings reflect high craftsmanship, and even the temple’s materials were imported from China.
The Orchard of Windward: A Taste of Organic Tropical Fruits
Sip on fresh fruit juices while exploring a variety of organically grown tropical fruits such as durian, mangosteen, rambutan, Langsat Tarap (Sabah fruit), and jackfruit. It’s a delightful way to discover the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Local Delights: Crab Vermicelli and Laksa
No trip to Sabah is complete without trying some of the local delicacies. Indulge in the signature crab vermicelli hot pot and savor the rich flavors of big-head shrimp laksa noodles. These dishes capture the essence of Sabah’s vibrant food culture and are a treat for every traveler.
