With beaches and bays, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries and lush green parks, Sabah is a paradise for outdoor explorers and nature lovers. On land and sea there’s plenty to see and do, from rainforest hikes and visits to wildlife sanctuaries, to standup paddleboarding and boat trips. Here’s how to spend a dreamy getaway in Sabah…
MAKE A SPLASH
Sabah has some of the best beaches in Malaysia, providing stunning sunsets and plenty of snorkelling opportunities. Tanjung Aru beach in Kota Kinabalu is a must-visit for sunrise standup paddleboarding and beach BBQs, whilst Kelambu beach boasts white sand and crystal-clear water, making it fantastic for snorkelling. Explorers can also easily take a boat to Bohey Dulang; formed by the remnants of an ancient volcano, Bohey Dulang today is a picture-perfect island set along a bright blue lagoon. Hire a private boat to explore the beautiful waters of Bohey Dulang and neighbouring islands in the Tun Sakaran Marine Park archipelago.
SOAK UP NATURE
Borneo is famous for its orangutans and there’s nowhere better to see the gentle creatures than the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The facility provides essential care for young, orphaned orangutans, helping them to regain strength and learn skills such as climbing and foraging, before returning to the wild. Visitors can learn about the essential work undertaken by the Centre and even see the feedings at 10am and 3pm every day. Travellers who are keen to don their walking boots in Sabah should be sure to visit Mont Kinabalu. At 13,435 feet, it’s the highest mountain in Malaysia and offers varied trails with incredible views at every turn.
WHERE TO STAY
One of the most luxurious hotels in the region, Shangri-La Rasa Ria combines incredible experiential adventure with the five-star service that is at the very heart of the Shangri-La brand. Each of its 499 rooms are designed with the comfort and needs of guests in mind, featuring stylish marble-clad bathrooms, premium complimentary toiletries and private balconies with views of the surrounding forest, garden or sea.
Beyond rooms, a private white sandy beach, contemporary spa and an 18-hole championship golf course are just some of the amenities that guests can enjoy. However, one of the most special and unique aspects of Shangri-La Rasa Ria is its nature reserve, the Rasa Ria Reserve. The 64-acre tropical jungle is home to a wealth of native flora and fauna, including long-tailed macaques, slow lorises and Malayan porcupines. Guests can explore the beautiful surroundings with a guided nature walk led by an expert local ranger.
For more information, visit www.shangri-la.com/en/kotakinabalu/rasariaresort and www.sabahtourism.com.
