7 Scenic spots in Sabah you must visit

Out & About: 7 Scenic spots in Sabah you must visit

MF editorial team

19 Sep 2016

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Mount Kinabalu
It’s said to be heaven for mankind and as for the views from Mount Kinabalu? They are exquisite. It is one of the highest mountains of South East Asia, but the hiking trails enable even unexperienced climbers to climb its magnificent heights. That is if you’re prepared for it. As you find yourself amongst nature and clouds, you’ll forget all about the struggles of the climb because of the unimaginably striking views that grab your attention. It is one of those places where even your camera won’t depict the beauty and splendid atmosphere when you’re climbing the mountain.
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Sipadan National Park
For the most scenic spot in Sabah, you’re going to have to dive a little deeper – literally. Sipadan National Park is known as one of the best diving spots, because when you dive in, you’re going to witness nature unlike you’ve ever seen it before. Being the only oceanic island in Malaysia, it’s home to many different species populating the waters of the ocean. It’s like the flower bouquet to an already-classy decorated room. It stands out and makes everything look much more beautiful. It’s not easy to get to Sipadan island, but if you do, you’ll be telling the tale your entire lifetime.
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Kinabalu Park
Kinabalu Park is officially Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site. Hiking through this gem will enable you to experience nature in its true form. You’ll get to witness wildlife, and more than 90 species of mammals, as well as more than 5000 species of plants. The view of Mount Kinabalu is so gorgeous, even if you’re not ready to go for the climb, you’ll get a chance to sink in the beauty of this majestic mountain. There are many trails to choose from in order to explore the great outdoors and keep your camera busy all day.
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Tawau Hills Park
Enter the Tawau Hills Park forest and it’s like you’ve entered a different dimension. It’s unlike any forest you’ve come across on your journey so far. It’s the host to the highest tropical tree in the world, and the entire grandiose forest will make you feel more than tiny. It’s really the kind of scenery where you can feel the power of nature. Don’t be surprised if an animal passes your way. The Tawau Hills Park is the home to many iguanas, chameleons and red leaf monkeys. A true treasure of nature, indeed.
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Manukan Island
It’s no mystery why this specific island is the most visited in Sabah, both by tourists and locals. It’s a 15-minute ride to nature’s work of art. If you’re a fan of long, golden beaches and crystal clear waters, this is the ideal spot to take your camera out. The tranquillity of the sea is so relaxing that even non-swimmers like to soak their feet in and enjoy the calm nature of the water. If you've always wanted to visit one of the beaches you see on postcards and Instagram, then put Manukan Island on your bucket list.
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The Tip of Borneo
It’s home to stunning sunsets and glistening moonlight. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Sabah. As the meeting point of the South China Sea and Sulu Sea, it’s undoubtedly a glorious scenic spot to visit. While you might encounter a warning sign saying it’s dangerous to go to the very tip, most tourists can't resist the open sea and gorgeous panoramic view. Although it’s frequently windy, the open sea and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks almost mesmerises you to come closer. Just watch your step!
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Danum Valley
Ever stepped foot in a 130 million-year-old rainforest? This virgin Borneo rainforest, rich in diverse flora and fauna, is characterised by tall and massive trees. It is a place where some of the most precious species of plants and animals on the entire planet live. Stunning waterfalls, canopy walks, and simple trekking through this tropical rainforest is enough to take your breath away.

With so many untouched spots of nature in Sabah, it would be a shame not to take advantage of it, and experience natural scenery at its finest.

What does one of the two states of Malaysia’s island of Borneo have to offer? Sabah is still yet to be discovered by masses of tourists but it has some of the most exotic scenic spots in the entire world. Sabah should be your next destination because of the lush rainforests, crystal clear seas, exotic natural history, coral reefs and the hospitality of the locals. If you’re interested to know what Sabah has to offer, stay tuned because we are about to let you in on the seven most beautiful scenic spots in Sabah. Head up to the gallery to check them out!

Alicia Tham

Photos: Getty Images

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