10 Exciting things to do with your kids in Sabah

1/10
Tanjung Aru Beach
Bask in one of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet at Tanjung Aru Beach, where you and your children can frolick on the flat sea, go out far into the ocean without going too deep, and build sandcastles on the vast expense of the coastline, all while witnessing the beautiful scene of sundown.
Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Photo: Getty Images
2/10
Island Hopping
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park consists of 5 outlying islands, easily accessible by speedboat from the mainland. There are tons of activities suitable for the entire family, such as diving, sea walking, boating and so much more. Or if you wish, simply just have a cooling swim in the sea with your kids for a simple afternoon of fun.
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Photo: Getty Images
3/10
Parasail
Pay a visit to one of Sabah's outlying islands at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, where you and your children can enjoy all manner of watersports. For those of you with older tweens, parasailing out in the open sea would be a perfect opportunity for you both to enjoy both the thrill and the view.
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Photo: Getty Images
4/10
Snorkel
Another exciting water activity to do at the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park would be to bring the entire family for a trip of snorkelling! Kids generally adore snorkelling, and it doesn't take very long to learn. We recommend going to Manukan Island to snorkel, where there are coral reefs offshore to wonder in awe at.

Manukan Island, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Photo: Getty Images
5/10
Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is totally doable for kids too, but even for the fittest of families, you have to be physically prepared for this climb. If you're a family of explorers and adventurers, then make a reservation to climb this splendour of a mountain to be rewarded with magnificent views. The number of climbers is limited to 135 people daily, so to avoid any disappointment, be sure to book in advance.
Mount Kinabalu, Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia
Photo: Getty Images
6/10
Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
Perfect for your young ones to learn more about wildlife and the conservation efforts of Sabah, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary to see these creatures being fed by rangers, or even a chance to see little orangutans in their nursery too. Sabah Wildlife Department, W.D.T. 200, Sandakan, Jalan Sepilok, Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia Photo: Getty Images
7/10
Gaya Street Market
Located at Kota Kinabalu's Central Business District, the roads close every Sunday morning and early afternoon to make space for rows and rows of eclectic stalls. Indulge in some street food with your kids, or allow them to buy trinkets and treasures from dinky arts and craft stores, they'll find souvenirs they'd want to keep forever here.
Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Photo: Getty Images
8/10
Kinabatangan River Cruise
Join a day cruise, or a 2D1N one on Sabah's longest river, where you and your family will be able to have the opportunity to immerse yourselves in the rich wildlife Sabah has to offer. You can all expect to see crocodiles, hawks, eagles and even elephants if you're lucky, a perfect chance to see and appreciate animals without going to a zoo.
Kinabatangan River, Malaysia

Photo: Getty images
9/10
Jungle Trek
Sabah is speckled with beautiful rainforests, so bring your kids jungle trekking and tell them to tough it out for a rewarding, adventurous trip. Marvel in wonder at the lush flora and fauna nestled in the forest, and if you're lucky you might even see cheeky monkeys too!
Bukit Rimau, Block D, Warisan Square, D-01-20, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Sabah, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Photo: Getty Images
10/10
Tabin Wildlife Resort
Have an unique stay at a hill lodge at Tabin Wildlife Resort, where you can bring your children on bird watching adventures, and nature trails to see an eclectic array of birds, insects and animals. If your kids are a little older, the whole family can go on a biking trip together as well for extra adventure.
Lot 11-1, 1st Floor, Damai Point, Jalan Damai, Kota Kinabalu
Photo: Tabin Wildlife Resort Facebook

Impossibly rich in marine biodiversity and filled with lush, emerald rainforests, Sabah is every wanderlust-induced adventurer’s dream. From scaling the grandeur that is Mount Kinabalu to watching baby orangutans maneuver their way to their mom, Sabah is a dream that will captivate every heart.

You’ve got the sweetest darlings, but when it comes to travelling with your children, your options can suddenly seem tragically limited. Kids at a younger age can get tired easily, or they’re not mature enough to understand or appreciate the beauty of nature. But don’t fret just yet – we’ve carefully curated a list of the best things to do with your kids in Sabah, and we promise that it’ll be super fun for the entire family.

Winnie Tan

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