7 Hidden Spots to Explore in Sabah, Malaysia

Sabah is a state in Malaysia that is known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity. It has many attractions that draw tourists from all over the world, such as Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, and the islands of Sipadan and Mabul, which are famous for their diving sites. But Sabah also has many hidden spots that are not as well-known, but are equally amazing and worth exploring. In this article, we will share with you seven of these hidden spots to explore in Sabah, where you can discover the secrets and wonders of this land. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Sabah has something for you. So, let’s begin our journey into the hidden spots of Sabah!

1. Enjoy the diverse wonders of Sandakan

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Sandakan is a place where nature and culture meet in harmony. One of the attractions that showcases this is the Puu Jih Shih Temple. This temple is a sight to behold, with its red and gold colours and its intricate design. It also offers a panoramic view of the Sandakan coast, which is breathtaking.

Fun fact: This temple was featured in the American TV show The Amazing Race 4 in 2003. It is easy to see why, given the beauty of the location!

_{Image credit: Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Official Website}

For those who love wildlife, Sabah has a lot to offer. One of the places that is worth visiting is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. This center is a sanctuary for the sun bears, which are the smallest and most endangered bears in the world. Visitors can watch and admire these adorable animals while learning about how they are being rescued and rehabilitated.

Fun fact: Sun bears are also known as honey bears, because they love to eat honey from bee hives.

2. Relax and unwind at the stunning Semporna

_{Image credit: Sipadan Official Website}

Semporna, Sabah is a beach lover’s dream. It has clear water, soft sand, and sunny weather. It is not Hawaii, but it is just as perfect. Semporna offers many activities for relaxing and having fun. One can snorkel or dive in the water and see the colorful coral and fish. 

One can also visit Bohey Dulang Island, which is a short boat ride away. Bohey Dulang Island has a hiking trail that leads to a crater lagoon. The trail is 353m high and takes about 45 minutes to complete. Along the way, one can see different plants and birds. The view from the top is amazing and worth the effort.

3. Visit the magnificent Mahua Waterfall in Tambunan

_{Image credit: @candzcanders via UrbanSabah Official Facebook Page}

Mahua Waterfall is a hidden wonder that is worth visiting. It is located 26km away from Tambunan town, and it is surrounded by a rich biodiversity. Mahua Waterfall is a spectacular sight, with its water falling from a height of 17m. It is also a place where one can see the Kinabalu Bluebottle, a butterfly that is only found in Sabah. Mahua Park has eco-trails that allow visitors to explore the flora and fauna of the area. One can find rare fungi and insects that thrive in the humid environment. Mahua Waterfall is a place where nature lovers can enjoy the beauty and diversity of Sabah.

Mahua Waterfall is a towering beauty that is worth capturing. It is 17m high, which is equivalent to six stories. If one wants to have some fun, one can stand under the falls and feel the refreshing spray. Mahua Waterfall is a hidden gem in Tambunan that not many people know about.

_{Image credit: Borneo Kiim Resort Tambunan Official Facebook Page}

Borneo Kiim Resort is a unique and luxurious way to experience nature. It is the first resort in Borneo that offers tents with modern amenities and stunning views. Borneo Kiim Resort is located 1,000m above sea level, in the highlands of Sabah. It has a floating infinity pool that overlooks the valley, a playground for children, and a bar that serves drinks and snacks while watching the sunset. Borneo Kiim Resort is a place where one can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature without compromising comfort.

4. Enjoy the sunny paradise of Dinawan Island

_{Image credit: Ara Dinawan Island 珊瑚岛 Official Facebook Page}

Dinawan Island is a hidden paradise that is easy to reach. It is a private island that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Dinawan Island has beautiful beaches that are not crowded with tourists. One can enjoy the sun, the sand, and the sea without any disturbance. Dinawan Island is a perfect place for a quick getaway from the busy city life.

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Dinawan Island has coral reefs that are in good condition, with many kinds of marine life to see. One can also try kayaking, paragliding, or banana boating for some thrill. Dinawan Island is a great place to relax and enjoy the sound of the waves. It is a hidden gem that not many people know about.

5. Discover the Secrets of Pulau Tiga, the First Location of Survivor

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Pulau Tiga is an island that was featured in the reality TV show Survivor in 2000. It is also known as Survivor Island, because it was the location of the first season of the show. Pulau Tiga is a place where one can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the island. It has clear water, white sand, and mud pools that are good for the skin. Pulau Tiga is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway, where one can relax and have fun.

_{Image credit: Amazing Borneo Official Website}

Pulau Tiga has more to offer than just the mud-spa. One can also explore the island by hiking and visiting the nearby islands. Pulau Tiga is a hidden gem of Sabah that has a lot of natural beauty and charm. It is a place where one can have a memorable and fun experience.

6. Experience the Magic and Charm of Batu Luang Beach

_{Image credit: @smarhamid via SABAH, Malaysian Borneo Official Facebook Page}

Batu Luang beach is a beautiful place to visit in Kuala Penyu. It is a quiet and peaceful beach that has a stunning view of the sea and the sky. Batu Luang beach is especially amazing during the golden hour, which is the time before sunset or after sunrise. The golden hour makes the beach look more magical and romantic, with its warm and soft light. Batu Luang beach is a hidden gem of Sabah that not many people know about.

Batu Luang beach has another attraction that is worth seeing. During low tide, one can see the famous Batu Luang rock formation, which is a large rock that stands out from the sea. The rock is surrounded by smaller rocks that are covered with bright green moss. The contrast between the rock, the moss, and the water creates a beautiful scene that is very photogenic. Batu Luang beach is a place where one can enjoy the nature and the tranquility of Sabah.

_{Image credit: @ramdannain | SABAH, Malaysia Borneo}

Batu Luang beach has a legend behind its rock formation. According to the story, a bride was trapped in the cave by a storm and turned into a rock. Some people believe that the rock is haunted by the bride’s spirit, who is looking for her groom. Others think that the story is just a myth to scare children. But no matter what one believes, Batu Luang beach is still a beautiful place to visit and enjoy.

7. Unravel the Mysteries of Supirak Island

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Supirak Island is a place that has a sad and mysterious story behind it. According to the legend, Supirak Island was once a ship that was cursed by a mother who was abandoned by her son. The ship and its crew turned into stones and palm trees, and the mother became a rock that is still visible on the island. Supirak Island looks like a ship from a distance, and one can see the stones and trees that resemble humans and animals. Supirak Island is a place that reminds visitors of the power of love and loyalty.

_{Image credit: Sabah Tourism Official Site}

To reach Supirak Island, you need to take a boat from the jetty for about ten minutes. Along the way, one can enjoy the view of the emerald water, which is very clear and beautiful. Supirak Island is a remote and isolated place, but it is worth the journey. It has many geological wonders that one can explore and admire. Supirak Island is a place where one can see the amazing shapes and forms of nature.

Sabah is a land of many hidden wonders and secrets. It has a lot of hidden spots that are not well-known, but are very beautiful and interesting in Sabah. Sabah is a place where one can experience the nature, the culture, and the adventure of Southeast Asia. Sabah is definitely a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. I hope you enjoyed reading about the seven amazing hidden spots to explore in Sabah.