25 Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru (Malaysia)

 Johor Bahru is a Malaysian town that sits just across from the border with Singapore. As is the case with many border towns, it had a rather seedy reputation for years before cleaning up its act and developing a great range of new family friendly attractions that have helped its popularity to soar.

If you are in Singapore and looking for a quick day trip then Johor Bahru is a great choice, and you will find a number of cutting-edge malls, bars, and eateries here. If you want to enjoy some of the history of this area however, then the city has a good range of historic and cultural sites, many of which date from the time of the British colonial period.

Any history buff will also enjoy the number of fascinating museums in Johor Bahru or you can spend time eating your way around the city. Like much of Malaysia, Johor Bahru has a delicious local street food scene, and some of the bakeries here are famous for having been in operation for decades.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Johor Bahru:

1. Walk along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

Jalan Tan Hoik Nee is named after one of the founding fathers of Johor Bahru and is also known for being one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.

It is here that you will find a number of delicious cafes and restaurants and there is also a high concentration of antique shops dotted along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

The architecture is also spectacular here and you can expect traditional Chinese style shop houses as well as a number of colonial buildings.

2. See the animals at the Johor Zoo

Johor Zoo

Johor Zoo was one of the first zoos to be built in Southeast Asia and dates from 1928. There are over a hundred different species of animals here and you can expect to find gorillas, elephants, lions, and flamingoes, to name just a few examples of the fauna on show.

There are also bird and reptile houses at the zoo and a number of eateries dotted around in case you fancy a bite to eat.

If you are travelling with children then this is an excellent pick and there are also opportunities to interact with some of the animals during feeding times.

3. Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple is a traditional temple that dates from the 19th century and was built in honor of five deities venerated by the Chinese community.

This is one of the oldest religious buildings of its kind in the city and is instantly recognizable thanks to its bright red and white color scheme.

In addition to the actual temple you will also find some exhibits that tell the story of how the Chinese community first came to Johor Bahru.

Certainly no trip to the city is complete without a visit to this famous site.

4. Tour the Istana Besar

Istana Besar

The Istana Besar is the Royal Palace and would have been the home of the Sultan of Johor in the days of old.

This impressive building was constructed in 1866 during the time of Sultan Abu Bakar and is a stunning mix of Malay and Western architecture.

Make sure to look out for the large dome that tops the structure as well as the signature blue roof.

Other points of interest here include the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which has a collection of antiques and heirlooms that would have belonged to the Royal Family.

5. Have fun at Legoland Malaysia

Legoland Malaysia

Anyone traveling with children should make sure not to miss Legoland Malaysia which has some 40 different rides that younger visitors will love.

The park opened in 2012 and there is an adjoining water park here where you can cool off with a range of water related rides and pools.

Some of the highlights at the parks include bumper cars and planes as well as a laser quest maze.

This is one of the most popular theme parks in Johor Bahru so expect it to be busy whenever you visit.

6. Explore the Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

The Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery is a museum that is located in two traditional shop houses that date from 1907. The buildings would have been used as the headquarters of the Kwong Siew Clan Association that was created by Wong Ah Fook, a Chinese born businessman who worked closely with the Sultanate of Johor.

The museum tells the story of the members of this clan and you will find ancient photographs as well as weapons, traditional costumes, and even oddities like antique opium pipes.

Make sure to check out the collections of old coins as well as the fortune telling equipment and the traditional cups, plates, and bowls.

7. Have fun at the Angry Birds Theme Park

Angry Birds Theme Park

The Angry Birds Theme Park is a large theme park that is dedicated to everything Angry Birds related.

This is one of the most popular attractions in Johor Bahru and the park sprawls for an amazing 26,000 square feet, As well as rides and amusement arcades there are also daily shows and performances with the Angry Birds characters and one of the big draws of the park is that it is open late into the evening so you can stay here and really feel that you are getting your money’s worth.

8. Visit Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque was built over a period of some eight years starting in 1892 and is a mix of British colonial architecture and traditional Islamic motifs.

One of the signature features of the mosque is the four minarets that are located on the top and are meant to look like traditional British clock towers.

Much of the interior is covered in white marble and you will find a pretty blend of quaint Victorian design features mixed with Moorish motifs.

The mosque can accommodate some 2,000 worshippers at one time and if you like religious architecture then this is not to be missed.

9. Admire Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is one of the most important buildings for the Hindu community in Johor Bahru and was the first Hindu building in the world to be made of glass.

Both the interior and exterior are decorated with glass which makes it glitter in the light of the sun, and you will notice statues of Christ and Buddha inside even though this is a traditionally Hindu building.

If you like unusual structures then make sure not to miss this quirky stop off the itinerary.

10. Sample the pastries at the Salahuddin Bakery

Salahuddin Bakery

The Salahuddin Bakery first opened its doors in 1937 and has been in operation ever since.

Here you will find a delicious selection of baked treats, but one of the main reasons that people have been flocking here for years is for the curry puffs which are a traditional Malay snack of curried meat or vegetables stuffed inside flaky pastry.

The bakery has not changed much since the days of old and the inside still looks like it would have done in the 1930s.

11. Istana Bukit Serene Johor Bahru

Istana Bukit Serene Johor Bahru

Istana Bukit Serene is now the official residence of the Sultan of Johor and as such it is not open to the public.

Many people still come here however to check out the exterior and you will find an arch here topped with a large model of the crown of the Sultan and you can also check out the manicured lawns from the outside.

The palace dates from 1933 and was built in the Art Deco style and as such it is a riot of interesting carvings and is topped with a main tower that soars to a height of 35 meters.

12. Visit Danga Bay

Danga Bay

Danga Bay is a waterfront complex that has a range of dining and lifestyle attractions.

It is a very popular spot for tourists in Johor Bahru as it is also the home of the Danga World Petting Zoo which is smaller than the main zoo in Johor but has animal shows where younger visitors can get up close to the animals.

Danga World Theme Park is also located in the Danga Bay Complex and has around 20 rides such as a scenic Ferris wheel and spinning tea cups.

13. Sample Kam Long Fish Head Curry

Fish Head Curry

Johor Bahru has a great food scene and one of its famous dishes is the traditional fish head curry.

If you fancy trying some then head to Kam Long Fish Head Curry which will probably be easy to spot as it usually has a long line of hungry patrons outside.

They only serve one dish here which is the aforementioned curry, although there is the choice of having the head replaced with fish tail if you prefer.

Either way the curry base is the same and you can expect a delicious thick sauce that comes with bean curd, ladyfingers, and tomatoes.

14. Tour the Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception

Roman Catholic Church Of The Immaculate Conception, Johor Bahru

The Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest buildings that still stands in Johor as it was built in 1883. The structure is known for its lone steeple that is topped with a scenic spire and it is designed in the traditional British colonial style.

The church is also known for its colorful Harvest Festival which takes place in January and is based on the Tamil datival of Pongal, so if you are in town at the right time of year make sure not to miss it.

15. Go shopping at the Johor Premium Outlets

Johor Premium Outlets

One of the big reasons that visitors flock to Johor is for the bargain shopping opportunities here, the best of which are found at the Johor Premium Outlets.

This shopping mall style complex carries a huge range of international and local brands all of which are sold at competitive prices and there are also some eateries and cafes here so you can get a bite to eat in between all the shopping.

16. Enjoy the art at the Johor Bahru Art Gallery

Johor Bahru Art Gallery

The Johor Bahru Art Gallery is located in a building that dates from 1910 and this is a great place to come if you want to know a little more about Malaysian art work.

The gallery has a range of different kinds of art on show such as Islamic calligraphy as well as ceramics, weaponry, and even ancient bank notes and coins.

You will also find some modern paintings on display and the building is topped with a thatched roof and has a large ceremonial drum at its entrance.

17. Visit Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru

Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru

One of Johor’s great claims to fame is its religious diversity and with that in mind you can visit a Sikh temple here which was built in 1992. Visitors come here to check out the signature yellow window frames as well as the pretty crenellated roof and this is an important place of worship for the 250 Sikh families who call Johor Bahru home.

If you are visiting all the other religious sites in town then make sure not to give Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru a miss.

18. Visit the War Memorial

Located on Jalan Abu Bakar is the War Memorial which is made up of two obelisks that are dedicated to servicemen who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars.

It was built in 1962 and is a moving stop off on a tour of the city.

It is also known for its pretty views that look out over the Strait of Johor.

19. Get outside at Taman Merdeka

Taman Merdeka Johor Bahru

Taman Merdeka is the largest public park in the city and is a great choice if you want to get outside and enjoy one of Johor Bahru’s green spots.

The park has a range of interesting sections such as an open-air theater and a series of rock sculptures.

Other points to look out for include the monument dedicated to Malaysia’s independence as well as some cannons and a clock tower.

20. Have dinner at Medan Selera Meldrum Walk

Johor Bahru, like the rest of Malaysia, is known for its amazing hawker street food.

With this in mind, if you want to sample some of the best in the business, then come to the Medan Selera Meldrum Walk which sets up in the evening and has a wide selection of typically Malaysian dishes.

Some of the highlights sold here include delicious laksa which is a creamy soup flavored with coconut milk as well as ikan bakar which is fish rubbed in a spice paste and then grilled over coals.

21. Sunbathe on Desaru Beach

Desaru Beach, Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is next to the water and looks across to the Strait of Johor.

As a result, you will find a long strip of sand along the coastline here and one of the best places to take it all in is on Desaru Beach.

A day on the beach may be just the ticket in Johor Bahru if you are looking for a place to relax away from the main hubs which are often filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, and shopping malls.

Some of the activities that you can enjoy here include going for an exhilarating banana boat ride or you can have a go at jet skiing.

This area is also known for its beach resorts if you want to stay in Johor Bahru a little longer.

22. Hunt for bargains at Pasar Karat

Johor Bahru is known for its shopping options but this usually comes in the form of high tech malls.

If you are looking for something a little different, then head to Pasar Karat which is a large flea market that has a wealth of hidden treasure just waiting to be discovered.

On a trip here you can expect to find a wide selection of second hand goods such as clothes and antiques and haggling is expected.

Make sure to note however that the market only opens in the evenings and things usually get moving only after 8 pm.

23. Relax at a spa

Spa, Johor Bahru

As is the case with many border towns, Johor Bahru is known for its spas.

As such, if you are looking for a way to relax and unwind while you are in town, then you will have come to the right place, and you will find spas all over the city.

One of the best known venues is a chain called Wang Zu Bu Luo and most of the spas in town offer similar services.

These include massages, facials, manicures, and more traditional treatments such as ear candling and cupping.

24. Explore Pasir Gudang Kite Museum

Pasir Gudang Kite Museum

Opened in 2002, the Pasir Gudang Kite Museum, or Muzium Layang-Layang as it is called in Malay, has the claim to fame of being the first museum in Malaysia to be completely dedicated to the history and cultural impact of these colorful kites.

As a result you will find a number of galleries with information about how layang-layang evolved and are made, as well as posters and videos about kite flying.

There is also an annual Kite Festival in Pasir Gudang and you will spot the museum a mile off as it has a quirky windmill structure on its roof.

This also serves to generate electricity to run the museum and if you are looking for a quirky attraction in Johor Bahru then this is a great pick.

25. Visit Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory

Hiap Joo Bakery And Biscuit Factory

This bakery in Johor Bahru is famous for having been in operation for more than 80 years.

As you can tell, they must be doing something right, and you can come here to sample the toothsome baked goods for yourself such as buns, cakes, and biscuits.

The bakery is known for using a charcoal oven to bake its treats, which was inspired by the traditional way of making biscuits in Hainan in China which was the hometown of the original owner.

Don’t be surprised if you have to queue here and make sure to try the signature pillowy banana cake.

25 best things to do in Sabah (Malaysia)

Sabah combines protected jungles with tropical islands spread in the South China, Sulu and Celebes Sea.

Jungle retreats, hundreds of kilometers of coastline and some of the world’s best diving spots feature in the East Malaysian state too. Throw in the chance to see wild orangutans, fireflies and carnivorous flowers.

Sabah is the pearl of Borneo with countless ecotourism activities and beach retreats. Visitors encounter unmatched biodiversity along jungle trails and have the chance to scale Malaysia’s tallest mountain.

Crazy Tourist explores the 25 best things to do in Sabah for nature, beaches and islands.

1. Mount Kinabalu: Malaysia’s granite beast

Mount Kinabalu

Sabah’s Mount Kinabalu (Gunung Kinabalu in Bahasa) is Borneo’s and Malaysia’s tallest peak.

Soaring to 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), it’s the highest point between the Himalayas and Papua New Guinea.

Travelers to Sabah immediately notice Kinabalu featuring on the state flag. It holds both deep ties to local Kazadan-Dusun indigenous people and ancient paganism.

Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a two-day affair. Day one involves hiking 3,272 meters (10,735 feet) to a hostel in Laban Rata. The second day starts at 2:00am to reach the summit in time for the sunrise.

Keep your eyes open for the changing landscapes, flowers and wildlife. Bring warm clothes for the higher altitudes.

Mount Kinabalu only permits a limited number of climbers each day. Places sell out months in advance.  Climbing Kinabalu in Sabah needs preparation to guarantee a spot.

2. Malaysia’s first Heritage Site: Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park became Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.

Covering an area of 754 square kilometers, the national park surrounds Mount Kinabalu in northwest Sabah. The tropical park is a biodiversity melting pot forming thousands of habitats.

More than 5,000 plants grow inside its borders including the carnivorous pitcher plants and colorful orchids. Kinabalu Park also houses the Rothschild slipper orchid (Paphiopedilum rothschildianum). This stripy flower is among the world’s rarest and most expensive orchids.

Over 300 birds, 100 species of mammals and several species of monkeys call Kinabalu Park home.

When combined, this makes the area one of the most important ecological zones on Earth.

3. Kota Kinabalu: A city on the sea

Kota Kinabalu Mosque

Kota Kinabalu, literally City of Kinabalu, is Sabah’s capital along the South China Sea.

Regular flights connect with Kuala Lumpur and other parts of Malaysian Borneo including Lahad Datu and Sandakan on the east coast.

For a capital city, Kota Kinabalu (KK for short) is tiny. But it packs a punch.

Travelers can visit the almost mirage-like Floating Mosque and stroll along the 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) Likas Bay. Or head to Signal Hill Observatory Platform for stunning views over KK.

Most visitors spend their time around Gaya Street, the city’s main stretch. Dozens of restaurants and a handful of bars fill the bustling street after dark.

Tourists often spend two or three days in KK before heading off to other parts of the state. Download the Grab Car App (Southeast Asia’s Uber) for convenient transport in the city.

4. The world famous Bornean sunset

Tanjung Aru Sunset

Borneo has a reputation for jungles, beaches and an almost guaranteed spectacular sunset.

As the sun dips, the horizon lights up with a blend of reds, oranges and purples. Watching on the beach is even more mesmerizing.

Kota Kinabalu’s Tanjung Aru is a short drive from the city center near the airport. The copper-orange sanded beach stretches against a border of bendy palm trees. Islands dominate the horizon.

Local families and tourists head down around 6:00pm.

5. Beaches, snorkeling and hiking on Kota Kinabalu’s islands

Manukan Island

Visiting Kota Kinabalu and skipping Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is like missing the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

Five islands (Gaya, Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Sulug) form the chain off the coast of Kota Kinabalu.

If you want beaches and snorkeling, head to the most popular Manukan Island. For light jungle trekking and to explore a floating village, visit Gaya.

The other three are more secluded with fewer tourists.

Regular speedboats connect Kota Kinabalu’s Jesselton Point with the marine park. Island-hopping trips are available too.

6. Zipline from one island to another

Coral Flyer Zipline

Ziplining has established itself as a favorite not-too-intense thrill-seeking activity.

Coral Flyer Zipline provides an experience found only in Sabah.

The zipline stretches 250 meters (820 feet) from Gaya Island to Sapi in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Strap yourself in and soar from one island to the next over the gentle azure South China Sea.

Apart from a shot of adrenaline, expect stunning views of the tiny archipelago and Sabah’s shoreline.

Remember to charge the Go Pro to capture Borneo’s longest zipline on film.

7. Sabah’s original Survivor Island

Pulau Tiga

TV series Survivor has become a household name covering 37 seasons since it first aired in 2000.

Season One took place on Sabah’s Pulau Tiga.

The island near Kota Kinabalu is just close enough to the mainland for easy access and far enough to feel like a desert island.

Since featuring on Survivor, Pulau Tiga (translating to ‘Three Islands’) allures the adventurous. Join a day tour and visit its mysterious mud volcanoes and sunbath on forgotten beaches.

Splash out for a night in either the ultra-luxurious Pulau Tiga Resort or Gaya Island Resort for a private beach getaway.

8. Cooler temperatures in Sabah’s highlands

Ranau Sabah

Ranau is Sabah’s version of West Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands.

The mountainous town sits at 1,176 meters (3,858 feet) a stone’s throw from Mount Kinabalu.

Locals flock for the cooler temperatures, fresher mountain air and to wake up with stunning views of Kinabalu.

Surrounding tea plantations form a sea of green. Stop by the cafés for a hot drink or high-tea with a view.

Dozens of trails penetrate the forests ranging from easy 30 minute hikes to several hour treks.

Ranau provides easy access to Kinabalu Park.

History fans can visit a memorial marking the final destination of WW2’s infamous Sandakan to Ranau Death March. More than 2,500 Australian and British prisoners of war lost their lives during three punishing marches.

9. The only place in Sabah where you’ll need a sweater

Kundasang

Kundasang holds the title as Sabah’s coldest town.

With an altitude of almost 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), temperatures regularly dip below 20°C.

Sabahans living the stifling lowlands make the two-hour journey from Kota Kinabalu for a mini-retreat. A few resorts cater to their needs.

Travelers often stop by for convenient access to Kinabalu Park which is just 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the town. Other highlights include fresh produce markets, views of Kinabalu and easy access to hiking trails.

10. Soak in Ranau’s natural spa

Hot Springs Ranau

Poring Hot Springs consist of a series of natural sulfuric pools near Ranau.

Hikers often stop by for a recuperating soak after climbing Mount Kinabalu. Others spend their time inside the spa-like complex.

But it’s not just about relaxation.

The family-friendly Butterfly Park is a highlight. Or hike to see the world’s largest (and smelliest) flower: Rafflesia.

Poring Hot Springs takes approximately 45 minutes by car to reach from Mount Kinabalu. The journey back to Kota Kinabalu is about two and a half hours.

11. The northernmost point of the world’s third largest island

Tip Of Borneo

Borneo is the world’s third largest island. Visiting the northernmost point is a favorite day trip from Kota Kinabalu.

The ‘Tip of Borneo’ sits approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) northeast of the capital in Kudat Town. Expect a three-hour drive through lush scenery, deserted shorelines and winding mountain roads.

In Kudat, a path leads to the northernmost point of Borneo. This is the spot where the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea meet.

Rocky outcrops form dramatic structures in the rough waters. Empty beaches are a short walk from Kudat Town.

12. Proboscis monkeys and fireflies

Kota Belud Monkeys

Kota Belud, a small town 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Kota Kinabalu, provides a glimpse into rural Sabah. Colorful bungalows sit next to two-storied traditional wooden houses.

The river meanders through the villages and hosts two other remarkable attractions.

Boats cruise along the river to find the rare proboscis monkeys. Others take passengers to watch the dancing fireflies after dark.

While seeing the primates isn’t a guarantee, holding a bright firefly in your hands almost certainly is.

13. Whitewater rafting in the jungle

Whitewater Rafting Sabah

Sabah’s rugged landscapes burst with fast-flowing rivers and almost secret rapids.

This gives rise to adventure activities in the rainforest including white water rafting. Thrill-seeking travelers can attempt the rapids through the dense jungle landscapes.

Monkeys perch in the tree branches watching the rafters with curiosity. Sambar deer occasionally peak out of the foliage while hornbills soar above.

Tamparuli’s Kiulu River, less than an hour from Kota Kinabalu, has a 15-kilometre (9.3-mile) set of class I and II rapids. Beaufort’s Padas River caters towards the more experienced.

14. Proboscis monkeys and crocodiles on the Kinabatangan River

River cruises along the 560 kilometer (348 miles) Kinabatangan River in East Sabah provide the chance to see Proboscis monkeys.

The unusual pot-bellied primates lurk with both their arms and legs spread in the mangrove branches. Certain parts of the Kinabatangan house Sabah’s largest population of these rare endemic species.

Most travelers spend the night in the riverside bungalows and chalets.

Join a river cruise in the afternoon for monkeys. Head out again after dark for crocodiles and the occasional pygmy elephant.

15. Meet orphaned orangutans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Center

Sepilok Rehabilitation Center

Borneo Island, along with Indonesian Sumatera, are the world’s only habitats for wild orangutans.

Sadly, deforestation and hunting threaten our orange-haired cousins.

Sepilok near Sandakan opened in 1964 becoming the world’s first orangutan rehabilitation center. The semi-wild enclosure adopts and nurtures the young and orphaned in a protected environment.

A boardwalk leads to a viewing platform. Feeding time at both 10:00am and 3:00pm entice the 75 resident orangutans out into the open.

Sepilok provides an almost guaranteed chance to see orangutans in their natural habitat.

16. Sabah’s first colonial capital

Sandakan in East Sabah became the capital of British North Borneo in 1879.

In 1946 after suffering destruction during WW2, the capital moved to present day Kota Kinabalu.

Because of the devastation, Sandakan lost most of its colonial architecture. But the little-visited city acts as a convenient point to visit Sepilok, Gomantong Cave and Selingan Turtle Island.

Sandakan itself has colorful Chinese temples, colonial-like churches and an English Tea House. The stilted Buli Sim Sim Water Village on the outskirts of the city is a favorite side trip.

17. Danum Valley: Sabah’s most biodiverse jungle

Borneo’s globally acclaimed reputation for biodiversity can be attributed to Danum Valley in East Sabah.

Danum Valley Field Center is both a world-class conservation facility and ecotourism haven.

Located two hours into the 130-million-year-old rainforest from the nearest town Lahad Datu, the protected area has remained free of human settlements. This means the jungle is still the same today as it was millions of years ago.

Visitors can follow jungle trails with expert guides, climb up to canopy walks and join night safaris. Orangutans live near the Field Centre. Pygmy elephants sometimes roam nearby.

Those looking to splurge can stay in the eco-friendly bungalows. Prince William and Kate Middleton stayed in these when they visited Danum Valley in 2012.

Hostel beds and camping facilities cater towards the more budget conscious.

18. Explore where few people have explored at Maliau Basin

Maliau Basin in the heart of Sabah is among the least explored parts of the planet.

Most of the region remains unmapped.

The Maliau River flows through a basin, which rises 1,675 meters (5,495 feet). The geography and lack of human activity create an almost self-contained ecosystem.

Getting here takes time and patience. Those who do usually combine Maliau Basin with a trip to Danum Valley.

Hike to the summit, search for wildlife and swim in natural pools.

Only a handful of privileged souls have walked along the same trails before.

19. Sea Nomad villages at Semporna

East Sabah’s Semporna acts as a gateway to Tun Sakaran Marine Park and Sipadan Island.

Few international travelers make it this far unless they’re heading to the islands.

But Semporna provides a window into one of Southeast Asia’s most mysterious indigenous peoples: The Bajau.

Seafaring Bajau live on the water earning the nickname ‘Sea Nomads’ or ‘Sea Gypsies’.  With an uncanny ability to dive without equipment to the seabed, they’re an enigmatic part of Sabah.

Bajau floating villages, rickety wooden houses forming a neighborhood, line Semporna’s coast.

Take a water taxi and explore the mini-town above the water complete with shops, mosques and schools.

20. Sabah’s best diving on Sipidan Island

Sipadan Island upholds an international reputation with acclaimed divers.

The island near Semporna in East Sabah consistently gets voted among the world’s best diving spots. Tours ferry scuba fans to dozens of sites which houses countless species of marine life.

After a day in the sea, return to Sipadan’s tropical paradise. White beaches line the sandy atoll’s shores as jungle dominates its interior.

Because of Sipadan’s protected status, the marine park issues only 120 diving permits each day. Plan your trip and secure a placement at least three months in advance.

21. The most beautiful spot in Sabah

Bohey Dulang on Bodhgaya Island in East Sabah’s Celebes Sea has a stunning sapphire-blue lagoon.

According to visitors, the small mountainous island is the Sabah’s most beautiful spot.

White-beaches line the coastlines with a thick jungle spreading over the center. Hike to its peak at 353 meters (1,158 feet) for the best views of the lagoon.

Bodgaya belongs to the Tun Sakaran Marine Park approximately 23 kilometers (14.3 miles) from Semporna Island.

22. A luxurious retreat on Lankayan Island

Lankayan Island offers a taste of Maldivian-style luxury in East Sabah.

The Lankayan Island Dive Resort is the island’s only resort inside the protected marine park. Overwater bungalows line the empty beaches offering guests a private section of sand and sea.

Visitors can relax on the beach, snorkel outside their bungalow or take diving trips to deeper waters.

Travel between June and September and witness turtles laying their eggs in the sand. Shortly afterwards, the babies escape the shells and scuttle across the sand towards the sea.

Lankayan Island is approximately 90 minutes from Sandakan by speedboat.

23. World-class diving on Mantanani

Mantanani Island in West Sabah has more than 20 relatively unexplored diving sites.

PADI-Certified travelers can join a tour which visits four or five sites as part of a day trip. Some burst with hundreds of colorful fish above the corals. Others lead to shipwrecks.

Apart from the underwater world, dugongs (sea cows) often swim in the warm tropical waters.

Either visit Mantanani Islands on a day trip from Kota Kinabalu. Or arrange a diving trip from one of the tour companies in the city.

24. Hiking in the jungle

Sabah’s biggest appeal is its easy access to the rainforest.

Visitors won’t face the same lengthy expeditions into the jungle as they would in the Amazon. Instead, it’s often possible to have a taste of the landscapes on a day trip.

Several hiking trails penetrate the forests near Kota Kinabalu. Longer ones lead around the jungle in Kinabalu Park.

Either join a tour from Kota Kinabalu. Or search online and hike with an informal group of locals.

25. Search for carnivorous plants

Sabah houses two unusual species of plants which resemble something out of a sci-fi movie.

Both Rafflesia and Pitcher Plants use sophisticated biology to entice insects towards them. When the bugs step inside, the flowers start to digest and absorb their flesh.

The carnivorous flowers are endemic to Borneo and Sabah.

Rafflesia, often called the Rotting Flesh Flower, is both the world’s largest and smelliest. The red giant releases a disgusting odor to mimic the smell of decomposing meat to attract insects.

Pitcher plants hang like an upside-down bell and allure their victims with a sweet scent.

Both are spectacular sights. Travelers can visit these weird lifeforms with the help of a guide.