Sabah Islands and Beaches, Malaysia

Sandakan

The former capital city of Sabah, is today a major commercial centre, but remains a small Chinese-dominated town. There is nothing much to see and do in Sandakan itself, but it does make a good jumping-off point for the major surrounding attractions.

Sandakan: Berhala Islands

One of the islands off Sandakan is Berhala, easily reached by motorboat. This place is ideal for picnicking and swimming. A lighthouse on the highest point offers photographers captivating views.

Sandakan: Pulau Sapi - (Turtle Islands)

Northeast of Sabah lies the Turtle Islands Park of Pulau Selingan, Pulau Gulisan and Bakkungan Kecil. Located approximately 40 km from Sandakan, these islands are famed for Green and Hawksbill turtles, which are found in the surrounding seas and come ashore to nest on the beaches all year round. The Turtle Islands were gazetted a National Park in 1977 to protect the turtles from extinction.

The surrounding sea also supports an abundant coral life. With its pristine waters and unspoilt beaches, the islands are ideal for diving, swimming and picnicking.

Accommodation is available only at Pulau Selingan. Picnic tables with seats and barbecue stands are available but visitors should prepare their own food. Permission to visit the Park must be obtained from the Ranger-In-Charge at the Sabah Parks and is currently co-ordinated by the sole agency of Crystal Quest, located at Sabah Park Jetty in Sandakan.

Sandakan: Getting There

Fly to Sandakan from Kota Kinabalu. At Sandakan, board a boat at the Yacht Club that will bring you to the islands in about 3 hours. For day excursions, charter a speedboat. An overnight stay must currently be arranged via Crystal Quest, Sabah Park Jetty, Jalan Buli Sim Sim, P.O. Box 848, 90709 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia. Phone: 6-089-212711
Email: cquest@tm.net.my