Things To Do
in Beaufort
Beaufort is a tranquil town in Sabah set along the Beaufort River, surrounded by lush hills and rural farms. It serves as an authentic gateway to western Sabah’s natural landscapes and Indigenous culture, without the crowds of larger cities. The town blends colonial-era remnants with river life, markets, and friendly communities.
Visitors come for a relaxed pace, nearby nature, and a glimpse of everyday Sabah.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Beaufort Railway Station, a charming structure that reflects the town's colonial past. Take a leisurely walk around the historic town center, where you can admire the unique architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Malaysian breakfast of Nasi Lemak and a cup of Teh Tarik.
After lunch, explore the nearby Beaufort Wetlands Park, where you can enjoy the serene landscape and spot various bird species. Spend some time at the local market, where you can find handmade crafts and local delicacies. As the sun begins to lower, visit the historic Beaufort Fort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
As night falls, enjoy a dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local seafood dishes while listening to the sound of the waves. After dinner, take a stroll along the river promenade, where you can soak in the peaceful atmosphere and watch the local fishermen at work. End your day by indulging in some traditional Malaysian desserts from a nearby stall.
Kick off the day with an early breakfast at your accommodation, followed by a drive to nearby beaches like Pantai Manis. Once there, enjoy the soft sands and clear waters while participating in water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides. Take time to relax under the sun, soaking in the tropical vibes.
Post-lunch, try your hand at snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life just off the coast. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to paddle along the coast and discover hidden coves. After some exciting water activities, unwind with a coconut drink while enjoying the scenic beach views.
As the sun begins to set, find a beachside café where you can enjoy a fresh seafood barbecue dinner. Witness the stunning sunset over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. End your beach day with a bonfire or by simply relaxing on the sand, listening to the gentle waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $1-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🧭Entrance to parks/nature reserves | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm town feel with easy access to nature
- Authentic Sabah experiences away from tourist crowds
- Delicious, simple local cuisine and market culture
- Limited nightlife and fewer Western-style amenities
- Rural areas may have irregular transport options
- Weather can be unpredictable during the rainy season
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harga ini?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya perlukan bantuan." - I need help.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Hai, apa khabar?" - Hi, how are you?
Places to Visit in Beaufort
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with palm-lined banks; golden-hour photos capture calm water and silhouettes of locals fishing and boating.
Old government buildings and a historic clock tower along the riverfront provide characterful architectural shots.
Lush greenery, village scenes, and river crossings ideal for nature and portrait photography.
Food in Beaufort
Beaufort Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy Sabah raw fish dish prepared with lime, onions, and chilies; a must-try at many local eateries and markets.
Must-Try!
Fermented meat or fish with a distinctive sour-salty flavor; often offered as part of traditional platters.
Fragrant coconut rice served with spicy sambal, boiled egg, and anchovies; commonly available in small eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals sell fresh produce, herbs, grilled snacks, and regional delicacies.
Evening stalls along the river offering fried fish, snacks, and cooling drinks with a view of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural communities; remove shoes where required and speak politely to elders.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or households; respect local customs and privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Beaufort
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not routinely expected in Malaysia, but small tips for good service are appreciated in tourist spots. Round up the bill or leave a modest tip for exceptional service.
Cash is widely accepted, with some places taking cards in towns and tourist-frequented venues. Have a small amount of Malaysian ringgit for markets and rural stops; ATMs are available in Beaufort and larger towns nearby.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with mostly sunny mornings; great for outdoor activities, but stay hydrated and protect against sun.
Frequent showers and high humidity; trails can be muddy; carry a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor plans.
Beaufort at Night
Hiking in Beaufort
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with varying difficulty, offering scenic viewpoints and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Short jungle trek to a nearby waterfall; guided options available for safety and interpretation.
Airports
How to reach Beaufort by plane.
Main international gateway to Sabah; about 2–3 hours by road from Beaufort depending on traffic and road conditions.
Southeast Sabah option; longer overland transfer, typically used when combining trips to the east coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous group prominent in the region with rice-farming traditions and distinctive crafts.
Familiar in Sabah towns; speaks Malay and local languages; culinary influences are strong.
A smaller yet present community with family-run businesses and mixed cuisine.
Various village communities contributing to the region’s cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular leisure and pickup games among locals and visitors.
Common in community centers and guesthouses; easy for travelers to join.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport sometimes seen in markets or events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beaufort.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Sabah eateries can prepare vegetarian options; look for vegetable dishes, tofu, or eggs, and ask for no meat stock in soups.