Things To Do
in Beaufort
Beaufort is a small town located in the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo. It serves as the administrative center for the Beaufort District and is known for its picturesque rivers and lush surrounding landscape. The town has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by various ethnic groups, including the Kadazandusun and Chinese communities.
Beaufort is also a gateway to eco-tourism activities, featuring attractions such as the nearby Klias River, which is famous for its firefly tours and wildlife viewing.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and sample fresh produce. Grab breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for the day's adventures.
Take a boat tour along the river to observe wildlife and enjoy the serene environment. Stop for lunch at a riverside eatery featuring local delicacies.
Wind down with a stroll along the waterfront park as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view, soaking in the local cuisine.
Head out early for a trekking adventure in the lush greenery surrounding Beaufort. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy in the midst of nature.
Continue your trek to discover hidden waterfalls and Crystal clear pools. Have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot along the trail.
Return to town and relax with a light dinner. Reflect on the day’s adventure while enjoying some local desserts at a dessert shop.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity, reflecting various ethnic communities.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including beaches and lush greenery.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Access to fresh seafood and local delicacies.
- Laid-back lifestyle with a slower pace of life.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Infrastructural development may not be as advanced as in major cities.
- Public transport options may be scarce.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as comprehensive as in larger towns.
- Occasional flooding during monsoon seasons.
Best Activities in Beaufort
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the vibrant marine life and beautiful coral reefs while snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters around Mantanani Island, just a short boat ride from Beaufort.
Explore the scenic Klias River on a kayak, where you can spot wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, various bird species, and enjoy the lush mangrove surroundings.
Enjoy a day of hiking in the Crocker Range National Park nearby, which offers various trails with stunning views of the rainforest and endemic flora and fauna.
Try your luck at fishing in the Beaufort River, which is known for its diverse fish species. Local guides can help you find the best spots.
Take a tour to nearby villages to learn about the local culture, traditional crafts, and lifestyles of the indigenous communities in the area.
Visit the wetlands around Beaufort for bird watching, where a variety of migratory and resident bird species can be observed in their natural habitats.
Tours
Uncover the best of Beaufort with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Beaufort
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning marine life and beautiful seascapes, this park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and rich biodiversity, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Offering panoramic views of the Straits of Malacca, this historic lighthouse is situated on a hill and provides excellent photo opportunities of the coastline and nearby islands.
Famous for its unique landscapes and volcanic mud, this park offers stunning beach views and vibrant sunsets, making it a great location for photographers.
With its pristine shoreline and clear waters, Pantai Manis Beach is ideal for capturing serene beach scenes and sunset photography.
A charming public space in the heart of Beaufort, the town square features local architecture and vibrant community life, offering great opportunities for street photography.
Food in Beaufort
Beaufort Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Sabahan rice dish, nasi linum is often served with a variety of curries, fried fish, and sambal. It is a must-try dish that showcases the local flavors. You can find it at local restaurants such as Restoran Haji Suhaimi.
Must-Try!
A flavorful soup made with rice and a mix of chicken or beef, soto Beaufort is accompanied by herbs and spices, giving it a unique taste. Visit Warung Soto for an authentic experience.
This spicy rice porridge is a local specialty often enjoyed for breakfast, made with an assortment of vegetables and sambal. Try it at the morning markets or at local food stalls around Beaufort.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Beaufort better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday evening, the Beaufort Night Market buzzes with activity, offering a variety of street food, local snacks, and traditional desserts. It’s the perfect place to experience the vibrant food culture of Beaufort.
A weekly market that takes place every Sunday, Tamu Beaufort is not only a place for fresh produce but also a venue where you can sample local street food, including satay and kuih, a selection of traditional Malaysian cakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Beaufort, it is customary to show great respect to elders. Use polite language, address them with appropriate titles, and offer assistance when needed.
When visiting religious sites or local communities, it is important to dress modestly. This reflects respect for the local culture and helps maintain harmony.
Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and religion, especially with strangers. Engage in light conversation and be attentive to the other person's comfort level.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Beaufort with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Beaufort
Ensure a smooth experience
In Beaufort, Malaysia, tipping is not a common practice compared to some Western countries. While it is appreciated for good service, it is not expected. In restaurants, rounding up the bill is sometimes done, but a service charge may already be included. Tipping in bars or for taxi services is minimal, if at all.
Payment methods in Beaufort typically include cash and electronic payments. Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller shops and local markets. Credit and debit cards are commonly used in larger businesses and restaurants. Mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity as digital transactions increase in Malaysia.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Beaufort.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Beaufort, Malaysia. Expect warm temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby nature reserves. The weather is generally sunny with occasional rain showers.
During the rainy season, Beaufort experiences heavier rainfall and higher humidity. While it may not be the best time for outdoor activities, this season offers a lush green landscape and a quieter atmosphere. Travelers can enjoy the local culture and indoor attractions.
Beaufort at Night
Hiking in Beaufort
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lush tropical rainforest offering various hiking trails with stunning views and rich biodiversity.
A popular mountain for hiking enthusiasts, featuring challenging trails and breathtaking views from the summit.
Known for its pristine nature and diverse wildlife, this national park offers multiple hiking routes through dense jungle.
Offers a unique jungle trekking experience with options for exploring caves and waterfalls along the trails.
A scenic area with hiking opportunities leading to beautiful waterfalls, perfect for a day trip.
Coastal hiking trails offering beautiful beach views and a chance to explore local wildlife and mangroves.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Beaufort through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Beaufort by plane.
Located in Johor Bahru, approximately 160 km from Beaufort, Senai International Airport serves as a secondary hub for budget airlines and offers connections to several international destinations.
Situated about 90 km from Beaufort, Kota Kinabalu International Airport is the second-busiest airport in Malaysia and provides both domestic and international flights, particularly to Southeast Asia.
Approximately 175 km away from Beaufort, Labuan International Airport primarily facilitates flights to and from Kuala Lumpur and surrounding regions, catering to both passenger and cargo services.
Located around 170 km from Beaufort, Tawau Airport offers connectivity mainly to domestic destinations but has limited international flights to nearby regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Beaufort, comprising a significant majority of the population.
A notable minority ethnic group in Beaufort, involved in various economic activities.
Includes various indigenous groups such as the Kadazan-Dusun, who have a unique cultural heritage.
A smaller ethnic group that contributes to the multicultural fabric of Beaufort.
This category includes various other ethnic groups and expatriates residing in Beaufort.
The Soul of Beaufort
Discover the essence of Beaufort through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, known locally as soccer, is one of the most popular sports in Beaufort, attracting a large number of participants and fans.
Rugby has a growing following in Beaufort, with local clubs and schools participating in friendly matches and tournaments.
A traditional sport native to Southeast Asia, Sepak Takraw combines elements of volleyball and soccer, and is popular among local communities.
Badminton is widely played in Beaufort, with many courts available for both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball is also gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with several courts established in the area.
Running and jogging are popular activities for fitness and recreation among the residents of Beaufort.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beaufort.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local restaurants in Beaufort offer vegetarian variants of traditional dishes, and you can request to have meat replaced with tofu or additional vegetables.
While traditional Malay cuisine includes many animal products, there are vegan-friendly dishes available. Look for vegetable stir-fries and rice dishes without meat or dairy.
Gluten-free options may be limited, but many rice dishes and street foods are naturally gluten-free. Always check with the vendor to ensure your meal meets dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Beaufort with these cultural adventures.
