Things To Do
in Kudat
Kudat is a district located in the northern part of Sabah, Malaysia. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including beautiful beaches, lush forest reserves, and stunning sunsets. The town of Kudat itself has a laid-back atmosphere, with local markets and seafood restaurants offering authentic Malaysian cuisine.
Visitors often come to Kudat to enjoy water activities such as diving, snorkeling, and island hopping in the nearby marine parks.
- "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): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tip of Borneo for stunning views of where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea. Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at a nearby café overlooking the ocean.
Head to the nearby Tanjung Simpang Mengayau beach for some sunbathing and swimming. Don't forget to explore the local rock formations and take pictures.
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant known for its fresh catch. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to end the day with a breathtaking sunset.
Catch an early boat to the nearby islands of Banggi or Balak for a full day of adventure. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant coral reefs.
Relax on the breathtaking beaches of these islands and enjoy lunch with a view. Engage with locals for a taste of island life and culture.
Return to Kudat and enjoy a relaxing evening at a local bar. Sip on tropical drinks as you unwind and share stories from your island adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse local communities
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations in Malaysia
- Local seafood delicacies and unique culinary experiences
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists
- Transportation options may be less convenient
- Weather can be hot and humid, affecting outdoor activities
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options
- Potential language barriers for non-Malay speakers
Best Activities in Kudat
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the northernmost tip of Borneo for stunning ocean views and picturesque sunsets.
Enjoy a round of golf or take a leisurely stroll along the marina.
Explore the beautiful beaches in Kudat such as Kelambu Beach, Kalampunian Beach, and others for swimming and relaxation.
Engage in water activities in the clear waters of Kudat, perfect for kayaking and snorkeling.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kudat with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kudat
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the South China Sea and is a popular spot for watching sunsets.
Known for its picturesque landscapes and is a great location for photography enthusiasts.
Features beautiful coastlines and clear blue waters, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Food in Kudat
Kudat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Kadazandusun dish comprising raw fish marinated in lime juice, shallots, ginger, and chili, typically served as an appetizer. Try it at local seafood restaurants like Restoran Ema Asgar.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish rubbed with a turmeric-based spice paste, creating a delightful smoky flavor. Visit the Kudat Fish Market for authentic ikan bakar from the stalls.
A starchy staple made from sago palm, often accompanied by various savory sauces. Savour this unique dish at Kedai Makanan Haji Tamrin.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of freshly caught seafood including prawns, fishes, and squids, which can be grilled on-site. Sample local street food delicacies like grilled fish and seafood snacks.
An evening market where you can savor an assortment of local dishes such as satay, grilled meats, noodles, and desserts. Don't miss the opportunity to taste authentic Malay and Chinese street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kudat, it is important to greet others respectfully using the traditional Malay greeting 'Selamat Datang' (welcome) or 'Selamat Pagi' (good morning), 'Selamat Petang' (good afternoon), or 'Selamat Malam' (good evening). It is also polite to use 'please' (tolong) and 'thank you' (terima kasih) in interactions.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Kudat. It is customary to address older individuals using respectful titles like 'Encik' for Mr. and 'Puan' for Mrs. It is also important to show deference by allowing elders to initiate conversations and showing patience and attentiveness when they speak.
When visiting Kudat, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and both men and women should dress conservatively to show respect for local customs and religious beliefs.
Safety
Tipping in Kudat
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kudat, Malaysia, tipping is not a strict custom, but it is appreciated in certain situations, such as in upscale restaurants or for exceptional service. Tipping around 10% of the total bill is considered generous in these circumstances.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Kudat, Malaysia. However, credit and debit cards are also becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for transactions in smaller shops and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kudat is during the dry season when the weather is generally pleasant with minimal rainfall. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Expect heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, making outdoor activities challenging. However, this period is great for experiencing the lush greenery and enjoying a quieter atmosphere.
During these months, brief rain showers are common, but they are usually followed by sunshine. The landscape is vibrant, and the seas are calmer, making it suitable for water-based activities.
Kudat at Night
Hiking in Kudat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A marine park made up of several islands, offering trails and hiking opportunities with stunning views of the sea and diverse wildlife.
A scenic trail in the palm oil plantation area, providing a glimpse of both natural and agricultural landscapes.
A popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the South China Sea, known for its lush greenery.
A trail that showcases the natural beauty of Kudat's hills and rainforest, with opportunities to spot various flora and fauna.
A hiking trail leading to beautiful waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike, surrounded by lush rainforest.
Aiports
How to reach Kudat by plane.
The main international gateway for Sabah, located approximately 190 km south of Kudat.
Located about 300 km to the southwest, this airport serves as an international gateway for Brunei Darussalam.
While further away (approximately 1,300 km), it is one of the largest international hubs in Southeast Asia.
Situated approximately 275 km away in Sarawak, Malaysia, this is a regional airport with some international flights.
Located about 235 km to the south, this airport serves Labuan and offers routes to major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest indigenous ethnic group in Kudat, known for their rich culture and traditions.
A significant ethnic group in Kudat, known for their seafaring skills and vibrant cultural heritage.
A prominent ethnic community involved in commerce and trade, contributing significantly to the local economy.
The majority population in Malaysia, including Kudat, known for their diverse cultural practices.
An ethnic group related to the Bajau, primarily found in coastal areas, known for traditional fishing.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and expatriates who contribute to Kudat's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kudat, often played in local leagues and community events.
A traditional sport in Malaysia, Sepak Takraw is a popular game in Kudat that combines elements of volleyball and martial arts.
Badminton is widely played in Kudat for recreation and competition among both adults and children.
Given Kudat's coastal location, fishing is not only a leisure activity but also a vital part of the local lifestyle.
With its natural landscapes, hiking is a popular activity for both locals and tourists looking to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kudat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kudat's traditional cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian dishes like stir-fried vegetables, tofu-based dishes, and fresh fruit platters. Oceanus Kudat Coffee House is an excellent choice for a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
For those requiring gluten-free options, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly at restaurants. Seafood dishes, rice-based meals, and fresh fruit can be good choices. Oceanus Kudat Coffee House offers gluten-free selections.