Things To Do
in Tawau
Tawau is a coastal city in Sabah, Malaysia, perched along the South China Sea. The town blends Malay, Chinese, and Indigenous influences, with a lively waterfront and busy markets. Lush rainforests and nearby islands offer easy-day trips, from hiking in Tawau Hills Park to snorkeling in the archipelago.
With fresh seafood, vibrant street life, and a convenient gateway to Semporna, Tawau is a practical base for island and nature adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic drive to the famous Kinabatangan River. Enjoy a guided boat tour at sunrise, where you can witness the incredible biodiversity, including proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. Bring your camera to capture the vibrant morning light illuminating the lush riverside flora.
After a hearty lunch at a local riverside café, embark on a thrilling jungle trek in the nearby rainforest. Your guide will point out unique flora and fauna as you delve deeper into this pristine environment. Wind down your exploration with some relaxation by the riverbank, appreciating the soothing sounds of nature.
As the sun sets, enjoy a night cruise on the Kinabatangan River, where you can spot nocturnal wildlife. Look out for fireflies lighting up the night and listen to the chorus of frogs and insects. Return to your accommodation for a delicious Malaysian dinner, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your morning with a boat trip to nearby Sipadan Island, renowned for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters, you might encounter turtles, colorful fish, and vibrant corals. Don’t forget your underwater camera for capturing these unforgettable moments.
After your underwater exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the island. Spend some leisure time sunbathing or swimming in the warm, inviting sea. Take a stroll along the shoreline and admire the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Return to Tawau as the day comes to a close, and indulge in a seafood feast at one of the local restaurants famous for its fresh catch. Savor grilled squid and prawn satay, along with a refreshing fruit drink. Wind down your night by taking a leisurely walk along Tawau's bustling night market.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1.5-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (baseline short trip) | $3-6 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong seafood and market culture
- Gateway to nearby islands and rainforests
- Relaxed, friendly vibe
- Limited nightlife compared with big cities
- Traffic can be slow during peak hours
- Weather can be humid and rainy with sudden showers
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Boleh saya dapatkan harga berapa?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya lapar" - I am hungry
- "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Tawau
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively harbor and promenade ideal for sunset shots over the South China Sea and colorful boats.
A historic landmark in the city center, great for architectural photography and street scenes.
Steep hillside with coastal views and jungle scenery—great for panoramic photos.
Forest canopy walkway and lush rainforest scenery with opportunities to capture wildlife and misty mornings.
Food in Tawau
Tawau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Sabah raw fish dish marinated in lime juice with onions, chilies, and local herbs; found at hawker stalls and seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fermented wild mango pickle often served as a condiment with rice or grilled fish; available at markets and some eateries.
Skewers of meat and seafood cooked at street stalls and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
A flavorful beef noodle soup or dry noodles; commonly found at casual eateries and coffee shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh seafood, produce, and prepared foods; go early for the best picks and vibrant atmosphere.
Evening street food hub with grilled seafood, satay, fried snacks, and local drinks.
Seafood stalls and snack vendors along the coastline offering quick bites and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs; shoulders and knees covered when visiting mosques or temples.
Use the right hand for exchanging items and money; avoid using left hand in formal settings.
Greet politely, wait your turn; public displays of affection are less common in traditional areas.
Safety
Tipping in Tawau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up bills or leaving 5–10% at nicer restaurants is common.
Cash (Malaysian Ringgit) is widely accepted; many places also accept credit/debit cards and some e-wallets, especially in hotels and larger eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with lower rainfall; ideal for outdoor activities, island trips, and photography with strong light.
Frequent rain showers and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry rain gear.
Tawau has a tropical rainforest climate with warm conditions year-round; light layers and sun protection are essential.
Tawau at Night
Hiking in Tawau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hill with jungle trails and coastal views; a short drive from town.
Forest trails and a canopy walkway offering rainforest scenery and wildlife viewing.
Short trips from the city to mangrove ecosystems with kayaking or boat tours.
Airports
How to reach Tawau by plane.
Main airport serving the region with domestic connections and some international flights; about a 20–30 minute drive from the city center.
A regional airport offering connections to Kota Kinabalu and other Sabah towns; about a 2–3 hour drive to Tawau.
Another regional hub in Sabah; longer drive but gateway to the eastern coast and parks; flights connect to Kuala Lumpur and other cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group forming the cultural core of the city; many residents speak Malay and local languages.
A significant community with businesses in markets and eateries, contributing to Tawau’s culinary diversity.
Communities with distinct traditions and traditional crafts; you may see language and cuisine influences across the city.
There are residents from various backgrounds who contribute to Tawau’s multicultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; local leagues and casual play occur in parks and schools.
A common pastime; many residents play at community halls and clubs.
Played in gyms and outdoor courts; recreational leagues exist in neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tawau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants; look for vegetable dishes, tofu, and veggie nasi goreng; ask for no fish sauce or meat stock.