Districts of Sabah — All Regions & Where to Go
Sabah has 27 districts, each with its own character. Here are the ones most relevant to visitors and residents — from the state capital to deep jungle reserves.
Kota Kinabalu
State capital — waterfront, islands, food, nightlife, and the main gateway to Sabah
Sandakan
Nature capital — Sepilok orangutans, Kinabatangan cruises, Turtle Islands
Semporna
Gateway to Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai — world-class diving and island hopping
Kundasang & Ranau
Mount Kinabalu base, cool highlands, dairy farms, and strawberry picking
Kudat
Tip of Borneo, Rungus longhouses, pristine beaches, and authentic rural Sabah
Tawau
East coast gateway airport, cocoa heritage, Tawau Hills Park
Beaufort
Padas River white water rafting, Klias firefly cruises, heritage railway
Kota Belud
Famous Sunday Tamu market, Bajau cowboys, Mantanani Island gateway
Tuaran
Home of Tuaran Mee noodles, Mengkabong water village, Kiulu River rafting
Penampang
Kadazan heartland — Monsopiad Heritage Village, Kaamatan festival, Donggongon market
Lahad Datu
Gateway to Danum Valley and Tabin, home to protected primary rainforest