Tawau — Cocoa hub and volcanic forest park.
Tawau is Sabah's southernmost major city and the heart of Sabah's cocoa and palm oil industries. Tawau Hills Park protects ancient volcanic craters and some of the tallest tropical trees ever recorded. The city has strong Suluk and Indonesian influences, reflected in its food scene, and serves as a key transit point to Sipadan from the east as well as border crossings to Kalimantan.
Start here if you only have limited time in Tawau. It's the experience most visitors remember long after the trip.
Activities in Tawau
- Tawau hills hiking
- Cocoa plantation tours
- Border crossing to kalimantan
- Seafood dining
- Bird watching — Wetlands, forest edges, and riverbanks attract hundreds of species year-round, including rare endemics found nowhere else in the world.
- Hot springs — Soak in the natural thermal pools at Poring Hot Springs, surrounded by lowland rainforest — a perfect reward after the mountain trail.
Local Tips for Visiting Tawau
- Plan at least one overnight stay — at 560 km from KK, rushing this as a day trip means missing the best of what's here.
- Consider flying — AirAsia and MASwings serve East Sabah airports. A short flight saves 6+ hours of driving and leaves you with energy to actually explore.
- Dress for the tropics — light moisture-wicking clothes, a packable rain jacket, and SPF50+ sunscreen are non-negotiable. Rain can arrive fast even in dry season.
Getting There from Kota Kinabalu
Tawau is approximately 560 km from Kota Kinabalu.
- Flight 1hr / Bus 9hrs
Budget Guide
Here's a rough breakdown of what to budget for a trip to Tawau:
- Budget traveller (RM110–RM160/day) — Guesthouse or budget hotel from RM80/night, hawker meals at RM8–15/dish, shared transport or local buses.
- Mid-range (RM265–RM365/day) — Comfortable hotel around RM215/night, sit-down restaurants, private transport or day tours included.
- Comfort traveller (RM400+/day) — Quality accommodation from RM350/night, guided experiences, private transfers, and dining at better restaurants.
Most mid-range establishments accept card payment, but keep some cash for markets and transport.
Where to Stay in Tawau
Accommodation in Tawau ranges from RM80 to RM350 per night, covering budget guesthouses through to comfortable hotels. Internet connectivity is generally good in this district.
Nearby Districts to Combine With Tawau
These districts are in the same region and pair well with a visit to Tawau:
- Sandakan — Orangutans, sun bears, and colonial heritage (390 km from KK)
- Kinabatangan — Borneo's most biodiverse river safari (450 km from KK)
- Beluran — Untouched rainforest and off-grid river life (370 km from KK)
Best Time to Visit Tawau
Best months: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug — drier weather, better road conditions, and optimal visibility for outdoor activities.
Avoid if possible: Nov, Dec — higher chance of sustained rain that can affect road access and outdoor plans.
See the full month-by-month guide for Tawau →
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Tawau?
The top activities in Tawau include tawau hills hiking, cocoa plantation tours, border crossing to kalimantan. Start with Tawau Hills Park — the district's standout attraction.
How do I get to Tawau from Kota Kinabalu?
Tawau is 560 km from Kota Kinabalu. Flight 1hr / Bus 9hrs
How much does a trip to Tawau cost?
Budget travellers can find accommodation from RM80/night. Mid-range stays typically run RM215–RM350/night. Add RM50–150/person/day for meals, local transport, and activities.
Is Tawau safe for tourists?
Yes — Tawau is considered a high-safety destination. Standard precautions apply: watch your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and check current advisories before travel.