Sabah is caressed by the South China Sea on its west and the Sulu and Celebes Sea on its eastern coastline. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital offers top-notched properties such as the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort and the Sutera Harbour Resort and Spa. Both resorts offer spectacular views of the South China Sea and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands. The Sutera Harbour Resort offers a full range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, marina and spa. In the vicinity of the airport, The Tanjung Aru Beach is a popular spot to watch the beautiful sunset and relax at the beachside cafes. Tanjung Aru is also the gateway to explore several of Sabah’s delightful attractions. Go on a ride in the North Borneo tourist steam train and take in the scenic countryside. Treasured marine heritages, the five islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are surrounded by extensive coral reefs. Its proximity to Kota Kinabalu makes it a popular playground for water sports enthusiasts, sun-seekers, swimmers and snorkelers. Just a 30—minute drive from Kota Kinabalu is the Nexus Karumbunai, a fabulous resort offering 6 km of soft sands’ beach. Indulge in idyllic days of swimming and sauntering by the beach or try-out exciting pastimes such as horse-riding and archery. For golfers, tee off at the resort’s 18-hole par 72 course designed by Ronald Fream. The Lagoon Park, a recreational centre situated 10 minutes away abounds with thrills such as jet-skiing, kayaking, wake-boarding, mangrove cruises and sunset firefly cruises. |
The Shangri-La Rasa Ria, located nearby is a splendid getaway surrounded by 400 acres of lush tropical vegetation. An idyllic, white sandy beach stretched over 3 km awaits swimmers, beachcombers and windsurfers. Guests can delight in kayaking, jet-skiing, banana boat rides and catamaran excursions, or enjoy a round of golf in the 18-hole, championship golf course designed by Ted Parslow. For a glimpse of Borneo’s animal kingdom, visit the resort’s nature reserve which houses Orang Utan and deer. For some privacy and seclusion, try the Paka Beach in Tuaran where a 6 km shoreline, hugged by coastal vegetation glitters invitingly. The glorious beach offers pristine nature with no intrusions of modernity. Delight in a picnic, take leisurely strolls along the shore or enjoy hours of swimming. The beach will also be an excellent retreat for sunbathing as it ensures a quiet environment. En route, visit the Bajau, famed as ‘Sea Gypsies’ and enjoy a boat ride through the mangroves. For a trip to this beach, prior arrangements can be made with tour operators. To the north of Sabah is Kudat Beach, where visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery while visiting the Rungus tribe who live in Longhouses. For the exhilarating feeling of standing on land’s end, visit the Simpang Mengayau Bay at the tip of Borneo,. Located north of Kudat, this stretch of beach is excellent for swimming and to watch the sun rise and sunset. |
