The district of Kudat, which spreads across the two arms enclosing the deep inlet of Marudu Bay, is home to Sabah’s most traditional people, the Rungus. Impressive longhouses and skillfully made handicrafts can still be seen around Kudat, which also boasts some of the finest beaches in all of Sabah. A range of sporting facilities, good accommodation and inexpensive and delicious seafood all add to Kudat’s appeal.
TRANQUILITY
ON THE BAY
Kudat, blessed by its location by the sea, is a spacious, clean and attractive town with plenty of trees and open spaces.
Kudat District
Old” Kudat is focused around the main street, Jalan Lo Thien Chok, where traditional fan-cooled coffee shops, mixed traders and provision shops are joined by more modern shops and hotels. Reflecting Kudat’s multi-ethnic population, Chinese temples, mosques and churches all sit in happy proximity.
In the 1970s, a massive project reclaimed 500 acres from the sea to the northwest of the fishing harbours. Part of this is occupied by 3-storey shop houses with spacious walkways and a large open market or tamu ground, with the general market nearby. This newer area of Kudat, Pekan Tomborungus, is the site of the Tuesday evening open market or tamu, as well as the annual Pesta Kelapa, which celebrates the once all-important coconut, held here each September.
One of the most striking features of Kudat is the 2-kilometre Sidek Esplanade, running along the bay. This spacious, attractive esplanade has plenty of seating (making it a popular place to relax at sunset), play areas for children, plenty of room for jogging or strolling, and several food stalls. Kudat boasts a modern sports complex, opened in 2002, as well the Kudat Golf Club, which has an attractive 18-hole golf course.
A three-star resort, the Kudat Golf and Country Club, sits adjacent to the golf course overlooking a small marina. Kudat is renowned for its seafood, and popular places for enjoying this are the food stalls next to the Pasar Ikan or fish market, and a group of Muslim food stalls set up every early morning near the town green or Padang.