Night Activities & Nightlife in Sabah: A Guide to Enjoy Each Major Town
Sabah, on the beautiful island of Borneo, not only offers mesmerizing natural wonders but also an exciting range of night activities for visitors. Whether you’re looking to relax after a day of adventure or want to explore the local nightlife, each town in Sabah has something unique to offer. Below is a guide to the best night activities and venues in Sabah’s major towns.
1. Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu (KK), the capital of Sabah, is the most vibrant town for nightlife and night activities. Whether you prefer laid-back venues by the waterfront or lively dance floors, KK has plenty to offer.
Shenanigan’s Fun Pub
Located at Hyatt Regency, this is one of KK’s most popular venues for live bands, DJs, and dancing.
Address: Jalan Datuk Salleh Sulong, Kota Kinabalu
Social Media: Facebook
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 1 AM (daily)El Centro
A favorite among locals and expats, El Centro offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere with a selection of cocktails and international cuisine.
Address: 32 Jalan Haji Saman, Kota Kinabalu
Social Media: Facebook
Operating Hours: 4 PM – 12 AM (Mon-Sun)The Loft
Situated by the Waterfront, this open-air bar is perfect for enjoying cocktails while overlooking the sea. It’s also known for live music and DJ sets.
Address: KK Waterfront, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens
Social Media: Instagram
Operating Hours: 5 PM – 2 AM (daily)
For a relaxing night, take a sunset cruise around KK’s coast, with companies like North Borneo Cruises offering evening cruises featuring dinner and live entertainment.
Contact: info@northborneocruises.com
2. Sandakan
While Sandakan may not have the lively nightlife scene of Kota Kinabalu, it offers tranquil and culturally rich night activities.
Sandakan Night Market
Explore the night market, which offers local street food, fresh seafood, and handicrafts. It’s a great spot for tasting authentic Sabahan cuisine after dark.
Location: Harbour Square, Sandakan Town
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 10 PMBalin Rooftop Bar
For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Balin Rooftop Bar offers spectacular views over Sandakan, paired with great food and drinks.
Address: Nak Hotel, Jalan Pelabuhan Lama
Social Media: Facebook
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 12 AM (daily)Nak Hotel Rooftop Cinema Nights
Occasionally, Nak Hotel hosts rooftop cinema nights, where guests can enjoy outdoor movie screenings under the stars.
Contact: +60 89-272 988 for schedules.
3. Tawau
Tawau is known for its seafood and has a quieter nightlife scene. Here are some recommended night activities:
Pasar Malam Tawau
This night market is famous for its fresh seafood and local delights, and it’s a must-visit for food lovers.
Location: Jalan Pasar Malam, Tawau
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 11 PMNew Maxim Club
For those looking for a more energetic nightlife experience, New Maxim Club offers karaoke, live music, and a nightclub experience.
Address: Jalan Haji Karim, Tawau
Social Media: Facebook
Operating Hours: 8 PM – 2 AM (daily)Ocean Villa Seafood Restaurant
Ideal for a quieter evening, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and a lovely view of the Tawau waterfront.
Address: Jalan Pesisiran, Tawau
Contact: +60 89-777 888
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 10 PM
4. Lahad Datu
Lahad Datu may not be known for its nightlife, but it offers peaceful evening activities for those who want to unwind.
Tropical Rainforest Night Walks
For nature lovers, several eco-lodges near Lahad Datu, such as Borneo Rainforest Lodge, offer night walks in the Danum Valley Conservation Area. You’ll get a chance to see nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.
Contact: info@borneonaturetours.comLahad Datu Night Market
The night market here offers a variety of local delicacies, including BBQ seafood, fried noodles, and local snacks.
Location: Pasar Malam Lahad Datu, Jalan Kenawa
Operating Hours: 5 PM – 10 PM
5. Semporna
Semporna is a gateway to the world-famous Sipadan Island, but it also offers some enjoyable night activities for divers and travelers.
Dragon Inn Floating Restaurant
Enjoy a unique dining experience at this floating restaurant, where fresh seafood is served. It’s popular with divers looking to relax after a day of exploring the underwater world.
Address: Jalan Kastam, Semporna
Contact: +60 89-782 366
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 11 PMBig John Scuba & Bar
For divers and backpackers, Big John’s is a favorite for relaxing over drinks and sharing stories of the day’s dives.
Address: Jalan Causeway, Semporna
Social Media: Facebook
Operating Hours: 5 PM – 12 AMOcean Seafood Village
A local favorite, offering a wide range of fresh seafood dishes, ideal for dinner after a long day of diving.
Address: Jalan Kastam Baru, Semporna
Contact: +60 89-784 318
Operating Hours: 6 PM – 10 PM
Notes: There might be changes on the infomation provided above, therefore always check with the entity itself
