Top 15 Unforgettable Cheap Things To do in Sabah

Top 15 Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Uncover Borneo’s Best on a Budget

When planning your list of cheap things to do in Sabah, you’ll discover adventures for every budget. Sabah, the jewel of Borneo, is every traveler’s dream — rugged mountains, ancient rainforests, unique wildlife, and pristine islands, all wrapped in the warm hospitality of Sabahans. The best part? You don’t need to drain your wallet to experience its magic. This guide uncovers the top 15 cheap things to do in Sabah, packed with insider tips for cheap travel in Sabah, so you can plan an unforgettable adventure without burning through your savings.

Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple seeking affordable romance, or a family on a budget, Sabah has something for everyone — from jungle treks and island hopping to vibrant local markets and secret spots locals love. Let’s dive in!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What can I buy in Sabah?

Sabah is famous for affordable local souvenirs and crafts. You can buy beautiful freshwater pearls from the Filipino Market in Kota Kinabalu, handwoven Rungus beadwork, traditional Kadazan-Dusun handicrafts, and local snacks like amplang fish crackers. Don’t forget Sabah tea, Tenom coffee, and handmade batik! These make great gifts and are easy to pack. Many of these treasures are found at local markets — exploring them is one of the best cheap things to do in Sabah.

2. Is it safe to travel to Sabah alone?

Yes — Sabah is generally very safe for solo travelers, including women. The locals are warm, helpful, and used to visitors. Of course, practice normal travel precautions: keep an eye on your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and always inform your accommodation of your travel plans if you’re heading off the beaten track. Many solo backpackers use Sabah as their first Borneo stop because it’s so easy to get around on a budget — perfect for those looking for tips for cheap travel in Sabah!

3. Can you do Borneo on a budget?

Definitely! Borneo — especially Sabah — is one of Southeast Asia’s best destinations for budget travelers. From affordable street food to free hikes, low-cost island hopping, and budget-friendly hostels, it’s easy to enjoy Borneo’s rainforests, beaches, and wildlife without spending a fortune. Plan ahead, eat local, and join shared tours when you can — you’ll find countless cheap things to do in Sabah that deliver a true Borneo experience.

4. Do Malaysians need a passport to enter Sabah?

Nope! If you’re Malaysian, you don’t need a passport to fly into Sabah — but you do need to bring your MyKad (IC) for domestic flights and security checks. However, non-Malaysians must show their passport and may get a short entry stamp at immigration counters upon arrival. This is standard because Sabah and Sarawak have special immigration autonomy under Malaysia’s agreement.

5. How much does a meal cost in Kota Kinabalu?

Good news: eating well in KK doesn’t need to hurt your wallet. A tasty local meal at a hawker stall or simple kopi shop usually costs around RM8–15 per plate. A meal at a mid-range café or restaurant might be RM20–40, depending on what you order. For fresh seafood at the night market, budget RM30–50 if you want to splurge a little. Eating local is hands-down one of the tastiest cheap things to do in Sabah — don’t miss it!

1. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Wander Through Kota Kinabalu’s Gaya Street Sunday Market

Among the top things to do in Sabah for nature lovers is visiting the KK Market. Every Sunday morning, downtown Kota Kinabalu wakes up to the colorful buzz of the Gaya Street Sunday Market. Locals and tourists alike flock here for a truly Sabah-style shopping spree under shady canopies.

Looking for unique things to do in Sabah? Don’t miss the local markets. You’ll find handmade crafts, fresh local produce, orchids, pets (yes, tiny puppies and kittens!), vintage clothes, and traditional cakes like kuih penjaram and steamed rice cakes.

Insider Tip: If you want the best finds, come as early as 6:30 AM when the stalls are fully stocked and the crowds are thinner. Vendors love to chat, so ask about the stories behind the handicrafts — you might even learn a bit of Kadazan or Dusun phrases along the way!

No Sabah budget adventure is complete without this authentic local experience — easily one of the most iconic cheap things to do in Sabah.

2. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Climb Signal Hill Observatory Platform for a Panoramic View

Signal Hill Observatory is the go-to spot for a sweeping bird’s-eye view of Kota Kinabalu city. It’s just a 10-minute uphill walk from Gaya Street — or you can grab a quick Grab ride if you’re not up for the climb.

At the top, you’ll find a cozy viewing deck where you can gaze at the city’s skyline, green hills, islands dotting the sea, and passing boats. Local teens come here for selfies, so you’ll fit right in snapping Insta shots at sunset.

Local Tip: Bring your own drink or kopi from a nearby café — there’s a tiny café at the top, but prices can be higher than downtown. The view is always free!

3. Things to Do in Sabah: Explore the Famous Filipino Market

The Filipino Market (also called Handicraft Market) at the KK waterfront is a maze of stalls packed with souvenirs, pearls, sarongs, crystals, and food stalls serving fresh grilled seafood at unbeatable prices.

By day, browse rows of local crafts and Bornean pearls — some stalls sell freshwater pearls for a fraction of retail shops. By evening, the market turns into a foodie paradise. Fish, prawns, and squid go straight from the boat to the grill.

Tip: Bring small notes — cash is king here — and test your bargaining skills. Don’t be shy: smiling, chatting, and offering fair counteroffers is part of the fun!

4. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Take a Day Trip to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

One of the best ways to experience Sabah’s tropical side is to hop on a boat to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Located just 15–20 minutes by boat from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, this marine park includes five stunning islands — Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, Gaya, and Sulug.

Budget Tip: Buy a day pass and visit two or three islands in one trip instead of booking expensive island-hopping packages online. Bring your own mask and snorkel to avoid pricey rentals.

On these islands, you can swim, snorkel among colorful corals and playful fish, chill under swaying casuarina trees, and picnic on the sand. This is classic paradise — but easy on your wallet.

5. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village (On a Budget)

Want to experience traditional Borneo culture up close? Mari Mari Cultural Village, located about 25 minutes from KK city, is a living museum that recreates the traditional homes of different indigenous groups like the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut.

With so many cheap things to do in Sabah, your trip will be packed with memories. Visitors get to see ancient cooking techniques, blowpipe demonstrations, bamboo fire-making, and traditional dances — it’s immersive and eye-opening.

Budget Hack: Many hostels and hotels offer package deals with free transfers and lunch included — booking direct or with a small group helps you save more. It’s an enriching addition to your cheap things to do in Sabah itinerary.

6. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Marvel at Poring Hot Springs & Canopy Walk

Part of the greater Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Springs offers the perfect rest stop after a trek up the mountain trails. Here, natural hot sulfur springs bubble up in outdoor tubs — soak your tired feet or go all in with a full bath in a private cabin.

Above the springs, brave the 175-meter-long canopy walkway hanging high among giant trees. From up there, spot butterflies, birds, and if you’re lucky, a hornbill or two.

Budget Tip: Bring your own towel, water, and snacks to avoid paying resort prices. Local stalls outside the entrance also sell fresh local fruit like rambutan and mangosteen.

7. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Trek Around the Borneo Rainforest Lodge Sabah Area

The Danum Valley Conservation Area is a dream for wildlife lovers. While staying at the luxury Borneo Rainforest Lodge Sabah is pricey, there are cheaper ways to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Independent travelers can stay in budget lodges nearby or book a day trek with local guides in Lahad Datu. Expect misty jungle trails, ancient trees, gibbons calling in the canopy, and if you’re lucky, wild orangutans swinging overhead.

Top Tip: Go with local community guides — they know secret spots that you’d never find alone. It’s real rainforest magic, done affordably.

8. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Discover the Kundasang War Memorial

Kundasang is often called the “New Zealand of Borneo” for its rolling green hills and cool climate. Here you’ll find the Kundasang War Memorial — a beautiful tribute to Australian and British soldiers and the local people who helped them during WWII.

The site has four gardens: English, Australian, Borneo, and the Contemplation Garden — each blooming with roses, local shrubs, and mountain views.

It’s a serene, reflective place and a meaningful stop if you’re road-tripping to Mount Kinabalu. Entry is just a few ringgit — a perfect example of cheap things to do in Sabah that feels profound.

9. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Picnic at Tanjung Aru Beach

When locals say “sunset at Tanjung Aru,” you know it’s a must. Just 15 minutes from KK city, this long stretch of golden sand is free for everyone.

By late afternoon, families, lovebirds, and street food vendors gather along the beach. Grab some grilled corn, coconut ice cream, or satay from roadside stalls, lay out your picnic mat, and watch the sun melt into the South China Sea.

If you want to splurge just a little, treat yourself to a cold drink at the nearby Sunset Bar — but the best sunset is still free.

10. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Spot Fireflies in Kampung Kuantan

For a little bit of night magic, head to one of Sabah’s lesser-known gems: firefly spotting in mangrove villages like Kampung Kuantan or Weston. After dusk, tiny boats cruise the riverbanks where thousands of fireflies light up the trees like living fairy lights.

Tours here are very affordable compared to other wildlife excursions. You’ll float quietly along the mangroves, listening to cicadas and gentle waves while the trees twinkle around you.

Bring mosquito repellent, wear light clothes, and leave your camera flash off — it’s better to enjoy this moment with your own eyes.

11. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Hike to Kiansom Waterfall

Hidden away just 30 minutes from Kota Kinabalu, Kiansom Waterfall is a local favorite for a cool dip and a break from city heat. The hike is easy — a short jungle path leads to multiple cascading falls and refreshing pools.

Entrance fees are minimal, and you can bring your own picnic or BBQ gear. Locals often come on weekends, so if you prefer peace and quiet, visit on weekdays.

It’s the perfect cheap adventure if you’re craving nature but can’t venture too far.

12. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Visit Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

Want to see Sabah’s iconic wildlife without the price tag of a multi-day safari? Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is an easy day trip from KK. Home to orangutans, pygmy elephants, sun bears, and proboscis monkeys, it’s designed as a family-friendly mini-zoo with open enclosures.

Entrance is affordable, and kids love the chance to see Borneo’s rare species up close. Just remember: bring your own snacks and water — prices at the tiny café can add up fast.

13. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Wander the Sabah State Museum

One of the best cheap things to do in Sabah is to explore the Sabah cultural history. The Sabah State Museum complex is more than just dusty displays — it’s a cultural journey into Sabah’s past, people, and biodiversity. You’ll see tribal costumes, ancient pottery, traditional musical instruments, and even a huge whale skeleton!

Behind the museum, there’s an outdoor heritage village with life-sized replicas of traditional houses from different ethnic groups — Dusun, Bajau, Murut, and more. It’s a budget-friendly way to understand what makes Sabah so unique.

14. Snap Photos at Tip of Borneo

Drive north to Kudat and you’ll reach the iconic Tip of Borneo — where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea in dramatic style. The journey itself is scenic, passing through coconut plantations and Rungus villages.

At the rocky outcrop, a bronze globe marks the exact point — it’s a symbolic must-snap spot for any Sabah adventure. And it’s absolutely free!

Pack snacks, water, and a sarong for shade — the sea breeze here is strong but refreshing.

15. Cheap Things to Do in Sabah: Join a Free Walking Tour in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu’s old town has a fascinating mix of colonial heritage, street art, temples, and secret alleys — and the best way to discover them is on foot with a free walking tour.

Some local hostels and young local guides organize these tours to share the city’s hidden history — from Jesselton’s early days to WWII bombings and the rebuilt city you see today.

It’s a fun way to meet fellow travelers, learn quirky facts, and get insider tips for more cheap things to do in Sabah.

Ready to Travel Smarter? Extra Sabah Budget Travel Tips

How to travel in Sabah on a tight budget? Here are more practical tips:

Stay local: Guesthouses and homestays are cheaper than big hotels and help local communities directly.
Plan your route: Public buses and minivans connect most towns — slower than taxis, but way cheaper.
Eat where locals eat: Hawker stalls and local ‘kedai kopi’ are delicious and affordable.
Bring a reusable bottle: Tap water isn’t drinkable, but many hostels provide free refills.
Use Grab: It’s often cheaper than haggling with taxis in KK city.

Final Word: Enjoy Sabah, Spend Less!

So there you have it — 15 real, unique, cheap things to do in Sabah, plus practical tips for cheap travel in Sabah and a dose of local wisdom. Sabah truly proves that you don’t need luxury resorts to have million-dollar adventures.

From soaking in hot springs under ancient canopies to island hopping turquoise waters or chatting with artisans at a morning market — every ringgit here stretches far.

Whether you stay at the iconic Borneo Rainforest Lodge Sabah or bunk in a beach hut, your memories will be priceless.

So, pack your bag, say bah! to overpriced tours, and uncover Sabah’s wild magic on your own terms — and your own budget. So these amazing cheap things to do in Sabah prove you don’t need to overspend to have an unforgettable trip.