Exploring Tawau Hills Park
A natural haven for flora and fauna enthusiasts, featuring waterfalls, hot springs, and lush rainforests.
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Tawau.
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Tawau.
A natural haven for flora and fauna enthusiasts, featuring waterfalls, hot springs, and lush rainforests.
An iconic landmark in Tawau with historical significance and panoramic views of the town.
Discover the history and process of cocoa production in Tawau, known for its rich chocolate heritage.
Walk through the historical sites of Tawau, learning about its rich past and cultural heritage.
The largest shopping complex in Tawau, offering a wide range of shops and eateries.
Experience local culture and traditional markets at Tawau Tanjung Market.
Enjoy fresh seafood at various local eateries, a must-try for visitors to the coastal town.
Explore the stunning islands near Tawau, famous for crystal clear waters and rich marine life.
Known as the 'Lost World of Sabah', Maliau Basin is a remote rainforest reserve with diverse plant and animal life.
Play a round of golf at one of Borneo's top golf courses, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
The essentials for planning your time in Tawau.
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Tawau.
Tawau, located in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a unique travel experience with several pros for visitors:
Biodiversity: Tawau is surrounded by lush rainforests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The nearby Tawau Hills Park and Maliau Basin Conservation Area are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species.
Diving and Beaches: Tawau is a gateway to some of the world's best diving spots, such as Sipadan Island and Mabul Island. These locations offer stunning underwater landscapes, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters, making them a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Additionally, Tawau has beautiful beaches like Balung River Eco Resort and Kelanang Beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the sun.
Cultural Diversity: Tawau is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous communities, Malay, Chinese, and Filipino populations. Visitors can experience this rich cultural tapestry through traditional performances, local cuisine, and interactions with the friendly locals.
Fresh Seafood: Tawau is renowned for its seafood, particularly its fresh and diverse seafood offerings. Visitors can indulge in delicious seafood dishes at local eateries and markets, experiencing the authentic flavors of the region.
Ecotourism Opportunities: Tawau offers various ecotourism activities, such as jungle trekking, bird watching, and river cruises, allowing visitors to explore the region's natural beauty and wildlife up close.
Overall, traveling to Tawau provides a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
Note: The information provided is based on general knowledge and may not be exhaustive.
There are several potential cons to traveling to Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia. These may include:
Limited tourist infrastructure: Tawau is not as developed for tourism as other popular destinations in Malaysia, so you may find fewer accommodation options, restaurants, and tourist facilities compared to places like Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu.
Limited transportation options: Getting to Tawau may require multiple connecting flights or long bus rides, as it is located in a more remote part of Sabah. Once in Tawau, public transportation options within the city and to nearby attractions may also be limited.
Safety concerns: While Tawau is generally safe for tourists, it is always advisable to take precautions against petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots.
Language barrier: English may not be as widely spoken in Tawau compared to other parts of Malaysia, so communication with locals could be challenging if you do not speak Malay or another local language.
Limited tourist attractions: Tawau is known more as a gateway to attractions like Sipadan Island and the Tawau Hills Park, rather than a major tourist destination in its own right. If you are looking for a wide range of attractions and activities, you may find Tawau lacking in comparison to other destinations in Malaysia.
It's worth noting that these cons are relative and may not be significant issues for all travelers. As with any destination, it's important to research and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.