by Azeera Az.
Looking for a weekend escape in Sabah? Kudat, the northernmost town, is packed with beautiful beaches, local culture, and unique experiences. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or going solo, it’s the perfect mix of chill and adventure.
How to get to Kudat
Driving from Kota Kinabalu takes about three hours (185 km). You can self-drive, take a bus, or book a Grab. The journey itself is part of the experience, with the scenery slowly changing as you make your way up north.
Tips:
- Start early to make the most of your day
- Bring water and snacks to keep you going during the drive
Things to Do and Places to See in Kudat
Kudat Market
If you want to experience local life, this is the place to start. You’ll find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, local snacks, and handmade crafts all in one spot. It’s lively, colourful, and full of character.
Tips: Come early for the freshest picks and fewer crowds. Great for photos too.
Esplanade Sidek
Just a short drive away, this waterfront spot is perfect for slowing things down. Sit by the sea, snap a photo with the “I Love Kudat” sign, or enjoy a simple seafood dinner.
Tips: Late afternoon is the best time for sunset views.
Tun Mustapha Museum
If you’re curious about Kudat’s history, this is a good stop. The museum showcases the life of Tun Mustapha Datu Harun, the first Yang di-Pertua Negeri and third Chief Minister of Sabah. Highlights include:
- Tun Mustapha’s personal artefacts, including his first car
- Exhibitions on Kudat’s people, culture, marine life, and handicrafts
- Insect exhibition at the entrance for educational interest
Tomborungus Coconut Stall
Just minutes away from the museum, grab a fresh coconut at Dataran Tomborungus! It’s simple, refreshing, and honestly hits the spot under the Sabah heat.
Kudat Golf Club
Established in 1906 and inspired by St. Andrews, Scotland, Kudat Golf Club is an 18-hole par-72 course measuring 6,080 metres.
- Front nine: Coastal holes with Marudu Bay views and challenging sea winds.
- Back nine: Classic inland design with trees, bunkers, and water hazards.
Facilities: Clubhouse with dining, lit driving range in the evenings, as well as a resort pool that offers scenic views for relaxation.
Tips: Golfers, don’t forget to book ahead. Not playing? Just enjoy the clubhouse dining or snap some pics of the amazing views.
Gombizau Honey Bee Farm
Located in Matunggong, about 43 km from Kudat town, Gombizau Honey Bee Farm gives you a glimpse into traditional village life… and beekeeping! What started as a small setup for personal use has now grown into a community-based attraction that visitors can enjoy.
Things to do:
- Observe how bee farms are managed in a natural village setting
- Taste raw honey straight from the honeycomb
- Learn about bee species like Apis cerana (Eastern Hive Bee), Apis dorsata (Giant Honey Bee), and stingless bees (kelulut)
- Witness traditional rubber tapping and rubber rolling at nearby plantations
Tips: Best visited in the morning when bees are active. Bring sunscreen and water.
Sumangkap Gong Village
Visit Kampung Sumangkap, a Rungus village famous for its gong making and traditional music. It’s a great place to experience local culture firsthand, and large groups can enjoy performances in the community hall featuring the kulintangan, a set of small gongs with unique tones.
Highlights:
- Watch skilled craftsmen create gongs using gas welding and hand hammering
- Purchase gongs or smaller souvenirs, like keychains, directly from workshops
- Experience live kulintangan performances and learn about the gong’s cultural significance
- See Malaysia’s largest gong, standing 22 feet tall and weighing 980 kg, built in just five weeks
Tips: Visit during the Matunggong Gong Festival for the full experience.
Bavanggazo Longhouse
Located in a valley about 41 km south of Kudat town and roughly two and a half hours from Kota Kinabalu, Bavanggazo Longhouse offers a true taste of Rungus culture. This ethnic subgroup of the Kadazan-Dusun is known for beadwork, gong making, and communal living.
Things to Do:
- Explore daily life in a Rungus longhouse, where more than ten families live under one roof
- Enjoy traditional Rungus cuisine prepared by local families
- Watch or participate in Rungus traditional dances
- Try your hand at bead and basket making with guidance from local artisans
Tips: Staying overnight gives you the full experience, but you’ll need to arrange it in advance.
Tip of Borneo: Where Two Seas Meet
Tip of Borneo, or Simpang Mengayau, is one of those places you just have to see when you’re in Kudat. It’s the northernmost point of the island, where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea. You’ll notice the difference in currents as waves crash against the rocky cliffs, creating a dramatic and almost cinematic view.
The area has also been upgraded with proper walkways, viewing platforms, and basic facilities, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
Things to Do:
- Take photos of the iconic tip, especially during sunset when the sky changes colour
- Walk along the cliffside paths for different views
- Stop by Kadaiku to pick up local snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs
Tips:
- Wear comfy shoes and bring water and sunscreen.
- Go early morning for fewer crowds or late afternoon for the sunset.
- Check the weather, especially during rainy season, since you’ll be walking up to the globe viewing platform.
Soaking Up the Sun at Kudat’s Stunning Beaches
Kudat is packed with some of Sabah’s most beautiful and quiet beaches—perfect for swimming, strolling, or just kicking back and soaking up the sun. Don’t miss adding these spots to your weekend escape:
Kalampunian Beach: White sand and clear water. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Best visited on weekdays.
Kelambu Beach: A rare tombolo connecting an island to the mainland. Great for walking, photography, and birdwatching. Bring water shoes for exploring the island.
Bak Bak Beach: Closest to town, calm waters, coral rock formations. Ideal for a quick stop or family outing.
Tips: Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks. Avoid leaving trash behind.
Visit Sabah, Your Next Adventure Awaits!
Kudat really has a bit of everything. Beaches, culture, food, and views that make the trip worth it. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, it’s an easy and rewarding weekend escape.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and see what Kudat has waiting for you.
