Gaya Island, Sabah

Nestled in the centre of Turtle Island, this national park from Sabah provides shelter to several endangered turtle species. Turtle Islands national park is enveloped by three surreal islands including Gulisaan, Selingan, and Little Bakkungan.Though this park is mainly popular for its sea turtles, there are several other enthralling activities to engage in. From indulging in sports like zip-lining to setting off on mountain expeditions, here, you can find more than one ways to set your adrenaline racing.On your visit to the beautiful home of turtles, be a witness to all of their activities, right from egg-laying to nesting. For a wildlife enthusiast, this is an ideal opportunity to peep into the world of turtles.Location: Sabah, MalaysiaEntry fee: RM 10 for adults and RM 6 for kidsTiming: It remains open to visitors throughout the day.

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a beautiful collection of five Malaysian islands that are situated off the Borneo coast around six kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is a wonderful place for people who look forward to indulge in underwater activities or relax on the white sandy beaches. The fundamental attraction of this national park is the vast variety of aquatic life found in the surrounding waters of the park.

Located at 600m from the sea bead, Sipadan Island has the unique distinction of being the first and only oceanic island in Malaysia. Highlights – The waters of Sipadan Island are home to over 3000 species of marine life and coral reefs, making the island one of the top five diving destinations of the world. Don’t miss spotting green & hawksbill turtles, bumphead parrotfishes, barracuda, whale sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and many more varieties of marine life here. At the sea bed, you will find a turtle tomb covered by limestone caves, containing the skeletal remains of turtles. During 1933, this Island was declared as a Bird Sanctuary. When you dive here, you will drop 2000metres down to the sea bed. Location – Celebes Sea, off east cost of Sabah state in Borneo Island. Timings – March to October. Price – Island permits are available from RM40 onwards at some resorts, subject to terms and conditions.

Do you want to relish the bird's eye view of Kota Kinabalu? If yes, then head towards Signal Hill Observatory Tower and capture some of the best shots of Sabah. The mesmerising views of Kota Kinabalu, its coastline, and lush green patches from the highest point of the city are totally worth it.One can also catch a glimpse of Likas Bay, Abdul Rahman Park and Tanjung Aru from this point. The tower can be easily reached by climbing the wooden steps through the dense forests. If you are a nature buff, this is one of the most charismatic places to visit in Sabah.Location: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Kota Kinabalu, SabahEntry fee: Entry into this tower is free of cost.Timing: 9:00 AM -11:00 PM

Sprawled over 40 square kilometres on the ground of Kabili Forest Reserve, this rehabilitation centre is known to give new life to orphaned orangutans before sending them back to the forests. The reserve is inhabited by 200 orangutans who form the major highlight of this place.Sepilok Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is swarmed with people from all across the globe who wish to see this rare animal species living in their natural habitat. If you are someone who loves to spend undisturbed time amidst nature, here is a perfect place to visit in Sabah.Location: Sandakan, MalaysiaTiming: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PMEntry fee: RM 5 for Malaysian adults and RM 30 for foreign adults

Clearly visible from Kota Kinabalu City centre, Sepanggar Island is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Sabah that will take your life down a few notches and help you relax in its calm environment. The island is surrounded by tropical rainforests on the one side and sandy beaches on the other. A true paradise for nature buffs, Sepanggar is blessed with exotic flora and fauna which leave you in awe of them.Go for a long walk along the sandy beach or soak in the charm of the sun-kissed island; the choice is all yours. You can also embark on a trek to the South Sea and admire the alluring views of Gaya Bay, South China Sea, and Likas Bay. While returning from the trek, take a dip into the blue sea and engage in water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving.Location: Sepanggar Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia