Things To Do
in Kudat

Kudat is a charming coastal town located in the northern part of Borneo, Malaysia. It is known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and the famous Tip of Borneo, where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea. This tranquil destination offers visitors a unique blend of beautiful landscapes and local traditions.

Kudat is also home to indigenous communities, making it an interesting spot for cultural exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kudat's Natural Wonders
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tip of Borneo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and take photographs of the confluence of two seas.

afternoon
:

Head to Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, a nearby beach known for its white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to the waves.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Delights
morning
:

Visit the Rungus Longhouse to learn about the indigenous Rungus community and their traditional way of life.

afternoon
:

Explore Kudat's local markets, where you can shop for handicrafts and sample street food.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local café for a taste of Malaysian coffee and desserts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3 - $5
🚌Bus Fare$1
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20 - $30
🥤Coffee$1 - $2
🍦Ice Cream$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and beaches
  • Rich cultural experiences with indigenous communities
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Transportation can be challenging for some areas
  • Weather can be unpredictable during the wet season
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Kudat

Visit one of these nice places.

Tip of Borneo

Capture stunning panoramic views of the sea and dramatic cliffs at this iconic landmark.

Tanjung Simpang Mengayau

A picturesque beach location ideal for sunset photography.

Rungus Longhouse

Photograph the traditional architecture and vibrant cultural elements of the Rungus community.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kudat

Kudat offers a delectable array of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage and coastal location.

Kudat Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Lemak

A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk served with sambal, fried egg, and peanuts.

Must-Try!

Seafood Laksa

A spicy noodle soup with fresh seafood, flavored with coconut milk and spices.

Sambal Tuhau

A traditional Rungus dish made from wild ginger and chili, often served with grilled fish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kudat Night Market

A lively market where you can sample a variety of street foods, including satay and fresh seafood.

Pasar Tani Kudat

A farmers' market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kudat experiences a tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging between 25-32°C (77-90°F) year-round. The dry season from March to October is ideal for outdoor activities, while the wet season brings heavy rains and cooler temperatures from November to February. Expect occasional storms and high humidity during the wet months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially in rural areas.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common; use both hands when giving or receiving something.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; it is an important part of local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kudat is generally a safe destination for travelers; however, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep your belongings secure. Be cautious when swimming in unfamiliar waters and adhere to local guidelines.

Tipping in Kudat

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, and credit cards are accepted at larger establishments; ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (March - October)

This is the best time to visit, with plenty of sunshine and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (November - February)

Expect heavy rainfall and occasional storms; travel may be challenging.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

A vibrant time to visit for cultural festivities, though it may be busier.

Gawai Dayak (June)

An excellent opportunity to experience local customs and celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Kudat at Night

Kudat's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Most bars and restaurants close by midnight, but you can find a few beachside spots offering live music and chilled vibes. The local night market also provides a lively atmosphere in the evenings, where you can enjoy street food and mingle with locals.

Hiking in Kudat

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Taman Tunku Abdul Rahman

A national park with several trails offering beautiful views and diverse flora and fauna.

Kudat Hill Trail

A moderate hike providing panoramic views of Kudat and the surrounding sea.

Airports

How to reach Kudat by plane.

Kudat Airport

Located approximately 15 km from the town center, this small airport offers flights to Kota Kinabalu.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kudat is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where key attractions, markets, and restaurants are located close to each other. Sidewalks are available but may vary in condition. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated while exploring on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Rungus People

A significant community in Kudat, known for their unique culture and traditional longhouses.

Chinese Community

A sizable population contributing to local commerce and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Kudat, with local teams competing in community leagues.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball, played with a rattan ball, popular among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kudat is generally light, with most people using motorcycles or bicycles. Public transportation options include taxis and buses, but schedules may be irregular. It's best to rent a vehicle if you plan to explore remote areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kudat.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask about ingredients.

Halal Food

Kudat is predominantly Muslim, so halal food is widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Kudat are basic, with a public hospital and a few private clinics available. For serious medical emergencies, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Kota Kinabalu. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide