Are you ready to explore one of Sabah’s most underrated gems? Tawau is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Located on Borneo’s east coast, this charming city is the third largest in Sabah and boasts a unique blend of cultures, shaped by its history of British and Japanese colonization, as well as settlers from China and Indonesia.
On your trip to Tawau, you’ll find a diverse range of things to see and do, from the breathtaking natural beauty of Tawau Hills Park to the fascinating Teck Guan Cocoa Museum. As one of one best cocoa-producing regions in Malaysia, Tawau is a must-visit place for chocolate lovers. This guide will help you plan your itinerary, covering top attractions, activities, and dining options, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Discovering Tawau: Malaysia’s Hidden Gem
As you explore the lesser-known destinations in Malaysia, Tawau stands out as a hidden gem. This multicultural town has a rich history that spans over a century, with its beginnings dating back to the 1890s when it was home to around 200 settlers.
Over time, Tawau grew as immigrants from neighboring countries made it their home, shaping the town into the diverse city it is today. With a history marked by colonization by both the British and the Japanese, Tawau’s cultural landscape is a tapestry of ethnic groups and diverse communities.
History and Cultural Significance
Tawau’s history is deeply intertwined with its agricultural practices, trade, and commerce. For years, it has been a significant hub for palm oil and timber, making it one of Malaysia’s most important ports. Recently, it has emerged as one of the largest cocoa producers in the country, further solidifying its economic importance.
- The town’s strategic location on Borneo’s east coast has made it a crucial trading center throughout history.
- Tawau’s cultural atmosphere is a blend of Malay, Chinese, Indonesian, and indigenous cultures, creating a unique multicultural experience.
- Understanding Tawau’s history enhances your appreciation of its attractions and cultural sites, making it a compelling destination.
Tawau’s transformation from a small settlement to the third-largest city in Sabah is a testament to its growth and development while maintaining its charm and authentic character.
Best Time to Visit Tawau
To make the most of your trip to Tawau, it’s crucial to know the optimal time to visit.
Understanding Seasonal Variations
Tawau experiences a dry season from March to September, making it the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing due to the pleasant weather.
If you’re on a budget and prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the rainy season, from October to February.
| Season | Period | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | March to September | Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities |
| Rainy Season | October to February | Regular rainfall, fewer crowds, budget-friendly |
Pack accordingly, with lightweight clothing for the dry season and rain gear for the rainy season.
How to Get to Tawau
Getting to Tawau is easier than you think, with multiple transportation options available. Depending on your starting location, you can take public transport or rent a car to drive there yourself.
Transportation Options
Tawau is accessible by air, ferry, and road. Tawau Airport is located within the city and offers regular flights via Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu. MASwings connects from Sandakan and Tarakan (Indonesia).
By road, bus services operate daily from Kota Kinabalu (9-hour journey), Lahad Datu, and Keningau to Tawau’s Jalan Dunlop Bus Terminal. Ferry connections from Indonesia (Nunukan/Tarakan) are also available, taking between one to four hours to reach Tawau Ferry Terminal.
Once in Tawau, you can use taxis, ride-sharing services, or rent a car to explore the area. The journey from Tawau to Semporna takes approximately 1.75 hours by road.
Explore Tawau Hills Park: Nature at Its Finest
Located just 24 kilometers from town, Tawau Hills Park is a haven for nature lovers. This 27,972-hectare protected national park is a natural paradise with lush forests, gentle rivers, natural pools, and seasonal waterfalls.
Wildlife and Natural Attractions
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife and natural attractions. You can explore numerous nature trails, including a large botanical garden with hundreds of orchids, picnic spots, and a hot spring where you can relax.
Some of the park’s highlights include the Table Waterfall, also known as Glass Hill Waterfall, natural hot springs, hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas. For more adventurous visitors, there are hiking opportunities to Mt. Magdalena (1,312 meters), Mt. Lucia, and Mt. Maria.
The park’s impressive biodiversity features one of the tallest tropical trees in the world and over 80 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. The park is open from 8 am to 4 pm on weekdays and 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on weekends, with entrance fees of MYR 6 for Malaysian adults and MYR 20 for foreign adults.
Discover Teck Guan Cocoa Museum and Village
Experience the rich world of cocoa at Teck Guan Cocoa Museum and Village in Tawau. As one of Malaysia’s largest cocoa producers, Tawau is home to this unique attraction that combines education, adventure, and indulgence.
Chocolate Experiences
At Teck Guan Cocoa Village, you can zipline over the lush cocoa plantations, participate in chocolate-making activities, and enjoy chocolate-tasting experiences with creative dishes. The Teck Guan Cocoa Museum, on the other hand, provides insight into the history of cocoa, a sampling kitchen, and a tour of the processing factory, but requires advanced bookings.
The village offers a range of unique chocolate products, including chocolate soap bars, handwashes, and a chocolate version of onde-onde (Buah Melaka). Both the museum and village are located approximately 20-30 minutes from Tawau city center. The museum is at TB6853, Batu 2, Jalan Tanjung Batu Laut, and the village is at Quion Hill.
Plan your visit: both attractions are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with entry fees of MYR 5 for children under 12 and MYR 10 for adults. To fully enjoy the chocolate experience, it’s recommended to allocate a full day to explore both the museum and the village.
Marvel at the Columnar Basalt Formations
Tucked away in Malaysia, the Columnar Basalt Formations in Tawau are a hidden gem that showcases nature’s incredible geological wonders. Located at Giram Nek Legek in Kampung Balung Cocos, this natural marvel is one of the few places in the world where you can witness the distinctive Columnar Basalt rocks.
Geological Wonders
The hexagonal basalt columns at this site are reminiscent of famous formations like Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland or Svartifoss in Iceland. What makes Tawau’s columnar basalt unique is its setting along a river, with waterfalls cascading through it, creating a perfect natural swimming spot. This is the only columnar basalt formation in Malaysia and Borneo, making it a truly special attraction.
The location is on private property, currently open to the public, with access through a palm oil plantation from the main road. The village, Kampung Balung Cocos, has an interesting cultural history, as its residents are descendants of Cocos Malays brought from the Cocos Islands by the British in the 1950s. Visiting this site is a worthwhile detour when traveling between Tawau and Semporna, especially on hot afternoons when a refreshing dip is welcome.
Visit the Maliau Basin Conservation Area
The Maliau Basin Conservation Area, known as ‘Borneo’s Lost World,’ is a breathtaking natural reserve near Tawau. It is a true paradise for nature lovers, located approximately 50 km from Tawau, and the journey can take about an hour or more.
Borneo’s Lost World
This conservation area is a 25km wide depression filled with pristine rainforest, offering an unparalleled nature experience. The basin is home to incredible biodiversity, with over 80 species of orchids, many of which are newly discovered, and abundant wildlife including banteng, sun bears, and deer.
The spectacular 7-tier Maliau Falls is the centerpiece attraction, surrounded by mist and pristine wilderness. This area is considered one of the best places in the world to explore untouched tropical rainforests. To ensure your safety and enhance your educational experience about the unique ecosystem, we strongly recommend hiring an experienced guide.
Shop at Pasar Tanjung Tawau (Central Market)
Local Shopping Experience
For a truly immersive experience in Tawau, head to Pasar Tanjung Tawau, also known as the New Central Market. This three-story market is one of the largest indoor markets in Malaysia and a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
The market is divided into three distinct sections: a covered fresh market for produce, meat, and seafood; an area for dried seafood, homemade condiments, and kitchen supplies; and a section for handicrafts and souvenirs. You can find a variety of items, including fresh vegetables, sea and agriculture produce, dried seafood, pots, clothing, and toys.
When shopping at Pasar Tanjung Tawau in Tanjung Tawau, it’s essential to bring cash, as most vendors do not accept credit cards. Visiting early in the morning ensures you get the freshest produce, and don’t hesitate to bargain. The market is renowned for its dried seafood products at bargain prices, making it an ideal place for food souvenirs.
Combining a visit to the market with nearby attractions like Masjid Bandar Tawau can help you efficiently explore the city center. Allow 1-2 hours to fully explore Pasar Tanjung Tawau and interact with the friendly local vendors.
Experience Tawau’s Cultural Heritage
Tawau’s cultural landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of British and Japanese colonization and the influences of various ethnic groups. The city’s history is reflected in its historical landmarks and religious sites.
Historical and Religious Sites
As you explore bandar Tawau, you’ll encounter several significant sites. The historic Tawau Bell Tower is a landmark in the city center. The majestic Masjid Al-Kauthar, Sabah’s largest mosque, offers stunning views of the Cowie Straits. Additionally, Masjid Bandar Tawau (Lama), built in 1963, is recognized as the oldest mosque in the city.
- Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage shaped by its colonial past and diverse ethnic influences.
- Visit the historic Tawau Bell Tower and the impressive Masjid Al-Kauthar.
- Discover Masjid Bandar Tawau (Lama), the oldest mosque in the town.
Take a self-guided walking tour to visit these sites, as many are concentrated in the city center. You can also visit the Tawau Waterfront at sunset for breathtaking views.
Savor Tawau’s Culinary Delights
The town of Tawau is a food lover’s paradise, with its unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Indonesian, and indigenous culinary influences. You can indulge in a wide range of authentic Malaysian delicacies, from coconut-infused ice cream to the beloved Roti Canai.
Flavors of Tawau
Some must-try dishes include crispy fried Mee Hoon topped with seafood, Pisang Goreng Cheese featuring small banana pancakes stuffed with cheese, Nasi Kuning, a yellow rice dish served with spicy sambal fish, and Soto Ayam, a flavorful chicken noodle soup. For the freshest seafood, head to Ocean Area Seafood Restaurant or Sri Titingan Seafood Restaurant.
To experience the local food culture, visit popular eateries like Kedai Kopi Hing Lee, Kedai Kopi Mui Lok, and Restoran Haji Tamrin. Don’t miss trying unique snacks like sanggar pappek and chocolate-infused traditional desserts, showcasing Tawau’s renowned cocoa production. When dining, look for restaurants crowded with locals and be adventurous with new flavors.
Plan Your Perfect Tawau Itinerary
Whether you’re in Tawau for a day or three, here’s how to make the most of your visit. Tawau, a city with a rich history and diverse attractions, offers a range of activities for every kind of traveler.
Day Trips and Excursions
For a one-day visit, focus on the city’s highlights. Start your morning at the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Spend your afternoon exploring Pasar Tanjung Tawau and the cultural sites, and end your day with a relaxing sunset view at the Tawau Waterfront.
For a two-day itinerary, dedicate the second day to nature experiences. Visit Tawau Hills Park and Table Waterfall, with a stop at the hot springs. If you have three days, consider a trip to the Maliau Basin Conservation Area or the islands around Semporna.
To maximize your time, combine attractions that are geographically close. For example, visit the columnar basalt formations when traveling between Tawau and Semporna. This way, you’ll see the best places in the area.
Conclusion: Why Tawau Deserves More Than Just a Stopover
Tawau, a hidden gem in Sabah, deserves your attention for its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. This town offers a variety of things to see and do, making it an ideal stop on your trip.
When visiting Tawau, you’ll discover experiences you can’t find elsewhere, such as Malaysia’s only columnar basalt formation and one of the world’s best cocoa museums. The city also provides practical advantages, including more affordable accommodation and authentic local seafood at reasonable prices.
Final Recommendations
To make the most of your visit, consider staying for 2-3 days to explore Tawau’s diverse attractions. Don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance, arrange guides for nature excursions, and bring cash for local markets. With its authentic experiences, warm hospitality, and memories that will last a lifetime, Tawau is a place that will leave you wanting more.
