Are you dreaming of a year-end staycation that doesn’t require extensive travel or burn a hole in your pocket? Look no further than the serene town of Kudat, located in the northernmost tip of Sabah, Malaysia. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and welcoming local culture, Kudat offers the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway with family and friends or embarking on a solo adventure, Kudat has something to offer every traveler. The best part? You don’t need to catch a flight to experience the magic of this coastal gem.
Kudat is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush green landscapes, and vibrant marine life. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in nature’s wonders, explore the local culture, and, most importantly, rejuvenate your spirit.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through a 2-day, 1-night staycation in Kudat. We’ll explore the must-visit attractions, savor delicious local cuisine, and embrace the town’s laid-back lifestyle. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a delightful adventure in Kudat – the perfect year-end retreat.
1st Day
Depart from Kota Kinabalu
Your Kudat adventure begins with the journey from Kota Kinabalu. If you’re already in Kota Kinabalu, renting a car and embarking on a self-drive road trip is the most flexible and rewarding option. This route offers you the chance to stop halfway, indulge in local cuisine, and take in the scenic beauty. On your way, you’ll discover roadside stalls selling an array of delectable snacks, including roasted corn, potato chips, and fresh local fruits. These quick stops will not only sate your appetite but also provide you with an authentic taste of Sabah.
Car rental shops are conveniently located at Kota Kinabalu Airport and around the city. Alternatively, you can opt to reserve a vehicle through online platforms like Klook, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
For a more relaxed travel experience, consider hiring a van or even catching a bus. However, if you choose the latter, it’s wise to start your journey early to ensure better visibility on the road and to have ample time to relish the wonders of Kudat. The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kudat typically takes around three hours, so be sure to make some great road trip playlists to set the mood for your adventure.
Check-in Hotel
After arriving in Kudat, it’s time to settle into your chosen accommodation. Kudat offers a variety of lodging options to cater to your preferences.
Kudat Golf & Marina Resort: The Kudat Golf & Marina Resort is often regarded as the top accommodation in the area. This 3-star resort is strategically positioned between an 18-hole Championship Golf Course and the Marina Jetty, offering breathtaking views of Marudu Bay. While the rooms are typically clean and well-kept, some signs of aging may be visible, especially in the bathroom areas. Guests have the advantage of enjoying the resort’s swimming pool and a well-equipped gym room during their leisure hours. The resort’s prime location places it near the Tip of Borneo, as well as the stunning beaches of Kalampunian and Kelambu. If you’re seeking a relaxing and scenic getaway with the option for golfing and boating activities, this resort is an ideal choice.
Tampat do Aman: Tampat do Aman is an eco-resort and jungle camp located in close proximity to the Tip of Borneo, Kudat. Situated around 30 km from Kudat town, it offers traditional Rungus huts with charming views of the surrounding rice paddy fields. Shared bathrooms and mosquito nets are part of the experience, but please note that there is no air conditioning. The resort also features a beachfront restaurant, making it a distinctive and rustic choice, particularly for nature enthusiasts.
The Upper Deck Hotel: For solo travelers, couples, friends, and business travelers, The Upper Deck Hotel is a perfect choice. Located in Kudat town and approximately 6 km from Kudat Airport, the hotel provides spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities. These include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and some rooms even offer sea views. Guests will find convenience in the 24-hour front desk and room service available to meet their needs.
With these diverse accommodation options, you can select the one that aligns with your travel style and budget for a comfortable stay in Kudat.
Lunch at Kafe Abang J Kudat
For a delicious yet budget-friendly lunch option, Kafe Abang J Kudat is an excellent choice. This eatery is particularly known for its seafood dishes that won’t break the bank. Treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood feast while enjoying the relaxed ambiance.
One must-try item on the menu is their unique ABC ice-blended dessert. What sets it apart from the usual ABC desserts is the addition of Kudat’s specialty – crushed peanuts. This gives the dessert a distinctive local flavor that’s truly a delightful experience for your taste buds.
The comfortable setting of the cafe offers you the perfect spot to dine while basking in the gentle sea breeze. After indulging in your meal, you have a couple of options for the remainder of your day. You can take a leisurely stroll around the town, exploring the local scene and perhaps picking up some souvenirs along the way. Alternatively, you can choose to return to your hotel to rest and make the most of the stunning views and facilities the accommodation offers. Whether you decide to continue your exploration or take it easy, Kudat has something to cater to your desires.
Exploring the Tip of Borneo
As the clock approaches 5 pm, it’s the perfect time to head towards the magnificent Tip of Borneo, one of the highlights of your Kudat adventure. Situated approximately 40 minutes away from the town, the journey is as exciting as the destination itself.
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself in awe of the mesmerizing scenery that unfolds before you. The Tip of Borneo is renowned for its breathtaking views of the confluence between the South China Sea and Sulu Sea, as well as the lush forests that surround the area.
This is a fantastic opportunity for some incredible photo opportunities. So make sure your camera or smartphone is fully charged because you won’t want to miss capturing this beauty.
You can take your time to stroll around, soak in the serene atmosphere, and feel the gentle sea breeze on your skin. It’s the ideal moment to simply unwind and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
As the sun starts its descent in the sky, you’ll have the privilege of witnessing a Tip of Borneo sunset, one that promises to be etched in your memory forever. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sea and the sky, is a truly magical experience.
Jalan Marang Parang
Following your memorable time at the Tip of Borneo, you can continue your journey along the beautiful Jalan Marang Parang. This road is a hidden gem that offers a more relaxed and secluded atmosphere compared to the bustling tourist spots.
As you venture down Jalan Marang Parang, you’ll be greeted by picturesque scenes that feature vast coconut plantations, dense jungles, and breathtaking sea vistas. The road itself is a serene experience, almost like a private escape, even on weekends.
If your trip happens to coincide with the right conditions, you might even witness the awe-inspiring Blue Tears phenomenon. This is a natural wonder where the sea lights up with a radiant, almost magical blue glow, caused by bioluminescent plankton. This enchanting spectacle usually occurs between April and September, especially during low tide and moonless nights.
Jalan Marang Parang takes you on a journey of beauty and serenity, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and experience the fascinating phenomena that make Kudat a truly unique destination.
Dinner at Restaurant Hock Cheong
If you’re seeking a dinner dining spot that comes highly recommended by both locals and visitors alike, you won’t want to miss Restaurant Hock Cheong. One of the standout establishments in the local seafood scene, this restaurant offers a warm and welcoming environment, perfect for a relaxed evening meal. Inside, you’ll find clean and comfortable surroundings, complete with the luxury of air conditioning to escape the tropical heat.
While the atmosphere is inviting, it’s the food that truly shines here. Seafood lovers will find themselves in paradise with the wide array of options. Whether you have a hankering for succulent prawns, large fish, tender squid, sweet crabs, or delicious clams, the menu is sure to delight. The seafood is known for its freshness and quality.
What sets Restaurant Hock Cheong apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. The staff is not only attentive and friendly but also willing to cater to your preferences. If there’s a particular seafood dish you desire, you can inform the staff, and they’ll do their best to prepare it if the ingredients are available.
Day 2
Breakfast at Kedai Kopi Lok Kheng Lim
As your Kudat adventure continues into its second day, it’s crucial to kickstart your morning with a hearty breakfast that the locals adore. For this, there’s no better place than the beloved Kedai Kopi Lok Kheng Lim. Kedai Kopi Lok Kheng Lim is a charming old-school Chinese coffee shop with a rich history that spans almost a century. It’s no exaggeration to call it an institution in Kudat. While it might not have fancy decor or modern aesthetics, it’s the simplicity and authenticity that make this place special.
The menu at Lok Kheng Lim offers a delightful selection of breakfast items, one must-try combination is the Kon Lou Lee, a popular local dish. This meal comprises egg noodles stir-fried with a dark and savory sauce, accompanied by coffee. It’s a classic way to start your day in Kudat and get a taste of the local food culture.
In addition to these signature dishes, Lok Kheng Lim also serves dim sum, fried noodles, and other local delights, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Kudat Market
Your two-day adventure in Kudat wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the bustling Kudat Market. This vibrant marketplace is not only an excellent place to grab a delicious breakfast but also to hunt for unique souvenirs and local delicacies to take back home. The Kudat Market is a hub for all things local. From fresh, locally grown vegetables to a wide variety of seafood, this market caters to all your culinary and souvenir needs. It’s not only a place to eat and shop but also an essential part of the Kudat community, where locals come together to trade their goods.
To fully experience the Kudat Market, it’s best to rise early and head over in the morning. This is when the market is at its liveliest, with traders showcasing a colorful array of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. The Kudat Market opens its gates from Monday to Saturday, and the best time to visit is during the peak hours from 7:00 am to 10:00 am daily. During this time, you’ll find a wealth of local flavors and crafts that are both authentic and delightful.
When exploring the Kudat Market, be sure to look out for one special item that makes for a great souvenir – Kudat peanuts. These peanuts are not only delicious but also make for a unique gift that carries the flavors and memories of Kudat. Whether you choose to snack on them during your trip or save them for later, they’re a delightful reminder of your visit to this charming coastal town.
As you amble through the market’s vibrant aisles, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the friendly faces of locals and the delightful scents of fresh produce. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and gather some last-minute treasures before you leave Kudat.
Conclusion
Kudat is an ideal retreat for everyone, from families and friends looking to bond over shared experiences to solo travelers yearning for a peaceful escape. The drive from Kota Kinabalu is a journey in itself, offering breathtaking landscapes and the thrill of discovery.
As you conclude your stay in Kudat, you might find yourself yearning to return. There are many more hidden treasures, local delicacies, and captivating sights to explore in the region, making it a destination you’ll want to revisit.
So, why not plan your next escape to Kudat? Experience the coastal charm, embrace the local culture, and savor the flavors of this picturesque corner of Borneo. Discover Kudat’s hidden gems and create your own tales of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights in this captivating coastal paradise.