[M’SIA TRAVELS] Sunset View at Tanjung Aru Beach | Kota Kinabalu | Sabah | Malaysia
Tanjung Aru Beach is a popular destination or locals and tourists to watch sunset at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. I was in Kota Kinabalu for a weekend trip and decided to head down on Saturday evening to check it out. The beach and island vistas along Sabah’s coast are mostly amazing with rewarding experiences, especially marine life in the world.
Getting to Tanjung Aru from Kota Kinabalu
We took a grab from our hotel to Tanjung Aru Beach, and it took us approximately 10 mins drive. The fare was RM10 ~S$3 for one-way. Going back was cheaper at only RM8 ~S$2.67.
Apparently, Tanjung Aru beach has three areas- first, second and third beach by the local resident. So, for beach 1 and 2, you will find many street stalls selling food like grilled meat, skewers, seafood, and souvenirs. Other local snacks like keropok lekor, fried chicken, steamed peanuts and many more. Kids’ toys and beachwear are sold at some of the stalls too. There is also a seating area in the middle of all the stalls for public to dine in. Usually, locals will either purchase the food to enjoy at the seating area or bring it to the beach area to enjoy while admiring the beach view.
Beach 3 is the end stretch of the beach, where is the quietest area. Fewer people for people usually will plan for a picnic or relaxing chill along this stretch. But it all depends on the crowd on that day.
We tried the local grilled seafood, and it was pretty good and flavourful. The downside is that there are too many flies. We were busy waving our hand over the insect and shooing it away while eating.
There is also an area facing the beach where the public can rent the table and chair on an hourly basis. We decided not to rent it and went to find free seating along the beach.
If you wish to explore other parts of Tanjung Aru, consider Tanjung Aru Perdana Park at Hone Place, Prince Philip Park, Tanjung Aru Library for readings and Tanjung Aru Railway Station.
Beach lovers can consider staying in Tanjung Aru instead of the city area. The district has various types of accommodation choices like luxury hotels, budget hotels or backpack hostels. You can consider based on your own budget. Family travelling can consider Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa which is a mere kilometre away from the beach. Outdoor sport recreation activities are available to try out.
For other attraction places in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia, check out Mari Mari Cultural Village here.