Are you looking for a perfect getaway to enjoy the beauty of nature, the warmth of culture, and the thrill of adventure? If yes, then you should definitely visit Tanjung Aru Beach, one of the most popular and stunning beaches in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. This beach is not only famous for its white sand, blue water, and lush greenery, but also for its breathtaking sunset that will leave you speechless.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Tanjung Aru Beach, including how to reach, best time to visit, things to do, places to stay, and tips for travelers. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something for everyone at this beach. So, let’s get started and explore the wonders of Tanjung Aru Beach.
How to Reach Tanjung Aru Beach
Tanjung Aru Beach is located about 6 km from the city center of Kota Kinabalu, and about 2 km from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport. You can easily reach the beach by various modes of transportation, such as car, bus, taxi, or bike. Here are some details and tips for each option:
Car:
If you have your own car or rent one, you can drive to the beach via Jalan Tanjung Aru or Jalan Mat Salleh. There are plenty of parking spaces available near the beach, but they may get crowded during peak hours or weekends. The parking fee is usually around RM 1 per hour.
Bus:
You can take the public bus number 16 from the city center or the airport to the beach. The bus fare is RM 1.5 per person, and the journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The bus stop is located near the Tanjung Aru Plaza, which is a short walk from the beach.
Taxi:
You can also take a taxi from the city center or the airport to the beach. The taxi fare is around RM 15 to RM 20 per trip, depending on the traffic and the distance. You can either hail a taxi on the street, or book one online or by phone. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in, or use a metered taxi to avoid overcharging.
Bike:
If you are feeling adventurous and fit, you can also bike to the beach from the city center or the airport. There are several bike rental shops in Kota Kinabalu, where you can rent a bike for a day or more. The bike rental fee is around RM 10 to RM 20 per day, depending on the type and quality of the bike. The bike route to the beach is scenic and safe, but it may take you about 30 to 40 minutes to reach.
Best Time to Visit Tanjung Aru Beach
Tanjung Aru Beach is open all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and expectations. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:
Weather and climate:
The weather and climate of Tanjung Aru Beach are generally warm and humid, with an average temperature of 28°C and an average rainfall of 250 mm per month. The beach has two main seasons: the dry season from January to April, and the wet season from May to December. The dry season is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the water, as well as the clear and stunning sunset. The wet season is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds, the heat, and the high prices, as well as experience the lush and green landscape. However, be prepared for occasional showers and thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon and evening.
Crowds and prices:
The beach is usually crowded and busy during the weekends, public holidays, and school holidays, as well as during the peak tourist season from June to August. The beach is quieter and more peaceful during the weekdays, off-peak season, and early morning or late evening. The prices of accommodation, transportation, and activities are also higher during the peak season and lower during the off-peak season. If you want to save money and enjoy the beach without the crowds, you can visit during the low season or the shoulder season from September to November or from February to March.
Events and festivals:
The beach is also a venue for various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Tanjung Aru Beach Festival, the Sabah International Fishing Tournament, the Sabah Dragon Boat Race, and the Sabah Fest. These events and festivals showcase the culture, heritage, and sports of Sabah, and attract many locals and tourists alike. If you want to join the fun and excitement, you can visit during these events and festivals, but be prepared for the crowds and the noise. If you want to avoid the hassle and the chaos, you can visit before or after these events and festivals, or choose a different location.
Things to Do at Tanjung Aru Beach
Tanjung Aru Beach is not just a place to relax and admire the sunset, but also a place to have fun and adventure. There are many things to do at the beach, for all ages and interests. Here are some of the most popular and recommended activities and attractions that you can enjoy at the beach:
Water sports:
If you love water sports, you will love Tanjung Aru Beach. The beach offers a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. You can rent the equipment and book the services from the vendors along the beach, or from the nearby resorts. The prices vary depending on the type and duration of the water sport, but they are usually affordable and negotiable. The water sports are available from 9 am to 6 pm, but the best time to enjoy them is in the morning or afternoon, when the tide is high and the wind is calm.
Picnics and walks:
If you prefer a more laid-back and leisurely activity, you can have a picnic or a walk at the beach. The beach has several picnic areas and gazebos, where you can set up your own picnic or buy some snacks and drinks from the nearby stalls. You can also walk along the 2 km long beach, and enjoy the views of the sea, the sky, and the islands. You can also visit the Prince Philip Park, which is a landscaped park with a playground, a jogging track, a fitness corner, and a pond. The park is open from 6 am to 10 pm, and the entrance is free.
Sunset watching:
The highlight and the must-do activity at Tanjung Aru Beach is watching the sunset. The beach is famous for its spectacular and romantic sunset, which is considered one of the best in the world. The sunset at the beach is different every day, depending on the weather, the clouds, and the season. The colors and the shapes of the sunset are amazing and mesmerizing, and they change every minute. The best time to watch the sunset is from 5 pm to 7 pm, but you should arrive early to get a good spot and a good view. You can also join the Seatango Sunset Cruise, which is a boat tour that takes you to the best spots to watch the sunset from the sea. The cruise is available from 4 pm to 7 pm, and the price is RM 150 per person, including snacks and drinks.
Places to Stay near Tanjung Aru Beach
If you want to stay near Tanjung Aru Beach, you have many options to choose from, ranging from luxury resorts to budget hostels. Here are some of the best and most popular places to stay near the beach, and what they offer:
Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa:
This is the most luxurious and prestigious resort near the beach, and it is located right next to the Prince Philip Park. The resort has 492 rooms and suites, all with balconies and sea views. The resort also has a private beach, a spa, a golf course, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is ideal for couples, families, and business travelers who want to enjoy the ultimate comfort and service. The price of the resort starts from RM 800 per night, and it includes breakfast, wifi, and airport shuttle.
Borneo Beachouse Backpackers:
This is the most affordable and friendly hostel near the beach, and it is located about 1 km from the Tanjung Aru Plaza. The hostel has 12 rooms and dorms, all with air-conditioning and shared bathrooms. The hostel also has a common area, a kitchen, a garden, and a barbecue. The hostel is ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, and groups who want to meet new people and have fun. The price of the hostel starts from RM 25 per night, and it includes breakfast, wifi, and bike rental.
Seapark Condotel:
This is a mid-range and cozy hotel near the beach, and it is located about 500 meters from the Tanjung Aru Plaza. The hotel has 40 rooms and apartments, all with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a laundry service, and a convenience store. The hotel is ideal for families, couples, and long-term travelers who want to have more space and privacy. The price of the hotel starts from RM 150 per night, and it includes wifi and parking.
Tips for Travelers to Tanjung Aru Beach
Tanjung Aru Beach is a wonderful place to visit, but there are some tips and precautions that you should follow to make your trip more enjoyable and safe. Here are some of the most important tips for travelers to Tanjung Aru Beach:
Sun protection:
The sun at the beach can be very strong and harsh, especially during the dry season and the peak hours. You should always wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun. You should also drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, as the heat and humidity can cause dehydration and heatstroke.
Safety and security:
The beach is generally safe and secure, but you should still be careful and vigilant of your surroundings and belongings. You should not leave your valuables unattended or exposed, and you should lock your car or bike when you park. You should also avoid swimming or walking alone at night, as the beach can be dark and deserted. You should also follow the rules and regulations of the beach, such as not littering, not smoking, not drinking alcohol, and not disturbing the wildlife.
Culture and etiquette:
The beach is a public and cultural place, and you should respect the local customs and traditions. You should dress modestly and appropriately, and avoid wearing revealing or offensive clothing. You should also greet and smile at the locals, and use polite and courteous language. You should also ask for permission before taking photos or videos of the locals or their properties. You should also avoid any public displays of affection, as they may be considered rude or inappropriate.
Food and drinks:
The beach has many food and drink options, from local delicacies to international cuisines. You can try some of the famous dishes and snacks at the beach, such as the Tanjung Aru fried noodles, the Tanjung Aru fried chicken, the Tanjung Aru rojak, and the Tanjung Aru coconut pudding. You can also enjoy some refreshing drinks, such as the Tanjung Aru iced tea, the Tanjung Aru fruit juice, and the Tanjung Aru coconut water. You can find these food and drink stalls along the beach, or at the nearby Tanjung Aru Plaza. However, you should be careful of the hygiene and quality of the food and drinks, and avoid eating or drinking anything that looks or smells suspicious. You should also avoid drinking tap water, and only drink bottled or boiled water.
Tanjung Aru Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, culture, and adventure. The beach has something for everyone, from relaxing and romantic sunsets, to exciting and fun water sports, to delicious and diverse food and drinks. The beach is also easy to reach, and has many places to stay near it. The beach is a perfect place to spend a day or a weekend, and to create unforgettable memories.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Tanjung Aru Beach today, and experience the beauty and charm of Sabah’s sunset paradise. Thank you for reading this article, and we hope you enjoyed it. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
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