Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide

Discover Tanjung Aru, a tropical haven in Kota Kinabalu known for its breathtaking sunsets, pristine beach, and vibrant local culture.

Located just a short drive from the bustling city center of Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru offers a serene escape filled with natural beauty and local charm. This coastal neighbourhood is renowned for its stunning sunsets, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, making it a magnet for both locals and tourists seeking a picturesque end to their day. The area is home to the famous Tanjung Aru Beach, a long stretch of golden sand perfect for leisurely strolls and beach activities. The nearby Prince Philip Park provides a lush green space ideal for picnics, jogging, or simply relaxing under the shade of swaying palm trees. For those interested in local culture, the Tanjung Aru market offers a plethora of local delicacies and souvenirs, giving visitors a taste of authentic Malaysian flavors and craftsmanship. Water enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from jet-skiing and windsurfing to more laid-back activities like paddleboarding. The neighbourhood is also a gateway to the nearby islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where snorkeling and diving reveal a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences, Tanjung Aru is a must-visit destination in Kota Kinabalu.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tanjung Aru.

Visit Tanjung Aru Beach in the late afternoon to catch the stunning sunset.
Explore the local food stalls at Tanjung Aru market for delicious Malaysian street food.
Bring your own picnic supplies to Prince Philip Park for a relaxing afternoon.
Rent snorkeling gear to explore the underwater beauty of nearby islands.
Check the weather forecast before planning water activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Explore Tanjung Aru: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Tanjung Aru

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Tanjung Aru Perdana Park

Explore Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, a beautiful coastal sanctuary in Kota Kinabalu, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and enjoying stunning sunsets.

4.4

Victoria Lake, Perdana Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Victoria Lake at Perdana Park, a serene oasis in Kota Kinabalu perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

4.4

Prince Philip Park

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Prince Philip Park in Kota Kinabalu, a perfect getaway for relaxation and stunning sunset views.

4.2

Tanjung Aru Beach Seaview, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Discover the beauty of Tanjung Aru Beach in Kota Kinabalu, where stunning sunsets and vibrant local culture create a tropical paradise.

4.7

Best landmarks in Tanjung Aru

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Tanjung Aru Beach

Discover the beauty of Tanjung Aru Beach in Kota Kinabalu, where golden sands, stunning sunsets, and vibrant culture create a perfect escape.

4.3

Tanjung Aru Perdana Park

Explore Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, a serene escape in Kota Kinabalu with stunning sunsets, lush gardens, and vibrant local culture.

4.4

Prince Philip Park

Explore the tranquility of Prince Philip Park in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, where lush landscapes and serene views create a perfect escape for nature lovers.

4.2

Double Six Memorial Park

Discover the peaceful Double Six Memorial Park in Kota Kinabalu, a serene tribute to history and a perfect spot for reflection and tranquility.

4.3

Best restaurants in Tanjung Aru

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Lucy's Kitchen

Experience authentic Sabahan flavors at Lucy's Kitchen in Tanjung Aru – where every meal tells a story!

3.9

King Hu Restaurant 京滬飯店

Discover authentic Chinese cuisine at King Hu Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.0

The Cruise Cafe Lounge

Discover the exquisite flavors of Malaysia at The Cruise Cafe Lounge in Kota Kinabalu - where local cuisine meets global tastes.

4.2

Pantai Bistro

Experience breathtaking views and diverse culinary delights at Pantai Bistro in Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu – your gateway to local flavors.

4.1

Best bars in Tanjung Aru

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Sunset Bar

Discover the serenity of Sunset Bar at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort, where exquisite cocktails and breathtaking sunsets create unforgettable memories.

4.4

Moretune Kick Bistro & Fun Pub

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Moretune Kick Bistro & Fun Pub in Kota Kinabalu, where delicious food and lively entertainment await.

4.3

ZING Sunset Bar

Experience delightful cuisine and breathtaking sunset views at ZING Sunset Bar, the perfect tropical retreat in Kota Kinabalu.

4.1

Pantai Bistro

Experience the best of Malaysian cuisine at Pantai Bistro, a charming spot in Kota Kinabalu with stunning coastal views and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Tanjung Aru

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The Other Side Bar 赵老妹

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Other Side Bar in Tanjung Aru, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.8

999 Bar Kota Kinabalu

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Kota Kinabalu at 999 Bar, where great music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere await you.

4.1

Mynt Club

Discover Mynt Club, the electrifying night club in Kota Kinabalu, known for its vibrant atmosphere, exquisite cocktails, and unforgettable music.

4.5

Bee Kim Regal Club

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Kota Kinabalu at Bee Kim Regal Club, where the dance floor and bar create an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Best shops in Tanjung Aru

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pasar tanjung aru

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at Pasar Tanjung Aru, a bustling grocery store in Kota Kinabalu offering fresh produce and authentic Malaysian flavors.

3.9

Gaya Korean Mart

Explore the vibrant flavors of Korea at Gaya Korean Mart in Kota Kinabalu - your go-to supermarket for authentic Korean products and local delights.

2.2

7-Eleven

Discover the convenience of 7-Eleven in Kota Kinabalu, offering a wide selection of snacks, drinks, and essentials, open 24/7 for all your travel needs.

3.1

99 Speedmart 25320 (SBH) Tanjung Aru

Explore the vibrant convenience of 99 Speedmart in Tanjung Aru, your one-stop shop for snacks, beverages, and travel essentials in Kota Kinabalu.

3.5

Explore Tanjung Aru on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tanjung Aru, mapped for you.

Tanjung Aru Essentials

Tanjung Aru is easily accessible from Kota Kinabalu city center. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses also operate from various points in the city, with routes that lead directly to Tanjung Aru. Alternatively, if you are coming from the airport, it's just a 10-minute drive away, and taxis are readily available.
Tanjung Aru is well-connected and can be explored on foot, especially along its beachfront and parks. Local buses run frequently and provide access to surrounding areas. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle from one of the local shops. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available for longer distances or when you prefer not to walk.
Tanjung Aru is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to stay vigilant, particularly near busy markets and tourist spots.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospitals are readily accessible, and it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Don't wear swimsuits outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly and needy. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'Selamat Pagi' (Good Morning). Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and enjoy street food delicacies. Don't eat in public places where it's frowned upon, like temples.
To experience Tanjung Aru like a local, visit the night market for authentic Malaysian street food and local crafts. Early morning visits to the beach offer stunning sunrises and a chance to see locals exercising. Engage with local vendors and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Enjoy a stroll through the Tanjung Aru Beach Park, and be sure to catch the sunset, as it is known for its breathtaking views.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tanjung Aru

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tanjung Aru. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [se-la-mat ting-gal]
- YesYa
  [ya]
- NoTidak
  [ti-dak]
- Please/You're welcomeSila
  [si-la]
- Thank youTerima kasih
  [te-ri-ma ka-sih]
- Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [ma-af]
- How are you?Apa khabar?
  [a-pa kha-bar]
- Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?
  [ba-ik. dan ka-mu]
- Do you speak English?Boleh cakap Bahasa Inggeris?
  [bo-leh cha-kap ba-ha-sa ing-ge-ris]
- I don't understandSaya tidak faham
  [sa-ya ti-dak fa-ham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin lihat menu, sila
  [sa-ya in-gin li-hat me-nu, si-la]
- I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
- Cheers!Yam seng!
  [yam seng]
- I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin bayar, sila
  [sa-ya in-gin ba-yar, si-la]
- Help!Tolong!
  [to-long]
- Go away!Pergi jauh-jauh!
  [per-gi jauh-jauh]
- Call the Police!Panggil polis!
  [pang-gil po-lis]
- Call a doctor!Panggil doktor!
  [pang-gil dok-tor]
- I'm lostSaya sesat
  [sa-ya se-sat]
- I'm illSaya sakit
  [sa-ya sa-kit]
- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin beli...
  [sa-ya in-gin be-li]
- I'm just lookingSaya hanya tengok-tengok
  [sa-ya ha-nya ten-gok-ten-gok]
- How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
- That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
- Can you lower the price?Boleh kurangkan harga?
  [bo-leh kur-ang-kan har-ga]
- What time is it?Pukul berapa sekarang?
  [pu-kul be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
- It's one o'clockPukul satu
  [pu-kul sa-tu]
- Half past (10)Setengah (10)
  [se-ten-gah (10)]
- MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
- AfternoonPetang
  [pe-tang]
- EveningMalam
  [ma-lam]
- YesterdaySemalam
  [se-ma-lam]
- TodayHari ini
  [ha-ri i-ni]
- TomorrowEsok
  [e-sok]
- 1Satu
  [sa-tu]
- 2Dua
  [du-a]
- 3Tiga
  [ti-ga]
- 4Empat
  [em-pat]
- 5Lima
  [li-ma]
- 6Enam
  [e-nam]
- 7Tujuh
  [tu-juh]
- 8Lapan
  [la-pan]
- 9Sembilan
  [sem-bi-lan]
- 10Sepuluh
  [se-pu-luh]
- Where's a/the...?Di mana...
  [di ma-na]
- What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Boleh tunjukkan saya (pada peta)?
  [bo-leh tun-juk-kan sa-ya (pa-da pe-ta)]
- When's the next (bus)?Bila bas seterusnya?
  [bi-la bas se-te-rus-nya]
- A ticket (to ....)Sebuah tiket (ke ....)
  [se-buah ti-ket (ke)]

History of Tanjung Aru

Tanjung Aru, located just south of Kota Kinabalu, has a rich history marked by its diverse cultural heritage. Historically, it was inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Kadazandusun and Bajau peoples, who relied on the sea for their livelihoods. The region's name, 'Tanjung Aru', translates to 'Cape of the Casuarina Trees', reflecting the natural landscape that has shaped the community's identity.
The arrival of the British North Borneo Company in the late 19th century significantly impacted Tanjung Aru's development. The area became a strategic point for British trade and military operations. The British established infrastructure, including roads and ports, which facilitated trade and transportation, leading to increased settlement and economic activity in the region.
During World War II, Tanjung Aru was a significant location due to its proximity to Kota Kinabalu, then known as Jesselton. The area witnessed intense military activity as Japanese forces occupied Borneo. The war brought destruction to much of the region, but Tanjung Aru's role as a strategic coastal location highlighted its importance in military logistics and operations during the conflict.
Following the war, Tanjung Aru experienced reconstruction and revitalization. The natural beauty of its beaches and coastal landscapes began to attract tourists. The establishment of resorts and recreational facilities in the late 20th century transformed Tanjung Aru into a popular destination for both locals and international visitors, fostering a vibrant tourism culture that continues to thrive today.
In recent years, Tanjung Aru has embraced its cultural diversity through various festivals and events, such as the Tanjung Aru Beach Festival, which celebrates local traditions, arts, and cuisine. The neighbourhood has maintained a balance between modernization and preserving its cultural heritage, making it a unique representation of Kota Kinabalu's history and the ongoing narrative of its communities.