Kota Kinabalu
Layang Layang Island - One hundred and sixty nautical miles northwest of Kota Kinabalu is Layang Layang Island, an oceanic atoll. All around its rim, the sea-bed drops 2,000m and visibility averages 55m. The marine life here includes hammerhead sharks, manta rays, hawksbill turtles and corals. The reef topography is essentially made up of rich growth of hard corals. Some are shallow and break surface during low tides, but most begin at depths of about 5m to the ocean floor.
Paulau Tiga National Park - This park comprise three islands – Pulau Tiga, Pulau Kalampunian Besar and Pulau Kalampunian Damit (Snake island). Pulau Tiga was chosen as the filming location of the very first season of the Survivor series, a popular reality television shoe. A rich variety of marine life can be seen on Pulau Tiga, including nudibranchs, bamboo sharks, cuttlefish and marbled stingray among others. A visit to nearby ‘Snake Island’ guarantees sightings of banded sea snakes. The surrounding reefs are shallow with healthy coal and water visibility ranging from 6m to 20m.
Labuan - At the north of Brunei bay and facing the South china Sea is the island of Labuan, an international offshore financial centre and one of three Federal Territories in the country. The main attractions of Labuan are wreck diving, sport fishing and duty-free shopping. There are four fascinating wrecks in the seas surrounding Labuan, making it a highly rated diving destination in the region.
Padas Gorge Tenom - From Kota Kinabalu one can travel on the main highway by an express bus passing through Papar, Bongawan and Kimanis and reaching Beaufort before taking the train to Tenom, a four-hour journey. The railroad snakes along the Padas-River, giving passengers a spectacular view of the Padas Gorge. The Padas River offers a challenging experience to rafting enthusiasts. The major attraction in tenom is the Tenom Orchid centre which has more than 600 species of orchids.
Danum Valley Conservation Centre - One of the last remaining reserves of primary lowland rain forests, this 438 sq. km area is said to have the world’s most complex eco-system. Overnight stays are advised to better appreciate the variety of wildlife. Viewing platforms and the 27-metre high treetop canopy walkway provides majestic view of the forest and is perfect for bird watching.