Santubong Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Santubong, from cultural and natural attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic views. Learn about the food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local customs, and safety tips.


Introduction to Santubong

Santubong is a small coastal town located in Sarawak, a state in East Malaysia. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of Borneo Island and learn about the local culture and traditions. The town offers a perfect combination of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, scenic views, and delicious local cuisine. Santubong is home to many cultural festivals, such as the Rainforest World Music Festival, which is held annually in July. The town is also known for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and lush rainforests, making it a perfect holiday destination.

List of Places to Visit in Santubong

Santubong has a plethora of attractions to explore, ranging from museums and historical sites to natural landmarks and outdoor adventures. Here is a list of must-visit places in Santubong:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sarawak Cultural Village: It is a living museum that showcases the culture and traditions of the Sarawakian people. Visitors can witness traditional dances, music, handicrafts, and cultural performances.
  • Cat Museum: It is a quirky museum dedicated to cats and has a vast collection of cat-related artifacts.
  • Fort Margherita: It is a historical fort built in 1879 and served as a defense against pirates.
  • Astana: It was the former residence of the Governor of Sarawak and is a beautiful example of colonial-style architecture.
  • Sarawak State Museum: It is the oldest museum in Sarawak and contains various exhibits related to local history, culture, and wildlife.

Natural Attractions of Santubong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Santubong National Park: It is a protected area that covers an area of 1,431 hectares and is home to various wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, Bornean bearded pigs, and silver-leaf monkeys. Visitors can hike through the rainforest trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of the South China Sea.
  • Bako National Park: It is located on the tip of the Muara Tebas Peninsula and is known for its rugged coastline, mangrove forests, and various species of wildlife, such as proboscis monkeys, macaques, and monitor lizards.
  • Damai Beach: It is a beautiful beach located at the foothills of Mount Santubong and offers various water sports activities.
  • Mount Santubong: It is a 810m high mountain and is a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
  • Sarawak River Cruise: Visitors can enjoy a sunset river cruise along the Sarawak River and witness the beauty of Santubong from the water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santubong

Santubong is a hiker and biker’s paradise with various trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Santubong:

  • Santubong Summit Trail: It is a challenging trail that takes hikers through the rainforest up to the summit of Mount Santubong. The trail is around 8km long and takes around 6 hours to complete.
  • Pantu Trail: It is a popular hiking trail that takes hikers through the rainforest and along the river. The trail is around 5km long and takes around 3 hours to complete.
  • Kubah National Park Trail: It is a park located around 20 km from Santubong and offers various trails of varying difficulty levels. The park is home to various species of flora and fauna, such as pitcher plants, hornbills, and frogs.

Best Things to Do in Santubong: Activities and Tours

Santubong offers a plethora of activities and tours to visitors, ranging from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Santubong:

  • Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village and experience the local culture and traditions.
  • Explore the rainforests of Santubong National Park and spot various species of wildlife.
  • Take a sunset river cruise along the Sarawak River and enjoy panoramic views of Santubong.
  • Take a day trip to the nearby Bako National Park and hike through the rugged coastline and mangrove forests.
  • Join a local cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Sarawakian dishes.
  • Take a bike tour of Santubong and explore the town at your own pace.
  • Do some water sports activities at the Damai Beach, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santubong

Here is a week-long itinerary for Santubong:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the Santubong National Park and hike through the rainforest trails.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Bako National Park and explore the rugged coastline and mangrove forests.
  • Day 4: Take a sunset river cruise along the Sarawak River and enjoy panoramic views of Santubong.
  • Day 5: Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village and experience the local culture and traditions.
  • Day 6: Take a bike tour of Santubong and explore the town at your own pace.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches and water sports activities at Damai Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Santubong

Santubong is a food lover’s paradise with various delicious local dishes and refreshing beverages. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Santubong:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kolo Mee: A popular local dish made with egg noodles, minced pork, char siu, and scallions.
  • Sarawak Laksa: A spicy noodle dish made with coconut milk, tamarind, and various herbs and spices.
  • Kuih Lapis: A layered cake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and pandan leaves.
  • Fresh Seafood: Santubong is known for its fresh seafood, such as grilled prawns, steamed crabs, and fried calamari.

Local Beverages

  • Teh C Peng: A refreshing iced tea made with evaporated milk, tea, and sugar.
  • Air Bandung: A sweet rose-flavored milk drink.
  • Tuak: A local brew made from rice or palm wine.

Where to Stay in Santubong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santubong offers various types of accommodation, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the popular places to stay in Santubong:

  • Damai Beach Resort: A luxury beachfront resort that offers various amenities such as a spa, restaurant, and outdoor pool.
  • Santubong Homestay: A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers various amenities such as free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
  • Sarawak Cultural Village Homestay: A unique cultural experience that offers guests a chance to stay with a local family and experience traditional Sarawakian hospitality.

What to Buy in Santubong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Santubong offers a variety of souvenir items and local products that visitors can bring home as a memento of their trip. Here are some of the popular items to buy in Santubong:

  • Handicrafts: Santubong is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as baskets, mats, and weaving products.
  • Pepper: Sarawak is one of the largest producers of pepper in the world, and visitors can buy various types of pepper as a souvenir.
  • Batik: A traditional cloth that is known for its unique designs and patterns.
  • Sarawak Layer Cakes: A popular snack made with various layers of different flavored cakes.

Local Culture and Customs of Santubong

Santubong is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, such as Malay, Chinese, and Dayak. Visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions, such as wearing modest clothing while visiting mosques and temples. Visitors should also be aware that Sarawak is a predominantly Muslim state, and alcohol is not widely available or accepted in some areas. It is also customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s house or temple.

Best Time to Visit Santubong

The best time to visit Santubong is from March to September, when the weather is dry and sunny. The Rainforest World Music Festival is also held annually in July, making it a perfect time to visit for music lovers. However, visitors should be aware that Santubong can get crowded during peak season, and prices may be higher than usual.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santubong

Visitors are advised to follow some basic do’s and don’ts while visiting Santubong:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly while visiting mosques and temples.
  • Pack light and comfortable clothing for the hot and humid weather.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
  • Be prepared for sudden rain showers by bringing an umbrella or raincoat.

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol in public places or outside of designated areas.
  • Engage in any form of public affection.
  • Engage in any illegal activities such as drugs or gambling.
  • Damage any natural landmarks or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santubong

Santubong is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some safety tips for visitors to Santubong:

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your belongings safe and secure.
  • Follow all safety guidelines while engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports.
  • Use a licensed taxi service or ridesharing app when traveling within the town.

Health in Santubong

Visitors should be aware that Santubong is located in a tropical region and is prone to various diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Visitors should take basic precautions such as using insect repellent and mosquito nets while sleeping. Visitors are also advised to seek medical help immediately if they experience any symptoms of illness.

Getting to Santubong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Santubong

The nearest airport to Santubong is the Kuching International Airport, which is around 40km away. Visitors can take a taxi or a shuttle service to reach Santubong from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Santubong

Visitors can also reach Santubong by taking a bus from the Kuching Bus Terminal, which is around 25km away.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Santubong by taking a boat or ferry from Kuching’s waterfront, which is a scenic way to reach the town.

How to Get Around in Santubong

Visitors can explore Santubong by taking a taxi, renting a car or scooter, or by taking public transportation such as buses or boats.

Where to Go Next from Santubong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can also explore nearby destinations and excursions from Santubong, such as:

  • Kuching: The capital city of Sarawak and is a bustling city known for its local food scene and museums.
  • Semenggoh Wildlife Centre: A center that houses various rescued orangutans and allows visitors to witness feeding sessions and learn about conservation efforts.
  • Lundu: A quiet town known for its picturesque beaches and local seafood.

Conclusion

Santubong is a perfect destination for visitors who want to experience the natural beauty and cultural traditions of Malaysia. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, Santubong offers a unique holiday experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Visitors can explore the rainforest trails, attend the local festivals, indulge in the local cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information for visitors to Santubong to plan a perfect trip and explore the town to its fullest.

Mount Santubong, View from Pasir Pandak Beach. Mount Santubong, View from Pasir Pandak Beach.