Kalampunian Beach

Location: Kudat, Sabah

Ratings *** Beautiful, deserted beach. Worth a visit if you are in Kudat.

Lost Ratings ***** If uncrowded beaches are what you are looking for, this is it.

Perhaps the most beautiful beach in mainland Sabah. Kalampunian Beach is located at the northern-most end of the island of Borneo and visitors to the Tip of Borneo tourist spot in Kudat will pass by this beach just before reaching the end of the road. It is best visited on a cloudless day as the brilliant deep blue of the sea contrasts nicely with the light blue of the sky. The white sandy beach is as soft as it looks and it is a pure joy to walk on the beach. Another reason to visit is for the remoteness as few tourists come here. If you happen to go on a weekday, you can probably have the whole beach to yourself. There are stalls selling beautiful sea shells by the roadside. Snorkelling gear and life jackets can be rented from these stores. This is a wonderful place to get away from the crowds and enjoy a relaxing day at the beach.

Getting there:

Kalampunian Beach is located about 3 hours drive north of Kota Kinabalu. Take the road to Kudat and follow the signboard to Tip of Borneo or Tanjung Simpang Mengayau. It is the beach on the left just before the drive up to the Tip of Borneo car park. Most tour operators conduct day trips to Kudat which include a stop at the Tip of Borneo. But considering the distance, it is better to spend one night here or in Kudat as a day-trip does not leave you much time to spend at the beach. The beach is at its best in the morning.

Take note:

There are no lifeguards on duty and you should be a good swimmer if you want to swim in the sea. Conditions can be rough at times.

Pros: One of the most beautiful beach in Sabah; deserted

Cons: Difficult to get to without your own transportation; 3 hours from Kota Kinabalu