Hotels in Kunak

Kunak is a small town in Tawau Division, Sabah and was formerly a sub-district administered under the Lahad Datu District Office, but was made into full district on 1 June 1981. The population consists mainly of Bajau and Bugis people with Chinese minority, involved in running many of the shops in downtown Kunak as well as the planting of oil palms in the outskirts and in 2010, its population was estimated at 61,094 people. Kunak has three main secondary schools which are SMK Kunak Jaya, SMK Kunak and SMK Madai. It is also home to a Chinese primary school, SRJK (C) Pai Sheng, and a several Malay-medium primary schools including SK Kunak 1, SK Kunak Jaya and SK Ladang Binuang. In 2002, a 76-bed government hospital was built in the town and at around the same time, a new highway linking Kunak to the town of Semporna was also opened. The locals there call Kunak the “Cowboy Town” (Pekan Koboi). Besides that, Kunak is famous for its deer meat and chili paste and Kunak town is near to sea so its seafood is relatively fresh and cheap.

How to Get There

By Plane

There are flights to reach Tawau airport from Kuala Lumpur International airport such as Malaysia airlines and Air Asia. The journey takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes and once you reach at the airport, there are rental cars and taxis available for tourists to hire. You can reach Kunak via Route 13 and AH150 which will consume another 30 minutes.

Tourist Attractions

Madai Waterfall

A 40-metre high waterfall is located in the Madai-Baturong Forest Reserve Nature Centre and it is 15 kilometres from Kunak on the East Coast of Sabah. There is also a canopy walk 100-ft above ground and jungle trekking trails. Another treasure of the Sabah’s East Coast is the Madai Baturong Forest Reserve Nature Centre. The Madai – Baturong Forest Reserve Nature Centre has been classified as a Class 1 forest reserve and is an excellent place for a day of cave exploration trip.Madai is basically a bird cave where the popular birds nest delicacy originates, while the Baturong cave is riddled with several caverns which contain ancient coffins. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of RM2.00 each and a short walk down the staircase will bring you to the Madai Fall. Outdoor lovers have an opportunity to familiarize with various aspects of tree species, caves, and the endemic flora and fauna in the area. In addition to its canopy walkway, visitors of this forest reserve should not miss the chance to take a dip in the cool crystal clear stream of its scenic waterfalls.

Bukit Gemok

Situated 10 kilometres from the city centre, Bukit Gemok or Gemok Hill has become a popular spot for avid trekkers and runners who love the challenge of varied terrain. Bukit Gemok is approximately 428 metres above sea level and is part of the Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve covering 445 hectares. The hike begins with an easy trail of concrete stairs which the uphill walk is fairly challenging, particularly for beginners. Visitors are advised to wear hiking shoes with strong grip and watch out for rocks, bulging tree roots and some parts may get steeper and more dangerous.

Hotels

Hotel Mostyn Kunak

This hotel is located in Tawau Town Centre and nearby the commercial and business centre. This hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel as well as meeting room facilities. The air-conditioned rooms are fitted with a satellite TV and tea and coffee-making facilities and also complimentary toiletries and water bottle. There is also luggage storage provided at the front desk and guests can enjoy a selection of delightful local cuisine in restaurants available here.

Dreamland Hotel Kunak

Located at Kunak town, this place offers a business Centre, restaurant, fitness centre and situated nearby shopping complex. This hotel is located near to tourist attractions and convenient store. Guests can relax and unwind at air-conditioned guest room fitted with flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, hairdryer, safe deposit box, minibar, free internet cable, WiFi and tea/coffee-making facilities. There are also free parking and 24 hours counter desk to request for help and assistance.