Labuan Island

Introducing Labuan Island

Labuan Island, located southwest of Sabah, Malaysia, lies on the border between Brunei and Sabah. It encompasses seven nearby islands and, like Kuala Lumpur, is a federal territory. It is a free port, offering duty-free shopping. Cigarettes, alcohol, and electrical appliances are significantly cheaper than in Sabah. Chinese merchant ships have been trading here since as early as the seventh century.

Known as the Garden Island of Borneo, it is one of Asia’s best-preserved mysteries, where the old and the new complement each other, allowing people of different cultural backgrounds to live in harmony.

Labuan Island is surrounded by six islands: Pulau Papan, Pulau Kuraman, Pulau Daat, Pulau Rusukan, Pulau Kecil, and Pulau Burong. These six islands offer spectacular underwater adventures and activities such as wave riding, paragliding, windsurfing, jet skiing, deep-sea diving, fishing, and salvaging shipwrecks.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinct four seasons and is suitable for the whole year.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Labuan Plaza

Known as the "Labuan City Park," Labuan Plaza's manicured lawns and vibrant flowers make it a charming park in Labuan City. Its design reflects Labuan's status as an international financial and tax-free center.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Labuan Island

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Labuan is a federal territory of Malaysia known as an offshore financial center and a duty-free island. Historically, it played a strategic role during World War II, and the Labuan War Cemetery commemorates soldiers who died in the region. It’s also a gateway to nearby Borneo attractions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Location: Off the coast of Sabah, East Malaysia, in the South China Sea.
• By air: Labuan Airport connects to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu.
• By ferry: Regular ferries from Brunei, Kota Kinabalu, and Sabah mainland.
• Local transport: Taxis, rental cars, and scooters are common.
• Walking: Feasible around beaches and central town areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Best time to visit: March to October for dry weather and calm seas for water activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Labuan War Museum: ~10 MYR per person, tickets purchased on-site.
• Marine park diving/snorkeling trips: 50–150 MYR, book through local operators or online travel agencies.
• Beaches and public areas are free.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for diving tours and sunset cruises, typically 1–3 days ahead. Museums and beaches generally do not require pre-booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days are sufficient to cover major attractions, beaches, museums, and water activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Labuan War Cemetery and Museum.
• Layang-Layang Beach and Surrender Point Beach.
• Labuan Marine Park.
• Duty-free shopping district in Victoria Town.
• Sunset viewpoints along the coast.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Malay, particularly for historical sites and marine park excursions. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Sunset viewpoints at Surrender Point and Layang-Layang Beach.
• Coastal areas along Labuan Marine Park.
• Panoramic shots of Victoria Town and duty-free shopping areas.
• Labuan War Cemetery for historical photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Day 1: Visit Labuan War Cemetery and Museum, explore Victoria Town and duty-free shops.
• Day 2: Beach day at Layang-Layang and Surrender Point, sunset photography.
• Day 3: Snorkeling/diving at Labuan Marine Park and nearby islands.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Night tours are limited; sunset cruises are popular.
• Some hotels and restaurants offer evening entertainment and night dining experiences.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Peak tourist season: June–August and around holidays.
• Least crowded: Weekdays outside peak summer months and rainy season (November–February).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include public toilets at beaches, cafes and restaurants, rest areas, duty-free shops, and water supply points at major tourist locations.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most urban and beach areas are accessible. Some historical sites and marine park activities may require walking or boat access, which could be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash (MYR) is widely used for small purchases, street food, and beach vendors.
• Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and some shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Seafood restaurants along the coast.
• Cafes in Victoria Town.
• Local food stalls and casual dining options near beaches and shopping areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are widely available. Vegetarian and vegan choices are present in restaurants catering to tourists, especially in Victoria Town and resorts.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Seaview resorts near Layang-Layang and Surrender Point Beach.
• City hotels in Victoria Town.
• Budget guesthouses and homestays across the island.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Pulau Rusukan Kecil for snorkeling.
• Pulau Kuraman and marine park islands for diving.
• Brunei and Sabah coastal trips via ferry.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Duty-free shopping items including chocolates, perfumes, and alcohol.
• Local handicrafts, seashell products, and postcards.
• Seafood-based products and local snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Ferry to Brunei or Sabah.
• Flights from Labuan Airport to Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, or other Malaysian cities.
• Rental cars or taxis for local exploration before departure.