
Tawau Hills Park
Discover breathtaking hilltop views, unique waterfalls, and lush rainforests at Tawau Hills Park, a less-touristed gem in Borneo.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Tawau Hills Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking hilltop views, unique waterfalls, and lush rainforests at Tawau Hills Park, a less-touristed gem in Borneo.
"The view is great here yet it takes more energy and efforts to get up as the pickup service using 4x4 is not always available."

🚗 4x4 to Viewpoint
Inquire about 4x4 availability for reaching higher viewpoints; it's not always guaranteed.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect an entrance fee, around RM15, for access to the park's attractions.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 84 reviews
Type
Resort hotel
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Hilltop Views
Various viewpoints accessible by hike or 4x4
Ascend to the park's highest points for breathtaking vistas of Tawau town and the surrounding lush rainforest. A truly rewarding experience.

Table Waterfall
Within Tawau Hills Park
Discover the unique 'table' shaped waterfall, a natural wonder offering a refreshing escape and a picturesque spot for photos.

Tropical Rainforest Trails
Throughout the park
Explore diverse hiking trails winding through ancient rainforests, home to incredible biodiversity and towering trees.

Hot Springs
Designated area in the park
Unwind and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring the park's natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting to the Viewpoint
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 to Viewpoint
Inquire about 4x4 availability for reaching higher viewpoints; it's not always guaranteed.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect an entrance fee, around RM15, for access to the park's attractions.
💧 Free Drinks Offered
Staff may offer complimentary drinks, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the park's trails and inclines.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 to Viewpoint
Inquire about 4x4 availability for reaching higher viewpoints; it's not always guaranteed.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect an entrance fee, around RM15, for access to the park's attractions.
💧 Free Drinks Offered
Staff may offer complimentary drinks, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the park's trails and inclines.
📸 Information Displays Needed
Some visitors suggest adding information displays to identify specific viewpoints.
🐒 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species.
🌃 Night Walk Option
Consider a guided night walk for a unique rainforest experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tawau Hills Park for its stunning hilltop views and the unique Table Waterfall, often highlighting the friendly and helpful staff who may offer complimentary drinks. While the natural beauty is a major draw, some find access to viewpoints challenging due to inconsistent 4x4 availability and occasional park closures.
"Very nice place to watch the sunset! We paid 5 RM to go up the hill and the views were amazing. On our way back we struggled to find a Grab, so the people working there offered us a cheap ride back to town. They were very kind🫶"
Elisa
"Went there for the view. Entrance fee RM15. The staff is very helpful. We were given drinks before our ride with 4x4 to climb the hill. Took lots of pictures. To the owner, it would be nice if there is information display to indicate the view's location name (refer image attached). Overall, good experience👍 Thank you"
Hazirah Halul
"Currently closed - no access at the gate to the view point / start of hill"
Andrea Briner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tawau Hills Park is located about 25 km from Tawau town. You can hire a taxi or arrange for a private car. Some visitors mention struggling to find Grab services for return trips, so pre-arranging transport or checking availability is wise.
Finding transportation back to town can sometimes be a challenge, especially for return trips. Some visitors have reported difficulty finding Grab services. It's advisable to coordinate your return transport in advance or check with park staff.
Yes, you can drive your own car to Tawau Hills Park. The park is accessible by road from Tawau town. However, for certain viewpoints or higher elevations, a 4x4 vehicle might be necessary or recommended.
While not always explicitly advertised, you can often hire local guides for hikes, including night walks, which offer a unique perspective of the rainforest.
For the best and most accessible viewpoints, a 4x4 vehicle is often recommended, and sometimes provided by the park or local operators. This service may not always be available, so it's good to inquire upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Tawau Hills Park is approximately RM15 per person. This fee grants you access to explore the park's natural attractions.
While the park is generally open, there might be temporary closures or restricted access to certain areas, as noted by one visitor who found the viewpoint closed. It's always a good idea to check for any advisories before your visit.
Advance ticket booking is typically not required for Tawau Hills Park. You can usually purchase your entrance tickets upon arrival at the park gate.
The park generally operates during daylight hours, but specific opening and closing times can vary. It's best to confirm the current operating hours with the park authorities or check local listings before your visit.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. However, it's always worth inquiring at the entrance if any concessions are offered for students, seniors, or groups.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park boasts several attractions including stunning hilltop viewpoints offering panoramic views of Tawau town, the unique Table Waterfall, refreshing hot springs, and extensive rainforest trails for hiking and nature exploration.
Absolutely! Tawau Hills Park offers various hiking trails through its lush tropical rainforest. From gentle walks to more challenging routes, there's something for every fitness level.
Yes, Tawau Hills Park is a haven for wildlife. Visitors have reported seeing various species of monkeys, hornbills, insects, frogs, and even wild cats.
The viewpoints at the top of the hills offer the most spectacular panoramic views of Tawau town and the surrounding landscape. The effort to reach them is often rewarded with amazing scenery.
Basic facilities are usually available within the park, including restrooms. It's advisable to carry your own water and snacks, though some areas might have small kiosks.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoints at the top of the hills are ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes. The Table Waterfall and the lush rainforest trails also offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, the hilltop viewpoints provide a fantastic setting for sunset photography, offering beautiful light and expansive views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits, so it's best to check with park management if you plan extensive filming.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, but still good for capturing the vibrant green of the rainforest.












Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit