Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau)

The basics

In order to save the hassle of arranging your own transport to rural Kudat, visit the Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau) as part of a day trip to the Kudat peninsula from Kota Kinabalu. In addition to stopping at Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau), excursions typically take you to traditional Rungus longhouses for insight into the local ethnic group and a bee farm in Kampung Gombizau.

Things to know before you go

• At the tip of Borneo, you’ll find a couple of restaurants, restrooms, and a souvenir shop. There’s also a campsite and a chalet that you can stay overnight in.
• Day trips from KK to Kudat are often in advance of 12 hours; prepare for a winding, bumpy drive that’s not suitable for travelers that suffer from car sickness.
• The rocks leading down to the sea at the headland are uneven and slippery—if you plan to explore further, ensure that you’re wearing suitable shoes.

How to get there

From Kota Kinabalu, you can either take a light aircraft to the peninsula, which departs a few times per week, or arrive by shared taxi, which departs from Padang Merdeka bus station. On arrival at the bus station, look out for drivers holding a sign saying Kudatb—vehicles wait until they’re full before departing.

When to get there

Tip of Borneo is one of the best places in Borneo to watch the sunset, so be sure to coincide your visit with dusk. The annual Sunset Music Festival is held at the Tip of Borneo in June; local artists perform live music and dance with the ocean as a backdrop.

Exploring the Tip of Borneo

There’s much more to the Kudat peninsula, otherwise known as the Tip of Borneo, than just Tanjung Simpang Mengayau. Highlights include the Rungus Museum, which preserves the local culture with art and artifacts; the Kudat Turtle Conservation Society, located on the south end of Bavang Jamal beach; and Tampat do Aman, a nature reserve and jungle camp that offers experiences such as beach hiking and survival training.

Is there an entrance fee for the Tip of Borneo?

No, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to visit the Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau). You will, however, need to pay for transportation to reach this coastal spot; options include a rental car, taxi, bus, or a tour from the city of Kota Kinabalu that includes transport.

What is the northernmost tip of Borneo?

The Tip of Borneo, or Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, is the northernmost tip of Borneo. It is located at the meeting point of the South China Sea and Sulu Sea on the Kudat Peninsula and is about 130 miles (215 kilometers) from the city of Kota Kinabalu.

Is the tip of Borneo reopening?

Yes, the Tip of Borneo reopened in April 2023 after an extensive 2-year renovation project. Additions include an upgraded walkway, accessible restroom facilities, and an improved viewing platform. The existing café, restrooms, souvenir shop, and parking area are open as work continues on a new visitor center at the site.

How do I get to Tip of Borneo from Kota Kinabalu?

It takes more than three hours to reach the Tip of Borneo from the city of Kota Kinabalu. Take a taxi or rental car directly to the site. Or, take a bus or flight to the town of Kudat and then a taxi 30 minutes from there to the Tip of Borneo.

Is the Tip of Borneo worth visiting?

Yes, the Tip of Borneo is home to some of the island’s most unspoiled waterfront, with white sand and deep turquoise water along Pantai Kalampunian and other beaches. This remote outpost has less tourism and modern development than other coastal locations. It's known for its spectacular sunsets and moonlit nights.

Can I go to the Tip of Borneo on my own?

Yes. You do not need to hire a guide or join a tour to visit the Tip of Borneo. You can take a taxi, rental car, or bus. There are also day trips with transportation from Kota Kinabalu that stop at the Tip of Borneo and other Kudat highlights.