Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
black
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
500 m
Frequently asked questions
Pantai Dandulit: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Pantai Dandulit: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Pantai Dandulit: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Pantai Dandulit: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — black. Texture — medium. Beach length — 500 metres.
Pantai Dandulit: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in March, April. It ends in September, October. The best month for a holiday is April. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Pantai Dandulit: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Pantai Dandulit: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Crocodiles (saltwater — deadly), Mosquitoes (dengue), Snakes. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Pantai Dandulit: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Pantai Dandulit: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Pantai Dandulit: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Warung Dandulit. Cuisines available: Local. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Pantai Dandulit: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat, Picnic food, Insect repellent.
Pantai Dandulit: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is evening to enjoy the sunset. Fewer people in the morning.
Pantai Dandulit: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Making fires is prohibited. Take your rubbish with you.
Pantai Dandulit: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for those seeking solitude and a quiet holiday. Suitable for picnics and sunset watching. Not suitable for swimming due to murky water and lack of infrastructure.
Pantai Dandulit: what makes this beach unique?
A unique black sand beach known as the "Black Sand Beach of Sandakan". Quiet and untouched, a popular spot for sunset watching.
Pantai Dandulit: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Unique black sand, Calm and quiet atmosphere, Scenic sunsets, Free entry (nominal fee), Suitable for picnics, Good spot for photography. Cons: No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure, Murky water, Far from Sandakan (35 km), No Wi-Fi.
Pantai Dandulit: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Rainforest Discovery Centre. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Pantai Dandulit: how do I get to the city of Sandakan?
The beach is located near the city of Sandakan. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Sandakan.