Description
General information about the beach
Pantai Pasir Putih, or "White Sand Beach", is a popular local recreation spot. Despite the name, the sand is not always white, but the beach remains a favourite for picnics and swimming.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 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 Pasir Putih: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity murky, average temperature +29.0°C, warms up to +31.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 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 Pasir Putih: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey. Texture — fine. Beach length — 500 metres.
Pantai Pasir Putih: 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 Pasir Putih: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as poor. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Pantai Pasir Putih: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: crocodiles. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Pantai Pasir Putih: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Pantai Pasir Putih: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Santai Pantai Pasir Putih. Cuisines available: Local. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Flip-flops, Cash.
Pantai Pasir Putih: when is the best time to swim?
In the evening — beautiful sunsets. During the day it is quiet and uncrowded.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming and fishing are prohibited due to crocodiles. Keep the beach clean.
Pantai Pasir Putih: who is this beach best for?
Suitable for locals and travellers seeking a spot for picnics and sunsets. Not suitable for swimming due to water pollution and crocodile danger.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what makes this beach unique?
Pantai Pasir Putih is the only public beach in Sandakan, but its name (White Sand) no longer matches reality due to pollution. The beach is an important place for the local community despite cleanliness issues.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Only public beach in Sandakan, Close to town (6 km), Picturesque sunsets, Seafood restaurant on the beach, Free entry, Picnic spot. Cons: Polluted water, Litter on the beach, Swimming prohibited due to crocodiles, Coastal erosion, Limited infrastructure, No lifeguards.
Pantai Pasir Putih: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Sandakan, Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Turtle Islands. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Pantai Pasir Putih: 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.