Sabah, known as the "Land Below the Wind," is not just famous for its breathtaking islands and diverse wildlife but also for its world-class seafood. With its prime location along the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, Sabah offers some of the freshest and most diverse seafood in Malaysia. From lively seafood markets to renowned restaurants, seafood lovers will find endless options to indulge in mouthwatering dishes.

This guide will take you on a journey to discover the best seafood in Sabah, from the bustling markets of Kota Kinabalu to the hidden culinary gems in Sandakan and Tawau. Whether you crave juicy tiger prawns, succulent mud crabs, or exotic sea grapes, we’ve got you covered.

Best Seafood Street Markets in Sabah

Kota Kinabalu Central Market (Muslim-Friendly)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/y2cnJn1jQNv5NHH7A

Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this market is the best place to find fresh seafood at affordable prices. Every morning, fishermen bring in their daily catches, including red snapper, groupers, lobsters, and giant tiger prawns.

Sandakan Central Market (Muslim-Friendly)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/a3AomhH8kLrQfbGN9

Dubbed the seafood capital of Sabah, Sandakan offers a vast selection of seafood, from fresh fish to exotic shellfish. The market is famous for its enormous tiger prawns, cuttlefish, and sea cucumbers.

Tawau Tanjung Market (Muslim-Friendly)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zhck9P5GaATVwr2aA

Tawau’s seafood market is a hidden gem beloved for its salted fish and other dried seafood. The market is also known for its budget-friendly prices and amplang, a type of local snack made of fish.

Best Seafood Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu

Welcome Seafood Restaurant (Muslim-Friendly)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wmwWrnEca7Rh1bFr6

Arguably the most famous seafood restaurant in KK, Welcome Seafood is known for its wide variety of fresh seafood cooked to your liking. Signature dishes include butter prawns, kam heong crab, and steamed fish with soy sauce.

Fish Market Restaurant (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BgMy6BG1fzCbQ74N6

For travellers looking for a more premium seafood experience, Fish Market Restaurant offers live seafood tanks and a refined setting. Diners can select their choice of lobster, crabs, prawns, and fish to be cooked in various styles, ensuring both freshness and flavour.

Gayang Seafood Restaurant (Halal Certified)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/o4rgZZDn31KsiZM38

Located by the waterfront, this restaurant offers a scenic dining experience with fresh seafood specialties like chilli crab, grilled squid, and steamed clams.

Kampung Nelayan Floating Restaurant (Halal Certified)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LSX4Pw9XvnBpa2n7A

A unique floating seafood restaurant that serves traditional Malay-style seafood dishes while offering cultural dance performances at night.

Salut Seafood Restaurant (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gyMkDrXNFU3GmLs59

Famous for its coconut crabs and fresh shellfish, this hidden gem is a must-visit for seafood lovers looking for something unique.

Luyang Restaurant (Non-Halal)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gm5oTarXRJ8MstsW7

A long-standing favourite among locals, Luyang Restaurant is known for its classic Chinese-style seafood dishes prepared with fresh local catches. The casual yet lively atmosphere makes it a great place for families and groups who want an authentic dining experience away from the tourist crowds.

Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sy5kipzzv73DKiPt9

Famous for its fish noodle soup, Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant is a casual, wallet-friendly option that still delivers on taste. It’s especially popular with locals for quick meals, but visitors will also appreciate the generous portions and authentic flavours.

Best Seafood in Sandakan – The Seafood Capital of Sabah

Sim Sim 88 Seafood Restaurant (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uxEWxUCSrVce5xy3A

Located in a water village, this restaurant offers over-the-water dining and serves signature dishes like steamed grouper, fresh oysters, and salted egg yolk prawns.

Ocean King Seafood Restaurant (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nzZKSDACz5NfY6om7

Known for its "choose-your-own-seafood" concept, Ocean King specialises in fresh crabs, prawns, and lobsters cooked in a variety of styles, including salted egg, honey, and kam heong.

Hidden Seafood Gems in Sabah

Hiew Seafood, Kudat (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GsUadN5pCWeoQ5n69

A well-loved spot in Kudat, Hiew Seafood is famous for its fresh catches, including prawns, crabs, and a variety of fish cooked in different styles to suit every palate.

Kam Ling Seafood Restaurant, Tawau (Serves No Pork)

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7kRJadbS8CMw5HJB9

A popular seafood restaurant in Tawau, Kam Ling Seafood Restaurant is renowned for its signature black pepper crabs, fresh prawns, and mouthwatering fried squid rings.

What Makes Sabah’s Seafood Special?

Unrivalled Freshness from Ocean to Plate

Sabah’s location along the nutrient-rich waters of the South China Sea ensures a constant supply of fresh seafood. Many restaurants source their seafood directly from local fishermen, guaranteeing high-quality, freshly caught produce daily. Some places even allow customers to pick live seafood from tanks before cooking it to perfection.

A Melting Pot of Culinary Influences

Sabah’s seafood cuisine is a unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and indigenous Bajau influences. The Chinese community brings Cantonese-style steamed fish and butter prawns, while Malay and Bajau traditions introduce flavourful dishes like grilled stingray with sambal and hinava (a raw fish salad similar to ceviche). This fusion of flavours creates a diverse and exciting seafood dining experience.

Sustainability and Ethical Seafood Practices

Sabah is also taking steps toward sustainable seafood practices. Marine conservation efforts, such as the regulation of fish farms and protected marine areas, help ensure that seafood remains abundant for future generations. Some restaurants proudly serve sustainably sourced seafood, promoting eco-friendly dining choices.

Best Seafood Dishes to Try in Sabah

Latok (Sabah Sea Grapes) – A seaweed delicacy served fresh with lime and sambal
Hinava – A raw fish salad made with lime juice, chili, and onions
Kam Heong Crab – A stir-fried crab dish infused with curry leaves, dried shrimp, and spices
Salted Egg Yolk Prawns – Crispy prawns coated in a creamy salted egg yolk sauce

Tips for Enjoying the Best Seafood in Sabah

Best Season for Seafood: Visit between March and October for the freshest catches
Choosing Fresh Seafood: Look for bright eyes in fish and lively shellfish
Local Dining Etiquette: It’s common to eat seafood with your hands, and many places allow customers to bring their own drinks

Conclusion

Sabah is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering everything from bustling seafood markets to high-end dining experiences. Whether you're exploring Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, or Tawau, there's always a seafood feast waiting for you.

So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to indulge in some of the best seafood in Malaysia!

FAQs

How much does seafood cost in Sabah?

Prices vary, but seafood in Sabah is generally more affordable than in major cities. Expect to spend around MYR 50+ per person.

Are there halal seafood restaurants in Sabah?

Yes, Kampung Nelayan Floating Restaurant and Gayang Seafood Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu are both halal certified. Most other seafood restaurants are either Muslim-friendly or serve no pork.

Can I buy fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site?

Yes, many markets and restaurants offer this service.

What is the most unique seafood dish in Sabah?

Hinava, a raw fish salad, and latok, Sabah sea grapes, are among the most unique local delicacies.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Seafood in Sabah