A layover in Tawau is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Tawau Airport sits just 120 minutes from the city center by Taxi or Ride-sharing (Grab), and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TWU:
First, verify that you can enter Malaysia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi or Ride-sharing (Grab) takes about 120 minutes into Tawau, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — MYR is the currency here. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from TWU to Tawau
You have two main options for getting from Tawau Airport into town:
- Taxi or Ride-sharing (Grab): About 120 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 140 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Tawau, budget roughly $21 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $6 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Tawau.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at TWU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Tawau itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Tawau, here are two things worth checking out:
Tawau Central Market (Pasar Besar Tawau) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Tawau Bell Tower is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TWU, you can spend time at TWU Airport Shop or try Airport Waiting Lounge Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Tawau
If you make it into town, Sri Tanjung Seafood Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restoran Hiong Kee.
Inside TWU
If you’re staying in the terminal, OldTown White Coffee (TWU) is your main option. KFC (TWU) works too if you want something quick.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TWU has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TWU, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Tawau itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Malaysia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Tawau is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Tawau.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.