Labuan is one of the three Federal Territories in Malaysia and the only one in East Malaysia. It is well-known as an offshore financial centre.

Mostly you tend to bypass Labuan since you do not know what to do there. Here are 15 things to do in Labuan on a three-day, two-night visit.

1. Visit the World War II memorial

This memorial honours the fallen who fought hard during World War II against the Japanese. Most of the soldiers buried here were from the Indian and Australian armies.

The War Memorial is one of the best things to do in Labuan since you can learn about the war during the 1940s and pay your respects to the fallen.

2. Lunch at Raff Restaurant

Head over to Raff Restaurant for lunch as it serves many local delicacies and the most delicious dishes for mixed rice. You will be spoilt for choice here.

3. Visit Masjid Jamek

This is the only mosque in Labuan. Despite being built in 1988, the mosque exhibits futuristic designs which attract many curious onlookers.

4. Visit Peace Park

Peace Park is situated at Layang-Layangan village, near Japanese Surrender Point, and was built to remember and renounce the horror of wars.

There are many pavilions and bridges around the park’s compound. Ironically, it was built by the Japanese.

5. Go for a stroll at Layang-Layangan Beach

This beach has white powdery sand and scenic views of the sunset. There are vendors from whom you can buy an ice cream and go for a stroll on the beach.

The beach has an unobstructed view of the South China Sea which makes watching the sunset a pleasant experience.

6. Visit the Japanese Surrender Point memorial

The Japanese Surrender Point memorial was built to commemorate the surrender of the Japanese Army in Labuan after their defeat in World War II.

Apart from a commemoration stone, there are info boards to explain the events that unfolded towards the end of World War II.

7. Grab dinner at Batu Manikar beach

Batu Manikar won an award from the United Nations as being one of the cleanest beaches in the world.

There is a food court on the beach and having dinner while enjoying the breeze caressing your face is the best way to end your first day in Labuan.

8. Take a day trip to Brunei Darussalam

On your second day, start early with a day trip to Brunei Darussalam. Ferries to and fro Brunei are frequent.

From Labuan, it is a two hour journey to Brunei. Upon reaching the Serasa Ferry Terminal, just hop into any taxi available and the driver will happily act as your guide.

9. Eat crabs at Anjung Ketam

Upon your return to Labuan, Anjung Ketam offers fresh crabs cooked to order. You have to arrive early since the crabs sell out fast. If there are no more crab available, there’s an alternative.

10. Eat seafood at Anjung Ikan Bakar

A short distance away is this floating eatery which offers fresh seafood grilled to order.

Anjung Ikan Bakar is unique because it is built on stilts above the ocean and you can feel the waves hitting the stilts. It is a delightful experience to eat while overlooking the vast ocean.

11 and 12. Visit the Chimney and Museum

Start the day early and visit the Chimney, a remnant of the past whose actual purpose remains a mystery. There is also a museum to see how the Chimney was excavated.

13. Visit Labuan Bird Park

The Labuan Birds Park has three large domes which different species of birds call home.

Although small in size, the park has a vast collection of birds and it is an unforgettable experience seeing the birds flying freely inside the dome while you learn about them from the signs all around.

14. Go duty-free shopping

Ujana Kewangan is home to many offshore financial institutions in Labuan, and is also the place you go to for duty-free shopping.

Before you head to the airport, stop here and buy some chocolates for your family and friends.

15. Buy souvenirs at Central Market

Finally, drop by the Central Market to buy some souvenirs for your loved ones.

The ground floor offers dried food such as keropok, amplang and fish. On the first floor, there are many shops selling pearls, fridge magnets and clothes.

Khai and wife Amira are Malaysian travel bloggers who blog at Kaki Jalans. Their travels have taken them to almost all the countries in Asean and five countries in Europe. They are still actively travelling and adding to this list.