Originally seafarers there are now two distinct groups, the East Coast Bajau and West Coast Bajau . The West Coast Bajau have now settled down around the Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud areas and have learnt the art of farming and cattle rearing. They are the famous cowboys of Sabah. Their skills in horsemanship are well known locally and on festive occasions both horses and riders are dressed in colorful costumes. On the east coast however many of the Sea Bajaus still live in the traditional way.
Fishing is the main activity.
While many have settled on land or in water villages some are still nomadic boot dwellers.