Menu
Plan your vacation
Add dates
Add travelers
landscape of a mosque
landscape of a mosque - Photo by Andy Wang

Discover Gorgeous Beaches and Cultural Sites in Kota Kinabal

About Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant and bustling city located in the Malaysian state of Sabah. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including the iconic Mount Kinabalu, it is a popular travel destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. From its bustling markets to its serene beaches, Kota Kinabalu offers something for everyone.

Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant seaside city located in the Sabah region of Malaysia. It is a popular destination for tourists who are looking to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of Borneo. The city's strategic location on the coast of the South China Sea offers visitors stunning ocean views and access to numerous water activities, such as diving and island hopping.

One of the most popular attractions of Kota Kinabalu is the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, which is made up of five picturesque islands. Visitors can take a short boat ride to these islands and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The park is home to an array of marine life, including colorful coral reefs and exotic fish species.

Kota Kinabalu is also known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and festivals. One of the must-visit sites in the city is the Sabah State Museum, which showcases the art, history, and culture of Sabah. Visitors can learn about the region's indigenous tribes, traditional costumes, and musical instruments.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of hiking trails and nature reserves in the surrounding areas of Kota Kinabalu. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Mount Kinabalu Summit Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest and mountain range. The trail is suitable for experienced hikers and takes about two days to complete.

Foodies will also love Kota Kinabalu for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous flavors. Some of the local dishes to try include nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish served with various side dishes, and laksa, a spicy noodle soup with coconut milk and seafood.

In conclusion, Kota Kinabalu is a travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, this Malaysian city has it all. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, it's no wonder that Kota Kinabalu is a must-visit destination for travelers.

More Detail

Popular Stays in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

General view
Business hotels

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

This hotel is strategically located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu City with major business, shopping and entertainment centres. The hotel is also only a 10-minute drive away from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.  This modern, business complex comprises a total of 451 rooms and suites. Facilities on offer include a lobby with a safe and a currency exchange. A restaurant and lounge also feature in the hotel along with room and laundry services. Parking is available for those arriving by car.   All the rooms are elegantly decorated and fully-equipped as standard including a TV, a minibar and individually adjusted air conditioning. Recreational facilities include an outdoor swimming pool with wading pool, a gym and spa treatments.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

The hotel sits in the hub of the vibrant business, shopping and entertainment districts of the city of Kota Kinabalu. It is also only 15 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.  Facilities on offer in this air-conditioned hotel include a lobby, a safe and a currency exchange. In addition, conference facilities, room and laundry services are also available.  The hotel offers a wide selection of restaurants that serve a variety of cuisine from Western to Chinese, Japanese and Asian. Accommodation provides magnificent views of Kota Kinabalu and elegant decor featuring local artworks and handicrafts. In addition to standard amenities, rooms offer broadband Internet access, a satellite/cable TV and a minibar. Sports options in the hotel include an outdoor pool, a fitness centre and other outdoor activities. Check-in time is 3 pm.
General view
Business hotelsGolf hotelsHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

Sutera Harbour Resort Magellan Sutera

This ethnic-themed, gloriously designed resort incorporates the natural surroundings with fine timber furnishing and local artifacts. The grand entrance is a majestic longhouse-styled lobby, an architectural tribute to the Rungus natives of Sabah. All the 456 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites unveil balconies that offer magnificent views of either the carefully manicured gardens or the awe-inspiring beauty of the South China Sea and its occupying islands. Guests are a three-minute walk from the Sutera Harbor Golf Club and an 18-minute walk from Kinabalu Golf Course. Other than golf sites, State Mosque is only a kilometer and a half away, and Sand Bar can reaching in about 23 minutes. Whatever the reason for your stay, The Magellan Sutera will take you to the next level of comfort.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

Shangri La's Tanjung Aru & Spa, Kota Kinabalu

BKI - Kota Kinabalu International Airport - 5 km SE . White sandy beach leads to unsurpassed turquoise water creating the sublime destination that is Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa in exotic Borneo - the third largest island in the world. The resort sits on 25 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and is only 10 minutes away from the city center and 5 coral islands.Tanjung Aru offers white sandy beaches and unsurpassed turquoise water - the perfect location for Shangri-Las Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa. The international award-winning resort offers the serenity of a secluded tropical retreat situated on 25 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens - yet it is only 10 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu International Airport - the city center - and five beautiful coral islands. . The resort has seven restaurants and bars that provide a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere serving local and intl cuisine. Guests of all ages can choose from health club fitness center - spa treatments - golf - tennis - and a wide range of water sports and recreational options. The resort offers 492 spacious guest rooms and suites - tastefully decorated in a modern style of contemporary luxury inspired by the colors and textures of traditional Borneo. All rooms feature private balconies - shower - iron and board and complimentary high-speed Internet access. Kinabalu Wing rooms and suites reflect a subtle blend of natural hues offering guests the sense of a sanctuary within a sanctuary. An ingenious room layout positions the generous sized bed close to the glass door offering guests a stunning view. Kinabalu Wing rooms and suites offer memorable views of the either the ocean or Mount Kinabalu. Rooms in the Tanjung Wing face the South China Sea. For more information on our health and hygiene precautionary measures cancellation fee waivers and Golden Circle - please visit shangri-la.com/cares
Pool
Business hotelsHotels with spa

The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu

This hotel is located in the Malaysian state of Sabah. The complex is a mere 5 minute drive from town and a 15 minute drive from the airport.  This air-conditioned hotel blends old architecture with modern facilities and stands majestically on a hill. It comprises a total of 150 rooms and suites. Hotel's facilities include a lobby, a restaurant and a conference room. Guests travelling by car may leave their vehicle in the hotel car park.  All rooms and suites have a cable TV and a mini fridge as well as coffee and tea making facilities. The rooms contain air-conditioning units that can be individually regulated.  For leisure, guests may take advantage for table games and TV sports channels. The hotel complex also includes an outdoor pool, a fitness studio and a sauna.
Restaurant
Business hotels

Sabah Oriental

The hotel is centrally located in the business district of Kota Kinabalu, less than 7 km from the international airport. The property is within walking distance of shopping malls and places of intere Facilities on offer include a lobby with 24-hour reception, currency exchange facility and lift access. Further amenities include dining and conference facilities, as well as room and laundry services available. The tastefully designed and furnished rooms offer spectacular views of the Majestic Mount Kinabalu, South China Sea and its exotic tropical island. Rooms come fully-equipped as standard including a satellite/cable TV, a minibar and individually adjustable air conditioning. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool, a sauna and a gym.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spaSport hotels

Bunga Raya Island Resort

The resort offers charming timbered villas, each hand-crafted by local tradesmen, terraced into the hillside reflecting the traditional simplicity of the Borneo architectural style, blending seamlessly with the comforts and needs of the most sophisticated and discerning of travellers.  Scattered throughout the hillside with a mix of secluded jungle and ocean views, the spacious villas offer idyllic hideaways and the ultimate in true rustic luxury. Private balconies offer jaw dropping vistas of the beach below and the South China Sea beyond. Those who really enjoy the pristine sandy paradise can pick one of the villas that sit right on the 1 km-long beach. In the surrounding area, guests can have a fun-packed day, kayak through emerald waters, explore awe-inspiring mangroves, and catch a sight of hornbills perched on centuries-old trees or trek through thick jungles.
Pool
Business hotels Hotels with spaFamily hotels

Ming Garden Hotel & Residences

*In compliance with the latest regulations set by the Government, the hotel is open for reservations for guests with 2 complete dose of vaccination. Guest must produce negative RTK swab test result of no more than 72 hours before check in. In the event that guest do not possess updated test, hotel will provide RTK self test kit to be purhase at reception counter* Well-positioned in Central Business District, this hotel is the ideal point of departure for your excursions in Kota Kinabalu. The hotel lies 0.5 KM from the city center and provides accessibility to important town facilities. This hotel also offers many facilities to enrich your stay in Kota Kinabalu. Top features of the hotel include free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, taxi service, 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service. 600 rooms spread over 11 floors provide a warm and pleasant home away from home.

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Paddle & relax
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo

Inhale the freshness of air in the morning while paddling along the mangrove path towards the sunrise point. Along the way, you could see the indigenous villagers tribe catching fish, crabs and commuting to ports to carry their daily life. At the sunrise point you will be served with the majestic view of Mt Kinabalu right in front of your eyes (breath taking view) and you will be relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the bay (sunrise point)
2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climbing
Digital Voucher2880 minutes

2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climbing

Mount Kinabalu is the Borneo’s highest peak in Sabah and it is renowned world heritage site. It stands 4,095m Height with breathtaking views. Find ideal mount kinabalu package with best rates and get tips to climb mount kinabalu from our experts. Climb with us with private arranged Mount Kinabalu Climbing Tour
Via Ferrata Mt Kinabalu
Digital Voucher2880 minutes

2d1n Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata - Walk The Torq

Mount Kinabalu is the Borneo’s highest peak in Sabah and it is renowned world heritage site. It stands 4,095m Height with breathtaking views. Find ideal mount kinabalu package with best rates and get tips to climb mount kinabalu from our experts. Climb with us with private arranged Mount Kinabalu Climbing Tour
Kota Kinabalu
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Kota Kinabalu City Tour

Discover the highlights of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Malaysian Borneo's Sabah state, on this 3-hour, private tour by air-conditioned vehicle. Visit the University of Malaysia, the Sabah State Museum Complex, and City Mosque, capture a city panorama from Signal Hill, and shop for souvenirs at a local handicraft store.
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Kota Kinabalu Half-Day City Tour with Local Host

Discover the rich history and heritage of Kota Kinabalu on this comprehensive 3-hour city tour, including hotel pick-up. Visit landmarks like Wisma Tun Mustapha (Sabah Foundation Building) and the City Mosque; pay a visit to the prestigious University of Sabah and tour the fascinating Sabah Museum. Finally, soak up views of Kota Kinabalu and the Likas Bay lagoon from the summit of Signal Hill.
Kota Kinabalu Signal Hill
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Kota Kinabalu City Tour

Kota Kinabalu City is the gateway to the Land Below the Wind. It is the state capital of Sabah. At 0930 hrs or 1400, pick up at the City hotel and proceed with a guided tour around the city tour. Take a bird's eye view of the city from Signal Hill. Visit Tun Mustapha Building with its 32 Storey Building with its column of free floors. Visit Poh Toh Tse Buddhist Temple and drive through residential estates. Unravel Sabah's heritage at the State Mosque. Learn more about the rich heritage of Sabah at the State Museum.
KK Rainforest City Tour
Digital Voucher180 minutes

KK Rainforest City Tour

Kota Kinabalu, the gateway to the rest of Sabah, is also the state capital. It has a population of approximately 300,000 and is usually called 'KK' for short. On this tour you will view the Puh Toh Tze (Chinese Buddhist temple) with a huge status of Kuan Yin (her goddess of mercy), Atkinson Clock Tower (one of the most enduring landmarks stands prominently on a bluff along Signal Hill), photo stop at City Mosque, shopping at Cocoa Boutique where you can find our local chocolate and enjoy some leisure time mingling with the local people at the (Filipino Market) Handicraft market before proceed back to hotel.
jetty walkway
Digital Voucher540 minutes

Borneo (Klias) River Cruise & Fireflies Tour

It's one of the perfect trip that you can get while having a vacation at Kota Kinabalu, We offer a satisfactional tour experience execute by our high experience tour guide in Kota Kinabalu,

Why People Love Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

M
Masatoshi_K
5
Mar 2023
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Amazing. The kayaking guide Eddy and his wife Kayoko are so friendly and hospital. They accommodated our needs and took care of us throughout the activity. I highly recommend it!
J
Jonas_M
5
Jun 2023
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Great experience in the green. I learned a lot about Sabah and its culture from our amazing guide. Can highly recommend.
K
KahKee_S
4
Jun 2023
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
Our guide Eddy is such a wonderful guide. He shared so much information about Kinabalu and tips on kayaking. He made our adventure so enjoyable and fun. The view was spectacular. We are so privileged to be able to kayak among the great mountains of Sabah. We also want to thank his wife for her ...

Explore all stays in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Explore all things to do in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Explore other popular holiday destinations

Frequently Asked Questions about Kota Kinabalu

What are some must-visit attractions in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful destination with a range of attractions to explore. Some of the must-visit attractions include Mount Kinabalu, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah State Museum, and the Puh Toh Tze Buddhist temple.

What activities can I do in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is a great place for outdoor activities. You can go island hopping, snorkeling, or diving in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. You can also go on a river cruise, hike in the Kinabalu Park, or visit the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.

What are some popular beaches in Kota Kinabalu?

Some of the popular beaches in Kota Kinabalu include Tanjung Aru Beach, Sapi Island Beach, and Manukan Island Beach. These beaches offer beautiful scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a range of activities such as snorkeling and diving.

What is the best time of year to visit Kota Kinabalu?

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is from March to October, when the weather is generally dry and sunny. However, it's important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for rain at any time of year.

What are some local dishes to try in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is known for its seafood, so be sure to try the local seafood dishes such as sambal udang, butter prawns, and fish noodles. Other local dishes to try include nasi lemak, laksa, and hinava, a traditional raw fish salad.

What are some good accommodations in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the popular options include Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, The Pacific Sutera, and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu. For budget-friendly options, there are also many hostels and guesthouses to choose from.

What is the best way to get around Kota Kinabalu?

The best way to get around Kota Kinabalu is by taxi or rental car. Taxis are easily available, but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. Rental cars are also available at the airport and in the city center. Alternatively, you can also use the local bus or grab (ride-hailing) services.

What are some cultural experiences to have in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, so there are many cultural experiences to have. Some of the highlights include visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village, attending a traditional dance performance, and visiting local markets such as the Filipino Market and Gaya Street Sunday Market.

What are some family-friendly activities in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu has many family-friendly activities, such as visiting the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, going on a river cruise, or exploring the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Other options include visiting the Sabah State Museum, going to the Water World Theme Park, or taking a trip to the nearby islands.

What are some day trips I can take from Kota Kinabalu?

There are many day trips you can take from Kota Kinabalu. Some popular options include visiting the Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs, exploring the Tip of Borneo, or visiting the Klias Wetlands for a river cruise and firefly watching.