Find hotels in Kota Kinabalu from Rp434.392

Top reasons to visit Kota Kinabalu

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Malaysian Borneo, with lush rainforests and pristine beaches.
• Cultural Richness: Immerse yourself in local culture through visits to mosques, urban parks, and vibrant markets.
• Thrilling Adventures: Engage in a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
• Delightful Culinary Scene: Savour delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood from the bustling harbour.
• Relaxing Sunsets: Enjoy romantic evenings watching stunning sunsets over the South China Sea.

Find great hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, catering to various needs, from business travellers to families seeking relaxation. Choose from popular lodging types such as hotels and guesthouses, featuring essential amenities and accessible options. Whether you're after a spa-themed getaway or planning a visit to nearby Semporna, Kota Kinabalu offers the ideal setting for a memorable vacation experience.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: This luxurious 5-star resort is a true paradise for families and adventure seekers alike. With direct access to the stunning beach, guests can indulge in a variety of water sports including sailing, fishing, and parasailing right on-site. The resort also features a dedicated water park and an arcade game room, ensuring endless fun for children. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful amenities such as free cribs and supervised childcare services. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru combines relaxation with adventure, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable family beach holiday.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Known for its blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu offers a sophisticated retreat in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. This 5-star hotel is perfect for families looking to unwind in style, featuring a children's pool and complimentary cribs. The hotel’s on-site childcare services ensure that parents can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation while their little ones are entertained. With its elegant rooms and attentive service, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu presents a refined yet welcoming atmosphere for families seeking a luxurious getaway.
• Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel: Situated in the bustling shopping district, Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel is an excellent choice for business travellers and nature enthusiasts alike. This 5-star hotel offers modern accommodations with easy access to local shops and attractions. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities designed for both relaxation and productivity, making it perfect for those combining work with leisure. The hotel’s proximity to natural wonders allows for quick escapes into nature after a day of business or shopping, providing a well-rounded experience for all types of visitors.

Where to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for families and couples alike. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the city with its friendly locals and budget-friendly options. Explore the surrounding wonders of Malaysian Borneo, from lush rainforests to stunning beaches. Accommodation choices abound, ensuring a comfortable stay. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in romantic evenings as you soak in the breathtaking sunsets over the South China Sea.

• Downtown Kota Kinabalu: This vibrant neighbourhood serves as the heart of Kota Kinabalu, where urban life meets tropical charm. Known for its year-round steady flow of tourists, Downtown is particularly bustling during the peak months of July to August and December. Visitors flock here for family-friendly attractions and business opportunities. The area boasts a variety of shopping centres and public markets, making it a haven for shoppers. Local highlights include scenic parks and the picturesque marina, perfect for leisurely strolls or enjoying a sunset by the water.
• Pusat Bandar: Nestled within the Kota Kinabalu area, Pusat Bandar is a charming village that draws visitors for its dynamic city experience. Like Downtown, it sees its busiest periods in July to August and December. This locale is ideal for families and business travellers alike, with bustling shopping malls and lively public markets at every turn. The area is dotted with inviting parks and lookouts, offering stunning views and a refreshing escape from the urban environment. Pusat Bandar captures the essence of a thriving community, making it a must-visit.
• Donggongon: Just a short distance from Kota Kinabalu, Donggongon is a quaint village known for its eco-friendly and outdoor experiences. With an influx of visitors during August and the holiday season, this area is perfect for families looking to connect with nature. The shopping centres and resorts provide ample leisure activities, while nearby sports facilities and the marina cater to those seeking adventure. Donggongon offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate a more relaxed atmosphere.

Things to do in and around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family, city, and business-themed holidays, boasting a variety of activities for all types of visitors. You can explore vibrant shopping centres and malls, or enjoy leisure at exclusive country clubs. For adrenaline seekers, there are numerous thrilling activities to experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Kota Kinabalu offers an exciting blend of experiences to suit every traveller's desires.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Kompleks Asia City and Plaza Wawasan, both offering a mix of business and entertainment vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore further markets that showcase unique local crafts and souvenirs, such as the lively Gaya Street Sunday Market.

Recreation

Likas Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts, while Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai invites you to enjoy outdoor golfing amidst stunning scenery. For a touch of luxury, Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, located 20.9km from Kota Kinabalu, provides an exclusive golfing experience in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

At Sabah Indoor Climbing Centre, experience the thrill of climbing in a vibrant setting, perfect for both beginners and seasoned climbers. Bukit Padang offers stunning scenery and invigorating hiking trails, while Zip Borneo presents an exhilarating zipline adventure, located 25.7km from the city amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

Kota Kinabalu comes alive at night with vibrant bars like The Crown Borneo and the lively atmosphere of Waterfront Esplanade. For a more relaxed vibe, try the Sunset Bar, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying stunning views of the sunset over the South China Sea.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like Sutera Harbour and Mari Mari Cultural Village, while utilising affordable public transport options such as buses and Grab cars. To save on accommodation, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March, May, and November, and book your stay about a month in advance. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Saturdays tend to have lower rates, while Mondays are pricier, so plan accordingly for the best deals.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kota Kinabalu are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Kota Kinabalu about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kota Kinabalu is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Kota Kinabalu is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Kota Kinabalu with your flights and activities by opting for a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is an ideal destination for family, city, and business vacations, offering a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as mosques, urban parks, and the bustling harbour, making it perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're interested in immersing yourself in local culture or enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Kota Kinabalu has something to offer every traveller.

• Borneo Marine Research Institute: Immerse yourself in the unique biodiversity of Borneo at this institute. Explore fascinating marine research initiatives and discover the rich aquatic life that thrives in the surrounding waters.
• Sutera Harbour: Relax at this stunning harbour where breathtaking beach views and tranquil scenery create a serene atmosphere. Enjoy various water activities or simply unwind and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
• Kota Kinabalu Esplanade: This vibrant tourist precinct offers a lively outdoor experience perfect for families. Stroll along the promenade, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.

Best time to go to Kota Kinabalu

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kota Kinabalu

Flying into Kota Kinabalu is convenient with its major airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), situated 6.4km from the city. Nearby, the luxurious Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort, rated 5 stars, lies 3.2km from the airport, offering transfer services for guests. The Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, also a 5-star establishment, is located 6.4km from the airport and provides easy access. Additionally, the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, another 5-star hotel, is found 8.0km away and is well-connected to the airport. These accommodations ensure a comfortable start to your holiday in Sabah.