Find the best Sabah Hotels

Top reasons to visit Sabah

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Sabah boasts breathtaking scenery, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• Adventure Activities: Trek up Mount Kinabalu and partake in exciting outdoor pursuits that cater to adventure enthusiasts and families alike.
• Vibrant Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through visits to markets and historical sites, showcasing Sabah's rich heritage.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a range of activities suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable holiday for families.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From guesthouses to luxury hotels, Sabah offers a variety of places to stay, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Sabah

Discover the diverse range of hotel accommodations in Sabah, Malaysia, perfect for every traveller. Whether you seek a comfortable guesthouse or a business-friendly hotel, Sabah offers options to suit your needs. Enjoy family-friendly amenities, scenic beach vacations, and convenient locations. With a wealth of hotel reviews and insights, you're sure to find the ideal base for your adventures in this beautiful region.

• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu: A luxurious 5-star resort, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru offers a splendid tropical oasis perfect for families seeking a beachside retreat. With a commendable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this property boasts direct access to pristine beaches and a plethora of family-friendly amenities. Children can enjoy complimentary cribs, a Baby Bathtub, and an engaging Water Park, alongside a dedicated Children’s Club. The resort's focus on family vacations ensures a memorable holiday experience filled with relaxation and adventure for guests of all ages.
• Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu: Another 5-star gem, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is a haven for adventure seekers and golf enthusiasts. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this resort seamlessly combines beach access with exciting recreational activities. Guests can partake in onsite horse riding, hiking, and biking, while also enjoying nearby swimming and fishing opportunities. The property is designed for travellers looking for an adventurous vacation, complete with golf-themed experiences and an array of outdoor sports. This makes it an ideal destination for those wishing to connect with nature and engage in thrilling activities.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: A distinguished 5-star hotel, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is perfect for families and luxury seekers, boasting a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This hotel is well-equipped with amenities tailored for children, including free cribs and an onsite babysitting service for added convenience. The family-friendly pool offers a safe space for younger guests to enjoy. With its luxurious accommodations and attentive service, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu provides a refined yet comfortable environment for families wishing to explore Sabah.

Where to stay in Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation for every traveller. Explore the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu, where friendly locals welcome you to stunning beaches and lush rainforests. Enjoy family-friendly activities or indulge in a romantic getaway amidst breathtaking scenery. From thrilling mountain hikes to tranquil island escapes, Sabah promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and warm hospitality. Discover the enchanting vibes of this remarkable region on your next adventure.

• Kota Kinabalu: Nestled along the western coast of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city known for its stunning sunsets and rich cultural diversity. This urban hub offers a unique blend of family-friendly attractions, shopping centres, and a thriving business scene. Visitors can explore the local marina and harbour, or spend leisurely afternoons at nearby parks. With visitor numbers peaking in August and December to January, Kota Kinabalu is an ideal base for those looking to experience both city life and nature.
• Sandakan: Located on the eastern side of Sabah, Sandakan is a city that offers a gateway to some of the region’s most beautiful outdoor experiences. With its traveller numbers peaking in April, July, and September, it caters to families and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres or camping while taking in the natural beauty of nearby islands and parks. Sandakan’s rich biodiversity and close proximity to island resorts make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Semporna: Semporna is a picturesque coastal city famous for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant marine life. Known for outdoor adventures and family experiences, Semporna attracts visitors with its stunning islands and resorts. The area sees peak travel in February, September, and December, making it a popular spot for those seeking sun-soaked holidays. With local markets and educational sites, Semporna offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural immersion, perfect for families looking to explore.

Things to do in Sabah

Shopping

Visit Kota Kinabalu's Imago Shopping Mall, a modern venue with a range of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities. For a local experience, head to the Filipino Market, where you can find handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce, perfect for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

The Mandara Spa at the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort offers a tranquil experience with treatments inspired by traditional Malaysian healing. Nestled among lush greenery, it features outdoor treatment rooms and a serene atmosphere, allowing you to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of Sabah.

At the Gaya Island Resort, indulge in holistic wellness therapies at the Spa Village, where you can experience rejuvenating treatments crafted from local ingredients, set within a stunning tropical setting. This tranquil retreat focuses on harmonising body and mind amidst the island's pristine environment.

Explore the Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. The cool climate and diverse flora create a refreshing escape, allowing visitors to connect with nature while enjoying the stunning views of Mount Kinabalu.

The Treetop Spa at the Rainforest Lodge provides a unique wellness experience, combining spa treatments with the soothing sounds of the rainforest. Guests can relax with massages and therapies designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the lush surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Zip Borneo, a zipline ropes course situated in Sabah’s lush landscape. Glide through the trees, enjoying a unique perspective of the vibrant surroundings while engaging in an adrenaline-pumping adventure that connects you with nature.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Kota Kinabalu with drinks at the lively Waterfront Esplanade. For a taste of local culture, visit the night markets offering delicious street food. If you're in the mood for dancing, check out the popular clubs along Gaya Street.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sabah

To save money on your trip to Sabah, consider visiting in March, May, or November when prices are lower, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays are more expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, and look for last-minute deals for added savings. Additionally, consider combining your accommodation with flights and activities for a more affordable overall trip. Enjoy the local scenery and free activities to maximise your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sabah are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Sabah is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sabah is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sabah is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy cost savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Sabah with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Sabah

Sabah offers an excellent vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, featuring attractions such as national parks, mosques, and stunning islands. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region's rich culture and breathtaking scenery. Don't miss the chance to trek up Mount Kinabalu for a remarkable adventure, or explore the diverse landscapes that make Sabah a captivating getaway for both relaxation and exploration.

• Mount Kinabalu National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. Adventurers can explore lush trails and enjoy wildlife spotting amidst the majestic backdrop of Mount Kinabalu, creating an unforgettable outdoor experience.
• Mt Kinabalu: As the highest peak in Southeast Asia, Mt Kinabalu beckons trekkers with its challenging trails and panoramic views. The ascent provides a sense of achievement and an opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.
• Mount Kinabalu Park Entrance: Serving as a gateway to the park, this urban park area is ideal for families. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, appreciate the local flora, and prepare for their adventures in the nearby wilderness.

Best time to go to Sabah

The best time to visit Sabah is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January, October and November are its coolest month on average. At the time of October, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High